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Address By The Hon. Commissioner For Environment, Anambra State: Climate Change Resilience In Anambra State: Institutional Strategies And Localized Adaptation Measures
No full textClimate change presents a multi-dimensional challenge to sustainable development in Nigeria. As extreme weather events increase in frequency and intensity, subnational governments must design adaptive strategies to safeguard communities, infrastructure, and livelihoods. This paper examines the climate change resilient strategies implemented by the Anambra State Ministry of Environment. Drawing on global frameworks such as the Sendai Framework and the Paris Agreement, and national policies like Nigeria’s National Climate Change Policy (2021), this paper presents an analysis of the state\u27s legal, institutional, and community-based innovations. It concludes that multi-stakeholder engagement, policy coherence, and eco-centric planning are central to building climate resilience in subnational contexts
Natural Lighting As A Component Of Sustainable Architecture In Psychiatric Hospitals
Get PDFThe integration of natural lighting in a design is a fundamental principle in sustainable architecture. This paper investigates the lighting conditions of psychiatric hospitals, arguing that controlled natural light is an essential and often overlooked component for achieving sustainable and restorative healthcare settings. The study examines existing psychiatric hospitals in Nigeria and around the world, employing a mixed-methods approach that includes fieldwork, interviews with hospital staff in Nigeria, and secondary sources for foreign case studies. It explores the multifaceted biophilic benefits of natural lighting, which regulate the occupants\u27 circadian rhythm, improve mood, enhance productivity, and support the mental and physical well-being of both patients and staff. The research identifies that the current absence or inadequate control of natural light in many psychiatric facilities is an issue and has adverse effects on both patients and the staff. Findings from the case studies demonstrate that hospitals that effectively integrate controlled daylighting using strategies like appropriate window placement and courtyards are generally well-ventilated and well-lit, providing better views of nature, which is integral to the healing process. The outcome underscores that the strategic integration of controlled natural lighting must be considered from the inception of design for psychiatric hospitals to reduce energy dependence and maximise therapeutic outcomes
Smart Floating Housing For Flood Resilient Building Design In Oguta, Imo State, Nigeria
Get PDFThe practice of moving to or having settlement on elevated highland in flood-prone areas above sea level is as old as human civilisation. Floating, hydrostatic architecture and buildings in riverine areas have long been practised even in Makoko, Ijora, Ekpe lagoon communities in Lagos, Nigeria. Floating decks called pontoon services are used in riverine areas of Oguta II and places such as Oguta lake to cross cargo, people and as a means of mass transportation in these and other areas of Nigeria. This paper explores the innovative concept of incorporating smart floating foundations and decks as a promising technological solution for constructing flood-resilient buildings and facilities. By incorporating advanced smart technologies with hydraulic engineering principles, these foundations can adapt to fluctuating water levels, reduce the risk of structural damage and ensure the safety of occupants. Through literature review and relevant case studies, the paper delved into the causes of flood, increased impact of climate change, engineering design considerations for flood resilient buildings, and employable up scaling technological advancements. It found that potential benefits of smart floating foundations can reduce and solve flooding problems of ravaging climate change in perennially flooded areas of Oguta and indeed Nigeria. It thus concludes that this research not only reinforces the age-long practice of community flood problem response but provides valuable insights for the society, students, architects, engineers, and policymakers to tackle contemporary climate change flooding challenges in riverine areas
Energy-Efficient Retrofitting Of Higher Education Buildings In Hot-Dry Climates: A Framework For Sustainable Adaptation In Nigeria
Get PDFThe demand for energy-efficient retrofitting in educational institutions is increasingly recognized as a critical response to the dual challenges of climate change and deteriorating building performance in hot-dry climates. Higher education buildings in Nigeria, often constructed without consideration for thermal comfort or energy efficiency, experience significant energy waste and occupant discomfort. This paper presents a comprehensive framework for retrofitting such buildings to enhance their energy performance and sustainability. Drawing from empirical data, simulation analysis, and stakeholder interviews, the study identifies context-specific passive design strategies, shading techniques, and material improvements suitable for hot-dry climatic zones. The framework integrates design principles such as resource economy, life cycle design, and occupant-centered solutions, offering a step-by-step guide for implementation. The study finds that passive retrofitting approaches, when aligned with localized climatic and behavioural conditions, can reduce energy consumption by up to 60% and improve indoor comfort significantly. This research provides a strategic roadmap for policymakers, designers, and facility managers aiming to promote sustainable education infrastructure in Nigeria and similar climates
Address By The Dean Faculty Of Environmental Sciences, Prof. A. U. Okonkwo
Get PDFAddress By The Dean Faculty Of Environmental Sciences, Prof. A. U. Okonkwo, At The 5th International Conference Of The Faculty Of Environmental Sciences, (FESCON 2025), Chukwemeka Odumegwu Ojukwu University, Uli Campus, Anambra State, Nigeri
Evaluation Of Energy Facilities And Service Availability In The Value Of Rental Apartments In Karu Local Government Area, Nasarawa State, Nigeria
Get PDFErratic and unstable energy and electricity resources and facilities have greatly hampered a lot of human activities globally. This study is aimed at examining the roles of electricity supply, energy facilities and services availability on residential property rental and capital values in Karu Local Government Area of Nasarawa State. 383 questionnaires were administered on the systematically sampled respondents in urban places of the Area. This was complimented by the authors’ observation and on the spot record taking. The study identified the different types of apartments with electricity and energy facilities and estimated the capital and rental values of each of these residential properties in the study area and ascertained the major attractions of tenants to the apartments and willingness to live in the neighbourhoods. The study found among other things that 31.9% of the respondents stated that their lights are mostly available in the midnight while 33.9% are of the view that their light was erratically available at varied times and that tenants are willing to stay in the neighbourhood due to its proximity to their work place in the FCT. The study therefore recommended that Abuja Electricity Distribution Company energy supply uptime should be enhanced and access to these facilities and services should be increased across all locations in Karu Local Government to enhance the rental value of residential property and improve the quality of urban life of most residents
