bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Breeding and Culture of Freshwater Ornamental Fish
Authors: Sinha Archana , Pandey Pramod Kumar
Published: April 2023

The Book “Breeding and Culture of Freshwater Ornamental Fish” deals with recent scenario and technology of freshwater ornamental fish. The book contains 15 chapters including FAQ and suggested readings. The book covers in depth subjects such as status, breeding techniques, food and health management and marketing of freshwater ornamental fishes. There is a separate chapter on breeding of indigenous freshwater ornamental fishes. Emphasis is given on national and international legislation related to ornamental fish export and import. The book contains a useful chapter on the importance and role of ornamental plants and accessories. Aquarium making and decoration is well explained for a hobbyist. Water quality management and maintenance of aquarium have been dealt in great detail by the author as those are the important components of aquarium keeping. Packaging and transport of these fishes are dealt with proper explanation with view to promote proper trade of the ornamental fishes. Author has highlighted the behaviour and biology of important fishes and tried to link these aspects with captive management practices. FAQ and Suggested readings addvalues to the book, as they address many curiosities of the readers. The way chapters are presented in the book, it makes it quite interesng and  relevant  to  the  present  scenario.  Photographs  are  very aracve.Students,  sciensts,  academicians,  hobbyists  and entrepreneurs will certainly enjoy and would be greatly bene?ted and enriched by reading this interesng and well wrien book as it addresses the concerns of each of them.
CONTRIBUTIONS OF FADAMA II IN THE PROVISION OF RURAL INFRASTRUCTURE IN SHIRA LOCAL GOVERNMENT AREA OF BAUCHI STATE, NIGERIA
Authors: Abdullahi, S.  , Danwanka, H. A.  , Haruna, U.
Published: April 2023

The research examined the contributions of Fadama II in the provision of rural infrastructure in Shira Local Government Area of Bauchi State, Nigeria. A total of 120 respondents were randomly selected from eight Fadama community Associations in the various parts of the Local Government Area. Data were collected through administration of questionnaire using a five-point Likert-scale. The data collected were analyzed using a combination of statistical models, including descriptive statistics such as frequency, percentage and mean. The inferential statistics used include regression analysis and cross tabulation Chi-square. The analysis shows that the average age of the respondents was 38.37 years, 80.2% of the respondents were male with only 19.8% of them female. Most (88.6%) of the total respondents were married with the remaining respondents falling into the class of divorced and widowed. Majority of the respondent had formal education with an average household size and occupational experience of 12 persons and 19.43 years, respectively. The regression analysis also reveals that infrastructure provided by Fadama II was significant at P<0.001 in improving the occupational activities of the respondents. The Chi-square cross tabulation results of asymptotic Chi-statistic was significant at P<0.001 on the contributions of infrastructure; culverts, feeder-road, water source and market structure, only funds was not significant. Therefore, it can be concluded that the infrastructure provided has positive contribution on the respondents, even though it is not provided in sufficient quantity. In view of the above the need for more funding in the area of infrastructural development cannot be overemphasized. This is because sufficient provision of infrastructure will improve the life of the rural dwellers, reduce rural-urban migration and alleviate poverty.
TECHNICAL EFFICIENCY OF MAIZE-BASED CROPPING SYSTEMS AMONG RAIN FED FARMERS IN ADAMAWA STATE, NIGERIA
Authors: Sani, R. M.  , Jibril, S. A.  , Joseph, M.
Published: April 2023

This study analyses the technical efficiency of maize-based cropping systems among rain fed farmers in Adamawa State, Nigeria. Primary data were collected from 310 randomly selected maize farmers in eight Local Government Areas of the State using structured questionnaire. The stochastic production frontier model was used to determine the technical efficiency of the farmers. The results revealed that majority (68.08%) of the farmers were male and with a mean age of 47 years with mean household size of 8 members and 77.42% possess varied levels of formal education. Similarly, Maize intercropped with other crops was the dominant (73.11%) cropping system and accounted for 56.78% of total area cultivated by the farmers. The findings also revealed that the farmers were technically efficient in their production, with a mean technical efficiency of 0.73. The factors such as education, farming experience and extension contact were significant variables that positively influence technical efficiency, while age negatively affects technical efficiency. Most of the farmers operated below the production frontier, hence will not be able to maximize their yield per hectare. This therefore, translates to low income and hence low revenue. More production incentives such as subsidized farm inputs should be put in place and promoted to farmers for increase efficiency.
ANALYSIS OF PRICE FACTORS AMONG CATTLE MARKET PARTICIPANTS IN ADAMAWA STATE, NIGERIA
Authors: Mohammed Ibrahim Girei  , Josephine Bosede Ayoola  , Godwin A. Abu  , Sani, M. H.
Published: April 2023

