ENEMS PROJECT

Sunday, 18 July 2021

PROXIMATE AND MINERAL ANALYSIS OF SELECTED BITTER VEGETABLES

PROXIMATE AND MINERAL ANALYSIS OF SELECTED BITTER VEGETABLES

ABSTRACT

This research work is carried out to determine the proximate and minerals content in some bitter vegetables (gongronema latifoluim, hibiscus sabdarrifa ,and rhus thyphina) all the statistical analysis for the proximate analysis results obtained was calculated in percentage and for the Minerals was represented using bar chat and evaluated using one way of variance (ANOVA). In mineral analysis it shows that gongronema latifoluim has high concentration of Fe than other minerals present which are K, Ca,Ti, Mn, Ni, Cu,Zn,Se,Br, Rb. while rhus thyphina has the higher level of k and Fe than other minerals present which are Ca, Ti, Mn, Ni, Cu, Zn, Br, Rb. Also hibiscus sabdarrifa has higher level of K than other minerals present. hibiscus sabdarrifa has higher level of K than the two bitter vegetables. for the proximate analysis hibiscus sabdarrifa is seen to have the highest moisture content at 5.66% also having the highest ash content at 4.40%, also having the highest crude fiber content at 28%, gongronema latifoluim, was seen to have the highest crude protein at 27.2%, rhus thyphina was seen to have the highest crude fat content 0.97%, hibiscus sabdarrifa was seen to have the highest carbohydrate content at 65.56%

CHAPTER ONE

1.0 INTRODUCTION

Vegetables are edible parts of leafs, stem and roots of plants which can be eaten raw or cooked (Hyson D, 2002), they play an important role in human nutrition been low in fats and carbohydrate but high in vitamins and dietary fibre. Bitter vegetables play an important role in human nutrition and health, particularly as sources of vitamin C, thiamine, niacin, pyridoxine, folic acid, minerals, other vital nutrients supplied by bitter vegetables include riboflavin, zinc, calcium, potassium and phosphorus. Some components of bitter vegetables are (phytochemicals) are strong antioxidants and modify the metabolic activation and detoxification/disposition of carcinogens and may even influence processes that may change the course of the tumor cell efforts begin early in life Prior R. L. et al., (2000). Research has shown that the consumption of bitter vegetables may be associated with a decreased incidence and mortality of a variety of chronic diseases which includes obesity. Bitter vegetable intake has been shown to have positive effects in terms of weight management and obesity prevention (Quebedeaux B. et al., 2006). There are various benefits gained by consuming a diet rich in bitter vegetables, but it is not clearly understood why a diet rich in bitter vegetables would prevent obesity or excessive weight gain, suggesting that further studies are needed to elucidate and confirm possible mechanisms involved in the prevention of obesity by bitter vegetable consumption It is a common knowledge in biological science that mammalian and plant cells are constantly exposed to a variety of oxidizing agents. These oxidizing agents may be present in air, food, and water, or they may be produced by metabolic activity within the cells, however, it is important to maintain a balance between oxidants and antioxidants to be able to sustain optimal physiological conditions. Overproduction of oxidants can cause an imbalance, leading to oxidative stress. Oxidative stress can cause oxidative damage to macromolecules such as lipids, proteins and DNA and consequently lead to increased risk for developing chronic diseases such as cancer and cardiovascular disease. In order to prevent or reduce the oxidative stress induced by free radicals, sufficient amounts of antioxidants need to be consumed and bitter vegetables are known to contain a variety of antioxidant compounds such as phenolics and carotenoids which may help protect cellular systems from oxidative damage and reduce the risk of developing chronic diseases (Crozier A. 2000).

1.2 AIM AND OBJECTIVES

The aim of the study is to determine the proximate and mineral content in selected vegetables which includes gongronema latifoluim, habiscus sabdariffa, Rhus typhina.

To determine the proximate content of the leaves
To determine the mineral of three selected (bitter leaves)
Comparative analysis of the samples

1.3 SIGNIFICANCE OF THE STUDY

The significance of this study is based on the minerals content and proximate analysis of three bitter vegetables and to investigate the nutritional value of each samples and their application to human health.

1.4 SCOPE AND LIMITATION OF THE STUDY

This research work is limited to bitter vegetables ( gongronema latifoluim, habiscus sabdariffa,rhus thyphina) sold in Nasarawa market,Nasarawa State

The parameters are proximate analysis with mineral analysis using (ED-XRF)

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THE IMPACT OF DEVELOPMENT CONTROL ON RESIDENTIAL PROPERTY DEVELOPMENT IN NASARAWA

THE IMPACT OF DEVELOPMENT CONTROL ON RESIDENTIAL PROPERTY DEVELOPMENT IN NASARAWA

ABSTRACT

This project assesses the impact of development control on residential property in Nasarawa local government area with aim to identify possible problem and find absolute solution. In doing this primary data was collected through the administration of questionnaire to Nasarawa urban development board (NUDB) and some property developers in Nasarawa. 140 Questionnaire was administered which 120 was collected back. This work contains the population size, sample and sampling technique. The instrument used in analyzing the data was purposive and tabular form was also adopted. The analysis shows that there are problems which recommendation and conclusions were made to solve the identified problems.

CHAPTER ONE

1.0 INTRODUCTION

1.1 BACKGROUND OF THE STUDY

Development control forms an integral part of the planning practice. It is the basic means by which the state intervenes to regulate the use and development of land in order to implement local and national planning policies. Most significantly it is the part of the planning process in which members of the public come into contact with local planning authorities.

Today, development control comes under considerable criticism about the nature of decisions taken, and the ways in which they are taken. One hears complaints that sluggishness discourages development; that its complexity is excessively costly; And that its nature stifles initiative. (Amos, 1980). Development control is not appreciated by the general public mainly because of the restrictions it imposes on the aims and aspiration of the developers.

Originally, the rationale for the introduction of state control on private development was to achieve objectives of safety and better health in order to create an improved environment for the benefit of the community. However, as the role of the state expanded and the extent of its intervention increased, the definition of the ‘environment’ subject to planning control has changed. From being wholly concerned with the physical form and content of development it now embraces the social and economic consequences of development. As a result, development control has been used to implement planning strategies for different purposes; for example to minimise the negative effect of urban growth, to check the menace of market forces and ensure social equity, as well as to support economic growth (Litchfield & Darin Drabkin, 1980).

Therefore, development control is a tool, sometimes used to achieve its original objectives of safety and better health; Sometimes to implement planning strategies; and in some cases to do both. Although it continues to regulate the use of land, while planning strategies have widened in scope, development control has proved incapable of meeting additional demands. Since development control is used to implement planning policies, which are normally reflected in planning legislation, physical development plans and other associated planning documents, the failure to achieve development planning objectives may be due to the pursuit of inappropriate policies, to the application of inflexible standards and regulations, or both, which is why Koenigsberger (1975), Rivkin (1978) and McAuslan (1985) comment that development control practices are inappropriate, ineffective and inequitable in their operation in most Third World cities.

They argue that developing countries stand to benefit little from the transplanting of regulations that have evolved in different social soils with differing political and economic climates. Another criticism is that planning agencies in developing countries lack the power and resources to perform efficient and effective development control.

Development control is seen as a mechanism to maintain standards. It is process laid down by legislation, which regulates the development of land and building. It is the professional activity carried out by town planners in order to ensure compliance with the approved master plan thereby ensuring orderliness.

In line with the above definition, development control actually regulates any building or rebuilding operations in, on and under the land. It also ensures an orderly growth of settlements by stipulating adequate standards for all aspects of land-use through the provision of adequate lighting, ventilation, open spaces and other socio-cultural facilities that make life worth living. The power to grant or refuse as well as attach conditions to permissions for development to take place gives the public agencies the big teeth.