Demonstration Of The Effectiveness Of Struvite (Urine – Based Organic Fertilizer) In Comparison With Npk And Urea (Inorganic Fertilizers) On Cucurbita Maxima
Get PDFThis study compared the effects of struvite (a slow-release organic fertilizer) and inorganic fertilizers (NPK 20:10:10 and urea) on the growth of Cucurbita maxima (ugbogulu/anyu). It is targeted to prove that struvite, has positive effect on plants growth; then recommend it as fertilizer with an added advantage in relation to possibly being a great business venture. Here, struvite obtained from human urine was used for growing of the Cucurbita maxima which lasted for a period of four (4) months (December 2023, up to April, 2024). Four treatment groups employed included: control (no application), NPK 20:10:10, urea fertilizer and struvite group. Data on the following plant growth parameters were collected within 3 to 9 weeks after planting which was done third week of January, 2024. These data included: plant height, number of leaves, stem girth (circumference) and leaf area of the plants. Chlorophyll content, vitamin C content and mineral content were also determined according to the method of Arnon (1949), Klein and Perry (1982) and APHA (1995) respectively. The results showed that plants grown with struvite had a higher percentage change in plant height (91%) and the average plant height (cm) in 6-week harvest data was 23.78±1.08. The average number of the leaves in the struvite group was the highest (7.50±0.96), while the average number of the leaves in the urea group was the lowest (4.67±0.43). Struvite group had the highest average final stem girth (2.43±0.12) when compared with other groups (having 2.23±0.16 and 2.18±0.19 for NPK and Urea groups respectively). Also, plants treated with struvite fertilizer had the highest vitamin C content (440.50±10.21), highest average chlorophyll B content (2.21±0.79) and highest potassium content (5.43±2.08). Therefore, it is recommended to use struvite as an alternative to inorganic fertilizers for promoting plant growth, reducing negative environmental impact and making sanitation systems economically more attractive
Investigating the Influence of Economic Indicators on Property Value Trends in Keffi
Get PDFEconomic indicators such as Gross Domestic Product (GDP), inflation, interest rates, employment levels, exchange rates, and consumer purchasing power are widely recognized as key variables influencing property markets. Hence, this study examined the impact of economic indicators, including GDP, inflation rates, interest rates and unemployment rates on property value trends in Keffi, Nigeria with the aim of providing valuable insights that can guide future research, policy development, and investment strategies in the Nigerian real estate market. Using primary and secondary data sources, the research employed trend analysis, statistical models (R2, RMSE, MAPE), and ANOVA to investigate the relationship between economic indicators and property values. The results showed a steady increase in residential property values over the years, with fluctuations in macroeconomic variables such as inflation, interest rates, unemployment, and GDP. The study\u27s models demonstrated good predictive accuracy, indicating that economic indicators have a significant influence on property value trends in Keffi, Nigeria. The ANOVA results revealed that inflation rates have a negative, albeit insignificant, correlation with property values. In contrast, high interest rates were found to suppress property values by increasing borrowing costs, deterring potential buyers. Conversely, positive GDP growth was associated with increased property values, reflecting heightened economic prosperity and investment capacity. Additionally, high unemployment rates negatively impacted property values by reducing overall demand in the property market. The study concludes that macroeconomic variables, including interest rates, inflation, GDP growth, exchange rates, and employment levels, significantly influence property market dynamics. Hence, the study recommended that to stimulate the real estate market, policymakers should implement policies promoting economic growth, stability, and development, such as investing in infrastructure, promoting foreign investment, and fostering economic development
Land Use Transitions And Eco-Socio/Environmental Impacts Of Laterite And Sand Mining In Awka, Anambra State, Nigeria: A Socio-Economic And Remote Sensing Analysis From 1993–2023
Get PDFLaterite and sand are essential raw materials whose value to human development is immense. From historical city growth to modern skyscrapers, infrastructure, and industrial products, sand remains central to construction and industrial processes. However, the process of extraction has immense impacts on eco-social life and environmental degradation, particularly in remote African communities where access, governance, and data records are lacking. The Driver-Pressure-State-Impact-Response (DPSIR) was employed within the framework of sustainable development as a framework, this study examines the environmental, social, and economic effects of laterite and sand mining in Okpuno, Awka South LGA, Anambra State. A mixed-methods approach, namely qualitative, quantitative, and remote sensing techniques, was employed. Data was gathered through surveys and interviews with residents, random distribution of 400 questionnaires, and remote sensing and geotechnical techniques from 1993 to 2023. A stratified random sampling method was used to ensure representation from various demographic groups, including miners, farmers, and community members. Findings confirm that laterite and sand mining, coupled with urbanization, have profoundly transformed the Okpuno landscape over the past 30 years. Remote sensing and GIS analyses revealed that vegetation cover declined from 63.4% in 1993 to 30% in 2023, while bare surfaces increased from 24.9% to 43.5%, and built-up areas expanded from 11.7% to 26.5%. These changes indicate intensified land degradation, ecosystem disruption, and socio-economic vulnerabilities linked to weak regulatory oversight. Also, mining has negatively contributed to soil erosion, reduced agricultural productivity, biodiversity loss, and increased susceptibility to flooding. Economically, mining offers short-term jobs and the development of local infrastructure in the area. The application of sustainable strategies, best management practices, community education, and stricter enforcement of environmental laws are recommended. To foster responsible mining that balances economic gains with environmental and social well-being
