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AfriSophia: Journal of African Experiment, Thought and Experience

STRUCTURAL INTEGRITY ASSESSMENT OF A DISTRESSED BUILDING IN UNWANA USING NON DESTRUCTIVE TESTING

Emmanuel Ogbonnia Elechi, Civil Engineering Technology Department, Akanu Ibiam Federal Polytechnic Unwana, Ebonyi State, Nigeria [email protected]

Paschal Agha Mbeyi, Civil Engineering Technology Department Akanu Ibiam Federal Polytechnic Unwana, Ebonyi State, Nigeria. [email protected]

Ejike Emmanuel Nwalo Physical Planning Unit Ebonyi State University, Abakaliki, [email protected]

Emmanuel Chinonye Ogbu, Civil Engineering Technology Department, Akanu Ibiam Federal Polytechnic Unwana, Ebonyi State, Nigeria, [email protected]

Corresponding Author: [email protected]

The study investigated the structural integrity of a distressed building located at Unwana Afikpo,, Ebonyi State, Nigeria. Visual inspection was conducted and visible cracks were identified on walls and columns of the distressed building. Geotechnical investigations such as Dynamic Cone Penetration Test (DCPT) and laboratory tests were conducted on the disturbed soil samples at 0.37m and 0.90m depth to evaluate the soil properties. Also, Non Destructive Test (NDT) technique using Schmidt hammer apparatus was used to test the grade of the hardened concrete of the distressed building. The results obtained from the laboratory tests conducted for the soil samples revealed that at 0.37m depth, the plastic Limit (PL), Liquid Limit (LL) and Plasticity Index (PI) of the disturbed sample collected were 6.2%, 16.1%, 9.9% respectively and based on USCS and AASHTO soil classification, the soil was GC (clayey gravel) and A-2-4 (silty or clayey gravel) as PI > 7 and LL < 40. The result of PL, LL and PI at 0.9m depth for the disturbed soil sample was found as 34.2%, 52.2%, and 18% respectively and based on USCS and AASHTO soil classification, the soil was MH (inorganic silt) and A-7-5 (clayey soil) as PI < 30 and LL >50. DCP test result revealed that the soil was clayey soil with low bearing capacity of 53KN/m². The soil characteristics indicated that the soil will be problematic for construction due to clayey contents and has tendency to undergo volume changes with moisture fluctuations. The NDT result gave an average compressive strength of 20N/mm² indicating that the grade of concrete was fair for the distressed building. The Investigations showed that the strip foundation and column base at 0.37m and 0.9m depth respectively were not adequate to withstand the design loads of the building due to the clayey nature of the soil. It was recommended that the soil should be treated and foundation repairs provided to improve the life span of the building and prevent possible collapse that may lead to loss of lives and properties.

Keywords: Distressed Building, Structural Integrity Assessment. Non Destructive Test (NDT) and Dynamic Cone Penetration Test (DCPT), Geotechnical investigation

https://doi.org/10.5281/zenodo.15805742

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Emmanuel Ogbonnia Elechi, Civil Engineering Technology Department, Akanu Ibiam Federal Polytechnic Unwana, Ebonyi State, Nigeria, [email protected]

Samuel Onyekachi Ezeali, Civil Engineering Technology Department, Akanu Ibiam Federal Polytechnic Unwana, Ebonyi State, Nigeria, [email protected]

Ejike Emmanuel Nwalo, Physical Planning Unit, Ebonyi State University, Abakaliki, [email protected]

Oluwaneye Christopher Makinde, Vaastrop Nigeria Limited, Enugu, [email protected]

Ndubuisi Ajah, Civil Engineering Technology Department, Akanu Ibiam Federal Polytechnic Unwana, Ebonyi State, Nigeria, [email protected]