Ogunsesan (2004) opined that development control is the “front line‟ of planning and the part, which affects the general public most. There is a direction in the exercise of development control on developers. The direction according to Ogunsesan (2004) is the objectives of development control, which include: the protection and enhancement of the built environment; the coordination of both public and private investments in land and property to ensure that land is efficiently used; and the control of pollution. In development control process, time is a very important factor. There are two types of time factors in the development control process as pointed out by Faludi (1973): “internal and external time lag”. The internal time lag as he explained is the time it takes to act upon information received, while the external time lag, he explains as the time it takes for the action to be effected.

Development control is carried out by planning authorities that have legal powers conferred on them to ensure that development is secured. The authorities according to Faludi (1973) are empowered to: plan, promote and secure the physical development and environmental improvement by economic; as financial developers they can initiate planning schemes and develop the area wholly or partly‟. Kimaryo (1992) is of the view that „though the planning authorities are empowered legally to carry out their duties, it may still be restricted. Its effectiveness reduced by lack of political backing and support from the top echelon of government functionaries‟.

Furthermore, development control is seen as a powerful implementation weapon in the planning armory. Positive encouragement is given to developers to compel them to willingly develop their land with due respect to the requirement of the planning authorities. Public enlightenment is usually embarked upon which tend to encourage the public to want some sort of control over physical development. Communication is a vital tool necessary for development control to succeed. An effective and efficient communication ensures „control development with people and not for people‟; for if people are carried along in development control process, the authority will be able to guide development with ease and achieve their set objectives of a well planned built-up area with good road network, building set-backs, ventilation, lighting and pollution free environment. On the other hand, if the members of the public are not informed, they may not accept the idea of control, with feelings that since they owned the land, they can as well carry out development the way they want and at their own time without due consideration.

1.2STATEMENT OF RESEARCH PROBLEM

Rural- urban migration has caused congestion in the urban areas and left the towns and cities sprawling endlessly into the countryside with dire consequences for the provision of essential urban infrastructure. That is, the rate of expansion of each of old and newly emerging town led to the emergence of uncoordinated land-uses, winding road network, traffic congestion, uncoordinated provision and distribution of socio-physical infrastructure, uncollected waste and the like, amongst others with great impact on the socio-economic well being of the inhabitants. All these are resultant effects of uncontrolled development in both rural and urban settlements in Nigeria.

The rapid growth of our settlements, particularly urban areas need to be controlled to prevent chaotic and haphazard physical growth and development, which certainly takes place in the absence of any development control measure. However, some of the rationales for effective development control are the achievement of balanced, coordinated and good development of the environment; it ensures structural soundness and the adequate provision of necessary utilities, services and facilities for the proposed buildings; protection and the development of the environment so that the activities of men do not have adverse effects on it. This uncontrolled development has led to the environmental situation as presently witnessed in some squatter settlements of Nasarawa and other big town and cities in Nigeria. It is against this background that this study seek to evaluate the impact of development control on residential property development in Nasarawa.

1.3 AIM AND OBJECTIVES OF THE STUDY

The aim of this project is to evaluate the impact of development control on residential property development in Nasarawa.

To achieve the aim above the following objectives were pursued

To examine the effectiveness of development control in Nasarawa
1. To evaluate the impact of the development control on residential property
1. To identify the possible problems militating the effective and efficient development control in the study area.

1.4RESEARCH QUESTIONS

How effective is development control in Nasarawa?
1. What are the functions of development control?
1. What impact has development control made to residential property development in Nasarawa Town?
1. What are the possible problems militating the effective and efficient development control in the study area?

1.5 SIGNIFICANCE OF THE STUDY

This project will help to overcome the challenges that are currently facing in development authority in Nasarawa by the time this project is completed as it will serve as an eye opener on relevance of development control towards effective and efficient development of urban and rural areas in Nigeria.

The result of this study will enlighten property developers and investors on the need to comply with development control authority as development control generally impact positively on residential property development.

Students and other researchers will find this research useful as it will serve as reference to the department of estate management and valuation.

1.6SCOPE AND LIMITATIONS OF THE STUDY

There are different types of property development, this project mainly concern on the impact of development control on residential property development in Nasarawa, Nasarawa State.

The following are the limitations of the study

Lack of proper response from the developer’s point of view.
The financial aspect was a bit difficult.
There was no previous work available to reference with.

1.7 DEFINITION & OPERATIONAL OF TERMS

Development: used here means an event constituting a new stage in a changing situation i.e. process development or being developed Kimaryo (2002).

Development in terms of land, property or real estate, is a complex process of coordinating various activities to transform ideas and plans into physical realty. As a business process, it involves the financing, construction, renovation or refurbishment of buildings and land in order to make a profit (published by ministry of housing in 2012)

Residential: means involving living at the place where you are working, studying or being looked after Kimaryo (2006)

According to Long man dictionary, residential can be seen as relating to homes rather offices or businesses

Property: a thing or things belonging to someone or possessions collectively i.e. an attribute, quality or characteristics of something.

The Editors of Encyclopedia Britannica defined Propertyas an object of legal rights, which embraces possessions or wealth collectively, frequently with strong connotations of individual ownership.

1.8HISTORICAL BACKGROUND OF THE STUDY

Nasarawa, also spelled Nassarawa, town, Nassarawa state, central Nigeria. The town lies just north of a fork in the Okwa River, which is a tributary of the Benue River. Nasarawa was founded in about 1838 in the Afo (Afao) tribal territory by Umaru, a dissident official from the nearby town of Keffi, as the seat of the new emirate of Nassarawa. Umaru expanded his domain by conquering neighbouring territory and made Nassarawa a vassal state to Zaria (175 miles [282 km] north). One of his successors, Muhammadu (reigned 1878–1922), enlarged the emirate by various conquests and, in 1900, was one of the first emirs to pledge allegiance to Great Britain. In 1976 Nasarawa became part of Plateau state; in 1996, it became part of Nassarawa state.

Farming and mining (for tin and columbite) are the principal activities of the area’s predominantly Afo population. Nasarawa is a market centre for the yams, sorghum, millet, soybeans, shea nuts, and cotton grown in the surrounding area. The town is served by a secondary school and a hospital. It is located at the intersection of local roads that lead to Keffi and the Benue River ports of Loko and Umaisha. Pop. (2006) local government area, 189,835.

Nasarawa state was created 1st October 1996 by the general Abacha government regime, it is a state in north central Nigeria, Lafia is the state capital, the was created out of the following neighboring state of plateau, located in north-central region of Nigeria, it is bordered on the west by the federal capital territory, then north by Kaduna, then south by Benue and Kogi and also the east Plateau and Taraba states.

Nasarawa state has diverse range of ethnic group indigenous to the state.

According to 2006 census a little less than 2million populated people reside in the state.

The state has 13 local governments namely:Toto, Obi, NasarawaEggon, Nasarawa, b Lafia,Kokona,Keffi,DomaKeana, Karu, Awe,Akwanga, Wamba.

And 29 languages spoken, Nasarawa is home to many tertiary institutions namely:

Federal UniversityLafia, Federal Polytechnic Nasarawa, Nasarawa State UniversityKeffi, State federal college of education.Nasarawa state polytechnic etc

Economic activities of the state are mainly Agriculture, cash crops such as yam, cassava, andegusi(melon). Production of mineral such as salt is also another major economic activity in the state; Nasarawa produces a large proportion of the salt and bauxite consumed in the country.

