AFRICAN JOURNAL OF GEOGRAPHICAL SCIENCES

Assessment of the Physicochemical Properties of Water in Tin Mining Ponds on the Jos Plateau, Nigeria: Prospect for Municipal Clean Water Supply

Daniel Dalyop — 2025-05-04

The global problem in water resources management is finding new and reliable sources of water. The utility of water is limited by its quality and accessibility, which makes it suitable or unsuitable for a variety of uses. Assessment of water quality is therefore an important aspect of water resource evaluation. Various analytical procedures were used to analyze the appearance, taste, electric conductivity, temperature, turbidity, color, odor, pH, total hardness, total alkalinity, calcium (Ca), magnesium (Mg), iron (Fe), manganese (Mn), sodium (Na) chloride (Cl), fluoride (F), nitrate (NO2), microbial, cadmium (Cd), cobalt (Co), nickel (Ni), lead (Pb), zinc (Zn), copper (Cu), chromium (Cr) and arsenic (Ar) contents, which were all measured during the dry season. The results were compared with water quality standards established by the World Health Organization (WHO) and the National Environmental Standards and Regulations Enforcement Agency (NESREA). Based on these findings, the appearance, color, taste, odor, electrical conductivity, turbidity, iron (Fe), lead (Pb), arsenic (Ar), total coliform and E. coli concentrations are above the WHO and NESREA limits. The utilization of mining ponds for a sustainable water supply offers benefits, including increased water security, minimized environmental impact and reduced water costs. It is recommended that mining ponds undergo proper treatment and further purification before being utilized for domestic purposes.

Prioritizing Climate Change Adaptation Strategies among Farmers in Maijuju, Jos East LGA, Plateau State

Simi Goyo — 2025-05-04

Climate change poses a huge threat to farmers in the world today as on the average, individuals and
groups within all societies have insufficient capacity to adapt to climate change. This study aims to
investigate “climate change adaptation strategies among farmers in Maijuju, Jos East L.G.A. Plateau
State” in order to prioritize actions for planning against climate change impacts. Quantitative data was
obtained using a structured questionnaire administered to 150 farmers through the random sampling
technique. Descriptive statistics from Likert scale measurement were used to analyze farmers’
perceptions of climate change, quantify impacts of climate change and identify adaptation strategies to
climate change. Data obtained was subject to analysis using Statistical Package for Social Sciences
(SPSS) and results presented in descriptive statistics of frequencies and percentages. Findings reveal
that increase in temperature, late onset of rains, early cessation, and off-seasonal rainfall caused loss
of crops, pests and diseases which resulted in food insecurity in Maijuju. Adaptation strategies taken
by the farmers to mitigate the climatic effects on their farms are adjustments of planting dates, using
different crop varieties, adoption of drought tolerant and early maturing crop varieties, application of
agro-chemicals, fertilizer usage and application of animal manure among others. It is recommended
that further effort towards complementing local adaptation strategies should be considered as this will
positively influence priorities for adaptation actions.

Spatio-Temporal Change in Land Use, Land Cover and Land Surface Emissivity in Benin City, Edo State, Nigeria

Courage Anyokwu — 2025-05-04

Land use-land cover changes are adjudged as major drivers of climate change. They determine the level of Land Surface Emissivity and the consequent thermal conditions. This study examined the impacts of land use land cover change on land surface emissivity of Benin City between 1991 and 2021. It employed a geospatial technique for the data acquisition and spatial analysis. The result showed a spatio-temporal change in urban land uses which led to a remarkable loss in vegetal cover. The trend of depletion in vegetation and changes in land uses was followed by a rise in urban land surface emissivity. Thus, there was a corollary between change in land use land cover and land surface emissivity. Within the period, water body increased by 0.0088 Km2, the built-up area increased by 34.4587 Km2 while cultivated area and vegetation reduced by 2.0413 Km2 and 29.0069 km2 respectively. Findings also revealed a steady rise in
LSE within the period from a range of 0.975-0.987μm in 1991 to 0.986-0.987μm in 2006 and 0.9860.988μm in 2021. By implication, there was a progressive increase in the land surface emissivity due to changes in land use land cover within the study period. Hence, urban land use land cover dynamics lends credence to urban land surface emissivity which is a precursor to several ecological problems. It becomes necessary to adopt relevant mitigations like afforestation, use of low thermal emissive materials and effective urban planning to curb the emissions.

