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Climate Resilience in Nigerian Construction: A Systematic Review of Strategies and Outcomes Unegbu, Hyginus C. O.; Yawas, Danjuma Saleh; Dan-asabe, Bashar; Alabi, Abdulmumin Akoredeley
Journal of Sustainable Construction Vol 4 No 1 (2024): Journal of Sustainable Construction
Publisher : Universitas Katolik Parahyangan

Show Abstract | Download Original | Original Source | Check in Google Scholar | DOI: 10.26593/josc.v4i1.8114

Abstract

Climate resilience in the construction sector is critical for ensuring the durability and sustainability of infrastructure amidst the increasing impacts of climate change. This study systematically reviews climate resilience strategies in the Nigerian construction sector, evaluating their effectiveness and outcomes. A comprehensive literature search yielded 50 peer-reviewed journal articles, conference papers, and official reports, focusing on design innovations, material selection, policy frameworks, and case studies across Nigeria's diverse climatic zones. Key findings indicate that strategies such as flood barriers, green roofs, and sustainable materials are effective in mitigating climate risks, although challenges such as financial constraints, regulatory gaps, and lack of awareness persist. The study highlights the importance of community involvement, government support, and technological innovation in successfully implementing resilience measures. Comparative analysis with global best practices underscores the need for integrated approaches tailored to Nigeria's unique context. The study concludes with recommendations for future research, emphasizing the need for longitudinal studies, cross-regional comparisons, and the integration of traditional knowledge. Policy implications include the development of comprehensive regulatory frameworks and public-private partnerships to enhance the sector's adaptive capacity. This research provides valuable insights and practical recommendations for enhancing climate resilience in Nigeria's construction industry, contributing to broader goals of sustainable development and climate adaptation.
Greening Nigeria’s Cities: A Case Study on Renewable Energy in Sustainable Urban Development Unegbu, Hyginus; Yawas, Danjuma Saleh; Dan-asabe, Bashar; Alabi, Abdulmumin Akoredeley
Journal of Sustainable Construction Vol 4 No 2 (2025): Journal of Sustainable Construction
Publisher : Universitas Katolik Parahyangan

Show Abstract | Download Original | Original Source | Check in Google Scholar | DOI: 10.26593/josc.v4i2.8867

Abstract

This study examines how renewable energy can be used in sustainable building projects in three major Nigerian cities: Lagos, Abuja, and Port Harcourt. It looks at the potential of solar panels (PV systems), wind energy, and converting biomass waste into energy to reduce both energy use and greenhouse gas emissions. To gather insights, the research involved interviews, site visits, and computer simulations using energy modelling software. The analysis included cost-benefit studies, sensitivity checks, and life cycle assessments to measure both economic and environmental outcomes. Results show that solar PV systems are the most efficient, cutting energy use by 25% to 35% and paying for themselves in 6 to 8 years. Biomass energy showed good potential in industrial areas, while wind energy is less common due to high upfront costs and slower returns. The study highlights key challenges such as high starting costs, limited technical skills, and weak enforcement of energy policies. To overcome these barriers, the paper suggests increasing financial support, strengthening policy implementation, investing in local skills development, and encouraging public-private partnerships to promote the use of renewable energy in Nigerian cities.
Life Cycle Assessment of Sustainable Building Materials in The Nigerian Construction Industry Unegbu, Hyginus; Yawas, Danjuma Saleh; Dan-asabe, Bashar; Alabi, Abdulmumin Akoredeley
Journal of Sustainable Construction Vol 4 No 2 (2025): Journal of Sustainable Construction
Publisher : Universitas Katolik Parahyangan

Show Abstract | Download Original | Original Source | Check in Google Scholar | DOI: 10.26593/josc.v4i2.8869

Abstract

This study presents a comprehensive life cycle assessment (LCA) of sustainable building materials in the Nigerian construction industry, focusing on bamboo, recycled steel, and low-carbon concrete. It evaluates the environmental impacts of these materials across their entire life cycles—from raw material extraction to end-of-life disposal. A mixed-methods approach was employed: primary data were collected via interviews and surveys with industry professionals, while secondary data came from credible literature and databases. Results revealed bamboo as the most environmentally friendly, with the lowest impacts on global warming, ozone depletion, eutrophication, and resource depletion. Low-carbon concrete also offered significant environmental advantages, particularly in reducing greenhouse gas emissions. Recycled steel supported circular economy goals but had higher energy demands and emissions due to its intensive recycling process. Key barriers to adoption in Nigeria included high upfront costs, limited local availability, and inadequate regulatory support. The study recommends strengthening regulatory frameworks, offering financial incentives, boosting local production, and promoting awareness through education and training. These findings underscore the potential of sustainable materials to reduce the environmental footprint of construction in Nigeria and offer practical guidance for policymakers, industry stakeholders, and researchers committed to advancing sustainability in the built environment.
Sustainable Construction Project Management: Developing a Framework for Assessing Sustainability Performance in Nigerian Mega Projects Unegbu, H C O; Yawas, Danjuma Saleh; Dan-asabe, Bashar; Alabi, A.A.
Civil and Environmental Science Journal (CIVENSE) Vol. 8 No. 2 (2025)
Publisher : Fakultas Teknik Universitas Brawijaya