Geography issue: Nasarawa state is bounded in the north Kaduna state, in the west by the proximity Abuja Federal Capital Territory in the south by Kogi and Benue states and in the east by Taraba and Plateau states.

A network of roads exist within the state linking all the rural areas and major town, the Nigeria Rail ways Corporation (NRC) operate train service from kuru, Gombe, and Maiduguri.

DETERMINATION OF CONCENTRATION LEAD (Pb), CADMIUM (Cd) AND CHROMIUM (Cr) IN SOME LOCAL RICE AND RICE HUSK OBTAINED IN NASARAWA MARKET, NASARAWA STATE

DETERMINATION OF CONCENTRATION LEAD (Pb), CADMIUM (Cd) AND CHROMIUM (Cr) IN SOME LOCAL RICE AND RICE HUSK OBTAINED IN NASARAWA MARKET, NASARAWA STATE

ABSTRACTS

Rice is an excellent staple crop which contains vitamins and minerals such as vitamins E & B and potassium needed for human growth and wellbeing. In recent times, majority of Nigerian consume a lot of rice as compared to other local staple. However, heavy metal contamination of rice and other crops is threatening the quality of these crops and the health of consumers.

Due to industrialization and other human activities, environmental pollution with chemicals is increasing and this has led to the contamination of agricultural produce. Heavy metal contamination has been associated with adverse effects such as damages to the nervous system, kidneys, liver, lungs and other vital organs in humans and animals. With dietary intake as one of the major routes of heavy metal exposure to human, there is the need to investigate the levels of these metals in our foods.

This study intended at determining the concentrations of three heavy metals (chromium, cadmium and lead) in rice sold on the Nasarawa market. Three samples of local rice grain and rice husk were collected from the markets in Nasarawa;. Samples were homogenized and digested for analysis using a microwave digester. The concentrations of the 3 elements (Cr, Cd &Pb) were analysed using Atomic Absorption Spectrophotometry. The method used was validated using a certified reference material.

Results indicated that, for chromium concentration in rice grain samples,obtained concentrations which ranged from 0.0708 to 0.4489mg/l with an average of 0.2159 mg/l. Concentration of chromium in rice husk ranged from 0.0.697 to 0.1569 mg/l with an average of 0.1102 mg/l. Cadmium concentration of rice grain ranged from 0.0230 to 0.1153 mg/l with an average of 0.0728 mg/ l in rice grain. Cadmium in rice husk ranged from 0.0169 to 0.0688 mg/l with an average of 0.0415 mg/l in the samples. Lead concentration in rice grain ranged from 3.1124 to 1.9575 mg/l with an average of2.4785 mg/l. Concentration of lead in rice husk samples ranged from 0.1153 to 0.6588 mg/l with an average of0.4120 mg/l in rice husk.

CHAPTER ONE

INTRODUCTION

1.1 BACKGROUND OF THE STUDY

Health is wealth and as such you are the product / function of what you eat; but the health hazard associated with heavy metals contamination in our world cannot be over emphasized. The main threats to human health from heavy metals are associated with exposure to lead, Nickel, cadmium, mercury, chromium and Arsenic. The metals have been extensively studied and their effect on human health regularly reviewed by international bodies such as the world health organization (WHO 2010).

According to IPCS/WHO. 1995, many challenges with health have risen with some to no cure but management, and heavy metals known to be accumulated in plants adversely affect human health and these heavy metals get accumulated in part of the plants (oryza Sativa L.) via the metal transfer factors from the soil to the rice plant.

Heavy metals from natural and anthropogenic source accumulate in soil and plant has a consequences represent important environmental contamination problems. Never the less, food safety issues and adverse health risk makes this of the most serious environmental issues soils are considered to be an excellent media to monitor and access heavy metals pollution because anthropogenic heavy metals contaminated soil adversely affects the whole ecosystem. When this toxic heavy metals migrate into underground water or are taken up by the flora and fauna, may result in great threat to ecosystem due to translocation and bio accumulation (Naseri, et al 2009)

Heavy metals are potentially toxic to crop plants, animals, and human being when the contaminated soil are used for crop production and thus human health is directly affected through the intake of the crops grown in polluted soils, and there is a clear evidence that human renal dysfunctionis related with contamination of rice with cadmium in subsistence farms in Asia. Plant absorb heavy metals from the soil (Naseri et al 2009)and the surface 25cm zone of the soil is mostly affected by such pollution resulting from anthropogenic activities and these heavy metals are absorbed and accumulated in the soil layer probably due to relatively high organic matter. The plant part of interest for direct transfer of heavy metal to human body are the edible part such as the rice grain, which may consequently become a threat to human health. Nevertheless, heavy metals in the environment consequently are of immense concern because of their persistence nature, bio accumulation and bio magnification characters causing to plants, animals and human being (UNICEF 2008)

The use of polluted soil or water for crop cultivation mainly results in decrease of overall productivity and affects human health to and therefore there is a vital need to know and understand the mechanism involved such as the concentration and oxidation of heavy metals.

1.2. STATEMENT OF THE RESEARCH PROBLEM

The research problem is to find out the concentration of heavy metal (Lead, chromium and Cadmium) contained in the rice grain and the rice husk that are consumed by human in Nasarawa, and to see how the production process can be increased or become thus reducing the risk of heavy metal contamination with the body. Also to look for a better way at which the rice can be processed.

1.3. AIMS OF THE STUDY

The study is aimed at determining the concentration of heavy metal in local rice and its husk.

1.4. OBJECTIVE OF THE STUDY

To access the limit of potential contaminate in the plants.
To know the level in degree of contamination of lead (Pb) chromium (Cr) and cadmium (Cd) in the plant (rice).

1.5. SIGNIFICANCE OF THE STUDY

The effect of heavy metals can never be over emphasized according to Payus, (2014). Heavy metals toxicity can either be acute or chronic effect long term exposure of the body to heavy metal can progressively lead to muscular, physical and neurological/ degenerative progresses that are similar to disease such as parkisons disease, multiple sclerosis, muscular dystrophy, brain damage, kidney damage, nervous system and reproductive system and can also lead to cancers and even death. And as such, if they are substance in these modern age that pose such effect on health, thus carrying out research about them would be of paramount importance so as to create awareness to the consumer of such substance. More so many local farmers have gone into the business of rice farming and so creating heavy metals on plants consumption will be great help to humanity.

1.6. SCOPE AND LIMITATION OF THE STUDY

The research work is to determine the concentration of the heavy metals in local rice and its husk produced in Nasarawa main market, Nasarawa state and the heavy metals to be determined are lead (Pb) chromium (Cr) and cadmium (Cd).

1.7. AREA OF THE STUDY

The investigation will cover the rice mill in Nasarawa main market, Nasarawa, Nasarawa state and the prepared for analysis in the Federal Polytechnic Nasarawa, then heavy metal determination in Kwali, F.C.T.

PROXIMATE AND SELECTED MINERAL ANALYSIS OF CLOVES (Syzygium aromaticum) AND GINGERS (Zingiber officinale).

PROXIMATE AND SELECTED MINERAL ANALYSIS OF CLOVES (Syzygium aromaticum) AND GINGERS (Zingiber officinale).

