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APPRAISAL OF CHALLENGES OF STAKEHOLDERS’ MANAGEMENT IN CONSTRUCTION PROJECTS IN NIGERIA

*Yahaya M. B1; Kasimu M. A2; Shittu A. A1&Saidui1

1Department of Quantity Surveying, Federal University of Technology, Minna, Nigeria

2Department of Quantity Surveying, the Federal Polytechnic, Bida, Nigeria

Email: kasimumohammed@yahoo.com and yahayaqs@gmail.com  

ABSTRACT

The construction industry worldwide has a poor record of stakeholder management during the construction process. This ineffective stakeholder management affected cash flow system of projects and eventually deterred the success of project delivery. Therefore, the paper aimed at establishes factors that cause challenges of stakeholders’ management in construction projects. To accomplish the aim, survey questionnaire was adopted as a result of fragmentation and diversification in the construction industry. The questionnaire was designed in five (5) point Likert scale format with closed ended questions. A total of 100 numbers of questionnaires was distributed to Engineers, Quantity surveyors, Project Managers, Construction Managers, Contractors, Consultant and other stakeholders in the construction industry. Only 82% of the questionnaire distributed were filled correctly and returned which was used for the analysis. The descriptive analysis was used to analyse the data obtained from the responses of the respondents. The results obtained from analyses shows the major factors that causes challenges to stakeholder management as civil unrest and lack of political stability, change in bye law and regulations, delay in site handover, delay in inspection and approval, financial problems and non-adherence to specification. In addition, major mitigating measures to reduce challenges of stakeholder management were analysing conflicts and conditions among stakeholder, understanding area of stakeholder interest and encourage team work and collaboration among stakeholders. Thereafter the paper recommended that there should be adequate project planning and programming right from inception to completion stage of project to avoid delays, inflation, claims and conflict. In addition, project manager should encourage proper monitoring and feedback mechanism.

Keywords: Stakeholder, Construction projects, Stakeholder management, project success and project management


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EXAMINATION MALPRACTICE AS A MALADY TO THE DEVELOPMENT OF EDUCATIONAL PROGRAMMES IN NIGERIA

Adegbite, Peter Ibrahim

Department of Education Foundation

Federal University of Kashere Gombe State

Email: princepeter220@gmail.com

ABSTRACT

This paper focuses on examination malpractices as one of the major problems militating against the efforts of government, her agencies and other stakeholders in achieving the national goals of providing reliable, functional and programmatic educational service to the populace. It highlights the causes; form and agents of academic malady in our schools and institutions of higher learning. This paper recommends the involvement of all stakeholders in concerted efforts towards curbing or eradicating this academic cancer through re-orientation and effective enlightenment of all involved in education on the dangers of examination malpractices, and also states that government and private sector should de-emphasize the use of certificates rather, the individual physical abilities and capacities should be considered for place and enrolment. Also it further suggested that learners should be allowed to study the course in which he or she has comparative advantages; that parents should not force certain course or courses on their words, that parents roles is to guide and advice the children by supporting their choice of carriers.


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TREE PLANTING A PANACEA FOR SUSTAINABLE ECOSYSTEM AND LIVELIHOOD

Sa’ad, Muhammad Hashidu & Adamu, Sani Jauro

1Department of Forestry and Wildlife Management, Ministry of Environment & Forest Resources, Gombe State

2Department of Environment, Ministry of Environment & Forest Resources, Gombe State

Email:  saadhashidu@gmail.com & sanidaddy@gmail.com.

ABSTRACT

The exploitation of the resources of the semi-arid ecosystems by human beings, especially in recent times of severe and persistent drought brought about by ecological damages in the region, and also the increase in human population appears to be stressing the natural resources, consequently in many areas sustainable-yield threshold of the vegetation and soils are being breached over. It is now obvious that the problem of desertification needs to be addressed in a holistic manner in order to ensure that the semi-arid zone continues to support sustainable living. The most rapid responsive approach would be achieved through planting and protection of trees for the numerous services derived from them (Sadio, 1990). Trees can be extremely useful for the important role they play to achieve sustainable rural development and to restore the health of the planet’s environment, and are also one of the most valuable tools available to help transform unhealthy cities into healthier ones, and improve low productivity agricultural land into high yielding and profitable agriculture land. It is generally agreed that increasing agricultural productivity is central to growth and poverty alleviation in rural areas (Chivaura-Mususa et al, 2000; Sánchez et al, 1998).