The study covered the development of model for predicting the compressive strength of rice husk ash (RHA) concrete at 28 days curing age for materials sourced from Afikpo-North Local Government Area of Ebonyi State, Nigeria using Scheffe’s (5, 2) simplex lattice design theory to enhance the usage of rice husk ash in order to reduce the cost of cement and concrete production. A total of 30 mix ratios were used to produce 90 concrete cubes of 150mm x 150mm x 150mm size to develop the model and test adequacy using Fisher’s test at 95 percent confidence level. The Scheffe’s regression model was used to generate the mathematical equation Y = 28.27X1 + 23.13X2 + 21.35X3 + 20.56X4 + 19.38X5+ 7.64X1X2 – 1.84X1X3 – 2.90X1X4 – 9.26X1X5 + 0.04X2X3 – 2.10X2X4 – 2.42X2X5 – 1.78X3X4 – 1.70X3X5 – 2.04X4X5 that gave the highest compressive strength of 28.27 N/mm² corresponding to a mix ratio of 0.50:0.95:2.00:4.00:0.05 for w/c ratio, cement, sand, granite and RHA respectively and the minimum compressive strength of 19.38N/mm² corresponding to mix ratio of 0.70:0.75:1.70:3.70:0.25 for w/c ratio, cement, sand, granite and RHA respectively. The study recommended that the rice husk ash used as partial replacement of cement for the model developed should not exceed 17.5% in order to achieve grade C20 concrete.

Keywords: Concrete, Compressive Strength, Rice Hush Ash (RHA), Scheffe’s Model, Simplex Lattice

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.5281/zenodo.15803383

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Ekenma Chukwu Mmahi, Ebonyi State University Abakaliki, Nigeria. [email protected]

Ben Ifeanyichukwu Oruh, Michael Okpara University of Agriculture Umudike, Nigeria

This study conducts an economic evaluation of queuing models implemented at the antenatal clinic of the Federal Medical Centre (FMC), Umuahia, Nigeria. Healthcare service efficiency is critical for maternal health outcomes, especially in resourcelimited settings.  By applying multiphase queuing models (M/Ek/1) :(FCFS/∞/∞), this research quantifies the trade-offs between patient waiting times and service costs under different server configurations. Data were collected through direct observation, interviews, and surveys, and analyzed using TORA and R. Four service models were simulated to determine their economic feasibility. The findings demonstrate that while full multi-server configurations reduce waiting time drastically, hybrid models (Model III) strike a better balance between cost efficiency and patient satisfaction. This implies that service delivery at a public hospital can be enhanced with informed modifications in server configurations. These insights offer vital guidance for healthcare policymakers seeking to optimize limited resources while maintaining quality maternal healthcare. 

Keywords: Queuing theory, economic evaluation, healthcare cost, waiting time, maternal health, antenatal clinic, service efficiency, cost-effectiveness.

DOI: https://doi.org/10.5281/zenodo.15817124

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This research assessed the environmental impact of Abattoir effluent on Iyi Eke Stream Afikpo, Nigeria. Water samples were collected and analysed monthly from five (5) sampling points along the stream at interval of 25m from January to June, 2024 in accordance with American Public Health Association (APHA). This process accommodated variation in time and frequency of discharge of the effluent and dilution effect of precipitation. The upstream samples were the controls. Water parameters analysed were pH, Temperature, colour, DO, Zn, Pb, Al, Hg, BOD, COD, TDS, Nitrate, Phosphorous, Ammonia, Total Coliform count and E-Coli. Descriptive statistic and ANOVA were used to analyse the data. From the findings, most physico-chemical parameters were within the permissible limits of WHO and NSDWQ standards, while all the concentrations of biological and heavy metals parameters exceeded the allowable limits. The study revealed that biological and heavy metal parameters were the critical pollutants of Iyi Eke stream. This implies that the discharge of abattoir effluent into Iyi Eke stream contributed to the stream's large-scale biological and heavy metal pollution. The study recommends biological treatment using an anaerobic digester before being discharged into the water body. The study further recommends effective waste management practices within the abattoir environment, and that Iyi Eke stream water should be treated before use because of its high level of pollution. These practices will protect the environment and secure public health.

Keywords: Abattoir, Effluent, Discharge, Environmental Impact, Assessment, Iyi Eke Stream.