The study examined the factors influencing cattle price among the cattle market participants in Adamawa State, Nigeria using a multistage sampling procedure. To achieve this objective, structured questionnaire were used to collect data from 400 respondents. The data were analyzed using Price Formation Strategy Index (PFSI). The result showed that health conditions of the animal were the prominent price-factor considered by the marketers with PFSI 1404. This was followed by body weight, mode of payment, sex of the animal while colour of the animal was the least factor with PFSI of 1035. Recommendations were made such as provision of adequate veterinary service by the Government so that to improve cattle marketing activities and hence, facilitate economic growth in the area and provision of standard cattle market, will help in reducing the issue of haggling and facilitate cattle marketing system in the area.
ANALYSIS OF RURAL YOUTH PARTICIPATION IN AGRICULTURAL ACTIVITIES IN CHIKUN LOCAL GOVERNMENT AREA OF KADUNA STATE, NIGERIA
Authors: Bala, A. H.  , Abubakar, A.
Published: April 2023

The study analysed rural youth participation in agricultural activities in Chikun Local Government Area of Kaduna State, Nigeria. Simple random sampling techniques was used to select 60 youth in the study area and data was obtained with the aid of structured questionnaire and analysed using descriptive and inferential statistics. The result revealed 48% of the respondent fall within the age limit of 20-25 and 12% fall within 15-19 years. The study also revealed that 52% of the respondents were married and 33% had a household size of 2-5 people and majority (63%) attended secondary school. About 48% of the respondent had 0.1-3 hectares of land. Majority (65%) had contact with extension agent and 68% are member of different cooperative groups. Majority of the youths interviewed participated in all the farm activities from land clearing to harvesting. The result from the logit regression revealed that household size has a positive relationship and significant at 0.1%, age and years of experience were also significant 0.1% but negatively influenced youth participation. Farm size and education level were also significant and positively influence participation at 0.5% level. The major constraints affecting youth participation were inadequate capital, unaffordable input, inadequate storage facilities and inadequate modern tools. The study concluded that despite the constraints affecting youth in the study area, they still put more effort and participated in the farming activities in the study area. The study recommended adequate credit facilities, modern tools and farm inputs such as fertilizer, improved seeds and agro-chemicals should be made available at the right time and at subsidized rate.
GROWTH AND HAEMATOLOGICAL CHANGES IN AFRICAN CATFISH CLARIAS GARIEPINUS JUVENILES EXPOSED TO MERCURIC CHLORIDE
Authors: Isiyaku, M. S.  , Usman, B. I.  , Annune, P. A.  , Tiamiyu, L. O.  , Aladi, S. L.
Published: April 2023

The aim of this study was to assess the effect of Mercuric chloride on the growth and haematological parameters in the freshwater catfish, Clarias gariepinus. A total of 30 fishes were used for each concentration as well as in the control. Clarias gariepinus was exposed to 0.02, 0.04, 0.06, 0.08 and 0.10mg/l of HgCl2 for 56 days. The treatment with mercuric chloride was found to inflict a drastic reduction in the total count of RBC’s. The reduction was time dependent; as concentration of mercuric chloride increased, the RBC levels declined. Exposed fishes showed a significant decrease in WBC count when compared to the control. The morphological indices MCV, MCH and MCHC fluctuate as the test concentration increased. The chronic exposure to sublethal concentration of mercuric chloride to the studied fish showed a significant decrease in final body weight in comparison to control group. Also, Growth parameters such as specific growth rate (SGR), food conversion efficiency (FCE), protein efficiency ratio (PER), food conversion rate (FCR) decreased with increased concentration of mercuric chloride. The mercuric chloride caused a significant decrease in the survival rate (P < 0.05). The study recommends timely fish fed since time was a strong dependent variable in all the treatment, so as increase concentration of mercuric chloride increased.
MICROECONOMIC ANALYSIS OF SAVING DETERMINANTS AMONG SMALL-SCALE MILLET PRODUCERS IN GOMBE STATE, NIGERIA
Authors: Saleh, A.  , Ahmad, M. E.  , Abdullahi, H.  , Aliyu, D.  , Umaru, Y. B.
Published: April 2023

The study examined savings determinants among small-scale millet producers in Gombe State. A multi-stage sampling technique was used to select 108 farmers from three autonomous farming localities of Dukku Local Government Area. Data were collected using structured scheduled interview and were subjected to both descriptive and inferential statistics for analysis. The results revealed the mean age of millet farmers was 45.99 years, most (52%) of which had family size range of 1–10 persons. The result also revealed the preponderant level of subsistence farm business, operated on average (3.8 ha) farm size by low annual income earners (₦ 293,978.46) with little or no formal education (7.06 years); having higher dependency ratio close to a unity; and had 21.26 years of experience. The coefficient of multiple determinations (R2) 0.9882; implies that 98.82% variations in the total savings were influenced by the socioeconomic characteristics included in the linear regression model. The results further revealed that, the aggregate farm income and farm size was significant (P<0.01) and (P<0.05), respectively. The dependency ratio was critical (P<0.01); thus, unit change in the dependency ratio leads to a decrease in savings by ₦ 43.06. However, diversification into the non-farming activities could improve the saving capacities of the rural households. Therefore, there is the need to encourage favorable conditions for rural investment, so as to enhance expansion into other non-farm activities. The higher level of income occasioned by the expansion in productivity could translate into a higher level of savings.
EFFECT OF FARM POWER SOURCES ON POULTRY PRODUCTION IN OGUN STATE, NIGERIA
Authors: Bakare, O. M.
Published: April 2023

