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Juwon Glory Oluwajobi, System Engineering - University of Lagos, 2025

The Nigerian cashew nut processing industry is one of the major sources of employment and export income in the country, but it is characterised by poor-quality methods and production, labour-intensive operation, and a lack of safety. In addition to ergonomic strain and injuries caused by poorly maintained equipment, cashew nut shell liquid (CNSL) burns and other risks pose legal liability to workers, while operational inefficiencies have limited throughput. This research work uses a System Dynamics (SD) methodology to simulate the safety and operation of a case study factory (Noble-Eagle Industries Limited, Owo, Ondo State). A stock-flow model of the process was constructed in Vensim using production, safety and maintenance data and presents the process flow from boiling to packaging. Validation against factory records has shown that it's reliable. Results indicated that cutting/peeling, fatigue, and low PPE compliance were areas that impacted productivity and safety. Scenario analysis showed that preventive maintenance, mechanisation and stricter enforcement of PPE had a positive impact on both output and worker welfare. The study demonstrates that SD modelling can optimise efficiency and safety while still producing a path for a more competitive cashew sector.

Maryam Umar Abulfathi, Human Physiology - Ahmadu Bello University, 2021

Diabetes mellitus is a major cause of morbidity and mortality both in developing and developed countries, but about 21% of patients with diabetes develop neuropathy. This study was conducted to evaluate the effect of nicotinamide on serum electrolytes in Alloxan-induced diabetic neuropathic Wistar rats. A total of about thirty six (36) apparently healthy male Wistar rats weighing 100-150g were divided into six experimental groups (n = 6). Group I normal control group (0.1ml of water), group II standard control group (received Glibenclamide 5mg/kg), group III negative control ( received 500mg Nicotinamide) and group IV treatment group (received 1000mg Nicotinamide), Analysis for serum electrolytes after treatment was done by calorimetric method. The result for the serum electrolytes after treatment shows a significant decrease (p < 0.05) in serum sodium level, significant decrease( p < 0.05) In serum potassium level, significant decrease (p <0.05) in chloride level and also significant decrease ( p< 0.05) in serum bicarbonates level when all compare to diabetic (negative) control group. Nicotinamide may be useful in improving the clinical benefit for serum electrolytes changes excluding sodium in diabetes.

Salma Muhammad Kabir, Chemical Engineering - Ahmadu Bello University, 2024

The synthesize of bis(hydroxyethyl) terephthalate (BHET) resins from waste polyethylene terephthalate (PET) bottles presents a promising avenue for recycling and sustainability. This study focuses on the chemical recycling of PET bottles, converting them into valuable BHET resins through a glycolysis process. Waste PET bottles were collected, depolymerized using ethylene glycol, producing bis (2-hydroxyethyl) terephthalate (BHET).The synthesis process was optimized by using six different catalysts (NaOH, Spent FCC, Ammonia, Activated Carbon, Kaolin and DES) to achieve the highest yield and optimal resin properties. Characterization of the synthesized BHET was carried out using Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) to confirm the functional group which was then compared with commercial bis (2-hydroxyethyl) terephthalate (BHET). The physical properties of the synthesized bis (2-hydroxyethyl) terephthalate (BHET) such as density, viscosity and kinematic viscosity were evaluated. Two out of the six catalysts (NaOH and Spent FCC) yielded 13.3 % and 5 % BHET respectively. This was confirmed by FTIR results comparison with commercial BHET which revealed similar functional group peaks. NaOH was found to be the best catalyst for BHET production, with highest yield conversion 94.4 %. Density, viscosity and kinematic viscosity of resulting BHET from NaOH were 1.27 gcm-3, 10.5 Pa.s and 0.11 m2 /s respectively. The results indicate that the BHET synthesized from waste PET bottles exhibits desirable properties for various industrial applications, such as coatings, adhesives, and composite materials. Additionally, it portrays the environmental impact of the recycling process, highlighting the reduction in carbon footprint and energy consumption compared to traditional disposal methods. This study demonstrates the feasibility of converting waste PET into high-value materials, contributing to waste reduction and resource conservation.

