PREVALENCE AND RISK FACTORS OF SCHISTOSOMIASIS AMONG HAUSA COMMUNITIES IN KANO STATE, NIGERIA

SUMMARY Schistosomiasis remains one of the most prevalent neglected tropical diseases especially in Nigeria which has the greatest number of infected people worldwide. A cross-sectional study was conducted among 551 participants from Kano State, North Central Nigeria. Fecal samples were examined for the presence of Schistosoma mansoni eggs using the formalin-ether sedimentation method while the urine samples were examined using the filtration technique for the presence of S. haematobium eggs. Demographic, socioeconomic and environmental information was collected using a pre-validated questionnaire. The overall prevalence of schistosomiasis was 17.8%, with 8.9% and 8.3% infected with S. mansoni and S. haematobium, respectively and 0.5% presenting co-infection with both species. The multiple logistic regression analysis revealed that age < 18 years (OR = 2.13; 95% CI; 1.34- 3.41), presence of infected family members (OR = 3.98; 95% CI; 2.13-7.46), and history of infection (OR = 2.87; 95% CI; 1.87- 4.56) were the significant risk factors associated with schistosomiasis in these communities. In conclusion, this study revealed that schistosomiasis is still prevalent among Hausa communities in Nigeria. Mass drug administration, health education and community mobilization are imperative strategies to significantly reduce the prevalence and morbidity of schistosomiasis in these communities

Tourism potential of the confluence between river Niger and river Benue in Nigeria: implication for project finance

Abstract Introduction This research proposes the development of the confluence of river Niger and river Benue in Nigeria as a viable international tourist center. Case description The confluence of river Niger and river Benue in Lokoja Nigeria, is the site proposed for intervention. The study recommends the use of the mechanism of project financing for the funding of the project by the government. Discussion and Evaluation. Existing studies indicates that inadequate empirical data on viability of investments in most tourism destinations in Nigeria has been a challenge to investors as well as policy makers. Using the case study method which also included actual site visitation for on the spot assessment, this paper attempts to provide information on the prospects of tourism development in Lokoja town of Nigeria by simulating real-world scenarios. The research found that investments in tourism in Lokoja town has better viability prospects with the application of Project finance models of Management Contract and Forfeiting Contract. Conclusion The study showed that the confluence of river Niger and river Benue can be developed based on the methods outlined above and that the project can be a great benefit to tourists, investors and the government