ABSTRACTS

Proximate and mineral compositions of two selected traditional spices (Zingiber officinale and Syzygium aromaticum) were evaluated in this study. The samples of ginger and clove were bought from a local market at Nasarawa main market in Nasarawa, Nasarawa State. The samples were grinded and sieved into a finer particle. The samples were analysed for the proximate composition and mineral contents. From the results, moisture, ash, crude protein, fat, fibre and carbohydrate content of ginger were 10.22, 11.03, 13.64, 2.54, 25.23 and 37.33% respectively; that of cloves were 11.02, 5.21, 27.41, 28.61, 8.02 and 19.70% respectively. More so, calcium, zinc, iron, and potassium were 6.43,720.83, 4.20, and 6.41mg/100g respectively in cloves, 16.22, 504.33, 2.73, and 1.94 mg/100g in ginger. Consequently, ginger and cloves possessed varying proportions of the proximate components as well as mineral elements. However, cloves possessed better moisture, crude protein, and crude fat, contents with a higher potassium, zinc, and iron mineral contents compared to clove examined while ginger had a better carbohydrate, crude fibre, ash, and calcium levels.

CHAPTER ONE

1.1 BACKGROUND OF THE STUDY

Spices are vegetable substances used to season foods. Examples include clove, cinnamon, nutmeg, pepper, ginger, curry, etc. They are usually dried for use and have distinctive flavours and aromas (Burdock, 2009) .Spices come in various forms, whole or ground, or as extractives. The extractives are essential oils and oleoresins. These extractives are reformulated to produce secondary products such as essences, emulsions, liquid-soluble spices, dry soluble spices, encapsulated spices, heat resistant spices and fat based spices (Heath and Reineccius, 2002). The use to which a spice material is put as spice is dictated primarily by its content of essential oils oroleoresins (Hill et al, 2004). The word spice comes from the Old French word espice, which became epice, and which came from the Latin root spec, the noun referring to” appearance, sort, kind”: species has the same root. By 1000BCE, medical systems based upon herbs could be found in China, Korea, and India. Early uses were connected with magic, medicine, religion, tradition, and preservation (Burdock, 2009). In culinary concerns, spices give piquancy to tasteless food served in the home, cafés and restaurants. This use is based on the ability of spices to impart flavor and aroma to food. Spices are often referred to as food accessories or adjuncts because of their ability to stimulate appetite and increase the flow of gastric juice (Dziezak, 2005). Spices are used frequently in most homes and restaurant the world over. In Nigeria, the spices commonly used are ginger, clove and Ashanti pepper. Generally ginger, and cloves are used just to impart agreeable flavor and aroma to food. In some other circumstances, they are used for medicinal purposes. These spices are widely cultivated in Nigeria.

CLOVE

Clove, (Syzygium aromaticum); a tropical evergreen tree of the family Myrtaceae and its small reddish brown flower buds are used as a spice. Cloves were important in the earliest spice trade and are believed to be indigenous to the Moluccas, or Spice Islands, of Indonesia. Strong of aroma and hot and pungent in taste, cloves are used to flavor many foods, particularly meats and bakery products.

Physical Description and Uses

The clove tree is an evergreen that grows to about 8 to 12 metres (25 to 40 feet) in height. Its gland-dotted leaves are small, simple, and opposite. The trees are usually propagated from seeds that are planted in shaded areas. Flowering begins about the fifth year; a tree may annually yield up to 34kg (75pounds) of dried buds. The buds are hand-picked in late summer and again in winter and are then sun-dried, cloves varies in length from about13 to 19 mm (0.5 to 0.75 inch). The buds contain 14 to 20 percent essential oil, the principal component of which is the aromatic oil eugenol. Cloves are strongly pungent owing to eugenol, which is extracted by distillation to yield oil of cloves. This oil is used to prepare microscopic slides for viewing and is also a local an esthetic for toothaches. Eugenol is used in germicides, perfumes, and mouth washes, in the synthesis of vanillin, and as a sweetener or intensifier.

GINGER

Ginger is in the family Zingiberaceae, which also includes turmeric (Curcumalonga), cardamom (Elettariacardamomumi), and galangal. Ginger originated in Maritime South-East Asia and was likely domesticated first by the Austronesian peoples. It was transported with them throughout the Inda-Pacific during the Austronesian expansion (5,000BP), reaching as far as Hawaii. Ginger is one of the first spices to have been exported from Asia, arriving in Europe with the spice trade, and was used by ancient Greeks and Romans. (Thornas, 2006). The distantly related dicots in the genus Asarum are commonly called wild ginger because of their similar taste. In 2018, world production of ginger was 2.8million tonnes, led by India with 32% of the world total. (Thomas,2006)

NUTRITION

Nutrition is the process of obtaining the food necessary for health and growth. It includes the process of ingestion, digestion, absorption, metabolism, transport, storage and excretion of those nutrients. Food plays a very vital role in maintaining proper health and also helps in prevention and cure of diseases, Good nutritive food makes good health, but at the same time bad or unhealthy food gives rise to several diseases. Our cells, tissues and all organs work properly only with nutritious food which we eat. The six classes of nutrients include carbohydrate, fats and oil, protein, vitamins, water and minerals (Thomas,2006). Meat is one of the source of nutrients which in most. Communities has long occupied a special place in the diet for a variety of reasons including taste preference, tradition and availability with the nutritional aspect included more recently (Rcyowski, et al., 2007).

A healthy diet is one that provides adequate level of vitamins, minerals, proteins, carbohydrates and healthy facts from a variety of foods. An unhealthy diet, in contrast, is one that contains too much saturated and trans-fats, cholesterols, sodium, added sugars and processed ingredients or contains less few nutrients. Unhealthy diet results in a poor nutrient to calorie ratio, which can lead to weight gain and malnutrition as well as. Related health problems.

1.2 SIGNI FICANCE OF THE STUDY

Some scientists believe the components in cloves and ginger called allyl-sulfides and bio-flavonoids may be key to the research observations of generally lower incidence of cancer and-heart disease in people who consume large amounts of ginger and cloves, compared with

those who eat less (Melino et al., 2011). A study from the National Cancer Institute found that eating 10 grams (approximately two tea spoons) or more of ginger, cloves or scallions a day was associated with a statistically significantly lower risk of prostate cancer for the participants in the study (Hsing et al., 2002).

A study conducted at Case Western Reserve University indicated that ginger may help reduce the occurrence rate of pre- cancerous tumors (polyps) in the large intestine. Many cancers are thought to because by damage to DNA of ten induced by environmental toxins (Iciek et al., 2009). A study conducted at the Fred Hutchinson Cancer Research Center in Seattle found that eating a tea spoon of fresh ginger and a half cup of cloves per day increases the levels of a key enzyme for removing toxins in the blood cells of healthy women. The authors of this study believed that men would require a higher dose on average for the same effect, because of their larger body size (Bianchini and Vainio, 2001).

Another study, conducted in Scotland, found that eating sautéed cloves increases the resistance of the blood cells to DNA damage. While a highly publicized clinical trial at Stanford University found that ginger did not lower cholesterol levels in healthy people with moderately elevated cholesterol. Previous studies have indicated that ginger is more Iikely to produce beneficial effects on cholesterol in women than in men, and in patients with diabetes or heart disease than in healthy individuals (Boyle et al., 2000).

In addition, while there is so much focus on the connection between cholesterol and heart disease, the benefits of ginger in preventing heart disease are probably due to factors other than changes in cholesterol (Milner, 2001). In particular, clinical experiments have shown that regular consumption of ginger decreased calcium deposits and the size of arterial plaque in coronary arteries, prevented unhealthy blood clotting and improved the circulation of the subjects who were studied (Butt, 2009;).

1.3 AIM OF THE STUDY

The aim of this study is to compare the proximate and mineral composition of Cloves (Syzygium aromaticum) and Ginger (Zingiber oficinale).

1.4 OBJECTIVE OF THE STUDY

The objectives which this research intends to achieve include the following;

1. To determine the nutritional composition (crude lipid, crude protein, crude fibre, moisture content, ash content, and total carbohydrate content) of ginger.