Keywords: As a Panacea, Livelihood, Sustainable Ecosystem, And Tree Planting.


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AN INDUSTRIALISED BUILDING SYSTEM APPROACH TO HOUSING DEVELOPMENT IN NIGERIA

Adeagbo, Dorcas Omolola1 & Anigbogu Natalia, A.2

Department of Building

University of Jos, JosEmail: adeagbod1@yahoo.com

ABSTRACT  

Industrialised Building System (IBS) is a construction method where prefabricated components are used instead of cast on site approach. It has more to offer compared to the conventional method. Among these advantages are shorter construction period, reduced overall cost, improved labour productivity, better site management and reduction in waste generation. Developments of housing units are needed due to the growing population and increased demand for housing. This study was with the aim of investigating the perception of professionals on the prospects, challenges, and strategies for improving IBS usage in housing development, specifically in Abuja. The method adopted was purposive sampling technique where questionnaire were distributed to 100 built environment professionals, handling housing projects. Data obtained from the 80 questionnaire returned were analysed using SPSS software. The results revealed that majority of the professionals handling housing projects in Abuja are practicing traditional cast in – situ method and IBS application is considered for few projects. The challenges of IBS application according to the respondents are; insufficient IBS manufacturer, unfamiliarity due to resistance to change, enormous capital cost and lack of government interest. In order to overcome these barriers, majority of the respondents agreed that improving the educational curriculum, adopting intensive training for the related professionals, usage of IBS in government housing projects, government support with startup capital, and promotion of market acceptance of IBS housing units, would help in improving IBS adoption in Abuja housing development. The implication of this study is that Government support and increase awareness on the prospects of IBS would improve the usage of IBS in housing development. 

 


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SUITABILITY OF MAIZE COB ASH AS A PARTIAL REPLACEMENT OF CEMENT IN SANDCRETE BLOCKS

Anowai, S. I., Ishaya, A. A., Zakka, P. W., Yahaya, A. M. & Oyelade, O.M.

Department of Building

University of Jos, Jos Nigeria

E-mail: anowaisolomon@yahoo.com

ABSTRACT: This research is aimed at determining the suitability of the use of Maize Cob Ash as partial replacement of ordinary Portland cement (OPC) in the production of Sandcrete Blocks. The maize cob used in this study was sourced from Jengre village in Bassa Local Government Area of Plateau State. The maize cobs were properly dried and burnt to ashes completely at the temperature of 500-6000C in a furnace. Mix ratio of 1:6 (cement: sand) was used in this study. Water cement ratio of 0.5 was adopted in this study. OPC was partially replaced with maize cob ash (MCA) in varying percentages of 10%, 20% and 30% by weight. The block samples were moulded and cured for 7, 14 and 28 days. The compressive strengths of the blocks were tested by crushing using compressive test machine. The compressive strength of the blocks was observed to increase with increasing days of curing. Sandcrete block samples made with 10% and 20% replacements of OPC with MCA achieved compressive strengths of 4.05N/mm2 and 2.65N/mm2 respectively at 28 days. These satisfied the minimum compressive strength requirement of 3.45N/mm2 and 2.5N/mm2 for load bearing and non load bearing walls respectively specified by NIS:87 (2004) for sandcrete blocks. Blocks made at 10% and 20% percentage partial replacements of OPC with MCA also satisfied the maximum water absorption requirement of 12% specified by Nigeria Industrial Standard (2004) for sandcrete blocks. It is thus recommended that OPC should be partially replaced with 10% and 20% MCA in sandcrete block production for load bearing walls and non-load bearing walls respectively.

Key Words: Maize cob ash, Sandcrete block, partial replacement of cement, compressive strength, Water absorption.