Effects of Climatic Elements Variability on Surface Water in Selected Catchment Areas in Kaduna State, Nigeria

Danbaba Goma — 2025-05-04

In Kaduna State Nigeria, the climate in recent years has witnessed significant variability across the various catchment areas due to population pressure and anthropogenic activities. Thus, the objective of this study is to assess the relationship between climatic elements on surface water in selected catchment areas in Kaduna State. The Meteorological data for the study were sourced from twelve remotely sensed stations around Kaduna State for thirty-seven years and Hydrological data from the State’s Water Board (KSWB) for thirty-seven years. The data computation, relationship between climate variability and water resources were established using Structural Equation Model (SEM) which has the statistical power to find the relationship between a phenomenon and other related parameters. Findings revealed that climatic variables have no significant impact on the water level across the three catchment areas of Galma, Kaduna Central and Amere/Mada since none of climatic variables have a significant effect which culminated to a negative water level in the catchment area but both rainfall and solar radiation have a positive relationship with water level which give rise to positive water level in the catchment area. Therefore, water resources availability in the catchment areas will not be under stressed by climate variation. The large amount of available water during the rainy season; crop varieties that can withstand much water should be planted in areas of high rainfall; and government policies related to agriculture and water resources development should be based on increase in rainfall and water resources trends in Kaduna State.

A Classification and Analysis of Metal Content of some Irrigated Crops in Southern Kaduna, Kaduna State

Joyce Adams — 2025-05-04

This study focuses on the identification of irrigated crops in southern Kaduna. It further classified and tested the heavy metal content of the selected crops. In other to achieve this aim, observation, interview, and laboratory analysis of the identified irrigated crops were carried out. This was done based on recognized irrigation sites in southern Kaduna, i.e., Saminaka, Ashafa, Kachia, and Kogum rivers. Results revealed that there are seventeen irrigated crops identified in the study area, which are made up of cereals, fruits, root crops, vegetables and perennial grass. These are mainly cultivated for commercial purpose, and the number of farmers cultivating each crop type have been identified as well as the cropping calendar for irrigated crops in the area. The study also relate that vegetables are the most dominant irrigated crops cultivated in the study area. The study further classified these crops into low, moderate, and high water
intake crops based on their rate of water need. The classified crops were further selected for laboratory analysis to test for the concentration of heavy metals. These include spinach, pepper, tomatoes, and sugarcane. These were selected from each of the three classes because they are consumed on a daily basis and in large quantities in the study area. The laboratory analysis results show high concentration of the tested heavy metals (Cu, Pb, and Cd) in the crops, that is the heavy metals are above the permissible limit of 40mg/kg-1 (Cu), 0.2mg/kg-1 (Cd), and 0.3mg/kg-1 (Pb), thus, concentration level of these metals ranged from Cu > Pb> Cd. These findings imply that the water and soil used for the cultivation and watering of the crops are polluted. Finally, suggestions were given on how to improve and manage the river water resources available to us for sustainable irrigation practices in southern Kaduna.

Assessment of Urban Flood in Kaduna Metropolis

Jeremiah Salifu — 2025-05-04

Kaduna metropolis has witnessed flood events since the early 1980’s. This has caused damage to life, property and infrastructure as well as loss of lives. Global climate change and rapid urbanization has increased flood events in the metropolis. Communities within the metropolis have encroached into the flood plains of Kaduna River thereby exposing them to flood hazards resulting to direct and indirect impacts on the community. An objective description of the present flood situation in Kaduna metropolis was undertaken to determine the prevailing flood situation and the cause(s) of floods in the metropolis. Data for this study were obtained from field observations and measurements, satellite imageries, interviews and focus group discussions. Secondary data of rainfall and temperature record of Kaduna metropolis obtained from National Bureau of Statistics and flood incidences in the metropolis from Kaduna State Environmental Protection Agency were reviewed. Purposive and stratified random sampling techniques were employed
for this study. Data was analyzed using descriptive method of frequency distributions and map displays. Findings indicate that communities close to the Kaduna River are at a high risk of continuous devastating impact of floods as a result of continuous development in the flood plains of the Kaduna river. There is also an increase in rainfall volume from year 2004 (115mm) to year 2014 (169.5mm) indicating this as a major cause of fluvial floods. Anthropogenic activities of development into the flood plains, indiscriminate dumping of refuse in storm water channels, concreting of surfaces, laying of tarmacs, erosion of soil into the river channel, removal of vegetation for industrial, commercial, recreational and residential use enhanced flood incidences in the metropolis. It is recommended that government should focus more on measures such as restriction of development into the flood plains, sensitization and awareness of the dangers of encroachment into the flood plain and relocation of community members that are within the flood prone areas. These measures in addition to others will assist in tackling the menace of flood in the metropolis.