Hameeda Abdulsalam, Taxation - Bayero University, Kano, 2025

This paper examines the Office of the Tax Ombud as a mechanism for protecting taxpayers’ rights and promoting fairness in tax administration, with particular focus on Nigeria. It traces the origin and functions of the tax ombud in comparative jurisdictions and analyses its relevance to Nigeria’s tax system. The paper highlights potential benefits, legal foundations, and operational challenges, offering recommendations for effective implementation. It is useful to students, researchers, policymakers, and tax administrators.

Bakare Taofeek O., Community Medicine - Ahmadu Bello University, 2025

Adolescence represents a central life stage that shapes current and long-term health outcomes, and largely dependent on the level of physical activity, dietary habits, and nutritional status of adolescents. The aim of this study is to assess the physical activity, dietary habits, and nutritional status of adolescents in secondary schools in Sabon Gari Local Government Area (LGA), Kaduna state. A cross-sectional descriptive study was conducted in March 2025 among secondary schools across three political wards in Sabon Gari LGA, Kaduna state. The study was conducted using multistage sampling technique, and 235 in-school adolescents aged 10-19 years were enrolled. An interviewer administered questionnaire was used to collect relevant information. Self-reported physical activity level was assessed using the Activity Questionnaire for Adults and Adolescents, dietary habits was assessed using the Food Frequency Questionnaire (FFQ), and nutritional status was assessed using the WHO AnthroPlus software. Complete data was provided, cleaned and analysed using SPSS version 25 for 235 adolescents that are enrolled in the study. The analysis was conducted at univariate, bivariate and multivariate levels. Summary statistics such as mean, median and standard deviations were obtained. The results were presented as frequencies and proportions in tables and charts. Test of association between categorical variables was conducted using Chi-square test or Fischer’s exact test and independent test of predictors using linear regression where appropriate with a p-value set at <0.05.The mean age of study participants was 14.56 years (±1.656) with the majority being female (57%). The recommended MVPA level was obtained by 49.8% of the participants. The mean time of 453 minutes was spent by participants per week on leisure-time activities, followed by household-based activities (275 minutes), school-based 16 activities (251 minutes), active transportation (148 minutes), and active sports (69 minutes). The majority of the participants had frequent consumption of breakfast and cereals, roots, and tubers daily with 90.6% and 79.6% respectively, but with suboptimal consumption of other food groups such as vegetables, legumes, and fruits (59.5%) and like meat, poultry, fish, and eggs (5.1%). The study also found malnutrition with 32.3% of the adolescents underweight and 18.3% stunted. Adolescents in Sabon Gari LGA face a significant burden of physical inactivity, undernutrition (thinness and stunting) alongside suboptimal dietary quality, particularly low intake of fruits, vegetables, and protein sources. Hence, integrated interventions promoting diverse and balanced diets, physical activity, especially for girls, and addressing undernutrition are urgently are urgently needed to address these concurrent health challenges in this setting.

Abbas Bashir Umar, Samirah N. Abdu-Aguye, Hadiza U. Maaji, Pharmacy - Ahmadu Bello University, 2017

