MULTI-USE INDOOR SPORTS COMPLEX WITH EMPHASIS ON PASSIVE

COOLING DESIGN IN MINNA, NIGER STATE

SHEHU, Bello
MTECH/SET/2022/12945

FEBRUARY, 2024

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 CHAPTER ONE

1.0 INTRODUCTION

1.1 Background of the Study

According to the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) global warming

will likely reach 1.5ºC between 2030 and 2052, putting vulnerable communities at a

disproportionately increased risk to climate-related adverse consequences (Shukla et al.,

2018). The Tropics has warmed by 0.7-0.8ºC over the last century, however, climate

models predict for this region a further 1-2ºC warming by 2050 (Corlett, 2014). Oleson

et al. (2015) asserts that, in the Tropics, high heat stress days and nights are very

pronounced in urban areas, which may cause buildings to overheat. However, indoor

overheating is reduced when proper building design strategies for these climatic regions

are adopted, according to case studies in tropical contexts such as Honduras, Thailand,

Uganda and Myanmar. At least 1 billion people worldwide are facing cooling access

risk, and more than 2.2 billion are likely to purchase inefficient cooling devices,

resulting in a dramatic increase in energy and associated carbon emissions (Gamero-

Salinas et al., 2021).

Climate change and income growth will cause an increase in global cooling energy

demand in the world’s warmest regions by 2100 therefore, building sector adaptation

measures are urgently needed considering the challenges posed by future growth on the

global cooling energy demand and of the increase of climatic vulnerability (Shaffer et

al., 2022; Saastamoinen and Paiho, 2018). However, a study conducted by Vella et al.

(2022) asserted that, specific passive strategies can improve indoor temperatures and

create a more comfortable atmosphere. These strategies include building orientation,

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building form, thermal insulation, natural ventilation and the use of vegetation as stated

by Nwalusi et al. (2022).

Nigeria is a force to be reckoned with among nations of the world for its recorded

achievements in national and international sport (Nwabuwe 2023). Sport is generally

defined as physical athletic activity that encompasses an extensive range of

competitions including but not limited to Football, Tennis and Basketball. The benefits

of sport are numerous which includes, physical fitness, mental wellness and social

interaction. Furthermore, sport has been utilized as a tool for promoting social change

by fostering peace and unity among various communities around Nigeria and the world

at large. It helps in eradicating tribalism, nepotism and racism from the societal fabric

through its activities thus boosting democratic gains (Odeyale 2002). Specifically,

indoor sports complexes play a vital role in promoting physical activity, hosting

sporting events, and engaging the community (Sunnetci et al., 2021). However, these

facilities often consume significant amounts of energy, leading to environmental impact

and high operational costs (Zhang et al., 2023).

According to Fabio and Giulia (2019) the thermal environment of an indoor space is

probably the most important parameter that should be considered when performing any

sport, as it helps in determining safety and performances of the athletes. Participation in

sports is essential to the comprehensive growth of individuals especially young people

since it enhances their physical health whilst improving their emotional wellbeing

thereby building valuable social connections between them. As such, the significance of

proper planning for sports facilities development aimed at producing well-rounded

athletes cannot be overlooked alongside organized sporting events geared towards

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achieving maximum results. However, the lack of standard sports facilities coupled with

poor maintenance have contributed greatly towards the backwardness observed within

this sector nationwide thus making spectator comfort paramount if public satisfaction

and participation are expected.

In addition to this, Zhang et al. (2023) presented studies on lighting optimization in

indoor sports facilities, showcasing the potential for energy savings through effective

lighting solutions. Marín et al. (2019) explored predictive control to improve energy

efficiency in indoor swimming pools, highlighting how renewable energy sources like

solar thermal energy can be harnessed for greater efficiency. Moreover, Azaza et al.

(2019) delved into energy flow mapping and key performance indicators for energy

efficiency support in sports facilities, offering insights into energy usage patterns and

optimization opportunities. Pisello et al. (2012) presented a building energy efficiency

optimization method by evaluating effective thermal zones occupancy, providing a

systematic approach to enhance energy performance. Additionally, insights from studies

on energy conservation in hotels (Santamouris et al., 1996) and strategies for energy-

efficient air conditioning (Chua et al., 2013) offer valuable lessons for indoor sports

complexes on optimizing energy usage, reducing environmental impact, thereby

enhancing the overall sustainability of sports facility.

According to Ekpe (2001), facilities and equipment play major roles affecting growth

within sporting sectors hence planning must take into consideration where different

types can best be played; some outdoors while others indoors depending on

environment suitability. Designing sporting structures has great impact not only on top-

sport but recreational activities too since performances depend not just solely on

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athletes/equipment but also venues designed specifically for top performances during

both training sessions/competitions requiring indoor climate control factors such as light

flow, air flow thermal conditions achieved through mechanical installations.

