http://irepo.futminna.edu.ng:8080/jspui/handle/123456789/98 2026-10-31T02:32:23Z http://irepo.futminna.edu.ng:8080/jspui/handle/123456789/32013 Title: PHYSICOCHEMICAL AND MICROBIOLOGICAL QUALITY OF WELL-WATER AT MAIKUNKELE, BOSSO LOCAL GOVERNMENT AREA, MINNA, NIGER STATE Authors: Musa, Titus D.; Terhememn, Titus I. Abstract: Access to safe drinking water remains a critical public health challenge in sub-Saharan Africa, where reliance on shallow hand-dug wells exposes vulnerable populations to severe contamination risks. This study assessed the physicochemical and microbiological quality of well-water in Maikunkele, Bosso LGA, Nigeria, to determine its potability against World Health Organisation and Nigerian Standard for Drinking Water Quality permissible limits. It employed a cross-sectional descriptive design, purposive sampling was utilized to select five actively used hand-dug wells (W1–W5). Water samples were collected during the peak rainy season (June 2026) following strict aseptic American Public Health Association protocols. Physicochemical parameters (pH, temperature, electrical conductivity, total hardness, alkalinity, turbidity, and total dissolved solids) and microbiological indicators (Total Heterotrophic Plate Count, Total Coliform Count, Total Faecal Coliform Count, Escherichia coli, and Total Fungal Count) were rigorously analyzed. Data were evaluated using descriptive and inferential statistics, benchmarked against the WHO and NSDWQ guidelines. The results revealed a critical dichotomy between the physicochemical and microbiological profiles of the water. Physicochemically, 86% of parameters complied with regulatory limits; however, pH was consistently acidic (5.80–6.02), falling below the 6.5–8.5 standard and posing significant corrosion and heavy metal leaching risks. Microbiologically, the water was severely compromised. Total coliforms were detected in 75% of the sampled wells, and E. coli – a definitive indicator of recent faecal pollution was confirmed in 25% of the wells (W4), which also exhibited the highest overall contamination. Only one well (W2, 25%) met WHO microbiological criteria for potable water, indicating widespread faecal contamination driven by proximity to pit latrines and inadequate well construction. The study concludes that the well water in Maikunkele presents a dangerous "facade of safety." While acceptable physicochemical parameters suggest chemical stability, the pervasive microbiological contamination renders the water fundamentally unsafe for human consumption, exposing the community to acute and chronic waterborne diseases, particularly among vulnerable children. Urgent, multi-tiered interventions are recommended. These include the immediate adoption of point-of-use water treatment (boiling, chlorination, or solar disinfection), structural upgrades to wells (installing tight-fitting covers and concrete aprons), strict regulatory enforcement of the 25-meter well-to-latrine separation distance, and the establishment of community-led water safety committees to ensure sustainable groundwater protection. 2026-07-23T00:00:00Z http://irepo.futminna.edu.ng:8080/jspui/handle/123456789/31873 Title: Assessment of Electrical Energy Consumption in Some Selected Tertiary Institutions Administrative Buildings in Niger State Authors: Musa, Titus D.; Akanmu, Williams P.; Jimoh, Jimoh A.; Ejiga, Anthony E. Abstract: High electrical energy consumption in public buildings and institutions poses a significant challenge, particularly in developing countries like Nigeria. Inadequate empirical studies on building energy use have resulted in a lack of electrical energy data, especially in tertiary institutions where bulk metering is common. This study aimed to assess the electrical energy consumption in selected administrative buildings of tertiary institutions in Niger State, with the goal of reducing electrical consumption and improving energy efficiency. Experimental data collection involved direct field measurements using a real-time Efergy wireless energy (EW4500) monitoring device. Current transformer sensors were attached to the main distribution panels of the administrative buildings at the Federal University of Technology Minna, Niger State Polytechnic Zungeru, and Niger State College of Education Minna. The objectives included evaluating electrical energy consumption, comparing total consumption across buildings, and analyzing energy consumption patterns. Results indicated that the Senate building at FUT Minna had the highest consumption rate at 2604.7 KWh/m², followed by Niger State Polytechnic Zungeru at 2579.1 KWh/m², both exceeding the global benchmarks of 128 to 130 kWh/m² set by the Chartered Institute of Building Services Engineers (CIBSE) and the Building Energy Efficiency Guideline for Nigeria (BEEGN). In contrast, COE Minna’s administrative building, with consumption levels averaging 1579.1 KWh/m², generally fell within these benchmarks. The elevated energy consumption at FUT Minna and Niger State Polytechnic Zungeru was primarily attributed to