AFRICAN JOURNAL OF GEOGRAPHICAL SCIENCES

CLIMATE CHANGE AND AGRARIAN RESILIENCE: AN INDEX BASED APPROACH TO RANKING CLIMATE RISKS AND RELATED HAZARDS IN SELECTED COMMUNITIES OF PLATEAU STATE

Simi Goyol — 2025-06-25

Climate change is increasing the risk of hazards leading to not only extreme weather events but also slow onsets of temperature variations, shifts in precipitation, and changes in other features of the climate system. Climate risks have significant implications for agrarian livelihoods, food security and national development. Understanding the nature of climate risk is vital for informed decisions on risk management. This study utilized the index-based approach to rank climate risk in three communities of Shendam Riyom, and Mangu in Plateau State. Using a mixed methods sequential design with first semi-structured interviews followed by survey questionnaires, data on climate risks and related hazards was collected from 22 key informants alongside 229 questionnaires administered to farmers who provided information on the experiences of climate risk events within their environment. Content analysis was used to analyse information elicited from the semi-structured interviews whilst descriptive statistics of ranking used to ascertain the climate risk index computing the frequency of occurrence against the magnitude of impact of climate hazard events in the communities. Findings reveal that flood (0.81), Changing rainfall pattern (0.41), and water shortages (0.36) ranked the highest. The study further showed that seasonal experiences varied as drier conditions of stream-flow changes, warmer temperatures, less rain days and late onset of rains were dry season related risks. While heavier rains and destructive winds are high risk events of the wet season. Also, community experiences differed across the three selected locations, also. The study recommends a development of comprehensive climate risk assessments and mapping in order to improve the preparedness and contingency plans for climate change.

IMPACTS OF GEOGENIC AND ANTHROPOGENIC ACTIVITIES ON GROUNDWATER QUALITY IN COASTAL ALLUVIAL AQUIFERS OF OGUN WATERSIDE, OGUN STATE, NIGERIA

Oni — 2025-06-25

Groundwater contamination is a growing concern in coastal areas due to both natural and human activities. This study examined the influence of lithological variation on surface water quality by analysing eleven physicochemical parameters across different geological formations. Purposive sampling was performed across 25 hand-dug wells in four principal villages, focusing on residential and agricultural zones based on lithological variations; samples were obtained using pre-treated polypropylene containers and examined for physicochemical parameters. Statistical evaluations including descriptive statistics, Pearson correlation, and one-way ANOVA were employed. Descriptive results showed high variability, particularly in EC, TDS, and nitrate concentrations. Correlation analysis revealed a significant positive relationship between sodium and prevailing human activity (r = 0.544, p<0.005), suggesting anthropogenic influence. ANOVA results indicated that pH (p = 0.017) and EC (p = 0.005) varied significantly across lithological classes, while sulphate, carbonate, and TDS showed near-significant differences. Other parameters such as calcium, nitrate, and potassium did not differ significantly, implying a uniform distribution or influence from external sources. These findings explain the dual influence of geology and human activity on water chemistry. It is recommended that lithology be integrated into water quality monitoring frameworks to improve source attribution and to guide sustainable watershed management practices.

GEOSPATIAL ANALYSIS OF GROUNDWATER QUALITY VARIATION FOR DOMESTIC USE IN GOMBE METROPOLIS, NIGERIA

Benjamin Maina — 2025-06-25

Groundwater remains a vital resource for domestic use in rapidly urbanizing environments such as Gombe Metropolis, Nigeria, yet its quality is increasingly threatened by human activities and poor waste management. This study investigates the spatial variability of groundwater quality for domestic use in Gombe Metropolis, Nigeria, using a geospatial approach. This study assessed groundwater suitability by comparing physicochemical and microbiological parameters with World Health Organization (WHO) and Nigerian Standard for Drinking Water Quality (NSDWQ) guidelines. A multistage random sampling technique was adopted to select 42 groundwater samples across 14 wards across Gombe, Akko, Kwami, and Yamaltu-Deba LGAs. Water samples were analyzed for temperature, pH, electrical conductivity (EC), total dissolved solids (TDS), major cations (Ca²⁺, Mg²⁺, Na⁺, K⁺), anions (Cl⁻, NO₃⁻, SO₄²⁻, PO₄³⁻, HCO₃⁻, F⁻), heavy metals (Pb, As, Cu, Fe), and microbial indicators (total coliforms, E. coli), using standard laboratory procedures including Atomic Absorption Spectrophotometry (AAS). Spatial analysis and kriging interpolation in ArcGIS were employed to generate geospatial distribution maps, while inferential statistics such as ANOVA and T-tests assessed parameter variation. Findings revealed significant spatial disparities in water quality. Notably, high nitrate (32.23 mg/L) and arsenic (0.40 mg/L) concentrations were detected in Barunde and Jeka da fari respectively, while Shamaki and Ajiya showed elevated EC (1348.63 µS/cm) and TDS (239.22 mg/L) levels. Microbiological contamination was highest in Jeka da fari and Nasarawo. Kriging maps revealed hot spots of chemical and microbial contamination primarily in urbanized wards, indicating anthropogenic influence. Conversely, Liji and GRA exhibited relatively low contaminant concentrations, suggesting minimal pollution. The study recommends routine groundwater monitoring, improved urban waste management, community education on sanitation, and targeted treatment technologies to ensure safe drinking water. This integrated geospatial framework provides an essential tool for water quality management and sustainable planning in fast-growing urban centres.