1.2 Statement of Research Problem

Year-round high temperatures and humidity in the Tropics, coupled with poor design

decisions and climate change, can cause indoor environments to overheat, affecting

health and increasing energy demand and carbon emissions. Passive cooling could help

lower the indoor overheating risk (Gamero-Salinas, 2021). Further stating that, passive

cooling design as an explicit way to reduce indoor overheating risk is seldom discussed

in climates such as the warm tropical ones exposed all year long to high temperatures

and humidity levels.

The inadequacy of sports facilities in Niger State is hindering the progress of sporting

activities and skills among residents. This is affecting the performance of Niger state

athletes at national and international events. While outdoor sports offer benefits such as

ample space and natural light, indoor sports provide practical solutions where

individuals can play without forfeiting games due to weather conditions while enjoying

safe and comfortable game play within a climate-controlled environment. Research

shows that Nigeria's construction sector has inefficient energy utilization, leading to

increased CO2 emissions in the country. Energy efficiency in buildings reduces energy

intake while mitigating heat impacts from sunlight. Implementation of passive solar

heating techniques would have significant advantages for users beyond shading devices

or building orientation alone. Neglecting these issues could result in negative

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consequences such as an increased risk of climate change, greater carbon footprints,

higher energy costs, and reduced supply.

1.3 Aim and Objectives of the Study

The aim of this research is to examine how passive cooling strategies can be

incorporated into indoor sport complexes serving multiple uses with a view to create a

conventional, multi-purpose indoor sports facility that fulfills global standards whilst

optimizing energy efficiency.

The objectives of the study are:

i. To identify the passive cooling strategies that can be integrated into the design

of multi-use indoor sports complex to enhance users experience.

ii. To assess the impact of passive cooling strategies on users’ outcomes, such as

improved performance and productivity.

iii. To propose a Multi-use indoor sports complex design integrating passive

cooling strategies for Minna, Niger State.

1.4 Justification of the Study

In recent years, the use of air conditioning systems to cool buildings has seen a

significant increase worldwide. This trend has particularly affected developing

countries, where the high cooling load requirements of buildings have exacerbated

energy crises during summer seasons over the past two decades (Santamouris, 2014).

Unfortunately, this has also led to environmental pollution, raising concerns about

resource depletion and serious implications for the environment, including global

warming, climate change, and ozone layer depletion (Kamal, 2012; Erebor et al., 2021).

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Babalola et al. (2019) asserted that, as the 21st century continues to unfold, the

relationship between humans and the environment will become increasingly critical as a

result, the emphasis on sustainable development has arisen due to the significant impact

that buildings have on the environment (Akande, 2010).

In addition, the construction of a versatile indoor sports complex in Minna, Niger State

will facilitate and enable an increased range of sporting activities and vocational skill

development to occur within a comfortable and controlled indoor environment for the

city’s populace. Furthermore, it will promote social advancement by connecting

individuals with their ancestral and settlement backgrounds since sport exhibits the

unique capacity to not only fulfil individual needs such as fitness, entertainment and

well-being but also generate external benefits including social integration, exposure to

democratic values and public health improvements (Heinemann, 2005). In addition, this

initiative intends to set a benchmark for multi-use indoor sport complex design that can

serve as a model for future projects. While acknowledging that no single structure can

transform an entire city's landscape entirely, the author hopes this study would

encourage national and international events to be hosted at this new facility while

offering athletes opportunities for diversifying their skills through additional training

programs.

1.5 Scope of the Study

This research will focus on passive cooling strategies and does not address all aspects of

sustainability into the design of a multi-use indoor sports complex in Minna, Niger

State. The study will explore how these passive cooling strategies can be incorporated

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to enhance users’ experience and contribute to their overall wellbeing, performance and

productivity.

1.6 Study Area

Minna is the capital of Niger State, one of Nigeria's 36 states created in 1976. It has a

well estimated population of 304,113 as of 2006 census. Niger state is situated between

latitude 8° 10’N and 10º30’N, longitude 3º 30’ E and 7 º 30’E. Niger state is the largest

state in Nigeria by land mass, covering an area of 96,363 square kilometres (sqkm). It is

relatively accessible from most parts of the country. It is also known for its rich and

fertile land which is renowned for agriculture in the country.

Figure 1.1: Map of Nigeria with Niger state highlighted in red

Source: Department of Urban and Regional planning, FUTMINNA (2020)

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 Figure 1.2: Map of Niger state with Minna highlighted in blue

Source: Department of Urban and Regional planning, FUTMINNA (2020)

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