Afe Babalola University Based Journals
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UNHCR Synergy with Nigerian Government and the Security Concerns of Vulnerable Cameroonian Anglophone Refugees in Cross River State, Nigeria, 2017-2023
Get PDFThe influx of Cameroonian refugees seeking humanitarian protection in Nigeria indicates the severity of the conflict and the desperate conditions that force people to flee their homes. The separatist movements in Anglophone Cameroon and clashes with government forces have led to widespread violence, displacement, and human rights abuses. As a result, over 60,000 refugees have crossed into Nigeria between 2017 and 2023. However, while studies have explored the causes of the conflict and the humanitarian challenges faced by the refugees in their various settlements, this research assesses how the synergy between the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) and the Nigerian Government has impacted the security concern of Cameroonian refugees in Cross River State, Nigeria. Theoretically, the study was anchored on the Global Governance Theory. Survey and documentary methods were used togather data. Data were analyzed using thematic analysis, logical deductions and statistical inferences. Findings include underfunding of the UNHCR and the apparent inability of the Nigerian Government to tackle the security concerns of the vulnerable Cameroonian refugees in Cross River State. The study recommends adequate funding to improve basic services and infrastructures within the refugee settlements
A Critical Assessment of Israel-Hamas War in the Israel-Palestine Conflict
Get PDFAt dawn on Saturday, October 7, 2023, the Hamas militant Palestinian group, that controlled the Gaza Strip since 2007, launched dastardly surprise attacks on Israel. It was the deadliest attack on the State of Israel since its War of Independence in 1948 and the Yom Kippur War in 1973. This paper critically examined the Hamas phenomenon in the war and the possibility of achieving a Palestinian State, not by war but by diplomatic engagement of all stakeholders. The theory of Fourth Generation Warfare is adopted to understand the situation better in the Israel-Palestine conflict, and particularly the Hamas war strategy. The study adopted a qualitative research approach for an in-depth exploration of perspectives, experiences, and narratives related to the conflict. It gathered data from documentaries, articles from learned journals, the mediascape, government official statements and websites, to capture the diverse viewpoints and narratives surrounding the conflict and war. The international media watch has tracked the battlefield exchanges (reports) and diplomatic shuttles between major stakeholders’ capitals. The Gaza Strip enclave has suffered monumental destruction and a horrific humanitarian catastrophe. Ceasefire had met with stiff opposition from the combatants. The conclusion is that Palestinian struggles for statehood since 1948 had hardly led them to achieve their goal. Given the generational historicity of the conflict, it is hard to decipher whether war or diplomacy would eventually bring about peace. But efforts must be continued on the diplomatic channels to manage the conflict
Healthcare Waste Management: An Overview
Get PDFHealthcare waste (HCW) is a vital global issue that cannot be overlooked due to its threat to humans and the environment stemming from its infectious and hazardous nature. This study examines previous works undertaken on healthcare waste management (HCWM) practices around the world, notably the developing countries with a particular interest in segregation, collection, transportation, treatment, and disposal of HCW. This study draws attention to the environmental hazards arising from each stage of HCWM. Factors affecting HCWM practices have also been discussed. This study revealed evidence of poor HCWM practices in many developing countries. It also showed the impacts of human and non-human factors on HCWM practices. Proper documentation, sufficient budget, adequate supply of HCWM materials, frequent training of healthcare workers, and development of local manuals and guides are essential if a country is determined to achieve an efficient and sustainable HCWM system. Liquid HCW needs to be investigated as much as the solid HCW. Exploration of HCW minimization, reuse, and recycling opportunities is recommended for future research. The use of Modern-day technology such as Artificial Intelligence and geographic information system (GIS) has provided good results so far. However, they can be explored further for prediction, real-time monitoring, and reporting of HCW. The present study can be adopted as a guide in discussing issues about HCWM
Design and Construction of Voice Controlled Home Automation using Arduino
Get PDFSystem automation has been widely researched in the twenty-first century due to its essential role in daily life. The fundamental advantage of an automated system is its ability to reduce human stress and minimize errors. Over the past few years, there has been a swift shift from traditional switches to switches equipped with remote controls. Currently, the presence of conventional wall switches distributed around the house poses challenges in terms of use, especially for individuals who are elderly or have physical disabilities. Due to technological advancements, mobile smartphones are now affordable for all individuals. Android devices are becoming equipped with applications that aid in multiple ways. Another new technology is the Google speech recognition APIs, which enable voice-based system command and control. This study demonstrates the implementation of voice-controlled home automation using the Arduino Uno microcontroller. Users of this system will be able to exercise full authority over every domestic device through spoken commands. The control circuit consists of an Arduino Uno microcontroller that receives and interprets voice commands from an Android smartphone equipped with the corresponding application. While the Bluetooth module shares signal data after establishing a wireless link between the microcontroller and the smartphone, the relay regulates device switching
