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Patient And Ward Correlates Of Outdoor Therapeutic Experience: Implications For Enhancing Patient Resilience In Psychiatric Hospitals
Get PDFPsychosocial resilience is often overlooked as dimension of sustainable healthcare, yet it is crucial in healthcare settings where the built environment can either buffer or amplify distress. Guided by the Attention Restoration Theory, Stress Reduction Theory, Supportive Design theory and Biophilic Design theory, the study investigated how patient and ward-level correlates shape in-patients’ Outdoor Therapeutic Experience (OTE) in psychiatric hospitals in Southeast Nigeria. A cross-sectional survey of 123 adult in-patients across four tertiary psychiatric facilities captured patient demographics (IDASQ), six socio-spatial ward attributes (SS-WAC) and seven OTE indicators (PIWA-OTES; α = 0.82). Theil-Sen median and 0.5-quantile regression modelled predictors of the composite OTE score. The mean PIWA-OTES score was 3.9 ± 0.5, indicating moderately high perceived restorativeness. Quantile regression explained 39 % of the variance, outputting the following as independently predicting higher OTE: open-ward layouts preserving privacy; high-occupancy wards promoting interaction; centrally located open nursing stations enhancing both safety and freedom with nurses; direct door access to outdoor spaces enhancing autonomy; pleasing natural views; and dignified communal visitor areas (β = 0.147–0.175; all p < 0.001). Patient characteristics showed no significant predictive value. While some findings challenge conventional assumptions, they reflect locally embedded social norms and adaptive spatial experiences. These results suggest that design strategies for mental healthcare environments must be sensitive to cultural expectations and resource constraints if they are to snowball into broader psychosocial resilience. Architectural recommendations include supporting voluntary interaction in high-occupancy spaces, ensuring spatial privacy through layout rather than enclosure, enhancing view quality, and enabling meaningful social interaction zones. This evidence supports context-specific design approaches to improve perceived outdoor environmental restorativeness in psychiatric care settings within the region
Prospects And Challenges Of Adopting Green Maintenance Approach In Commercial Property Management For Eco-Friendly Environment
Get PDFGlobal concern for climate change and green environment necessitates adoption of sustainable practices in commercial property maintenance for reduced carbon footprint, conservation of vital resources, and effective contribution to the overall health of the ecosystem. This study examined the prospects and challenges of adopting green maintenance approach in the management of commercial properties with a view to highlighting the core components of green maintenance to be focused on in property management function in the pursuit of sustainable resilient urban environment in Anambra State, Nigeria. Quantitative and qualitative research methodologies were used in mixed study. Primary and secondary data were sourced and utilized in this study. Structured questionnaire was used for primary data collection, while secondary data were gathered through theoretical reviews of existing literature. Convenient sampling method was used in selecting a total of 17 commercial buildings distributed as follows: Awka (7), Onitsha (4), Nnewi (4), and Ekwulobia (2) included in this survey. Data collected were analyzed using both descriptive frequency and percentage statistics were used for analysis. This study found most of the existing commercial buildings were not designed and constructed to comply with the green requirements, nevertheless a combination of green and traditional (hybrid) maintenance approaches has adopted in such commercial buildings, while a few newer buildings are gradually adopting total green practices. This research recommended adoption of green designs and construction methods so as to aid adoption of green maintenance during occupation and use of the buildings
Enhancing Rural Development Through The Proliferation Of Autonomous Communities: The Imo State Experience
Get PDFThis study examined the relationship between population size rank order of LGAs and the level of development (based on the number of items of infrastructure) in the LGAs of Imo State. The issue is if the proliferation of autonomous communities which by implication are smaller in geographical size and population will lead to enhanced development in the rural areas of Imo State. Secondary data for the study were obtained from journals, Imo state gazettes and internet while the primary data were gathered using oral interview technique, focus group discussion (FGD) and field observation. Multi-stage sampling technique was used in selecting the rural areas. Data were analysed using percentage ratio and Pearson’s product moment correlation coefficient model. The hypothesis states that there is no significant relationship between population size rank and the development rank order of LGAs in Imo State using the number of items of infrastructure as indices for the exercise. The test of the hypothesis established that population size rank correlates significantly with development rank order among the LGAs studied. Also, findings show that the pattern and rate of fragmentation of autonomous communities in Imo State today cannot enhance the much-needed sustainable development; rather they will bring a lot of setback on the development of these LGAs. The study recommends that Imo State government should stop creating new autonomous communities from existing ones as larger communities with higher population attract more development facilities