2. TO determine the nutritional composition (crude lipid, crude protein, crude fibre, moisture content, ash content, and total carbohydrate content) of clove..

3. To determine the mineral composition of the samples

1.6 SCOPE AND LIMITATION OF T HE STUDY

This research work is restricted to ginger and clove sold in Nasarawa Main Market, Nasarawa State. The limitation of this research work is due to the following;

1. Absence of some relevant equipment for analysis.

2. Inadequate power supply during the experimental stage

3. Cost of finance in carrying the experiment.

COMPARATIVE BIOSORPTION STUDY OF ARSENIC AND CADMIUM FROM AQUEOUS SOLUTION USING COCONUT SHELL AND GROUNDNUT SHELL

COMPARATIVE BIOSORPTION STUDY OF ARSENIC AND CADMIUM FROM AQUEOUS SOLUTION USING COCONUT SHELL AND GROUNDNUT SHELL

ABSTRACTS

Comparative biosorption of heavy metals (Cd, and As) in batch system using agro-mass obtained from groundnut shell and coconut shell was carried out. The heavy metal adsorption was found to be dependent on the initial pH, contact time, initial concentration of heavy metal and agro-mass dose. Activated carbon from coconut shell and groundnut shell using phosphoric acid (H₃PO₄) as activating agents by means of a two step activation process was characterised. The result of the analysis indicate the percentage of dry matter, moisture contents, Ash contents, bulk density and surface area of the samples were shown as 97.78%, 2.22%, 1.85%, 0.58g/cm³ and 179.30m² while 98.93%, 1.07%, 1.46%, 0.20g/cm³ and 289.10m² for coconut shell and groundnut shell respectively. The groundnut shell sample gave different results on analysis to that of coconut shell sample. The percentage removal efficiency of Cd²⁺ and As³⁺ before and after with the activated carbon of the samples and the amount Cd²⁺ and As³⁺adsorbed at different contact time range was determined using the Atomic Adsorption Spectrophotometer (AAS) “ICE 3000 AA02134104v130”. Langmuir and Freundlinch model were used to study the adsorption isotherms. Langmuir was found to be better fit for adsorption of Cd²⁺ and As³⁺ ions with good correlation coefficient (0.936) and (0.958) for coconut shell than for groundnut shell (0.084) and (0.906) respectively. These results reveal that activated carbon made from groundnut shell with good characteristic are better than activated carbon made from coconut shell for the adsorption of heavy metal ions from aqueous solution.

CHAPTER ONE

INTRODUCTION

1.1. BACKGROUND OF THE STUDY

The natural environment is constantly contaminated by various pollutants coming from domestic, industrial and agricultural sectors, which in turn showed a considerable change. Poisonous metals are widespread hazardous and affect the environment with a negative impact on the ecosystem, causing life threaten diseases to both animals and humans. Among heavy metals, Arsenic, Mercury, Cadmium, Chromium, e.t.c. (Cd, As, Hg, Cd, As, Cr, As) are cited (Salem et al. 2012) which must be removed before discharge to the aquatic environment. Unlike organic pollutants, heavy metals are refractory and cannot be degraded and accumulate in living organisms (Ali and Ateeg 2015).The elimination of heavy metals has been the theme of several works using different techniques like adsorption (Abolhasani and Behbahani 2015); ion electrodialysis (Esalah et al. 2000), coagulation/flocculation (Yue et al. 2009), sedimentation (Gupta et al. 2001), ionexchange (Dabrowski et al. 2004; Kang et al. 2008), biological operations (Rashid et al. 2014), nano filtration (Hafiane et al. 2000), solid-phase extraction (Khezami and Capart 2005), (Behbahani et al. 2014) and electro kinetic remediation (Sawada et al. 2004).

However, all these techniques suffer from high costs of capitals and operations as well as the elimination of metallic sludge (Malairajan 2011). On the other hand, the adsorption has become advantageous for removing poisonous metals because of its environmentally friendly characteristic, efficiency and low cost. In this regard, many agricultural wastes were used as adsorbents for both inorganic and organic pollutants (Copat et al. 2012; Izquierdoetal.2014; Samiey and Ashoori 2012; Vilar et al.2008).

In this respect, coconut shell and groundnut shell will be utilize to see their efficacy in adsorbing heavy metals from solution because of their specific characteristics that motivate their utilization for the elimination of various pollutants, including metals. The present study is devoted specifically to the adsorption of heavy metals. (As and Cd) onto coconut shell and groundnut shell. The optimization of the operating conditions (initial pH value, contact time, metal concentration and adsorbent dose) in batch system allow an elimination a good percentage of the metals. The Langmuir and Freundlich, adsorption isotherm were applied to the experimental data to get information on the interaction metals/coconut shell and groundnut shell. (Ashoori 2012).

Adsorption is a surface phenomenon with common mechanism for organic and inorganic pollutants removal. When a solution containing absorbable solute comes into contact with a solid with a highly porous surface structure, liquid-solid intermolecular forces of attraction cause some of the solute molecules from the solution to be concentrated or deposited at the solid surface. The solute retained (on the solid surface) in adsorption processes is called adsorbate, whereas, the solid on which it is retained is called as an adsorbent. This surface accumulation of adsorbate on adsorbent is called adsorption. This creation of an adsorbed phase having acomposition different from that of the bulk fluid phase forms the basis of separation by adsorption technology. (Vilar et al. 2008).

The adsorption technique has become more popular in recent years for wastewater treatment owing to its efficiency in the removal of pollutants too stable for biological methods. Metals adsorption is a result of six mechanisms (adsorption, chemical precipitation, ultrafiltration, nanofiltration, electrodialysis and ionexchange) and is influenced by many factors such as metal/adsorbent interaction, adsorbent’s surface area, particle size, temperature, pH and contact time. The main advantage of adsorption recently became the use of low-cost materials, which reduces the procedure cost. However, following the economic boom in the l970s-where the procedure cost was not such a big problem (or had not been taken into account) the economic crisis of the 2000s arose and led researchers to turn their interest to other fields with lower procedure costs. Therefore, different materials were tested as possible wastewater adsorbents. The selection for the most appropriate adsorbent would be based on some major characteristic properties such as:

i. The low-cost along with the satisfactory adsorption properties (capacity, reuse, industrial-scale use etc.) and

ii. The environmentally-friendly nature of each adsorbent. It is fundamental to use only materials which either have the lowest impact on environmental balance or are absolutely environmentally friendly (from abundant natural sources, biodegradable, non toxic etc.). (Salem et al.2012)

Recent studies on adsorption have drawn the attention to waste materials produced by large-scale industrial processes. Such materials are the by-products of industrial materials produced from natural resources such as peat, wood, barley, brown rice, hay, peanut shell, almond shell, coconut shell, groundnut shell, biomass, soybean, cotton seed meal, bark, sugar beet pulp, leaves, green algae, wood chips, fertilizer, com silk, and dried aquatic plants, as well as plant wastes and other industrial products. All of these materials have been the subject of numerous studies due to their ability to remove trace metals from water. Most of the researches that used adsorbents for organic compounds are based on batch kinetic and batch equilibrium studies. (Abdessalem et al. 2001).The objective of this research is to study and compare the adsorptive capacities of activated carbon from coconut shell and groundnut shell for the removal of Cd and As from aqueous solution.

1.2. STATEMENT OF PROBLEM

Arsenic and Cadmium causes toxicity in living cells by following ionic mechanism and that of oxidative stress. These heavy metals have proven to be a major threat and it has several health risks associated with it. Its ability to accumulate in the human body and food chain, exhibiting a health effect (chronic nature) is of immense concern hence the continual search for more effective adsorbent for its removal from effluents and water waste.