CHALLENGES AND OPPORTUNITIES OF WASTE PICKERS’ ENGAGEMENT IN INFORMAL WASTE RECOVERY AND RECYCLING SECTORS IN LAGOS MAINLAND, NIGERIA

Abu — 2025-06-25

This study assessed the challenges and opportunities of waste pickers’ engagement in the informal waste and recovery sectors in Lagos mainland. A purposive sampling method was adopted to select 150 waste pickers who volunteered to be respondents for the questionnaire administration. The findings indicated that the challenges of waste pickers in material recovery and reuse were price fluctuations, low self-esteem, harassment and occupational hazards of injuries and ailments. The result also indicate that the opportunities associated with waste picker’s engagement in the waste recovery sector are material recovery, reduction in environmental pollution, income generation for the urban poor, reduction in the volume of waste stream as well as cost of waste management. The study also revealed that formalization of informal recycling into a municipal solid waste management sector through cooperative association, legal recognition that protect their human rights and safe working conditions will improve their acceptance by the public and municipalities and also reduce the incidence of poverty, social marginalization, health hazards and their susceptibility to exploitation by middle men. Recommendations made based on the findings are provision of protective equipment to minimize injuries and occupational hazards, promulgation of laws to protect the rights and dignity of waste pickers, provision of accessible and quality health care services, formation of waste pickers cooperative for protection and collective barging, integration of informal recycling with the formal waste management sector in order for it to be lucrative and generate more jobs.

EROSION AS A FACTOR OF LANDSCAPE DESTRUCTION IN ILARO, YEWA SOUTH, SOUTHWEST NIGERIA

Raphael Simon — 2025-06-25

The study focuses on land erosion threat which has remained a major factor of landscape destruction in Ilaro, Yewa South, Ogun State, Nigeria. The study was wheeled by four objectives with the aim of examining the environmental impact of land erosion in the Ilaro town (the study area) with the view to curtailing the aged challenge through a research collaboration effort. Methodologically, the population for the study comprises of household population of Ilaro area covering 16 neighbourhoods within Ilaro community divided into five strata and a sample size of 397 estimated through Taro Yamane’s method of sample selection. The data generated through the use of questionnaire instrument were analysed using both descriptive and inferential statistical analysis methods to depict the information on erosion as it affects different segments of the study area. Findings from Ilaro building conditions revealed that 49% (percent) of the houses were built with cement blocks, and 27 percent were plastered. Investigation revealed that 46 percent of all the houses’ walls were found with cracks which might be as a result of soil erosion effects on the structures. Geologically, laterite soil was found to be most dominant at 48.8% among other soil types in the study area. From the study, the solution of erosion menace could be salvaged through the long-term and short-term measures involving full commitment of the government and private organisations within the state. The study recommends that: erosion channels should be diverted to critical areas of hydrological system and there should be a regular maintenance of road channels to keep drains clean so as to prevent flooding and also installing diversion at drains and culverts where runoff velocity can trigger erosion; massive public awareness through campaign on the problems and consequences of land erosion, as well as enacting environmental laws and serious penalties for offenders; community efforts and commitments should be advised to contribute their quota through local means.