Effects Of Housing Environment Management On Occupants Health In Kuchigoro, Abuja, Nigeria
Get PDFThis study explores the relationship between housing environment management and the health outcomes of occupants in Kuchigoro, Abuja. Using a convergent parallel mixed methods approach, the research investigates how maintenance practices, cleanliness, ventilation, and other environmental management factors affect physical and mental health. Data were collected through structured survey questionnaires and in-depth interviews with residents. Quantitative results revealed significant associations between poor housing management and adverse health indicators, while qualitative insights highlight residents\u27 lived experiences and perceptions. The findings underscore the need for integrated housing and health policies to promote sustainable urban living environments. The study provides insights for policy and decision-makers to improve housing management in urban settings. This study adds to the limited literature on housing management and health in urban Nigeria, especially in settlements like Kuchigoro
Plastic Footprints And Environmental Implications In Awka, Anambra State, Nigeria: Insights From Rwanda’S Policy Framework For Sustainable Solutions
Get PDFDespite extensive global research highlighting the risks of plastic waste, Nigeria’s localized data and contextually relevant insights remain insufficient, and this hinders effective policies and practices. To address this gap, the study examined plastic footprints and their environmental impacts in Awka, Anambra State, drawing insights from Rwanda’s successful plastic waste management strategies. A survey was conducted by randomly distributing 360 questionnaires and conducting key informant interviews. Findings showed that 77.5% of participants are youthful, single workers aged 18-30, who prefer consuming packaged foods and single-use plastics for convenience. Notably, 82.5% of participants have a tertiary certification, indicating an opportunity to improve awareness and participation in recycling efforts. Additionally, 42.5% of those surveyed are self-employed, reflecting a strong entrepreneurial culture in Anambra State that influences plastic use, especially in packaging. The findings revealed that packaging accounts for 95% of plastic waste, with improper waste management (95%) and inadequate infrastructure (90%) identified as major contributors to pollution. Weak government regulation (77.5%) and low public awareness (85%) also pose significant problems. The study highlights serious environmental impacts, including ecosystem degradation, soil and groundwater contamination, and human health risks due to pest attraction (95%) and toxic chemical release (90%). These issues disproportionately affect vulnerable groups (92.5%). To address these challenges, the study advocates for integrated waste management approaches, added to Rwanda\u27s enhanced policy framework, environmental education initiatives focused on the youth, community-based recycling programs, and enforcement of environmental regulations
Effects Of Wall Material Type On Temperature Variation In Primary Schools In Anambra State, Nigeria
Get PDFProviding conducive learning environments is essential for enhancing educational quality. Suboptimal indoor environments negatively influence students\u27 performance. This study examined the impact of wall material type on temperature variation in three primary schools, using a purposive sampling technique. The indoor thermal comfort within the three primary schools in Anambra State, Nigeria, comparing Sandcrete Block (SCB) and Interlocking Compressed Earth Block (ICEB) classroom constructions was studied. Classroom temperature data were collected and analysed to evaluate the thermal performance of each material. Result indicated that classrooms constructed with ICEB exhibited lower average temperatures in all the three schools than those constructed with SCB. Although the difference was not statistically significant in one of the schools investigated, the variability in thermal performance between ICEB and SCB classrooms underscores the necessity for location-specific design considerations to achieve optimal thermal comfort. It is recommended that ICEB should be tried in construction of new primary school classrooms henceforth in the warm-humid region of South East Nigeria. Addressing this issue requires concerted efforts from government agencies, educational institutions, and relevant stakeholders to improve infrastructure and provide sustainable building solutions
Mapping Smuggling Routes And Migration Flows Across Illela And Jibiya Borders: A Geographical Perspective