The study examined the effect of farm power sources on poultry production in Ogun State, Nigeria. The Objective of the research were to describe the socio – economic characteristics of the respondents, identify the farm power sources available to the poultry farmers and the operations where they are utilized, estimate the cost associated with the utilization of each of the farm power source identified, determine the factors that influence the choice of farm power source and determine the effect of farm power source on Poultry production. Data was collected from randomly selected 120 poultry farmers using well-structured questionnaire.  Data were analysed using Descriptive statistics, cost estimate, linear regression and Multi-variate Probit. Respondents were asked questions that had to do with their socio – economic characteristics, inputs, farm power sources used. The results showed that the mean age, farming experience and household size was 41years, 10 years and 6 persons respectively. The amount spent monthly on power sources were Electrical N15608, Human N16900, Solar N10508, Wind N858, Mechanical N5592.The regression analysis revealed that factors that influence the choice power positively includes Age (P<0.10), income from other sources (P<0.01), labour (P<0.05), farm income and cost of production (P<0.01) and negatively include marital status (P<0.05) with an R2 of 0.9805. Multivariate Probit analysis revealed the factors influencing the choice of farm power positively include Electricity (cost of electricity P<0.01), Mechanical (cost of machinery P<0.01), Solar (farm experience and education cost P<0.05) and negatively include Electrical (farm experience P<0.10), Mechanical (farm distance P<0.10) model chi2 (3) to be 3. 47947. The study has shown that farmers who use various farm power sources available to them have higher productivity than those that do not use. Government should help poultry farmers in getting other sources of farm power available to the farmers such as the biogas, wind, biomass and so many others which will increase the productivity of the farm and income of the nation.
ACUTE TOXICITY AND HAEMATHOLOGICAL RESPONSE OF CLARIAS GARIEPIENUS JUVENILES EXPOSED TO AQUEOUS DATURA INNOXIA LEAF EXTRACT
Authors: Aladi, S. L.  , Solomon, S. G.  , Isiyaku, M. S.
Published: April 2023

The acute toxicity of aqueous Datura innoxia leaf extract on Clarias gariepinus juveniles was accessed, five concentration of the extract where used during the definitive preliminary test as follows 125mg/l, 167mg/l 208mg/l 250mg/l and 292mg/l for a period of 96 hours on Clarias gariepinus juveniles of mean weight 31.07 ± 1.23g and mean length of 19.50 ± 0.5cm and stocked 10 fishes per treatment. Acute toxicity was carried out for 96 hours to determine LC50 . The 96 hours LC50 for Datura innoxia leaf extract was 176mg/l with regression coefficient of R2 is 0.967. The pooled blood samples were collected at the end of the 96 hours of exposure to aqueous Datura innoxia leaf extract and were examined using digital analyser. Haematological variables showed significant decreases (P˂0.05) of blood variables such as HCT, HB, RBC, MCHC and significant increase in values of WBC, PLT, MCH, and MCV during acute toxicity of Datura innoxia leaf extract.
COMPARATIVE ANALYSIS OF FOOD SECURITY STATUS OF PARTICIPANTS AND NON-PARTICIPANT FARMERS IN MILLENNIUM VILLAGE PROJECTS IN IKARA LOCAL GOVERNMENT AREA OF KADUNA, NIGERIA
Authors: Iliyasu, B. M.  , Sani, M. H.  , Abu, I. A.
Published: April 2023

This study was carried out to compare the food security status of participants and Non-participant farmers in millennium village projects in Ikara Local Government Area of Kaduna State, Nigeria. A multi-stage sampling procedure was adopted to determine the sample size of 320 for the study. The statistical tools used to analyze the data were descriptive statistics and the United States cost-of-calorie index. The results revealed aggregate income gap (G) of -61.228, -62.012 and -185.775 for MVPI, MVP II and non-participant, respectively, indicating that food insecure households would need 61.228, 62.012 and 185.775 per adult equivalent to meet their daily basic food requirements for MVPI, MVP II and non-participant, respectively. The results showed that participant farmers of the projects were more food secured (62%) than the non-participant (16%). Also, more participants with food insecurity without hunger (33%) were reported than their counterparts but fewer than their counterparts in terms of insecurity with moderate hunger (20.6%) and food insecurity with severe hunger. The findings further indicates that majority (61%) of the respondents were food secured than the non-participant farmers (16%). The mean food security index for food secured and food insecure households were 1.43 and 0.81, respectively. The food insecurity gap of 0.19 and 0.43 implies that on the average, the food insecure households consumed 19% less than their daily calorie requirements whilst food secured households consumed 43% in excess of their daily calorie requirements. The participants and non-participants were faced with challenges of stringent rules and regulations, and inadequate capital. The study recommended that the respondents should scale up own food production (cereals, legumes and tubers, home gardens, livestock, poultry and fishing) in order to ensure sustainability of food security in the study area.
IMPACT OF HADEJIA VALLEY IRRIGATION PROJECT ON POVERTY STATUS OF BENEFICIARIES IN JIGAWA STATE, NIGERIA
Authors: Umar, M. B.  , Haruna, U.
Published: April 2023