In recent times, pharmacy education and practice is undergoing remarkable changes following new scientific discoveries and evolving patient needs. Therefore, many countries (Nigeria inclusive) are introducing or undertaking major transformations in pharmacy education. The main aim of this work was to explore the knowledge and perceptions of selected 4th and 5th year undergraduate students of Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria on the introduction of the proposed Pharm. D degree to Nigerian pharmacy schools. The study was qualitative, and used focus group discussions (FGDs) to collect data. Two focus group discussions that lasted for an average of one hour were audiotaped in June 2017 with 10 students (Five participants per group). Data obtained from the FGDs was then transcribed and checked for accuracy and the transcripts analyzed using summative qualitative content analysis. The discussions revealed that the participants all agreed that the Pharm.D degree generally represented a shift in the focus of pharmacists from “products” to “patients”. Participants highlighted several advantages of the new degree such as the potential for specialization and better career prospects. On the other hand, several participants expressed worries that the degree change would be disadvantageous to people interested in other (non-clinical) areas of pharmacy practice. A number of participants also felt that the degree change was not going to be successful because of several factors within our environment including the inharmonious working relationships between healthcare professionals, inadequate infrastructure in pharmacy schools and the unwillingness of several lecturers to embrace the new degree. In conclusion, participants believed that the proposed Pharm D degree was both potentially advantageous and problematic. They recommended increasing the awareness of both staff and prospective students on what the degree entailed, allowing concurrent coexistence of both the BPharm and Pharm. D degrees, and ensuring that a balanced curriculum was designed for the new degree.

Amina Kudu Mohammed, Zoology - Bayero University, Kano, 2026

Dermestes maculatus are major insect pest of dried fish, causing significant loss in weight of fish and quality. This study was conducted at the department of Biological sciences, Bayero University Kano, Nigeria, from December, 2025 to March, 2026 with the aim of investigating the efficacy of leaves of three plants (Vernonia amygdalina (Bitter leaf), Ocimum gratissimum (Scent leaf), Cymbogon citratus (Lemon grass)) as extracts in their control. The mortality of adult Dermestes maculatus by Cymbogon citratus, Ocimum gratissimum and Vernonia amygdalina were the three main objectives guiding this work. The leaf samples of Cymbogon citratus, Ocimum gratissimum and Vernonia amygdalina were collected around the residential areas of BUK old campus. The leaves were washed, air dried and macerated into powder which is then soaked in ethanol for 24 hours. The material is filtered and then evaporated. The resulting solution was used for bioassay at varying amounts to obtain different concentration. The insect first colony used for the experiment was obtained from a market in Gwale LGA of Kano and were identified using appropriate taxonomic keys. Adults from the colony were reared in kilner jars for two weeks and provided water soaked cotton wool to aid oviposition and newly emerged adults of new colony are obtained for the bioassay of the experiment. The results indicated that Cymbogon citratus evoked highest mean mortality of (2.00±0.00) at 10% after 96 hours and the lowest mean mortality (0.33±0.33) at 20% after 24 hours. The results also indicated that Verrnonia amygdalina recorded least mean mortality 0f (0.33±0.33) at 10% concentration after 48 hours, while the highest mortality for V. amygdalina was recorded at (1.67±0.33) at 20% after 96 hours. Ocimum gratissimum evoked least mean mortality of (0.33±0.00) at 5% after 72 hours and highest mortality of (2.00±0.00) at 20% after 96 hours. The results also indicated that the efficacy of the extracts was dose and time dependent. The study concludes that the extracts of Cymbogon citratus, Ocimum gratissimum and Vernonia amygdalina are effective in the control of adult Dermestes maculatus. The study recommends further research to isolate active compounds from the plants in order to identify the bio agent for insecticidal activity, and developing them as biopesticides. The study also recommends the use of the plant extracts Cymbogon citratus, Ocimum gratissimum and Vernonia amygdalina of as biopesticides.

Mustapha Hadiza onyinoyiza, Zoology - Bayero University, Kano, 2026

This study investigated the prevalence and distribution of ectoparasites in two female student hostels, Nana Hall and Ramat Hall, at Bayero University Kano, Nigeria. A comparative cross-sectional study design was adopted, and a total of 120 rooms were randomly selected and inspected, with 60 rooms from each hostel. Data were collected through direct visual inspection of rooms and identification of ectoparasites based on morphological characteristics. The study identified five major ectoparasites: bedbugs, lice, ticks, fleas, and mites. The results revealed a high overall prevalence of infestation (89.2%) across both hostels, with Ramat Hall recording a slightly higher prevalence (90.0%) compared to Nana Hall (88.3%). Bedbugs were the most predominant ectoparasite in both hostels, accounting for the highest proportion of infestation, followed by lice, while ticks, fleas, and mites occurred in lower proportions. Ramat Hall also exhibited a higher parasite burden with greater total counts and mean parasite density per room. Chi-square analysis (χ² = 0.10, p > 0.05) indicated that there was no statistically significant difference in the prevalence of ectoparasite infestation between the two hostels. This suggests that infestation levels in both hostels are similarly high and widespread. The high prevalence observed in this study highlights the need for improved sanitation, regular monitoring, and effective pest control measures in university hostels. Increased awareness among students and better hostel management practices are recommended to reduce infestation and improve student health and well-being.