Appraisal of the Flooding Behaviour of Rotating Packed Beds
Get PDFRotating packed beds (RPBs) enhances mass transfer processes because a centrifugal force which is several -times greater than gravity is used as the driving force. The complexity of fluid flow across RPBs has made predicting and accurately determining their hydrodynamic behaviours difficult. The flooding point as a hydrodynamic characteristic is essential for the accurate design and scale-up of RPBs. However, variations in flooding point definitions and methodologies across the literature highlight the need for standardized approaches in studying RPB flooding phenomena. This study compared four approaches based on pressure drop fluctuations and the volume of liquid ejected from the RPB to determine the onset of flooding in RPBs using experimental results from a pilot-scale counter-current RPB. For rotational speeds of 300 -1500 rpm, gas flow rate of 100-300 Nm3/h, and liquid flow rates of 0.39-0.75 m3/h, the pressure drop varied from 314 to 2,100 Pa. Quantitative comparisons of the results based on different flooding point definitions showed wide variations with the values of the pressure drop at the onset of flooding differing by as much as 325 %. A quantitative approach based on virtual observations and the ejection of 8 % of the total liquid flow rate from the rotor’s eye is proposed as the standard method for identifying the onset of flooding in RPBs
Evaluating the Ethical Practices in Developing AI and Ml Systems in Tanzania
Get PDFArtificial Intelligence (AI) and Machine Learning (ML) present transformative opportunities for sectors in developing countries like Tanzania that were previously hindered by manual processes and data inefficiencies. Despite these advancements, the ethical challenges of bias, fairness, transparency, privacy, and accountability are critical during AI and ML system design and deployment. This study explores these ethical dimensions from the perspective of Tanzanian IT professionals, given the country's nascent AI landscape. The research aims to understand and address these challenges using a mixed-method approach, including case studies, a systematic literature review, and critical analysis. Findings reveal significant concerns about algorithm bias, the complexity of ensuring fairness and equity, transparency and explainability, which are crucial for promoting trust and understanding among users, and heightened privacy and security risks. The study underscores the importance of integrating ethical considerations throughout the development lifecycle of AI and ML systems and the necessity of robust regulatory frameworks. Recommendations include developing targeted regulatory guidelines, providing comprehensive training for IT professionals, and fostering public trust through transparency and accountability. This study underscores the importance of ethical AI and ML practices to ensure responsible and equitable technological development in Tanzania
Formulation Ratio Effectiveness of Green Metal Working Fluid (GMWF) as a Bio Alternative for Green Manufacturing
Get PDFMetalworking fluid (MWF) is essential for ensuring quality products and extended tool life during machining operations. While there are various sources of MWF, the need to minimize health hazards associated with mineral-based metal working fluid now calls for more environmentally friendly green metal working fluid (GMWF) from bio-degradable sources. Also, the effectiveness of vegetable-based GMWF significantly depends on the degree of functionalization. Though some studies considered the issue, the comparative analysis of the effect formulations (variation in concentration) of the constituting elements of the GMWF, especially for the base vegetable oil under consideration; has been grossly underreported. In this study, a GMWF emulsion has been developed from soybeans, palm fruits, and coconut with varying formulation ratios. Physicochemical characterization such as flash point, fire point, pour point, pH, density, and viscosity of the developed GMWF were analyzed. Also, a performance evaluation of the said GMWF was carried out and the investigation has shown that the physicochemical properties of the developed GMWF matched, as a potential substitute for conventional mineral-based MWF. Additionally, a performance evaluation conducted during a mechanical machining operation revealed that the GMWF showed an improved surface roughness of about 10.77% compared to conventional mineral MWF. Observations during the machining operation further revealed that the formulated GMWF demonstrated some level of environmental tolerance as it was not associated with misting or the discharge of fumes. The research outcome will impact green machining science and MWF technology for sustainable mechanical machining and cutting fluid development
Dystopian Humour and Postcolonial Anomie in Femi Osofisan's Midnight Hotel