The study was carried out to examine the impact of Hadejia valley irrigation project on poverty status of beneficiaries in Jigawa State, Nigeria. The study used multi-stage random sampling and selected 207 project beneficiaries and 146 non-beneficiaries out of a list of 7036 respondents making a total of 353 as the sample size for the study. Data were obtained using a structured questionnaire and analyzed; using descriptive statistics, t-test statistics and p-alpha poverty measure (Foster-Greer-Thorbecke Index) method. The results shows that beneficiaries and non-beneficiaries had a mean age of 47 and 45 years, a mean household size of 15 and 21, educational levels of 8 and 7 years and off-farm income that ranged from a mean of N137,797.00 to N 237,104.00. The study also revealed a mean of 30 and 24 years of irrigation farming experience, farm sizes of 3.2 and 2.1 hectares, N33,641.00 and N55, 709.00 spent in hiring labour, farm distances of 3 and 0.9 kilometres, 5 and 3 extension visits per season, a mean of N52,771.00 and N50,205.00, N50,205.68 and N32,422.33 as credit and subsidy, respectively. Membership of cooperative associations indicated a mean of 0.8 and 0.5. The result of the poverty measures indicated that 17% of beneficiaries were classified to be living below the poverty line of N12,489.00 while 36% of non-beneficiaries lived below the poverty line of N9,961.20. The poverty head count, depth and severity were 0.72, 0.12 and 0.088 for beneficiaries and 0.8, 0.28 and 0.23 for non-beneficiaries respectively. This meant that 72% and 80% of beneficiaries and non-beneficiaries were above the poverty line. But, 12% and 28% of beneficiaries’ and non-beneficiaries’ expenditure was required to bring them up to the poverty line. The results further show that poorest accounted for 9% and 28% of the beneficiaries and non-beneficiaries. The study concludes that Hadejia valley irrigation project had impacted on poverty status among its beneficiaries. It was therefore, recommended that the project beneficiaries should form farmers’ co-operatives and other farmer organizations for the purpose of knowledge transfer, input, output, marketing and distribution, savings mobilization, farm credit sourcing, supply and appropriate technologies that would release labour from irrigation to reduce the cost incurred in production.
ECONOMICS OF SESAME PRODUCTION IN MISAU LOCAL GOVERNMENT AREA OF BAUCHI STATE, NIGERIA
Authors: Ma’ule, U. M.  , Jibrin, I.
Published: April 2023

The study was undertaken to examine economics of sesame production in Misau Local Government Area of Bauchi State, Nigeria. Data used for the study were obtained using structured questionnaire administered to 133 randomly selected small scale sesame farmers in the two districts within 16 village areas in the local government area in 2012 farming season. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics, gross margin analysis and stochastic frontier production function. The result from the gross margin analysis revealed that, farm labour was the most important cost item accounting for 77.42% of the total cost of sesame production. The gross margin of N40,226.62/ha was obtained. Findings from the stochastic frontier revealed that technical efficiency of the farmers varied from 0.82 to 0.99 with mean value of 0.91 indicating room for farm efficiency improvement by 9.0%. The major contributing factors to inefficiency were age and extension contact. Based on the findings of this work, it is recommends that the amount of farm labour should be increased even at higher price, farm size should be increased at reduced price and fertilizer should be increased at prevailing market price so as to increase the efficiency status of the sesame producers.
IMPACT ANALYSIS OF FADAMA III PROJECT IN GOMBE STATE, NIGERIA
Authors: Kolo, A.  , Sani, R. M.
Published: April 2023

This study evaluates the impact of Fadama III project in Gombe State, Nigeria. Multi-stage sampling technique was used to select 120 beneficiaries and 120 non beneficiaries of Fadama III project. Data were collected using structural questionnaire and analyzed using descriptive statistics (percentage change was used to estimate the changes between each period of evaluation) and combination of propensity score matching (PSM) and double difference (DD) estimator to determine average treatment effect (ATE) on project beneficiaries. The result shows that, the value of productive assets increase by 50.18%. The result further shows that income of beneficiaries increased by 51.21% (baseline-midline) and 95.84% (baseline-midline) meaning that Fadama project III has superseded it target of 40% of 75% of all beneficiaries. The overall result indicated that there was a substantial increase in the productivities of both the crop and livestock sub-sectors which increase male and female houselod income by 61% and 33% respectively. Fadama III beneficiaries’ access to extension advisory services contributed to agricultural productivity and income by 10% at baseline, 44% at midline compared to 58% increase contribution in the endline evaluation. Therefore it can be concluded that Fadama III project impacted positively both the intermediate and ultimate target of the project have been adequately met. There is the need for the policy makers/ authorities to consider community-driven development approach for Fadama III project meant to benefit the rural communities more.
THE IMPACT OF FINANCIAL REPORTING REGULATIONS ON SUSTAINABILITY ACCOUNTING IN NIGERIA: PERCEPTION OF USERS AND PREPARERS
Authors: Aliyu, B.  , Abdulwahab, U. M.  , Alabede, J. O.
Published: April 2023