1.3 SCOPE AND LIMITATION OF THE STUDY

This research focuses on the use of agricultural waste in the removal of heavy metals particularly Arsenic and Cadmium, utilizing coconut shell and groundnut shell as adsorbent for removal of Arsenic ion and Cadmium ion from aqueous solution. This study will also investigate the influence of uptake of Arsenic ion and Cadmium ion b coconut shell and groundnut shell at different contact times and concentration of the adsorbent

1.4. SIGNIFICANCE OF THE STUDY

Several biomasses are considerable for application in adsorption knowing their different adsorption capacity. Therefore, this study will not only reduce the rate of importation of adsorbent, but would also encourage and promote the use of local raw material as competitive alternatives, also reduce high sludge generating treatment which is prone to environment contamination.

1.5 AIM OF THE STUDY

To compare the biosorption study of arsenic and cadmium from aqueous solution using coconut shell and groundnut shell

1.6. OBJECTIVE OF THE STUDY

• To identify useful information for the utilization of native agricultural byproduct for the removal of heavy metals (As and Cd).

• To compare the adsorption capacity of coconut shell and groundnut shell.

• To illustrate the adsorption by application of isotherm and kinetic model.

• To explore optimum experimental conditions for the removal of Cd and As ions from aqueous solution.

Friday, 16 July 2021

ANTIBACTERIAL ACTIVITY OF SOME SELECTED MEDICINAL PLANTS USED BY THE NASARAWA COMMUNITY

ANTIBACTERIAL ACTIVITY OF SOME SELECTED MEDICINAL PLANTS USED BY THE NASARAWA COMMUNITY

ABSTRACT

The antibacterial activity of some selected medicinal plants used by the Nasarawa community was carried out in different parts of Toto Local Government Area of Nasarawa State, Nigeria. The aim was to determine the occurrence of some indigenous plants used for treatment by the people of Toto by aqueous extraction method. The result reviewed that the plant has some degree of antibacterial activity forming zone of inhibition ranging from 3.30-4.10 at 100mg/ml giving the best activity on salmonella. Facts were obtained with the aid of interview with the old and experienced people in Toto. common plant species with medicinal value commonly used in Toto Local Government of Nasarawa State is Cymbopogon citratus (lemon grass) and Ocimum gratissimum (scent leaf). The antimicrobial susceptibility of the commonly used plant Cymbopogon citrates and Ocimum gatissimum was also determined to know the minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) of the organism ( Salmonella typhi and Aspergillus spp). The susceptibility test also showed that at the concentration of 62.5 there was moderate inhibition of the growth and at concentration 31.25 there was no inhibition. This study recommends the use of Cymbopogon citratus (lemon grass) and Ocimum gratissimum (scent leaf) for treatment in Toto Local Government Area of Nasarawa State.

CHAPTER ONE

INTRODUCTION

1.1 BACKGROUND OF THE STUDY

Plants are free gift of nature available to man for various pharmacological uses, plant kingdom served as the best natural source of drugs and medicine for the very start of human civilization (Sofowora, A, 2014). In the preparation of antibiotics, many pharmaceutical industries process and utilize plants and plant parts as raw materials to produce plant derived drugs (Sofowora2014). Medicinal plantmake a significant contribution to the primary health care needed by individuals around the world. In recent years the world populations have focused their attention on therapeutic plants and plant-based products due to the side impacts of a number of artificial drugs as well as improvement of sedate resistance to irresistible maladies. As a result the demand for medicinal plants has been expanding drastically day-by- day in both developing and developed countries for the utilization in traditional medicine (TM) and contemporary and alternative medicine(CAM) (Veillex,C.and king 2015) on a report of world health organization (WHO) over 80% of the global population relies on the herbal medicines for its essential health carenecessities and approximately 21,000 plants species seems possibly be utilized as therapeutic plants (WHO ,2013). More than 6000 plant species occur in Nasarawa community of which about 500 species are recognized as having medicinal or curative properties (WHO,2013).

Since the beginning of human civilization, people used plants as medicine. Perhaps as early as Neanderthal man, plants were believed to have healing power. The earliest uses are found in Babylonian Circa 1770BC in the code of hummurabi and ancient Egypt circa 1550BC. In fact, ancient Egyptians believed medicinal plants to have been recorded from the circa pyramids and can be found on display in a dark corner of cairo museum. The knowledge of botanical studies is utilized by foresters agronomist development advisors and pharmacologist and has become pivotal in preserving the cultural identity and knowledge of indigenous people whose traditional way of life could be under threat (posey , 2016).our ancestors made use of all types of plants in their daily lives, and early in the history of the human race they learned through trial and error that certain plants could be used to support well being, herbal preparation, usually made from roots, flowers, barks, or their extracts, were the only effective remedies available to our ancestors. Today 30% of conventional drugs are derived from plants. In spite of the worlds population still rely primarily on herbal medicines (Wondimu, 2007). Medicinal plants are gaining wider recognition in recent initiatives for conservation and development at the global level. This is the evident in the vision and mission statement of the World Health Organization (WHO) on health improvement and in community based conservation initiatives by the international organizations, including the world bank, the international development research center (IDRC) and United nations development programme (UNDP). The effort of the WHO to recognize and promote the use of local medicinal plant knowledge system in the health sector particularly in developing countries, is prominent (Tin-wa et al, 2011) plants are prospective source of antimicrobial agents in different countries (Alviano DS, 2019). About 90% of the populations in developing countries use plants derived medicine. Traditionally , crude plant extracts are used as herbal medicine for treatment of human infectious diseases (Malini M, Abirami et al, 2013). Plants are rich in a variety of phytochemicals including tanins, terpenoids, alkaloids, and flavonoids which have been found in vitro to have antimicrobial properties, (Dorman HJ, Deans SG, 2000). Recent emergence of antibiotics resistance and related toxicity issues limit the use of antimicrobial agents (Eggleston K, Zhang R, et al, 2010).and is prompting a revival in research of the antimicrobial role of plants against resistance strains due to comparable safety and efficacy(Alvino DS et al, 2009).

Ethnobotany is the study of how the people of a particular culture and religion makes use of indigenous plants .botany explore how plants are used for such things as food, fuel, shelter, medicine, clothing, hunting , and religion ceremonies (veilleux and King, 2008)botany originated in parts from an interest in finding plants to help fight illness.

Medicinal plants in Nigeria were considered by several researchers like Gbile (2014) and Lyamo (2014) to form an important component of natural wealth of the country like the guinea savannah in which Toto local government of nasarawa state belongs. Many of these plants are explain by Gbile (2014) and Iwu et al, (2014) to contain substance that can be used for therapeutic purpose, if used by man.

Sorungbe (2018) estimated that the ratio of doctors to patients in Nigeria was 1:200,000 and hence there is need for rural areas in particular to use medicinal plants. These plants have been traditionally used in Nigeria because they are natural products, environmentally friendly, easily available, cheap and curative than many sub standardorthodox medicine imported into the country today. Sometimes the conventional medications have been confirmed by Murray 2016 to have toxic effects on the human and according to Maingietal2017, there is the development of resisitance by man and animals to some of thses drugs by target parasites as well as high cost of some drugs. (Chem and ward , 2014). Reiterated that those misgiving on some orthodox medicines, herbal medicine has become a reasonable alternative. As recorded by Kafaru(2015), these ancient practices were discovered by a series of “trial and error” which could not be proven by scientific theories though, the result have been beneficial and efficient compared to the conventional modern medicines.