operational inefficiencies, such as the continuous operation of HVAC systems and equipment during non-essential hours, even when buildings were not fully occupied. Hourly consumption patterns revealed peak usage during early working hours, with significant seasonal variations; however, both FUT Minna and Niger State Polytechnic Zungeru exhibited high energy use during off-peak periods, reflecting poor energy management practices. To address these inefficiencies, the study recommends conducting comprehensive energy audits and installing energy-efficient appliances at FUT Minna and Niger State Polytechnic Zungeru. Additionally, implementing smart metering, occupancy sensors, and optimized HVAC controls would significantly enhance monitoring and reduce energy consumption. These measures are critical for improving energy efficiency and ensuring sustainable operations in both institutions. 2024-11-29T00:00:00Z http://irepo.futminna.edu.ng:8080/jspui/handle/123456789/31872 Title: Thermal Comfort Performance of Thermoelectric Peltier Module Refrigeration System in Built Environment Authors: Musa, Titus D.; Ejiga, Anthony E. Abstract: According to data provided by the International Energy Agency, nearly 1.6 billion air conditioning (A/C) systems were operating globally in 2017, accounting for approximately 6% of the overall final energy consumption. To address the energy and economic challenges posed by such extensive use of air conditioning for thermal comfort, it is imperative to identify alternative solutions that can effectively operate in warm-humid environments. This study explored the thermal comfort performance of thermoelectric module refrigeration (TEMR) system in built environment; installed in a single-room facility in Minna, Niger State, Nigeria, over a one-month period. The experimental setup involved a test room measuring 1.3 m x 2.6 m x 3 m, equipped with aluminum roofing, an asbestos ceiling, an aluminum-framed window, and a steel door. The TEMR system was assessed for its ability to regulate indoor temperature and humidity under varying external climatic conditions. The TEMR system operated at a constant current of 6.4A, with data collected at specific intervals throughout each day. Results indicated that the TEMR system significantly reduced indoor air temperature and relative humidity, particularly during peak operational hours (12:00 pm to 2:00 pm). Weekly variations showed temperature drops from 37°C to 22°C and humidity reductions from 60% to 32% within 60 minutes of operation. These findings align with ASHRAE Standard 55-2017 for indoor environmental quality. The study concludes that the TEMR system is effective in improving indoor climatic conditions, offering a sustainable and energy-efficient cooling solution. Its performance, influenced by external climatic factors, demonstrates potential for broader application, particularly in developing regions where long- term, low-maintenance, and environmentally friendly cooling solutions are needed. 2024-11-29T00:00:00Z http://irepo.futminna.edu.ng:8080/jspui/handle/123456789/31871 Title: Assessment of Thermal Comfort in Selected Female Hostels at Gidan Kwano, Federal University of Technology Minna, Nigeria. Authors: Titus M. D. Abstract: The construction and operation of hostel buildings in Nigerian tertiary institutions often overlook thermal comfort, a critical factor influencing occupant health, productivity, and overall sustainability. This study is aimed to assessed the thermal comfort in selected female hostels at the Federal University of Technology, Minna, Nigeria. A quantitative, descriptive research design was adopted. Data were collected using AirVisual Pro, a high-accuracy monitoring device that measured indoor temperature and relative humidity across three hostel categories, A (6 occupants/room), B (4 occupants/room), and C (2 occupants/room) within the Gidan-Kwano campus for three months. Measurements were analyzed using descriptive statistics, graphs chart analysis (ASHRAE Standard 55 and CIBSE Guide A benchmarks). Diurnal variations were examined descriptively through hourly mean pattern analysis. Findings revealed that while mean indoor temperatures in most hostel rooms fell within or marginally above the ASHRAE comfort range of 22°C–26°C, relative humidity consistently exceeded recommended limits. Specifically, mean relative humidity values were 83.4%, and 82.2% for Categories A and B respectively surpassed the ASHRAE and CIBSE standard while category C with relative humidity value of 63.6% was within the standard comfort zone of 40–70%. The study concludes that hostel indoor environments require urgent intervention to align with global thermal comfort standards. The study recommends integrating mechanical ventilation, dehumidification systems, and climate-responsive design strategies, alongside occupant education and regular environmental monitoring. These findings provide empirical evidence for improving thermal comfort and advancing sustainable building management in institutional housing. 2026-06-30T00:00:00Z