The perception of users and preparers of sustainability accounting need to be given more concentration in recent times. Although still evolving, the introduction of regulatory guidelines like the global reporting initiative and others deserves more awareness, thus, the need to improve the perception of financial reporting consumers. The survey was conducted to examine the perception of users and preparers on the application of financial reporting regulations on sustainability of accounting in Bauchi State, Nigeria. The dependent variable of the study was sustainability reporting while the independent was financial reporting regulations.  The data for the study were collected through the primary source using the instrument of questionnaire which was administered on a sample of 120 staff and students in Abubakar Tafawa Balewa University, Bauchi State, Nigeria. Purposive sampling and correlation were used to obtained the sample analyse the data. Triple bottom line theory, Agency theory and stakeholders’ theory were all used in the study to explain the relationship between sustainability reporting and financial reporting regulations. The findings from the analysis conducted on the data of the study using correlation analysis indicated that financial reporting regulations had positive significant relationship with sustainability reporting.  It was recommended that regulatory body like the Central Bank of Nigeria should promote the perception of the public by creating more awareness/education on sustainability reporting.
EXPLORING THE EFFECTS OF INCREASED GOVERNMENT AGRICULTURAL EXPENDITURE ON NIGERIAN ECONOMY USING COMPUTABLE GENERAL EQUILIBRIUM MODELLING APPROACH
Authors: Baba, D.  , Hudu, M. I.  , Suleiman, N. J.  , Ibrahim, A. L.  , Jamila, R. M.
Published: April 2023

The study was conducted to examine the effects of increased government agricultural expenditure on Nigerian economy using computable general equilibrium (CGE) modelling approach. The research used simple, practically-oriented exposition of computable general equilibrium (CGE) modelling. The study relied strictly on secondary data, to estimate parameters of the model before simulation using the Nigerian Social Accounting Matrix (SAM) of 2012 as the base year data in General Algebraic Modelling System developed (GAMS) by IFPRI for this analysis. The 2012 SAM is the most recent SAM data for Nigeria. But after the parameters were estimated, the 2018 SAM data used for the simulation. This 2018 SAM data capture 83 activities, 84 commodities, 18 factors, 15 categories of households, 5 taxes, and 6 other accounts. The result shows that the introduction of 10% on government expenditure affects virtually many sector of Nigerian economy in a different ways. The findings of the study revealed that most macroeconomic variables have shown positive changes except for consumption in government investment which was reduce by 2.00%. The gross domestic product (GDP) at market prices increased by 0.28%, 1.05% on transport and communication and  0.73% for trade margin. On exports increase by 0.98 per cent, 0.36%  and 0.59%.  Other manufactured products increased by 2.1%, 0.7%, and 0.6%, other capital equally increases by 1.21%, 0.82% and 0.44%. Household income increase for rural for those with primary education at 0.22%, 1.7% and 1.72%. Changes in investment, affect rural labour for the non-school sector, which was reduced by 0.84%, although, the value of the land on government investments equally reduces by 0.69%, capital reduces by 0.76%, livestock equally reduces by 0.71%. The impact of 10.00% shock result in changes in urban household with primary education increases by 3.37% followed by labour household with secondary education with 3.17%. The study concluded, that application of 10.00% shocks impacted both positively and negatively on several sectors of the economy like GDP at market prices, sectoral GDP, prices, nominal household income and export. The study recommended the need for government at all tiers to examine the effect of such policy on other sectors of the economy. It is therefore recommended that Government should enhance expenditure by 10.00% to stimulate productivity, output and consumption, Govt. should support short term agricultural consumption subsidy policy measure, increase government investment on research and development (R&D).
ESTIMATES OF STOCHASTIC FRONTIER PRODUCTION FUNCTION OF SMALL, MEDIUM AND LARGE-SCALE COWPEA FARMERS IN BAUCHI AND GOMBE STATES OF NIGERIA
Authors: Yakubu, S.  , Yakubu, S. A.  , Sani, M. H.
Published: April 2023

The research was conducted to determine maximum likelihood estimate of stochastic frontier production of small, medium and large-scale cowpea farmers in Bauchi and Gombe States of Nigeria. The major focus was on socio-economic attributes of the small, medium and large-scale cowpea farmers as well as the effects on their efficiency. A total of 323 small, medium and large scale cowpea farmers (i.e., 165 for small, 76 for medium and 82 for large) were selected using ballot box in 10 local government areas of the two States of the study area. Structured questionnaires and interview schedule were used as instruments for data collection. Data were analyzed using descriptive and Stochastic Frontier Analysis (SFA). The mean scores for small, medium and large-scale cowpea farmers in respect to ages, household size and farming experiences were 46, 44 and 47 years, 16, 17 and 19 persons and 12, 14 and 16 years, respectively. The Maximum Likelihood Estimates (MLE) result of the stochastic frontier production function (SFPF) for cowpea farmers indicated the presence of inefficiency. Farm size and herbicide were significant at P>0.001, seed (P>0.05) and family labour at P>0.01. In the efficiency effects, farming experience and household size were both significant at P>0.001; and extension contact and literacy level were significant at P>0.05, respectively.
AGRICULTURAL CREDIT POLICY IN NIGERIA: PROSPECTS AND CHALLENGES
Authors: Bako, B. D.
Published: April 2023