Faiza Ibrahim Muhammad, Zoology - Bayero University, Kano, 2026

This study investigated the insecticidal activity of Citrus sinensis (sweet orange) peel extract against Aedes aegypti under laboratory conditions. The research was designed to evaluate the effects of different concentrations and exposure times on mortality in both larval and adult mosquito stages. Laboratory bioassays were carried out using three concentrations of the extract (10 ml, 15 ml, and 20 ml) and four exposure durations (5, 10, 15, and 20 minutes). Each treatment was replicated to ensure reliability of the results. Mortality was determined through direct laboratory observation, where individuals that showed no movement or response to stimulation after exposure were recorded as dead.Laboratory observations revealed that the extract exhibited clear insecticidal activity against Aedes aegypti. Mortality increased progressively with increasing concentration of the extract, indicating a dose-dependent effect. Similarly, longer exposure times resulted in higher mortality rates, demonstrating a time-dependent response. The highest mortality was consistently recorded at the highest concentration (20 ml) and longest exposure time (20 minutes), while the lowest mortality occurred at the lowest concentration (10 ml) and shortest exposure duration (5 minutes). These patterns observed during the laboratory experiments suggest that the effectiveness of Citrus sinensis peel extract depends largely on both the amount of extract applied and the duration of contact with the mosquitoes.A marked difference in susceptibility was observed between larval and adult stages. Larvae consistently recorded higher mortality than adults across all concentrations and exposure times. This laboratory finding indicates that the larval stage is more sensitive to the extract, possibly due to structural and physiological factors such as a softer body surface, higher permeability, and less developed detoxification mechanisms. Adults, in contrast, appeared more resistant, requiring higher concentrations and longer exposure periods to achieve comparable mortality.Data obtained from the laboratory experiments were analyzed using descriptive statistics and one-way analysis of variance (ANOVA) to determine whether the observed differences among treatments were statistically significant. The statistical analysis confirmed that both concentration and exposure time had significant effects on mosquito mortality at p < 0.05. This indicates that the variations in mortality recorded during laboratory observation were not due to random chance. Post hoc analysis using Tukey’s Honestly Significant Difference (HSD) test further revealed significant separation among treatment means, with higher concentrations and longer exposure times differing significantly from lower treatments. The consistency between laboratory observations and statistical outcomes strengthens the validity of the results. The insecticidal activity observed in this study is likely associated with bioactive phytochemicals present in Citrus sinensis peel. These phytochemicals may disrupt essential physiological processes in mosquitoes, including membrane integrity, metabolic activities, and nervous coordination, leading to paralysis and eventual death. The dose- and time-dependent nature of the response suggests a cumulative toxic effect that becomes more pronounced with increased concentration and prolonged exposure.In conclusion, both laboratory observations and statistical analysis demonstrate that Citrus sinensis peel extract possesses significant insecticidal activity against Aedes aegypti. The effectiveness of the extract is strongly influenced by concentration, exposure duration, and developmental stage, with larvae being more susceptible than adults. The findings support the potential use of Citrus sinensis peel as a phytochemical-based and environmentally friendly alternative for mosquito control.