ASSESSING KNOWLEDGE AND UTILIZATION OF FAMILY PLANNING AS TOOL FOR POPULATION CONTROL IN QUA’AN PAN LGA, PLATEAU STATE, NIGERIA

Ignatius Dalong — 2025-06-25

Nigeria is witnessing an unprecedented population growth and family planning has been established a reliable tool for population control. This study assessed family planning practice in Qua’an-pan LGA of Plateau State. It analyzed couples' awareness levels towards the practice of family planning and the factors that influence contraceptive use. Using a structured questionnaire, the study adopted a survey research method. Multistage sampling technique was employed in the selection of 240 couples from the 8 Districts of Qua'an Pan LGA. Descriptive statistics was used to analyze the responses, while Chi-square test was applied to test the hypothesis formulated. Results revealed that the awareness level of couples towards family planning was high (95%), however the utilization rate is 58%. Although couples generally have positive attitudes towards family planning, factors predictive of family planning are cultural and religious. Interventions in areas of sensitization and the provision of infrastructure such as schools and clinics are needed to transform existing awareness into information centers for education on family planning. Campaigns targeting individual couples through churches, mosques and cultural centers should be intensified on family planning for the benefit of all citizens.

IMPACT OF ARBUSCULAR MYCORRHIZAL FUNGI ON ROOT CALCIUM CONTENT OF COWPEA VARIETIES (Vigna unguiculata L. WALP) UNDER ALECTRA VOGELII INOCULATED SOIL

Deborah Makanjuola — 2025-06-25

Biological control methods can play an important role in managing plant parasites affecting cowpea production particularly in the face of climate change. This research evaluated the effect of Glomus clarum on the root calcium content of four cowpea varieties in an Alectra vogelii inoculated soil. The four cowpea varieties used were: SAMPEA 7, IFE 82-12, IT97K-499-35 and TVX 3236. The sterilized sandy-loamy soil used for this experiment consisted of a mixture of top soil and sand in ratio 1:1 (v/v). Glomus clarum treatments was applied at five rates: the zero and without Alectra, zero and with Alectra, 10, 20 and 30 g/pot each with Alectra (3.3 g). The treatments were arranged in complete randomized design. The root of cowpea plants was sampled for calcium content at 5 weeks after planting (WAP). Testing with ANOVA, the two years data based on Glomus clarum treatments, the Glomus clarum at 30 g/pot treatment resulted in highest root calcium content which was only comparable with that due to 20 g/pot Glomus clarum treatment. In addition, Glomus clarum treatments resulted in the highest root calcium content in IT97K – 499 – 35 which was only significantly higher than the lowest root calcium content observed in TVX 3236. In conclusion, Glomus clarum treatments significantly increased root calcium content for the cowpea varieties on Alectra inoculated soil and thus recommended as a biological control agent in Alectra vogelii infested fields.

ASSESSING HOUSEHOLD AND COMMUNITY LEVEL RISK FACTORS FOR CHOLERA OUTBREAKS IN KATSINA STATE, NIGERIA

Balarabe — 2025-06-25

This study investigated factors contributing to cholera outbreaks in Katsina State, Nigeria. The study employed a community-based cross-sectional design and surveyed 108 households across five urban and rural communities using a structured questionnaire administered through the Kobocollect digital platform. The data was analyzed descriptively and inferentially (Chi-square tests) in SPSS to examine associations between cholera occurrence and demographic, socioeconomic, water, sanitation, and household characteristics. Key findings showed that children and adolescents (6–17 years) accounted for 54.2% of cholera cases, demonstrating their heightened vulnerability. Larger-sized households (21+ persons) experienced significantly higher cholera incidents (55.6–60%) compared to smaller-sized households (13.2%), revealing the impact of overcrowding. Although households accessed improved water sources, 41.7% of those using pipe-borne water reported cholera cases, indicating contamination risks. However, statistical analysis found no significant association between water source type and cholera incidence (p = 0.255). Spatial analysis identified disparities, with BCG Village recording the highest cholera incidents (50%) and Katoge reporting no cases, emphasizing the role of localized environmental and infrastructural differences. While most households expressed willingness to improve water and sanitation, income level showed only marginal association with willingness (p = 0.053). The study concluded that multiple factors influenced cholera risk, including age, household size, and inconsistent water infrastructure maintenance. Study recommended targeted hygiene education for children and adolescents, household-level interventions to reduce overcrowding, and improved maintenance of water infrastructure.