The paper reviewed the prospects and challenges of agricultural credit policies in Nigeria. Agricultural credit plays an important role in the agricultural sector of Nigerian economy. Agricultural credit enhances productivity, promotes standard of living and gives absolute support to Agri-business enterprises. It is in recognition of the role of credit in agricultural production that the Nigerian government has over the years formulated agricultural credit policies, programmes and institutions meant to encourage food production and better the lives of farmers. These agricultural credit policies, programmes and institutions are highlighted and discussed. The role of credit in agricultural development is crucial and its constraints can affect farmer’s investment behaviour. It is found that loan beneficiaries often obtained more farm income than non-beneficiaries. Generally, small scale farmer’s low access to credit facility was found to be due to the requirements for collateral, bureaucratic bottlenecks by financial institutions and the perceived high risk and uncertainty of agricultural production. The paper recommended that since farmers constitute majority of the population of Nigeria, government should give special attention to farmers through the provision of special incentives and allocation on credit, policies geared toward diversification of agricultural credit activities should be encouraged in order to minimize risk and uncertainties also Bank personnel should be given special training to ease loan acquisition by rural farmers and supervision so as to avoid loan default.
EFFECTS OF SASAKAWA GLOBAL-2000 IMPROVED MAIZE PRODUCTION TECHNOLOGY ON FARMERS’ PRODUCTIVITY IN KADUNA STATE, NIGERIA
Authors: Adebayo, C. O.  , Mohammed, U. S.  , Durban, M. A.
Published: April 2023

The effect of Non-Governmental Organisations (NGOs) on maize farmers’ productivity cannot be over emphasised in Nigeria. The study analysed the effects of Sasakawa Global 2000 (SG2000) improved maize production technologies on farmers’ productivity in Kaduna State, Nigeria. A total of 263 respondents were selected through a multi-stage sampling technique. Data were collected through structured questionnaire administered to the sampled respondents and complemented with interview schedule. Analysis of the data collected was done using descriptive statistics, total factor productivity index, ordinary least square regression model and chow test analysis. Results showed that the mean age of adopters and non-adopters of SG-2000 improved maize production technology were 45 years and 49 years, respectively. Most of the respondents had one form of formal education or the other. The mean farm size for adopters and non-adopters were 2.26ha and 1.75ha, respectively. The farming experience of adopters and non-adopters were 15 and 24 years with household size of 8 and 6 persons, respectively. The productivity index, ordinary least square and the chow test analysis revealed that SG-2000 improved maize production technologies had significant positive effect on the productivity of the farmers. The severe production constraints faced by the farmers were high cost of acquiring credit facilities, poor road access, inadequate market information, high cost of farm inputs among others. The study recommended that there is the need to strengthen existing farmers’ cooperatives in the study area for easy access to credit, farm inputs and markets.
EFFECT OF DIETARY DIVERSITY ON STUNTING OF CHILDREN IN NIGERIA
Authors: Obekpa, H. O.  , Abu, G. A.  , Abu, O.
Published: April 2023

Stunting in developing economies like Nigeria is strongly linked to diets consumed by children of less than five (5) years. This linkage matters as food dietary diversity is linked to food and security. The paper addressed a gap in the literature on how dietary diversity is linked to stunting children of less than five (5) years in Nigeria. The study used panel data from the three waves of the Living Standard Measurement survey of households in Nigeria, a representative of Africa’s most populous nation. Our empirical approach includes instrumental variable regressions with household random effects to account for time-invariant unobserved and observed characteristics that could jointly determine stunting. Dietary diversity was found to reduce the probability of wasting in children by an average of 1.33 at the 0.01 level of significance while food prices was found to reduce dietary diversity by an average of 0.03 at the 0.01 level of significance. These findings are relevant to future policies on stabilizing food prices and nutrition education for mothers to improve the nutrition of their children.
APPRAISAL OF THE INVESTMENT VIABILITY OF SESAME ENTERPRISE AMONG SMALLHOLDER FARMERS IN BENUE STATE, NIGERIA
Authors: Essien, J.  , Biam, C. K.  , Asogwa, B. C.
Published: April 2023

The study appraised the investment viability of sesame production among smallholder farmers in Benue State, Nigeria. A multistage sampling technique was used to collect data from 264 sesame farmers. Benefit cost ratio (budgetary technique) was used to appraise the viability made in sesame production in 2015, 2016 and 2017 production season and ordered logistic regression model was employed to determine the factors influencing the level of investment. The level of investment was categorized into three levels as: high investment (>₦60,000), moderate investment (₦31,000 - ₦60,000) and low investment (₦1,000 - ₦30,000). The analysis of benefit cost ratio revealed that the viability of sesame in 2015, 2016 and 2017 production season stood at 0.66 with a viability interval of 34%. The analysis of the ordered logistic regression showed that access to credit, male gender, married farmers, market information, membership of cooperatives, farmer’s age, household size, level of education and years of farming experience were positive and significant factors that influenced level of investment in sesame production. The study concluded that sesame production is profitable, thus a viable enterprise in the study area. It recommended that government should facilitate the availability of credit to sesame farmers at low interest rate as this would reduce the constraint of inadequate fund impeding smallholder farmers and thus, enhance high level of investment in sesame production.
UTILIZATION OF GRADED LEVELS OF PEARL MILLET AS DIETARY ENERGY SOURCE BY JAPANESE QUAILS
Authors: Garba, S. I.  , Abubakar, M.  , Muhammad, A. S.
Published: April 2023