Show Abstract | Download Original | Original Source | Check in Google Scholar | DOI: 10.21776/ub.civense.2025.008.02.1

Abstract

This study develops a tailored sustainability assessment framework for Nigerian mega projects. The framework is applied to four diverse case studies: a highway expansion, an airport terminal, a renewable energy project, and a residential housing development. Results show that the renewable energy project achieved the highest sustainability score due to its superior environmental and economic performance. In contrast, the highway expansion project ranked the lowest, primarily because of its significant environmental impact and limited community engagement. Key findings emphasize the critical role of community engagement and lifecycle costing in achieving sustainable outcomes. Projects that incorporated inclusive planning and long-term financial strategies performed better overall. However, the study also identifies significant barriers, including weak regulatory enforcement and monetary limitations, which restrict the adoption of sustainable construction practices. The research highlights the need for localized sustainability frameworks in developing countries, as international models like LEED and BREEAM may not fully address context-specific challenges. This framework provides a valuable tool for policymakers, project managers, and stakeholders to enhance sustainability in large-scale infrastructure projects and support long-term development objectives.
Smart Materials for Noise and Vibration Damping in High-Speed Rail Systems: A Comparative Analysis Unegbu, Hyginus Chidiebere Onyekachi; Yawas, Danjuma Saleh; Dan-asabe, Bashar; Alabi, Abdulmumin Akoredeley
Makara Journal of Technology Vol. 28, No. 3
Publisher : UI Scholars Hub

Show Abstract | Download Original | Original Source | Check in Google Scholar

Abstract

Effective noise and vibration control remains a critical challenge in high-speed rail systems, directly influencing passenger comfort and the longevity of infrastructure. This study evaluated four advanced materials—piezoelectric materials, shape memory alloys (SMAs), magnetorheological (MR) fluids, and damping composites—focusing on their potential for mitigating noise and vibration in high-speed rail applications. A combination of experimental and simulation-based analyses was employed to assess these materials based on their noise reduction coefficient, vibration transmissibility ratio, thermal stability, and durability under varying environmental conditions. The findings revealed that damping composites and SMAs demonstrated superior performance, offering enhanced noise attenuation and vibration control compared with the other materials. Damping composites exhibited the highest noise reduction and stability across a wide frequency range, while SMAs demonstrated exceptional adaptive damping properties under fluctuating temperature conditions. In contrast, piezoelectric materials and MR fluids showed moderate performance, making them more suitable for secondary damping applications. This study identifies damping composites and SMAs as the most effective materials for primary noise and vibration control in high-speed rail systems. The findings provide valuable insights for material selection and integration in rail infrastructure, contributing to enhanced system performance, reduced maintenance costs, and compliance with stringent noise and vibration regulations.
Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) Modeling for Bio-Inspired Aerodynamic Optimization in Autonomous Drones Unegbu, Hyginus C.O.; Yawas, Danjuma Saleh
Makara Journal of Technology Vol. 29, No. 2
Publisher : UI Scholars Hub

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Abstract

This study explores the aerodynamic benefits of bio-inspired design modifications for autonomous drones using advanced Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) simulations. Four bio-inspired configurations—leading-edge serrations, winglets, riblet surfaces, and curved wings—were assessed and compared against a baseline drone model to evaluate their impact on aerodynamic performance. The results indicated that all bio-inspired designs significantly enhanced lift, reduced drag, and improved overall aerodynamic efficiency. The leading-edge serration configuration achieved the highest performance gains, with a 33.6% increase in maximum lift coefficient (CL) and a 29.5% improvement in lift-to-drag ratio (CL/CD), primarily due to delayed flow separation and reduced turbulence. Winglets minimized wingtip vortices, leading to an 18.3% reduction in drag coefficient (CD) and improved lift efficiency. Riblet surfaces moderately decreased drag by streamlining boundary layer flow, while the curved wing design enhanced stability and manoeuvrability at high angles of incidence. These findings demonstrate the potential of bio-inspired designs to optimize drone performance, extending their operational range and adaptability across varying flight conditions. The study provides valuable insights for development of next-generation UAVs, offering a pathway to improved energy efficiency, flight stability, and versatility in diverse operational environments.