Get PDFThis article explores the intersection of humour and postcolonial themes in Femi Osofisan's Midnight Hotel through the lens of postcolonial contextualisation. Osofisan, a prominent Nigerian playwright, employs satire and dark humour to depict a dystopian society grappling with the protracted ramifications of colonialism. The play is the author's satirical condemnation of Nigeria’s debased value system, as he deconstructs a wasteland of underdevelopment, corruption, and amorality. The aim of the paper is to analyse how Osofisan critiques power structures, societal norms, and the failures of postcolonial governance through humour. Central to this analysis is the concept of "postcolonial anomie," referring to the moral and social disorientation experienced in societies transitioning from colonial rule to independence. Utilising a close textual analysis of the play’s major elements, the research methodology involves examining how Osofisan employs humour to depict and critique the dystopian reality of postcolonial Nigeria. The findings reveal that Osofisan's portrayal of postcolonial anomie through humour adds complexity to the narrative, highlighting both the absurdity and tragedy of the characters' predicaments. Moreover, the article uncovers how Osofisan incorporates dystopian elements to underscore the consequences of unchecked power and corruption, offering a cautionary tale about the dangers of authoritarianism and neocolonialism. By blending satire with poignant social commentary, Midnight Hotel emerges as a powerful vehicle for critiquing contemporary issues within the postcolonial context. In conclusion, this article contributes to the understanding of Osofisan's literary legacy and the role of humour in interrogating complex sociopolitical dynamics in postcolonial societies
Multimodal Discourse Features in Selected Nigerian Political Cartoons
Get PDFPolitical cartoons in Nigerian society serve as tools for political commentary and social critique. This research investigates the socio-political impact of visual and linguistic strategies in selected Nigerian political cartoons, addressing a significant gap in the existing literature concerning the role of visual media in political discourse. Despite the prevalent use of political cartoons in Nigerian media, there has been limited scholarly attention to how these cartoons utilise visual and linguistic elements to critique socio-political disputes. This study aims to bridge this gap by employing Kress and van Leeuwen’s Grammar of Visual Design and Roland Barthes’ Semiotic Theory to analyse seven selected political cartoons. The study's primary aim is to explore how these cartoons communicate complex political realities and influence public perception. The objectives include identifying the visual and linguistic strategies used in the cartoons, examining the socio-political issues they address, and evaluating their impact on public discourse. The findings reveal that Nigerian political cartoons employ a sophisticated blend of visual and linguistic strategies to convey powerful socio-political messages. The analysis demonstrates that these cartoons effectively highlight issues such as corruption, economic hardship, political neglect, and the disparity between the ruling elites and the suffering masses. The study also found that these cartoons effectively depict the disparity between the ruling elites and the suffering masses, employing salience, framing, modality, denotation, connotation, and myth to engage and challenge public perception. The research underscores the significance of political cartoons as tools for socio-political engagement and discourse, demonstrating their role in reflecting and shaping public opinion on critical national issues. In conclusion, this study underscores the importance of political cartoons as a medium for socio-political engagement and discourse in Nigeria. It highlights the critical role of visual semiotics in political commentary and the necessity for further research into the impact of visual media on public opinion and political accountability
Sacred Sounds and Contested Spaces: Navigating Musical Ambivalence in NASFAT’s Islamic Worship Practices in Nigeria
Get PDFMusic occupies a contested space within Islamic worship, reflecting tensions between tradition, cultural adaptation, and contemporary spiritual practices. While many religious traditions, including Christianity and African Traditional Religions in Nigeria, seamlessly integrate music into worship, Islamic perspectives on music remain complex and ambivalent. This study explores the reception of music within the Nasrul-Lahi-il Fatih Society of Nigeria (NASFAT), a prominent Muslim prayer organisation known for its innovative approaches to Islamic practice. Employing ethnographic methods, including interviews and observation at the Samonda branch in Oyo State, Nigeria, the research investigates how NASFAT members navigate the intricate relationship between music and sacred spaces. Findings reveal that NASFAT adherents exhibit a nuanced understanding of music, recognising its pedagogical and spiritual potential for enhancing religious education and fostering devotion. However, significant ambivalence persists, with respondents distinguishing between the permissibility of music in secular versus liturgical contexts. While music is embraced during informal gatherings for its ability to convey sacred teachings and build community, its inclusion in formal worship settings remains contentious, with clerics citing concerns about preserving the sanctity of sacred spaces. This research concludes that music, as a dynamic form of spiritual expression, plays an essential role in fostering religious engagement and communal identity. It calls for a re-evaluation of traditional perspectives that restrict its liturgical use, advocating for a more inclusive understanding of music’s potential within Islamic worship practices. The findings contribute to broader discussions on religious identity formation, cultural innovation, and the evolving role of music in Islamic worship