The study was carried out to investigate the inclusion levels of pearl millet in the diets of quails (Coturnix coturnix japonica). A total number of 480 day-old quail birds were used in the study. Experimental diets contained 10, 20, 40, 60, 80, and 100% millet. Diets contained 24% CP, 2888 kcal/kg ME and 20% CP, 2778 kcal/kg ME for growing and laying phases, respectively. The experiment lasted for 119 days and data were collected on daily feed intake (DFI), total weight gain, daily water intake, egg weight, hen day egg production, egg quality, and haematological parameters. At growing phase (2-6 weeks), most of the parameters measured were significantly influenced by the dietary levels of millet except initial weight (20.50-21.755g/bird), age and weight at 1st lay, 39-43 days and 6.00-7.00 g, respectively. At the laying phase (6-17 weeks) all the parameters measured showed significant (P<0.001) differences except in DFI (26.70-30.60 g). In carcass characteristics, most of the parameters measured were not significantly (P<0.05) affected by the dietary levels except in live weight which is significantly (P<0.01) different; breast weight and back weight were significantly (P<0.05) different and thigh weight (P<0.001), respectively. The following egg quality parameters; albumen width and albumen weight were highly significantly (P<0.01) different while yolk weight was very highly significantly (P<0.001) different. The haematological indices showed that there were significant (P<0.001) differences among the white blood cell, red blood cell, mean corpuscular volume, and mean corpuscular haemoglobin concentration. It was concluded that pearl millet can be included at 100% levels in diets of Japanese quails without adverse effects on growth performance and hen day egg production. Since carcass yield, haematological parameters and prime cuts were not adversely influenced by the dietary levels of pearl millet, it was therefore, recommended as energy dietary source for Japanese quails.
ACCEPTABILITY OF IMPROVED UPLAND RICE PRODUCTION PRACTICES AMONG FARMERS IN BALANGA LOCAL GOVERNMENT AREA OF GOMBE STATE, NIGERIA
Authors: Bala, J.  , Mumini, M. Y.
Published: April 2023

The study investigated acceptability of improved upland rice production practices among farmers in Balanga local government area of Gombe State, Nigeria. Multi stage sampling procedure was used to determine the sample of the study. Primary data were collected from 154 samples of rice farmers through the use of structured questionnaire. Descriptive statistics such as percentages, means and adoption index were used to achieve objectives of this study. The study revealed that farmers in the study area have an average age of 36 years and 1.8 ha of farm size which implies that farmers were young and smallholders. The result further showed that the level at which farmers accepts upland rice production practices was low (3.9%). It was recommended that public and private extension services should be provided by agricultural stakeholders in the area. Also, young farmers should be motivated to form cooperative societies for easy access to farm inputs such as fertilizer, agro-chemicals.
IMPACT OF FARM INSTITUTES AND TRAINING CENTERS ON SPINACH PRODUCTION AND LIVELIHOOD OF RURAL DWELLERS IN NIGER STATE, NIGERIA
Authors: Mohammed, U.  , Umar, I. S.  , Pelemo, J. J.
Published: April 2023

The study assessed impact of farm institutes and training centers on spinach production and livelihood of rural dwellers in Niger State, Nigeria. A multi-stage sampling technique was used to select 206 of rural dwellers. Data were collected using structured questionnaire and interview scheduled and analyzed using descriptive statistics (percentage, frequency and mean) and Chow test. The result revealed 89.8% of the respondents were males while the mean age of the respondents was 34 years. Also, 83.5% of the respondents were married while 74.7% had secondary education. The result of the output revealed that the Chow F-calculated was 149.87, while F-table value at 10 degree of freedom with sample size of 206 is 1.85 at 5% level. The Chow F-calculated for income was 3.952, while the F-table value at 10 degree of freedom with the sample size of 206 was 1.85 at 5% level of probability. The Chow F-calculated for level of living was 24.24 and F-table value at 10 degree of freedom with sample size of 206 was 1.85 at P≤0.05 level of probability. The major constraints encountered by the respondents were untimely delivery of inputs (100.0%) and cost of equipment (97.1%). It was recommended that provision of inputs should be made available to spinach producers timely and speedily and good seedlings should be provided to farmers by farm institutes and training centers (FITC) in order to enhance their outputs.
INSECTICIDAL ACTIVITY OF STEM BARK AND POD OF LOCUST BEAN (Parkia biglobossa) AGAINST COWPEA WEEVIL (Callosobruchus maculates F.) CAUSING DAMAGE IN STORED COWPEA
Authors: Zaharadden, S.  , Tijjani, A.  , Aliyu, M.  , Abubakar, S.
Published: April 2023