1.2 HISTORY OF MEDICINAL PLANTS

The use of plants for medicinal purpose is the oldest form of health care known to mankind. It was an integral parts of the development of modern civilization. Primitive man observed and appreciated the great diversity of plants available to him. Much of the medicinal uses of plants seem to have been developed through observation of wild animals and by trial and error. Dioscorides (1^st century AD) A Greek physician who worked with roman army, was the greatest and most influential ancient Greek writer on material and recording medical. He travelled far and wide gathering , using and recording the folk uses of many herbs as well.His work was considered absolute, and was copied, recopied and commented on for 16 years. The earliest surviving manuscript was codex vindobonesis from 512AD, De material medical is a 5-volume pharmacooeia that include 1000 simple remedies prepared from 600 different plant species. Although , it includes a lot of willow bark to relieve pain associated with gout. During the renaissance, with overall renewal of intellectual activity in Europe in the 15^th century and the invention of the printing press, age of herbal begins. Herbals are books that includes illustration of useful plants. Authors of these herbal were predominantly german botanist who had spent some time in monasteries (monk). Such man like Otto Brufels (2013-2016). Hieronymus Bock (2000-2010). In the 19^th century, the advancement in chemistry led to isolation and extraction of active component of medicinal plants e.gsalicin isolated from willow (salixspp). In 2010, lead to the development of acetylsalicylic acid or aspirin, a related compound with less side effects, by Felix Hoffman of Bayer company in 2000. In the 20^th century, further scientific advancement led to increase use of synthetic drugs plants. E.g development of drugs by the rational drug design model. However, 25% of all prescription medicines contain plants chemical and an even greater proportion contain synthetic analogue of plant chemicals. The rate at which a drug can be designed as opposed to discovered, may not differ greatly, so many drug companies have once again turned to natural sources of medicines. Finally, westeners are turning to herbal alternatives rather than to conventional medicines (Hobb, 2013)

1.3 STATEMENT OF THE PROBLEMS

The genetic base of plants biodiversity in Nigeria and in Nasarawa local government area is being seriously eroded as a result of human natural causes, such as high population growth rates, rapid urbanization, rural unemployment and value placed on traditional medicines. Some of these plants being very useful in the treatment of typhoid fever that has caused so many deaths in Nigeria, it will be very important to document the use of these medicinal plants in Nasarawa local government area.

1.4 JUSTIFICATION

Due to the facts that the local government area is a guinea savannah zone with rich biodiversity, therefore, there is need to document the medicinal plants used by the indigenes of the area to cure various ailments. And to also create awareness as to the usefulness and importance of these not only in the local government but also to the nation at large.

1.5 AIM OF THE STUDY

The aim of this research work is to achieve the following objectives which includes:

To determine the occurrence of some of the indigenous plants used for the treatment of ailments in Toto local government area of Nasarawa state.
To determine the minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) of some selected medicinal plant extract on some bacteria and fungi that can cause disease in human.
To carry out microbial susceptibility test on the selected organism (Salmonella typhi and Escherichia coli). Using extract from the most commonly used plants, used for treatment of some ailments in the local government area.

1.6 OBJECTIVES OF THE STUDY

To support the traditional uses of medicinal use plants by the indigenous communities of Nasarawa.
To investigate some plants or plants part under different families for their antibacterial activities against human pathogenic bacterial by agar well diffusion method.

ANTIBACTERIAL ACTIVITY OF SOME SELECTED MEDICINAL PLANTS

ANTIBACTERIAL ACTIVITY OF SOME SELECTED MEDICINAL PLANTS USED BY THE NASARAWA COMMUNITY

ABSTRACT

CHAPTER ONE

INTRODUCTION

1.1 BACKGROUND OF THE STUDY

1.2 HISTORY OF MEDICINAL PLANTS

1.3 STATEMENT OF THE PROBLEMS

1.4 JUSTIFICATION

1.5 AIM OF THE STUDY

The aim of this research work is to achieve the following objectives which includes:

To determine the occurrence of some of the indigenous plants used for the treatment of ailments in Toto local government area of Nasarawa state.
To determine the minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) of some selected medicinal plant extract on some bacteria and fungi that can cause disease in human.
To carry out microbial susceptibility test on the selected organism (Salmonella typhi and Escherichia coli). Using extract from the most commonly used plants, used for treatment of some ailments in the local government area.

1.6 OBJECTIVES OF THE STUDY

To support the traditional uses of medicinal use plants by the indigenous communities of Nasarawa.
To investigate some plants or plants part under different families for their antibacterial activities against human pathogenic bacterial by agar well diffusion method.

Friday, 9 July 2021

EFFECT OF INTERNAL ENVIRONMENTAL FACTORS ON THE PERFORMANCE OF SMALL SCALE BUSINESS ENTERPRISES IN NASARAWA STATE

EFFECT OF INTERNAL ENVIRONMENTAL FACTORS ON THE PERFORMANCE OF SMALL SCALE BUSINESS ENTERPRISES IN NASARAWA STATE

ABSTRACT

This study examines effects of internal environmental factors on the performance of small scale business enterprises in Nasarawa state. Specifically the study seek to assess the effect of capital on small scale business enterprises performance in Nasarawa state, examine the effect of entrepreneurial skills on the performance of small scale business enterprises and examine the effects of marketing strategy on the performance of Small Scale Business Enterprises in Nasarawa state. The population of the study consists of 1753 registered SME’s in Nasarawa but the study sampled only 95 of them randomly selected using Yamane (1967) formular. The research design adopted for this study is survey design and experimental research. The research analyzed the respondent’s opinion using tables while hypothesis was tested using regression analysis (OLS). The findings of this study shows that internal environment factors have significant effects on the performance of small scale business enterprises in Nasarawa state. Specifically, the study shows that capital, entrepreneurial skills and marketing strategy have significant effect on small scale business enterprises performance in Nasarawa state. Finally the study recommends that the federal government should come up with economic policy and regulatory framework that will make capitals available for owners of small scale business enterprises or entrepreneur to enhance their performance and also entrepreneurs should ensure they acquire all the necessary skills and marketing strategies that will promote their performance.

CHAPTER ONE

INTRODUCTION

Background to the study

The role of small and medium scale enterprises in the most developing nations cannot be overemphasized. Worldwide, Small scale business enterprises are regarded as the engine for growth, job creation and human development, particularly in developing countries. Available studies have over the years confirmed that Small scale business enterprise provides a strong foundation for economies around the world providing about 60% of employment and constitute about 95% of enterprises around the globe (Keynes, Kolstad & Wiig, 2017). A report released by the World Bank Group on registered formal SMEs is that they contribute up to 45% of employment and 33% to GDP in developing economies.

Small and medium scale enterprises comprise of business that employed little capital for establishment and operate small scale business with the objective of making profit. Small and medium scale enterprises have continued to increase and survive because they require few capitals for establishment, less labour, low technological knowledge and little managerial capacity for establishment (Essien, 2014). Also, small and medium scale enterprises are seen as major tool for reducing unemployment and poverty through the generation of employment, contribution to rapid economic growth and export earnings, industrialization and utilization of local resources.

A business internal environment plays the most significant part in charting out the direction and the unique qualities that define it from others (Aldrich, 2015). This micro environment comprises of factors which a firm can effectively use in adapting to the ever-changing external environment. Unlike the external, the internal environment factors are largely within control of the management of a business enterprise. Such factors as tangible business resources, its workers, its management, competencies, production, marketing and strategic choices are so strong conventional contributors to the effective and efficient operation of any business (Kibera, 2016).

Each of the internal factors whether tangible or not are significant to the success of the business, based on how each firm employs and maintains them (Nzomo, 2015). A business plant, machinery, equipment or tools for instance should be those that are cost effective in terms of their acquisition, installation, maintenance, repair and replacement. This would make an entrepreneur to retain some funds for other operational plans. These facilities are equally important for the quality and quantity of product output, market size and niche, companies / firm image and general public approval of the company’s product. All these translate into sales, profit and size of a business which effectively define the business success or failure (Karingiti, 2019).