Route Selection Using Geographical Information Systems, Remote Sensing and Analytical Hierarchical Process Techniques: Jos – Abuja Route

Leonard Bombom — 2025-05-04

Route selection is an important aspect of road planning, engineering and construction. It highlights the
sections of non-homogeneous space that should be considered for selection of least-cost route. Traditional
methods that use paper topographic maps, and analog aerial photographs are manual and therefore
tedious, laborious and inefficient, requiring long periods of time and consideration of only limited number
of criteria at a time. Geographical Information System and Remote Sensing techniques, using Analytical
Hierarchical Process (AHP), have the capabilities to transform the route planning and selection process
considerably. They allow for the consideration of multiple criteria simultaneously and produce results that
are significantly better than the manual methods, all within remarkably shorter periods of time. These
techniques are greatly more efficient, reliable and productive. This paper demonstrates the efficacy of GIS
and RS methods, coupled with AHP to select a new optimal (least-cost) route between the cities of Jos and
Abuja, Nigeria.

Weather-Induced Flight Disruptions: Analysing Trends, Implications and Mitigation Strategies at the Jos Airport, Plateau State, Nigeria

Elijah Akintunde — 2025-05-04

Visibility plays a crucial role in aviation safety and efficiency, influencing flight schedules and airline patronage. Poor visibility caused by weather conditions such as fog, thunderstorms, and harmattan haze has been identified as a major challenge for air transportation, often leading to delays, diversions, cancellations and even air crashes. This study examined the influence of visibility on passenger
preferences and booking patterns. Utilizing historical data obtained from NIMET, the research identified correlations between visibility conditions and fluctuations in airline patronage. A combination of quantitative analysis and case studies, focusing on Yakubu Gowon Airport in Jos, Plateau State, was employed to assess the effects of low visibility on flight schedules. The study also investigated the role of advanced technologies, such as CAT III Instrument Landing Systems (ILS), in mitigating visibility-related disruptions. Findings revealed that as visibility decreased, the likelihood of flight delays increased. Statistical analysis showed a moderate positive correlation (R = 0.530) between visibility and delays, indicating that while visibility was a significant factor (p < 0.05), other variables also contributed to flight disruptions. Approximately 28% of the variance in delays was attributed to visibility conditions, highlighting its substantial role in on-time flight performance. Nonetheless, the moderate positive correlation suggested that visibility played a substantively important role in on-time flight performance at Jos. The findings further showed the intricate relationship between visibility, airline patronage, and flight schedules. Poor visibility, such as due to fog or heavy rain, is more likely to lead to disruptions in flight operations, including cancellations and delays. The study recommended that airlines and aviation authorities consider visibility as a key factor in flight planning, particularly in regions prone to adverse weather. Additionally, mechanical and technical issues needed to be factored into delay management strategies. These findings emphasized the necessity of robust weather monitoring, safety protocols, and contingency planning to mitigate the impact of poor visibility on flight operations.

Night Market, an Effective Tool for Urban Development: A Case Study of ‘Reserved’ Night Market in Ore, Nigeria

Adeyemi Ariyo — 2025-05-04

This study assessed peculiar characteristics, impact and functionality of Reserved Night market as an effective tool for developing the socio-economic life of the people of Ore and its environs. The research design adopted was a combination of explanatory and descriptive designs. The population size for the study was 3,500 from which a sample size of 5% was taken, resulting to one hundred and seventy-five respondents. Using a systematic sampling technique, one of every 20 persons met in the market was selected during the survey. The results of the research indicated dominance of the age (19 - 39) years. Artisans and self-employed were mostly found in the market between (7 – 10) pm. More students and unemployed youths in the market between (4 - 7) pm. Functions of the market include, cheap commodity, pleasure, business and convenience. However, most traders in the market make more profit at night. Challenges that hindered the functionality of the night market under study were: lack of adequate space for trading activities, inadequate infrastructural facilities, improper waste management, inefficient security services, traffic congestion (vehicular and pedestrian) among others. Therefore, the paper recommends the provision of more trading stalls with adequate facilities, stable electricity, efficient security, proper waste management, as well as, quality accommodation in the market area to meet international standards.