DOI:https://doi.org/10.5281/zenodo.15817319

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F. U. Njoku PhD, National Health Insurance Authority Imo State Office, Owerri, Imo State, Nigeria

This cross-national comparative study investigates the social health insurance frameworks of Nigeria and Ghana between 1999 and 2024. Employing structural functionalism as a theoretical framework, the study examines critical areas including stakeholder engagement, governance structures, regulatory oversight, funding mechanisms, and public awareness initiatives. Ghana's National Health Insurance Scheme (NHIS) has demonstrated relative success through effective stakeholder engagement, transparent governance, extensive public education campaigns, and diversified financing, leading to higher enrolment rates, improved financial sustainability, and increased public trust. Conversely, Nigeria’s NHIS has faced persistent challenges such as low enrolment, limited stakeholder involvement, inadequate regulatory oversight, financial instability, and poor public perception, significantly constraining its effectiveness and sustainability. The comparative analysis highlights key factors contributing to Ghana’s success, providing valuable insights and actionable strategies for Nigeria. The study advocates for enhancing stakeholder participation, strengthening regulatory frameworks, improving transparency and accountability, implementing comprehensive public education strategies, and diversifying funding sources. These recommendations, supported by practical implementation strategies including capacity building, robust digital infrastructure, phased policy rollouts, and rigorous monitoring, present a strategic pathway to transform Nigeria’s NHIS. Adopting these lessons from Ghana, tailored to Nigeria’s specific context, could substantially improve healthcare accessibility, equity, and ultimately achieve sustainable universal health coverage, significantly enhancing the health and well-being of the Nigerian populace. 

Keywords: Social Health Insurance, Universal Health Coverage, Structural Functionalism, NHIS, Cross-National Comparison

https://doi.org/10.5281/zenodo.15815784

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Fatai Adio Saka, Akanu Ibiam Federal Polytechnic, Unwana, Nigeria.

Yusuf Adeniyi Jamiu, Fountain University, Osogbo, Nigeria.

Sikiru Okunlade Araoye, Summit University, Offa Nigeria 

Afolabi Lukman Olajide, Foremost Capital Limited, Abuja, Nigeria .

This study investigates the economic impact of international carbon markets, specifically the Emissions Trading System (ETS) and the Clean Development Mechanism (CDM), on developing nations. Utilizing a panel data approach, data from 50 developing countries spanning 2000 to 2022 is analyzed to assess how participation in these markets influences economic development.The findings indicate a positive relationship between carbon market revenue and GDP growth, highlighting the potential of these markets to fund infrastructure and renewable energy investments. However, the study reveals that the benefits of technology transfer remain statistically insignificant, suggesting the need for improved integration of technology transfer mechanisms within carbon market frameworks. While the study underscores the promise of carbon markets in stimulating economic growth, it also identifies challenges related to institutional capacity and revenue distribution. Recommendations include enhancing institutional capacities, promoting effective technology transfer, and prioritizing renewable energy investments. These insights contribute to the understanding of how carbon markets can serve as a tool for sustainable development in developing countries.

Keywords: International Carbon Markets, Economic Development, Emissions Trading System, Clean Development Mechanism, Renewable Energy, Technology Transfer.

DOI: https://doi.org/10.5281/zenodo.15817564

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Uju Arinze Ezenwaji, Department of Management, Ignatius Ajuru University of Education, Port Harcourt.

Wege Lenu Goodluck, Department of Business Administration and Management, Kenule Beeson Saro-wiwa Polytechnic Bori.

Biobele Richards Briggs, Department of Business Administration and Management, Kenule Beeson Saro-wiwa Polytechnic Bori.

Goody Nuel-Mark, Department of Entrepreneurship, Ignatius Ajuru University of Education Port Harcourt. 

Abstract

The combination of Information System Architecture (ISA) with Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) technologies is a big step forward in helping Project Management Professionals (PMPs) organize business information. This article analyses the role of ISA in establishing a basic framework for aligning IT infrastructure with organizational goals, and the function of ERP systems in facilitating smooth data integration across business processes, hence improving decision-making and operational efficiency. The report talks about the main advantages, such better resource allocation, getting rid of data silos, and making projects more scalable. It also talks about the problems that come with these changes, like data security threats, interoperability difficulties, and employees not wanting to alter how they work. New technologies, such cloud-based ERP systems and AI-driven analytics, are changing the way businesses handle project-related information by giving them the ability to foresee outcomes and work together in real time. This study emphasizes the significance of strategic ISA-ERP alignment for effective project management, using empirical data and theoretical frameworks like Agency Theory. To help enterprises get the most out of these platforms, the article talks about practical steps for implementation, such as phased rollout, change management methods, and security precautions. The results show that ERP systems may greatly improve company operations, but they only work well if the ISA is well-designed and the governance is flexible enough to keep up with changing market needs.             