EFFECT OF CLIMATE CHANGE ON THE YIELD OF MAIZE IN SELECTED LOCAL GOVERNMENT AREA OF BENUE STATE, NIGERIA

Elisha Ikpe — 2025-06-25

This study investigated the impact of climate change on maize yield in selected Local Government Areas (LGAs) of Benue State, Nigeria. Historical rainfall and temperature data were obtained from the archives of the Nigerian Meteorological Station in Abuja, while maize yield records were sourced from the Benue State Agricultural and Rural Development Agency (BNARDA). A total of 43 years (1980–2022) of data were analyzed to assess the relationship between climatic variables and maize yield trends, using trend line equations to illustrate patterns over time. A multistage sampling technique was employed to select six LGAs, and Krejcie and Morgan's formula guided the determination of a sample size of 780 purposively selected farmers. Data collection tools included a self-designed Crop Farmers’ Perception Questionnaire (CFPQ) and a Crop Farmers’ Perception Interview Guide (CFPIG). The reliability of these instruments was confirmed using the Cronbach Alpha coefficient, yielding values of 0.76 and 0.82, respectively. The results indicated a significant upward trend in rainfall and temperature over the study period, which has positively influenced maize cultivation in the area. The study concluded that climate change, particularly variations in rainfall and temperature, has contributed to improved maize yields in Benue State. It recommends that government bodies and non-governmental organizations support maize production by encouraging farmers to leverage the favorable climatic conditions, while also enhancing access to credit facilities such as loans, grants, and subsidies to facilitate the adoption of climate adaptation strategies and strengthen agricultural resilience.

LEAD ASSESSMENT IN DOMESTIC WATER SOURCES IN KWARA STATE, NIGERIA

Mohammed — 2025-06-25

The rate of Water contamination by lead in sub–Saharan Africa is at an alarming rate, and it is a source of concern for the Environmental managers especially in Nigeria. Physiochemical parameters in water samples from tap water, well water, and river water in Malete were assessed. Water samples were collected over two weeks, and parameters such as turbidity, Total Dissolved Solids (TDS), Chemical Oxygen Demand (COD), Biochemical Oxygen Demand (BOD), pH, and lead (Pb) concentrations were measured using standard procedures. The results were then compared with World Health Organization (WHO) standards for drinking water. The major findings revealed that the Zinc and lead concentrations in Malete's water sources significantly exceeded WHO's permissible limits of 0.01 mg/L, with the highest lead levels detected in the Malete River (0.085 mg/L). Other physiochemical parameters, including TDS, COD, and BOD, indicated varying degrees of water quality issues, with particularly high organic pollution levels in the river water. These findings suggest that the water contamination originated from a combination of aging infrastructure, such as decayed lead pipes, and dumping of refuse. There is urgent need to take measures to curb this from escalating, youth occupy large space in to future generation, save guarding their health is key to national development. Replacing corroded lead pipes and alternative source of water will help reduce over dependent on one source of water.

DYNAMICS AND SOCIOECONOMIC IMPACT OF RICE CULTIVATION IN THE ETSAKO REGION, EDO STATE, NIGERIA

Israel Igbe — 2025-06-25

This study investigated the spatial patterns and socioeconomic implications of rice farming in Etsako, Edo State, Nigeria, addressing two research questions: What is the spatial pattern of rice cultivation in the study area, and what are its socioeconomic implications for farmers? Employing a mixed-methods approach, data was collected from 328 rice farmers across Etsako West, East, and Central Local Government Areas using a two-stage sampling technique (purposive and systematic random sampling). Six communities in which rice was predominantly cultivated were purposively selected, then systematic random sampling was applied to select rice farmers within these communities and semi-structured questionnaires. Descriptive and inferential statistics, supported by the Livelihoods Framework, were used to analyze farm sizes, planting seasons, climate impacts, income, expenditure, and how earnings meet farmers’ needs (education, health, housing, food, clothing). Key findings reveal that most farmers (81.7%–88.7%) cultivate 1–2 hectares, with a slight increase in 3–4 hectares by 2017, driven by improved inputs. Two planting seasons dominated (81.0%), limited by rainfed systems, while rainfall (45.1%) and humidity (52.4%) significantly affect production. Income was substantial (59.5% earn above N300,000), but high losses (181 farmers) and moderate expenditure (68.6% spend N51,000–N100,000) reflect financial constraints. Earnings adequately met food (mean = 3.78) and clothing (mean = 3.53) need but fell short for education (mean = 2.59) and health (mean = 2.75). The study recommends the development of small-scale irrigation systems to extend planting seasons, strengthening extension services for climate-smart practices, and providing low-interest loans to enhance profitability and meet non-essential needs. These findings benefit farmers, policymakers, and extension officers by informing targeted interventions to boost productivity, reduce losses, and improve livelihoods, contributing to sustainable agricultural development in Etsako.