Land Grabbing: Causes and Implications for Rural Development in the Global South— Evidence from the Benin Region

Prince Edohen — 2025-05-04

For decades, both national and multinational economic actors have sought access to land, often leading to widespread land acquisition. In recent years, the rapid acceleration of land grabbing has raised concerns, necessitating an investigation into its causes and implications in the Benin region. This study employed both primary and secondary data, utilizing purposive sampling to select three communities within the study area, while systematic random sampling was used to select household heads. A total of 400 questionnaires were administered, and data were analyzed using descriptive statistics based on a five-point Likert scale. The Friedman repeated measures method and the Kendall coefficient of concordance were applied to test and validate the study’s null hypothesis. Findings indicate that land grabbing has been a persistent issue in the region for over a decade, with most respondents (99.9%) acknowledging its long-standing presence. Legislative efforts to curb land grabbing were perceived as weak, and awareness of land registration documents, particularly the Certificate of Occupancy (C of O), was notably low among respondents. The study identified rising land prices as a primary driver of land grabbing, exacerbated by speculative activities and external influences. Additionally, the implications of land grabbing were found to be significant, with respondents highlighting its hindrance to development as a major concern. The research further established that securing land ownership through Certificates of Occupancy is considered the most
effective strategy to mitigate the issue. To address these challenges, the study recommends strengthening legal frameworks to protect land rights, increasing public awareness campaigns through media and billboards, and ensuring that citizens understand the importance of stability for sustainable development. Moreover, it advocates for empowering traditional institutions to utilize both customary and formal legal mechanisms to resolve land disputes through customary courts within their jurisdictions.

Impact of Criteria Air Pollutants on Respiratory Health: A Case Study of Kano Metropolis

Yakubu Musa — 2025-05-04

Air pollution is a significant public health concern in urban environments worldwide. This paper investigates the relationship between Criteria Air Pollutants (CAPs) and respiratory health outcomes in the Kano metropolis. Using Aeroqual Portable Monitor S500 V6 ENV and HoldPeak Aerosol Mass Monitor, ambient concentrations of CAPs were measured at 34 randomly sampled locations monthly for
12 months. Additionally, medical records on lung cancer, asthma, upper respiratory tract infections (URTIs), pneumonia, and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) were collected from the four public specialist hospitals in the study area. The data were analysed using a stepwise multiple regression model. Results revealed that the prevalence of asthma significantly correlated (R2=0.92, p<0.05) with PM2.5. The COPD was significantly influenced (R2=0.84, p<0.05) by CO and O3, and the occurrence of pneumonia by NO2 (R2=0.700, p<0.05). Likewise, cases of URTIs were associated (R2=0.890, p<0.05) with PM2.5 and SO2 and lung cancer was significantly linked (R2=0.967, p<0.05) to PM2.5. This underscores the critical need for air quality interventions in the Kano metropolis to mitigate the adverse health impacts of pollution. The paper advocates for the enactment of public health policy initiatives aimed at reducing pollutant levels to prevent respiratory illnesses and improve overall community health.

Adaptation Strategies of Cassava Farmers in Minimising Post-Harvest Losses in Otukpo Local Government Area of Benue State, Nigeria

Onah Moses — 2025-05-04

This study assessed the adaptation strategies used by cassava farmers to minimise post-harvest losses
in Otukpo Local Government Area of Benue State, Nigeria. Z-Score was used to sample 384 farmers
for the study. Structured questionnaire and Key Informant Interview were used to source relevant
information from the sampled farmers. The results were analysed using descriptive statistics such as
frequency and percentages and the results presented in tables and figures. The results show that
improper handling of cassava during harvest was the major causes of post-harvest loses. The study
further reveals that processing of cassava into other by-products such as flour, chips, garri, pellets,
bread, starch; harvesting cassava roots at the right maturity stage to avoid damage; pack roots in
breathable bags or container to maintain airflow; collaboration with extension workers/agents and
regularly monitor and evaluate post-harvest handling and storage practices to identify areas of
improvement are some of the farmers’ perceived adaptation strategies in minimizing post-harvest losses
of cassava. Based on the findings of the study and to further improve and sustain cassava production
in the study area, the study recommended intensive planting of high yield cassava stems; encouraging
cassava farmers establish market links to ensure timely sale and reduce storage time; participate in
agricultural extension services which will educate them on the effects of post-harvest losses and
introduce them to emerging viable adaptation strategies in the study area.