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CONTENTS

Competencies required by Agricultural Education Lecturers in Bee Keeping for Effective Teaching of Bee Production in Tertiary Institutions in Southeastern Nigeria

Valentine S. O. Ibe & Uloh, Emeka Victor ………………………………………….…1

A Review of the Role of Different Information Systems in Modern Organizations

Agburu Ogbaji Gabriel………………………………………………………………………13

The Escape of Chief Ada Spiff to Twon-Brass and the Founding Of Gbobokiri (Ada-Ama) in 1871 and Ekperikiri 1873

Oscar Inowei – Alabo……………………………………………………….……………….22

Factors Influencing Users’ Satisfaction with E-Payment System in Nigerian Universities

Ayoade, Olusola Bamidele & Yusuf, Kemi Jemilat…………………………………….…30

Environmental Effect on Students’ Academic Performance in Public and Private Secondary Schools in Adamawa State, Nigeria

Sunday Yeduma Ben; Muazu Muhammad Habibu & Aboki Mustapha Bello…………………………………………………………………………………………..47

Assessment on the Provision and Utilization of Human Resources for Universal Basic Education Programme in Sabon Gari Local Government Area of Kaduna State

Abubakar Muhammad Lawal………………………………………………………………58

An Appraisal of the Functionality, Adequacy and Use of ICT Tools to Enhance Web-Based Learning in Benue State University, Makurdi

Tor, Shiekuma Felix;   Wisdom, Audrey Gambo& Ezekiel, Paul………………………….69


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An Appraisal of the Functionality, Adequacy and Use of ICT Tools to Enhance Web-Based Learning in Benue State University, Makurdi

Tor, Shiekuma Felix1;   Wisdom, Audrey Gambo2 & Ezekiel, Paul3

1Department of Library and Information Science, Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria, Nigeria

2Kashim Ibrahim Library, Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria, Nigeria

3E-Library Section, Nigerian Defense Academy Library, Kaduna State, Nigeria

Email: talk2felixo@gmail.com; audreywisdom70@gmail.com; paulmcaye@yahoo.com

ABSTRACT

The study appraised the functionality, adequacy and use of ICT tools to enhance web-based learning in Benue State University, Makurdi. The population of the study included undergraduate students in the Benue State University, Makurdi. Simple random sampling was used in selecting the respondents. Descriptive survey design was adopted for the study, with a total population of 18, 729 students. A sample size of 375 students was used. The instrument for data collection was questionnaire. In analyzing the data, frequency table and simple percentage were used. The findings, revealed that, ICT tools in the Benue State university were functional but grossly adequate. The study equally brought to bear that the use of ICT tools enhances WBL in minimal ways such as accessing the Internet, doing assignments via web platforms, and browsing web-based materials. Poor Internet connectivity and inadequate ICT tools posed a major challenge to engaging ICTs in web-based learning. Based on the findings, it was recommended that the services of more maintenance engineers should be engaged to ensure constant functionality of ICT tools by checking, repairing and servicing them. Provisions should be made by the university management for yearly deployment of ICT tools. Web experts should be invited during orientation exercises to expose students to the functionalities of web-based learning and how they can maximally benefit from it, and investment in sound internet connectivity should be prioritized by both government and the university management.

Keywords: Adequacy, Functionality, Web-based Learning, Benue State University, ICT tools, Use


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CONTENTS

Assessment of Consumer Behaviour on Retail Prices of Garri in Imo State

Eze E. U; Njoku G. U; Anah C. O & Abana P. C……………..……………….…….……1

Security Implication of Farmers and Fulani Herdsmen Conflict in Middle Belt Zone-2010-2018

Jibrin Ubale Yahaya……………………………………………………………….………10

Assessment of Government Role in the Growth of Mechanized Agricultural Marketing System

Bello, B. S.; Nwokenkwo, B. O.; Abdullahi, F. H.; Ozimede, Elizabeth O. & Saidu, Aliyu Baba……………………………………………………………………………………26

Evaluating the Effect of Momordica Balsamina Linn, Selenium and Lamivudine for the Treatment of Newcastle Disease in Pullets

D. Agang; P.A. Abdu; L. Saidu & M.M. Suleiman………………………….…………..40

Larval Morphometric and Adult Mortality of Dermestes Maculatus Degeer Exposed to Powdered and Steam Extracts Piper Guineense Pre-Treated Fish.

