The study investigated the existence of autism among primary school pupils in Benin City. The rationale for this study was as a result of the growing concern about autism worldwide. Knowledge about this disorder is still limited. Most parents and teachers still do not understand its diagnosis, symptoms and effects at home and school environments. This lack of understanding of this complex neuro-developmental disorder that affects a child’s social interaction, communication and behaviour has become pertinent for the present study to be carried.

Home garden (hg) though seems small enterprise could contribute to MDGs via food security, poverty alleviation and environmental sustainability as every household has the potential to establish one. The study therefore analyzed gender involvement in home gardening and its implications for environmental sustainability in the southern zone of Edo State, Nigeria. The sample for the study comprised 145 households randomly selected through a multistage process. Data was collected using structured questionnaire and interview schedule.

The bioaccumulation of Cu, Zn, Mn, Cd, Cr, Ni and Pb in Wholefish, Gill, Offal and Carcass samples of Oreochromis niloticus and Hemichromis fasciatus from the upper reaches of Ogba river was monitored for the period January to December, 2000, using standard methods.

One hundred and ten species of the Nigerian Asteraceae were examined for protein, starch, fats and oils using standard detection procedures. Out of these number of species, 96 were being studied for the first time. Fats and oils were found in all the species investigated comprising herbs and shrubs, (100% detection rate). Starch was not detected in any species, showing a zero persent detection rate. No correlation could be establisnhed between life form and the nature of ergastic substance in the Asteraceae.

The paper undertakes a critical review of the new Pension Reform Act 2004 in the light of the former legislation on the subject.   It contends that the new law is a vast improvement on the former legislation. For the first time, the Act introduces a contributory pension scheme applicable to all workers.