Kudirat Abdullahi, Zoology - Bayero University, Kano, 2026

The induction of triploidy in African catfish (Clarias gariepinus) is a significant strategy in aquaculture to produce sterile, fast-growing fish. This study evaluated the effect of electric shock exposure time on the fertilization, hatching, and subsequent growth performance of induced triploids. Fertilized eggs were subjected to electric shock at varying exposure times of 1, 2, 3, and 4 minutes post-fertilization, alongside a non-shocked control group. Chromosomal status was verified using relative DNA indexing, which revealed that the 3-minutes exposure successfully achieved a 1.5 index ,confirming triploidy (3n),whereas the 1-minutes exposure remained diploid (2n) at a 1.0 index.Results indicated that fertilization rates were not significantly impaired by the shock among 1 and 4 minutes (p > 0.05), with the 3-minute exposure recording the highest fertilization rate compared to 4 minutes (93.93 ± 2.0%) (p < 0.05). The hatching rates were significantly affected by the duration of exposure (p < 0.05). The 3-minute treatment yielded a hatching rate of (80.64 ± 2.44%), which has no significant difference compared to the control group (82.93 ± 1.64%), whereas the 1- and 2-minute exposure recorded the lowest hatchability (53.96 ± 6.47 and 48.53 ± 2.79%, respectively). In contrast, growth performance analysis revealed that survivors from the 2-minute treatment group exhibited the highest growth metrics, achieving a final weight of 62.50 ± 13.64 mg compared to 1 -, 3 -, and 4 – minutes and a Specific Growth Rate (SGR) of 15.37%, compared to 12.88% in the 3-minute group (p < 0.05). The study concludes that while an exposure time of 2 minutes maximizes individual somatic growth potential, a 3-minute exposure time is the most efficient protocol for commercial hatchery production as it provides the optimal balance between high hatchability and triploid performance.

Rahfat Zakar, Mass Communication - Bayero University, Kano, 2026

This study investigates the influence of WhatsApp usage on interpersonal communication among Mass Communication students at Bayero University, Kano. Employing a survey research design, data were collected via questionnaires from a sample of 154 respondents. Findings indicate that WhatsApp is extensively utilized for both academic and social purposes, characterized by high daily frequency. While the platform enhances communication efficiency and connectivity, it introduces challenges such as digital distraction, the spread of misinformation and a decline in face-to-face interaction. The study concludes that WhatsApp facilitates instant engagement but excessive reliance may diminish the quality of direct interpersonal relationships. Consequently, the study recommends the regulated use of the platform and its strategic integration into formal academic frameworks.

Jemilah Momodu, Zoology - Bayero University, Kano, 2026

This study investigated the abundance of Aedes mosquito species in Bayero University Kano (BUK) Old Campus, Kano State, Nigeria. The study was guided by two objectives: to identify adult Aedes mosquitoes reared from collected larvae and to determine their abundance within the study area. A cross-sectional survey design was adopted for the research. Larval samples were collected from a blocked gutter in Al-Ansar Garden, an area considered suitable for mosquito breeding. The samples were taken to the laboratory and reared to the adult stage under controlled conditions. The emerged adult mosquitoes were then identified morphologically using visible diagnostic features. The findings showed that a total of 210 adult mosquitoes emerged from the collected larvae. Out of this number, 120, representing 57.1%, were identified as Aedes mosquitoes, while 90, representing 42.9%, were non-Aedes mosquitoes. This indicates that Aedes mosquitoes were more abundant than other mosquito groups recovered from the breeding site. The result further suggests that the habitat sampled in the study area supports the breeding and development of Aedes mosquitoes. The study concluded that Aedes mosquitoes are present in considerable proportion within the selected area of BUK Old Campus, and their abundance points to possible public health implications because of their known role in the transmission of viral infections. The study therefore recommends proper environmental sanitation, regular clearing of drainage channels, and continuous monitoring of mosquito breeding sites within the campus environment to reduce their proliferation.