Keywords: Information Systems Architecture (ISA), Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP), Project management Professionals (PMPs), Business Process Optimization, Data Integration, Cloud Computing, AI-Driven Analytics, Agency Theory, and Organizational Efficiency.

DOI: https://doi.org/10.5281/zenodo.15817385

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Eyidia ThankGod Dimkpa, Department of Human resources management, Ignatius Ajuru University of Education, Port Harcourt, [email protected]

Wege Lenu Goodluck, Department of Business Administration and Management, Kenule Beeson Saro-wiwa Polytechnic Bori, [email protected] 

Biobele Richards Briggs,  Department of Business Administration and Management, Kenule Beeson Saro-wiwa Polytechnic Bori, [email protected]  

Goody Nuel-Mark, Department of Entrepreneurship, Ignatius Ajuru University of Education, Port Harcourt, [email protected] 

This research investigates the significant issues confronting supply chain management in Nigeria's industrial sector, including infrastructural inadequacies, power instability, security threats, and quality discrepancies, all of which combined result in operational inefficiencies and heightened costs. The study underscores the increasing significance of sustainable supply chain methods in promoting environmental stewardship, social responsibility, and competitive advantage in the global economy. The research examines essential concepts like Supply Chain Integration (SCI) and Environmental Management Practices (EMP) via an extensive literature analysis, illustrating their considerable influence on organizational performance. The results show that SCI increases operational efficiency, cuts costs, and makes customers happier. On the other hand, adopting EMP improves compliance with regulations, the company's reputation, and long-term financial success. The research utilizes Resource-Based View (RBV) and Stakeholder Theories to examine how companies might use distinctive competencies and stakeholder involvement to attain enduring supply chain excellence. Even while there are advantages, there are still problems with implementation, such as technology limits, cultural hurdles, and discrepancies in measurement, especially when it comes to measuring social sustainability criteria. The report ends with useful advice for companies, stressing the need of integrated supply chain systems, eco-friendly ways of doing business, and strong performance assessment frameworks to improve both the economy and the environment. These insights provide useful advice for governments and business executives who want to improve the resilience and sustainability of supply chains in new markets.        

Keywords: Supply Chain Management, Sustainability, Environmental Management, Nigeria, Operational Performance, Resource-Based View, Stakeholder Theory.

DOI: https://doi.org/10.5281/zenodo.15817474

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Francis Ulonna Njoku, National Health Insurance Authority Imo State Office, Owerri, Nigeria.

Sophia Uchenna Arua, Department of Social Sciences, Akanu Ibiam Federal Polytechnic Unwana, Afikpo, Ebonyi state, Nigeria.

Nkama Anthony Ezeuduma, Department of Language Studies. Akanu Ibiam Federal Polytechnic Unwana, Afikpo, Ebonyi state, Nigeria.    

Abstract

This study evaluates the impact of the National Health Insurance Authority (NHIA) on healthcare delivery in Nigeria from 1999 to 2024. The NHIA was introduced as a reformative policy to improve healthcare access, reduce out-of-pocket spending, and achieve Universal Health Coverage (UHC). Despite more than two decades of implementation, questions remain regarding its effectiveness and reach, particularly among informal and underserved populations. Utilizing a mixed-methods approach, this study combines quantitative analysis of healthcare indicators with qualitative insights from stakeholder interviews across Nigeria’s six geopolitical zones. The findings show a consistent increase in healthcare access, with average visits per enrolee rising from 2.0 in 1999 to 3.5 in 2024. Satisfaction with services improved from 40% to 75%, while out-of-pocket spending declined from 65% to 33%, reflecting progress in financial protection. Enrolment rose from 0.5 million to over 11 million, yet coverage remains limited relative to the national population. Qualitative data reveal persistent challenges, including weak regulatory oversight, limited public awareness, and exclusion of informal sector workers. The study concludes that while the NHIA has positively influenced service delivery and access, systemic inefficiencies and inequities undermine its full potential. Recommendations include expanding coverage to the informal sector, strengthening institutional accountability, diversifying funding mechanisms, and enhancing public education. These findings offer critical insights for policymakers and stakeholders working to transform Nigeria’s health financing landscape and realize inclusive, equitable healthcare for all.