Get PDFThis study provides a geographical analysis of smuggling routes and irregular migration flows across the porous Nigeria–Niger borderlands of Illela (Sokoto State) and Jibiya (Katsina State). Using a mixed-methods approach that combined structured questionnaires, key informant interviews, and geospatial mapping through GPS and GIS, the research identified and mapped 20 illegal routes 9 in Illela and 11 in Jibiya. Findings reveal that these routes are not random but represent adaptive systems shaped by geographical, socio-economic, and cultural factors. Seasonal variation was observed, with smuggling and migration peaking during the dry season but persisting at moderate levels during the rainy season, demonstrating the resilience of cross-border networks. The study highlights geography as a critical driver of borderland dynamics, with porous borders, flat terrain, weak surveillance, and strong ethnic ties directly facilitating illegal flows. While smuggling sustains livelihoods through increased petty trade and informal economic opportunities, it simultaneously undermines formal trade, erodes government revenue, and fuels insecurity. Comparative analysis demonstrates strong alignment with earlier works (Yusuf & Bala, 2020; Aderanti, 2019; Usman, 2021; IOM, 2022) but contributes new insights by quantifying geographical determinants, demonstrating rainy-season persistence, and integrating community perspectives with geospatial evidence. The study concludes that addressing smuggling and irregular migration requires more than physical border enforcement. It recommends enhanced technological surveillance, youth empowerment, and bilateral cooperation with Niger, as well as institutionalized geospatial intelligence and grassroots sensitization. By emphasizing the spatial dimensions of borderland dynamics, the research underscores the need for holistic, geography-informed interventions to ensure security, foster legal trade, and improve livelihoods in Nigeria’s northern frontier
Sustainability Of Biodiversity In Five Local Government Areas Of Southern Kaduna: Challenges, Strategies, And Prospects
Get PDFSouthern Kaduna, known for its diverse ecosystems and rich biodiversity, is increasingly facing ecological degradation due to anthropogenic pressures, land-use change, and socio-political instability. This empirical study investigates the current status of biodiversity in selected five local government areas (LGAs) of Zangon Kataf, Kachia, Kaura, Jema’a, and Sanga ; focusing on species distribution, conservation efforts, and sustainability strategies. Mixed methods involving field observations, key informant interviews, and surveys with local stakeholders were employed. Results indicate a significant decline in forest cover, wildlife populations, and aquatic species due to deforestation, grazing, farming encroachment, and weak policy enforcement. The paper recommends an integrated approach involving community-based conservation, environmental education, and policy reforms to ensure biodiversity sustainability in the region
Welcome address by the L.O.C. Chairperson, Professor N. U. Okolo
No full textWelcome address by the L.O.C. Chair, 5th International Conference of the Faculty of Environmental Sciences, (FESCON) 2025, Chukwemeka Odumegwu Ojukwu University, Uli Campus, Anambra State, Nigeri
Exploring Passive Cooling Strategies For Mitigating Climate Change Effects
Get PDFThe rise in global temperatures caused by climate change has intensified the need for sustainable cooling measures in building design. Although conventional air conditioning systems are effective, they account for high energy consumption and greenhouse gas emissions. Passive cooling methods, on the other hand, such as shading, natural ventilation, thermal mass, and evaporative cooling, offer a more sustainable approach by minimizing the use of mechanical cooling systems. The efficiency of passive cooling methods in preventing the effects of climate change on built environments is the focus of this study. The study explores various passive cooling methods in different climates, emphasizing their role in improving thermal comfort, energy efficiency, and sustainability. Through literature review and case studies, it examines real-world applications of passive cooling, featuring examples like the Eastgate Centre in Zimbabwe and the Dominican Chapel in Nigeria. These case studies demonstrate the effectiveness of passive cooling in mitigating urban heat stress and lowering energy consumption. The results of the research indicate that passive cooling strategies can reduce indoor temperatures by up to 15°C, while reducing the cooling energy demand by approximately 30% simultaneously. Various barriers to the widespread adoption of the strategies exist, however, including a lack of policy support, low levels of awareness, and high upfront costs. The research recommends integrating passive cooling design principles into building regulations, incentivizing their adoption, and facilitating education on climate-responsive design. Through the application of passive cooling principles, urban planners and architects can build climate resilience, promote energy security, and achieve sustainable urban growth. Passive cooling measures offer an effective means to reducing energy consumption and mitigating the impacts of climate change within built spaces. Empirical experience proves their effectiveness in enhancing energy performance and thermal comfort; however, challenges such as regulatory lags and substantial upfront costs are hindering mainstream adoption. Adoption of passive cooling methods into building codes and city planning is a necessary step for promoting sustainable design that is immune to climate risk