Ramatu Badamasi Abdulfatah, Zoology - Bayero University, Kano, 2026

This study assessed the concentration of selected heavy metals (Lead (Pb), Chromium (Cr), and Iron (Fe)) in water and muscle tissues of two fish species (Catfish and Tilapia) obtained from Ramin Birji River, Kano State, Nigeria. Water samples were collected from three sampling sites (Site A, Site B, and Site C), while fish samples consisting of Clarias gariepinus (Catfish) and Oreochromisniloticus (Tilapia) were obtained from the river. Standard analytical procedures were used for sample preparation and analysis. Water samples were filtered, acidified, and digested, while fish muscle tissues were dried, digested using nitric acid and hydrogen peroxide, and analyzed for heavy metals using Atomic Absorption Spectrophotometry (AAS). The results showed that Pb was not detected in Site A and Site B but was detected in Site C (0.055 ± 0.1225 mg/L), exceeding the WHO/FAO permissible limit of 0.01 mg/L. Chromium concentrations in water ranged from 0.015±0.085 to 0.020 ± 0.0360 mg/L, which were within the recommended limits. Iron concentrations ranged from 2.755 ± 0.0645 mg/L to 5.400 ± 0.0585 mg/L, exceeding the permissible limit of 0.3 mg/L. In fish muscle tissues, the concentrations of Pb, Cr, and Fe in both Clarias gariepinus and Oreochromisniloticus were within the permissible limits recommended for fish consumption. The results indicate that although iron levels in the river water were relatively high, but the accumulation of these heavy metals in the fish species studied were low and within acceptable safety limits. Continuous monitoring of the river is recommended to prevent potential environmental and health risks associated with heavy metal contamination.

Sakina Malami Musa, Zoology - Bayero University, Kano, 2026

This study investigated the effects of ultraviolet (UV) exposure and electric shock on androgenesis production in African catfish (Clarias gariepinus). Androgenesis is a reproductive technique in which offspring inherit only paternal genetic material following inactivation of the maternal genome. In this experiment, freshly collected eggs were exposed to UV radiation at different durations (1.5 and 2.5 minutes) to inactivate the maternal DNA, followed by fertilization with milt and application of electric shock (24 V for 3 minutes) to restore diploidy against a control group without treatment. DNA concentration, fertilization rate, and hatching rate were used as indicators to assess the success of the treatments. The results showed a decrease in DNA concentration with increasing UV exposure, with the control group (0 min) having the highest (2,078.5 μg), whereas 2.5 min exposure had the lowest (100.26 μg) DNA concentration (p < 0.05), indicating effective maternal genome inactivation. Although fertilization occurred in the treated groups (1.5 min: 93.18%, 2.5 min: 90.80%), hatching success was significantly low (0% at 1.5 min) compared to the control group (82.93%) (p < 0.05). The findings suggest that while UV irradiation and electric shock can induce androgenesis in African catfish, the current treatment conditions negatively affect embryo viability. Therefore, further optimization of UV exposure duration and electric shock parameters is necessary to improve hatching success and enhance the practical application of androgenesis in aquaculture.

Amina Zakariyya Idris, Zoology - Bayero University, Kano, 2026

Malaria remains a major public health problem in Nigeria, particularly in endemic areas such as Kano State. This study was carried out to determine malaria parasite density among patients attending Kabuga Primary Health Care, Kano. A cross-sectional study design was employed involving febrile patients who presented at the health facility during the study period. Blood samples were collected and examined using standard Giemsa-stained thick and thin blood film microscopy, which remains the gold standard for malaria diagnosis. The overall prevalence of malaria infection was determined among the study population, with parasite density quantified and classified into different levels (low, moderate, and high parasitaemia). The results showed variations in parasite density among infected individuals, with a higher proportion of cases falling within the moderate density range. Comparative analysis between male and female patients revealed differences in parasite density, although these differences were not statistically significant (p > 0.05). Furthermore, clinical symptoms such as fever were the most commonly observed among infected patients, supporting its relevance as a key indicator for malaria suspicion in endemic settings. The findings highlight the continued importance of microscopy in not only detecting malaria infection but also in accurately quantifying parasite density, which is essential for proper case management and monitoring of disease severity.