Keywords: National Health Insurance Authority (NHIA), Healthcare Delivery, Universal Health Coverage (UHC), Health Financing, Social Health Insurance, Mixed-Methods Evaluation

DOI: https://doi.org/10.5281/zenodo.16335619

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Citation
Njoku, F. U., Arua, S. U., & Ezeuduma, N. A. (2025). Evaluating the Impact of the National Health Insurance Authority (NHIA) on Healthcare Delivery in Nigeria (1999-2024). Afrisophia: Journal of African Experiment, Thought and Experience, 2(2), 1–12. https://doi.org/10.5281/zenodo.16335619

Science Laboratory Technology Department, Akanu Ibiam Federal Polytechnic Unwana

Email: [email protected]

Abstract

The data used for this study were from a very large sample of Seyfert galaxies (217,272 galaxies) obtained from SDSS DR10 (Sloan Digital Sky Survey Data Release 10). Based on observed parameters, we computed the bolometric luminosity which enabled us classify these Seyfert galaxies into Seyfert 1s (188,486 galaxies) and Seyfert 2s (28,786 galaxies). Analyses on both the observed and computed parameters revealed that Seyfert 2 galaxies were less luminous than the Seyfert 1 galaxies and the region of broad line emission progressively declines from its high intensity in Seyfert 1s to the point of disappearance at sufficiently low bolometric luminosity (Seyfert 2s). Contrary to the standard unification scheme which posits that, the torus obscuration and the observer location are the only factors in determining the spectral class of any given AGN; it is possible that intrinsic broad line emission from Seyfert galaxies may follows an evolutionary trend from Seyfert 1 to Seyfert 2 as the bolometric luminosity of the AGN decreases.

Keywords: Seyfert galaxies, bolometric luminosity, hydrogen alpha, emission lines    

DOI: https://doi.org/10.5281/zenodo.16718810 

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Citation

Oyor, D. I. (2024). Bolometric Luminosity: An Index to Seyert Galaxy Classification. Afrisophia: Journal of African Experiment, Thought and Experience, 1(1), 14–21. https://doi.org/10.5281/zenodo.16718810

Science Laboratory Technology Department, Akanu Ibiam Federal Polytechnic Unwana

Email: [email protected]

Abstract

A very large sample of Seyfert galaxies (217,272 galaxies) obtained from SDSS DR10 (Sloan Digital Sky Survey Data Release 10) were used for this study. The accretion rate (ṁ) was calculated from the bolometric luminosity (Lbol) and velocity dispersion (σ) using this relation: log ṁ = -36.977 + log Lbol – 4.02 log σ and using the M–sigma (M–σ) relation, the mass of the supermassive black hole was estimated as; MBH = 108 Mʘ × 3.1(σ/200kms-1)4. These calculated parameters enabled in ascertaining the nature of the different classes of Seyfert galaxies. The results obtained show that, as the black hole mass of an AGN (Seyfert galaxy) increases, there is a decrease in its accretion rate and the region of broad line emission progressively declines from its high intensity in Seyfert 1s to the point of disappearance. Galaxies at their early stage in life are very luminous and accretes matter at a very high rate, but as they get older their luminosities and accretion rate reduce with an associated increment in their black hole masses. And since this can only be achieved with time, I infer that there is a possible evolutionary sequence amongst the Seyfert galaxies in which Seyfert 1 galaxies evolve to Seyfert 2 galaxies.      

Keywords:Accretion rate, blackhole mass, Seyfert galaxies, velocity dispersion, emission lines 

DOI: https://doi.org/10.5281/zenodo.16938825

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Citation

Oyor, D. I. (2024). POSSIBLE EVOLUTIONARY CONNECTION AMONGST THE DIFFERENT TYPES OF SEYFERT GALAXIES. Afrisophia: Journal of African Experiment, Thought and Experience, 1(2), 28–37. https://doi.org/10.5281/zenodo.16938825