Ebochuo V.C. and Onwuka C. N……………………………….…………………………50

Effect of Graded Levels of Fermented Mango (Mangifera spp) Kernel Composite Meal on the Serological Parameters of Laying Japanese Quails (Coturnix coturnix japonica)

Yerima Shettima Kolo; Abang Favour Bette & Attah Sunny…………………………..61

Biodiversity and Species Distribution of Indigenous under-utilized Fruit and Vegetable Crops in the North Senatorial District of Nasarawa State, Nigeria

Okpanachi, O., Aguoru, C.U., Azua, E.T. and Olasan, J.O…………………………….69


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BIODIVERSITY AND SPECIES DISTRIBUTION OF INDIGENOUS UNDER-UTILIZED FRUIT AND VEGETABLE CROPS IN THE NORTH SENATORIAL DISTRICT OF NASARAWA STATE, NIGERIA

Okpanachi, O., Aguoru, C.U., Azua, E.T. and Olasan, J.O.

Biodiversity and Environment Unit

Federal University of Agriculture, Makurdi, Nigeria

Corresponding author: Olasan J.O.; Email: lekanolasan@yahoo.com)

ABSTRACT

Species distribution and diversity of indigenous fruit and vegetable crops were undertaken in three Local Government Areas of the North Senatorial Districts. Three locations were randomly chosen per LGA. Three random samplings were carried out in each location. A total of 27 localities were studied, each with a unique code and GPIS information. Qualitative and quantitative ecological approaches were adopted. Representative wild plant specimens were collected and identified. Herbarial specimens were also preserved. The Shannon-Wienner Diversity (H) computation was done for each LGA. The African butter pear and Black velvet Tamarind were rare in Akwanga LGA but Drum palm was frequently seen.  Akwanga LGA had 7 species accounting for 64 species richness (Gudi=22, Alushi=17, Walko=25). H-diversity was 1.83 while species evenness was 0.938. In Wamba LGA, African Locust beans and Finger root were abundantly present. However, Desert date, Red bush willow, Baobab and Wild onion spring were rarely encountered. Wamba LGA had 9 species with species richness of 420 dominated by Wamba (263). H-diversity was 1.20. Hmax was 2.20 while species evenness was 0.54.The most abundant species in NasarawaEggon were Jute plants most especially at Mada station. NasarawaEggon LGA had 11 species where species richness was 609 cutting across Mada station (228), Kagbu (102) and Lambaga (279). H-diversity was 1.55; Hmax was 2.4 while species evenness was 0.65. The strength of biodiversity of indigenous fruit and vegetable crop was low in Wamba (H<1.5) but moderate in the two other LGAs (H>1.5). This could be attributed to various anthropogenic activities and pressure causing loss of biodiversity. Many plants such as African butter pear and Black velvet Tamarind, Desert date, Red bush willow, Baobab and Wild onion spring are rare. There is need for intensive domestication and conservation of these plants for sustainable utilization in the Northern Senatorial District of Nasarawa State Nigeria.Key words: Biodiversity, Indigenous crops, Conservation, Sustainable utilization


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EFFECT OF GRADED LEVELS OF FERMENTED MANGO (Mangifera spp) KERNEL COMPOSITE MEAL ON THE SEROLOGICAL PARAMETERS OF LAYING JAPANESE QUAILS (Coturnix coturnix japonica)

Yerima Shettima Kolo; Abang Favour Bette & Attah Sunny

 Department of Animal Production

Federal University of Agriculture, Makurdi, Benue State, Nigeria

ABSTRACT

An experiment was conducted using one hundred and nine five (195) unsexed laying Japanese quails of about two weeks old to investigate the effect of graded levels of fermented mango kernel composite meal (FMKCM) on the health status of quails. The results for serum biochemical composition showed that serum sodium (Na+), serum chloride (Cl), serum bicarbonate (HCO3), serum creatinine; ALT, AST and Total Bilirubin were within normal reference ranges. However serum potassium rose slightly above the normal references range. It is concluded that FMKCM could replace maize up to 25% without any nutritional disorder, as the parameter that was not within the normal reference range did not follow a regular pattern and these observation were applicable to the control experiment as well, revealing that diets would not have accounted for these irregularities.

Keywords: fermented mango kernel, maize, Japanese quail, serological indices