Medical Waste Management Practices in Bingham University Teaching Hospital, Jos, Plateau State, Nigeria

Ruth Nesla — 2025-05-04

Medical waste management is one of the major challenges facing many developing countries, including
Nigeria, as unsafe disposal could pose serious health risks and environmental degradation. This study
investigated medical waste management practices among staff and patients of Bingham University
Teaching Hospital (BUTH), Jos. The specific objectives were to: characterize the composition of medical
waste, find out means of collecting and storing the waste and assess ways of managing medical waste.
Mixed research designed was employed, while questionnaire, field observations and camera were used to
collect data. Stratified sampling and simple random techniques were used to collect data. Copies of
structured questionnaire were administered to 150 respondents and descriptive statistics, aided by SPSS22 were applied in data analysis. Results showed that sharps (needles & syringes) (31%), blood (23%),
and pharmaceuticals (13%) accounted for two-thirds of the medical waste generated in BUTH. The
medical waste were collected and stored by means of: dustbins (31%), bucket (29%), truck to transport
(17%), burning (15%) and color-red bags (8%). Field observations showed little compliance for waste
segregation at source of generation, and incineration (36%) and collection of waste (24%) accounted for
three-fifths of medical waste management in BUTH. Although, enclosed incinerator was seen, but
burning medical waste often pollute the air and exacerbates the problem of asthmatic patients, aside
causing environmental degradation. The paper recommended strict compliance to the WHO guidelines
for safe disposal of medical waste and the need to sensitize the public on how best to dispose of
biohazardous waste materials with minimal risk to the entire ecosystem.

Evaluating Farmers' Access Channels to Weather Forecast Information for Climate Change Adaptation in Giwa Local Government Area of Kaduna State

Suleiman Balarabe — 2025-05-04

Climate change has emerged as a pressing global issue, posing significant threats to both natural
ecosystems and human societies. Despite technological advances, weather and climate remain crucial
variables in agricultural production, emphasizing the need for measures to mitigate climate change
consequences through research and adaptation. Timely and accurate weather forecast information is a
vital coping strategy for farmers, with the Nigeria Meteorological Agency (NIMET) being the leading body
responsible for forecasting and disseminating weather information. This study adopted a descriptive survey
research design. The study evaluated farmers' channels for accessing weather forecast information in Giwa
LGA, Kaduna State, surveying 384 respondents aged 45+ who had lived in the area for at least 30 years.
Results showed rainfall irregularity, increasing temperature, increased flooding, and decreasing crop yield
as climate change effects, with 84% of respondents accessing weather forecast information via radio
(77.5%), discussions with friends (58.6%), and international organizations/NGOs (47.3%). The study
recommends improving farmers' access to weather forecast information through cellphone SMS, social
media, and empowered extension services.

Contributions of RUSPHIN Programme: Knowledge, Attitude and Practices (KAP) to Sanitation and Hygiene in Gwer LGA, Benue State

Dorcas Kwamande — 2025-05-04

The study assessed the contributions of RUSPHIN Programme to knowledge, attitude and practices (KAP) of sanitation and hygiene among the people of Gwer LGA of Benue State. The study adopts a survey design. A total of 381 samples determine by Taro Yamene’s formula were drawn from the population of 7,994 households using purposive sampling techniques. Descriptive statistics including
frequency, tables and percentages were used to present and analyse the data. Findings of the study showed that; there was a significant improvement in the level of KAP on sanitation and hygiene among the rural people after the implementation of the RUSHPIN Programme with only 1.8 % still practicing open defecation as against 83.7% who were engaged in the act before the implementation of the RUSHPIN programme. Strategies such as enactment of bye laws and frequent monitoring visits to the rural communities were put in place to help sustain the programme in the study area. Based on the findings, the study concludes that the standard of hygiene and sanitation in the study area is satisfactory but for a few issues such as lack of awareness of linkage between sanitation and personal hygiene, and water supply. The study thus recommends among others that efforts be geared towards the periodic assessment of the knowledge, attitude and practice of sanitation and hygiene at the household level. Particularly in the rural areas where basic and improved sanitation coverage is inadequate. As well as interventions by government and or international organizations through ensuring good sanitation and hygiene practice in the rural areas.