SMEs performance is the ability of a firm to provide value to its stakeholders such as owners, customers, society and government. Aminu and Shariff (2015) defined firm performance as the procedures of quantifying business actions in terms of accomplishing its objectives. According to Abdulmalik, Moahammed and Salem (2014) financial performance such as profit maximization, maximizing profit on assets and maximizing shareholders’ benefits are the core of the firm’s effectiveness. Operational performance measures such as growth in sales and growth in market share provide a broad definition of performance as they focus on the factors that ultimately lead to financial performance.

The performance of small and medium scale enterprises can be significantly influenced by both internal and external environment factors. The success and failure of an organization is solely not determined by the firm’s specific characteristics but also, prevailing factors in the environment in which the firm operates. Small and medium scale enterprises operate in a complex and multi-facet environment which shape organizational objectives and could have a wide effect on the performance of the organization (Eruemegbe, 2015).

Statement of the Problem

Small Scale Business Enterprises are the engine of growth and development of most developed and developing nations in the world, but unfortunately the state of economic growth of Nigeria appears to be very low despite the large concentration of businesses in the country. The poor performance of small scale business enterprises in Nigeria and its low contribution to the development of the country is due to some economic and environmental factors such as high unemployment rate, low income level, high inflation, low interest rates, high tax rates, fluctuation exchange rate, poor consumer confidence levels, recessions size of the available market, low demand for the company’s products or services, competition, etc. Small and medium enterprises (SMEs) in Nigeria have not performed creditably well and hence have not played the expected vital and vibrant role in the economic growth and development of Nigeria, (Basil, 2005). Year in year out, government at federal, state and local level make an effort in support of entrepreneurship development, but still the contributions of SSBs to economic development is low. It is worrisome that despite the incentives, favorable policies, regulations and preferential support by government aimed at improving SSBs, the sub-sector have performed below expectation in Nigeria (Abiodun, 2011). Inspite of the large volume of studies on Small Scale Business Enterprises in developing countries, there is a death of literature on studies relating to internal environmental factors on the performance of small scale business enterprises.

Objectives of the Study

The main aim of this study is to evaluate the effects of internal environmental factors on the performance of small scale business enterprises in Nasarawa state. Thus, the specific objectives of this study are to:

Assess the effect of capital on the performance small scale business enterprises performance in Nasarawa state.
Examine the effect of entrepreneurial skills on the performance of small scale business enterprises in Nasarawa State.
Examine the effects of marketing strategy on the performance of Small Scale Business Enterprises in Nasarawa state.

Research Questions

The study was designed to seek answers to the following research questions:

What are the effects of capital on small scale business enterprises performance in Nasarawa state?
What are the effects of entrepreneurial skills on the performance of small scale business enterprises?
What are the effects of marketing strategy on the performance of Small Scale Business Enterprises in Nasarawa state?

Statement of Hypothesis

In order to achieve the stated objectives of the study, the following formulated hypotheses are proposed for testing:

H₀₁: Capital has no significant effect on the performance small scale business enterprises in Nasarawa state.

H₀₂: There is no significant relationship between entrepreneurial skills and performance of small and medium scale business enterprises.

H₀₃: Marketing strategy has no effect on the performance of Small Scale Business Enterprises in Nasarawa State

Scope and Limitations of the Study

This study assesses the effects of internal environmental factors on the performance of small scale business enterprises in Nasarawa state. The emphasis is to identify the influence of factors such as capital, entrepreneurial skills and marketing strategy on the performance of small scale business enterprises.

The major limitations of this project are the difficulty in obtaining data as is usually the case with most project.

The lack of data is further compounded by the fact that the researcher has a very tight schedule programme.

For instance, time is too short for the research considering the time within which to submit the project and combined with academic work load could not enable the researcher to carry out wide research on the general environmental impact on small scale business. Finance is another hitch encountered during the course of study.

Significance of the Study

Given the importance of small scale business enterprises to the nation’s economic growth, and also the role they plays in reducing poverty and unemployment, the result of this study would be of great importance to government, researchers and major stakeholders such as investors, staffs, managers, business consultants, financial analyst and consumers. It’s expected to contribute to small scale business enterprises sub-sector development process in developing countries and even developed countries that share similar environmental factors influencing business performance.

In a globalized economy, there is increase recognition that identifying the factors hindering small scale business enterprises performance in a developing country may be meaningful in terms of assistance developed countries provide to developing countries in the area of small scale business enterprises development. Thus, the result of this study is expected to help both Nongovernmental organizations (NGOs) and international agencies that assist in the area of Small Scale Businesses and entrepreneurship development.

The study would draw the management and policy maker’s attention to the urgent need for specific management practice to enhance the effectiveness and sustainability of small scale business enterprises in Nasarawa town and states at large. The study can also assist local entrepreneurs in formulating strategies that will guide against poor business performance.

Definition of Key Terms

Small Scale Business: Is defined as some of all activities which involve distribution of goods and services to making of profit in the business.

Some of the terms used in this study include political economic factor and cultural factor.

Internal Environment: The internal business environment comprises of factors within the company which impact the success and approach of operations.

Capital: Capital is the money or wealth needed to produce goods and services. In the most basic terms, it is money. All businesses must have capital in order to purchase assets and maintain their operations. Business capital comes in two main forms: debt and equity.

Entrepreneurial Skills: Entrepreneurship is ‘an individual’s ability to turn ideas into action. It includes creativity, innovation and risk-taking, as well as the ability to plan and manage projects in order to achieve objectives.

Marketing Strategies: A marketing strategy refers to a business’s overall game plan for reaching prospective consumers and turning them into customers of the products or services the business provides. A marketing strategy contains the company’s value proposition, key brand messaging, data on target customer demographics, and other high-level elements.Performance: A Performance is an act of staging or presenting a play, concert, or other form of entertainment. It is also defined as the action or process of carrying out or accomplishing an action, task, or function.

Pages

Sunday, 18 July 2021

PROXIMATE AND MINERAL ANALYSIS OF SELECTED BITTER VEGETABLES

CHAPTER ONE

THE IMPACT OF DEVELOPMENT CONTROL ON RESIDENTIAL PROPERTY DEVELOPMENT IN NASARAWA

ABSTRACT

DETERMINATION OF CONCENTRATION LEAD (Pb), CADMIUM (Cd) AND CHROMIUM (Cr) IN SOME LOCAL RICE AND RICE HUSK OBTAINED IN NASARAWA MARKET, NASARAWA STATE

PROXIMATE AND SELECTED MINERAL ANALYSIS OF CLOVES (Syzygium aromaticum) AND GINGERS (Zingiber officinale).

ABSTRACTS

COMPARATIVE BIOSORPTION STUDY OF ARSENIC AND CADMIUM FROM AQUEOUS SOLUTION USING COCONUT SHELL AND GROUNDNUT SHELL

Friday, 16 July 2021

ANTIBACTERIAL ACTIVITY OF SOME SELECTED MEDICINAL PLANTS USED BY THE NASARAWA COMMUNITY

ABSTRACT

ANTIBACTERIAL ACTIVITY OF SOME SELECTED MEDICINAL PLANTS USED BY THE NASARAWA COMMUNITY

ABSTRACT

Friday, 9 July 2021

EFFECT OF INTERNAL ENVIRONMENTAL FACTORS ON THE PERFORMANCE OF SMALL SCALE BUSINESS ENTERPRISES IN NASARAWA STATE