Laboratory experiment was carried out to evaluate the efficacy of Stembark and pod powders of locust bean (Pakia biglobossa) and their appropriate concentration for the management of cowpea weevils (Callosobruchus maculatus F.). Spintor (0.125%) and dust (0.125 g) was used a positive control and untreated cowpea seeds serving as negative control. The experiment was laid in Completely Randomized Design (CRD) comprising of Stem bark powder (1 g, 3 g and 5 g), Pod powder (1 g 3 g and 5 g), spintor 0.125% Dust (0.125 g) and control. These were applied to 100 g healthy cowpea seeds and repeated three times. Contact activity of the plant products were evaluated and data collected were subjected to analysis of variance (ANOVA) using SPSS software (version 23) and means were separated using NDMRT at 1% and 5% probability level. The results showed that higher concentration (5 g/100g) of plant products significantly (P<0.05) caused mortality of C. Maculatus after 24 (2.33), 48 (2.66), 72 (2.66) and 96 hours (3.00) by contact toxicity compared to other treatments. Similarly, higher concentration (5 g/100g seed) of the pod powder significantly (P<0.05) decreased oviposition (3.67), adult emergence (3.66), percentage seed damage (1.73%), number of exit holes (6.33) and weight loss (1.03%) compared to untreated cowpea seed that record 58.00,  54,67, 19.67%, 56.33 and 13.87%, respectively. It was concluded that germination of the treated seeds was not affected negatively. The Pod powder of P. biglobossa could be recommended as suitable alternatives to chemical pesticides to be used as contact protectant against C. maculatus on stored cowpea seeds.
EMPIRICAL REVIEW OF WOMEN PARTICIPATION IN SOME AGRICULTURAL SUB-SECTORS OF THE GLOBE
Authors: Jirgi, A. J.  , Oluwafemi, R. A.  , Oseghale, A. I.
Published: April 2023

The study reviewed empirical studies on women participation in some agricultural sub-sectors of the globe. The sub-sectors considered in the study were crop production, livestock production and aquaculture. The study expressly disclosed that women are great assets for agriculture and if given adequate opportunity could be of great help in the achievement of food and nutrition security furthering in the adaptation and mitigation of climate change. Despite the prospects of women, their participation in the various agricultural sub-sectors is hindered by inadequate access to finance, inputs, extension services, market linkages, training and workshop amongst others. The study observed that women participated in crop, livestock and aquaculture enterprises but on a small scale producing mainly for household consumption, even though majority of the women studied by the researchers lacked formal education. The study, therefore, concluded that agricultural productivity can be improved if the gender gap between men and women was closed. The study recommended that women farmers should be involved in the decision-making processes and they should actively participate in the establishment of agricultural policies and programs both at the State, national and international levels.
TRENDS ANALYSIS OF COWPEA AREA AND PRODUCTIVITY IN NIGERIA FROM 2006 - 2018
Authors: Ahungwa, G. T.  , Mukhtar, U.  , Muhammad, K. M.
Published: April 2023

The study examined the trends over the years of cowpea cropped area, output and yield per hectare. Time series data of cowpea area and production in Nigeria (2006 - 2018) obtained from the Central Bank of Nigeria annual bulletins were used for the study. Data were analyzed using three (3) trend models; linear, quadratic and exponential growth models which were fitted and the exponential growth models were selected on econometric basis in the analysis. The result of the exponential model showed positive compound growth trends in area (0.031) and output (0.039), but with negative growth trend of -0.008 for the yield/ha analysis. The doubling times for the growth rates were estimated at 17 and 14 years to double the growth rates in cowpea cropped area and output. Result of the growth pattern disclosed that there was deceleration in the growth of cowpea cropped area, output and yield/ha for the period under consideration. It was concluded that that the marginal compound growth rates in cowpea area, output and yield/ha resulted in actual retardation in cowpea production. The study recommended that the trend results can be reversed by land improvement mechanisms that will increase the yield/ha, and the incorporation best practices like Purdue Improved Cowpea Storage (PICS) to achieve the dual objectives of increased production and market successes.
MULTI CRITERIA ANALYSIS FOR ASSESSMENT OF VULNERABLE AREAS TO FLOOD HAZARD IN THE UPPER RIVER KADUNA BASIN, NORTH-CENTRAL NIGERIA
Authors: Tukur, A. L.  , Ikusemoran, Mayomi  , Ezra, A.
Published: April 2023

The study was conducted on multi criteria analysis for assessment of vulnerable areas to flood hazard in the upper river Kaduna basin, north-central Nigeria. Six (6) criteria; topography, slope, landuse and landcover, stream density, soil types and mean annual rainfall of the area were integrated for assessment of vulnerability of flood hazards in the basin. Data on each of the six (6) factors were acquired, processed, weighted (using Analytical Hierarchy Process (AHP)) and overlain using weighted sum module of ArcGIS 10.5 software. The output map was classified into four (4) classes of vulnerability, that is, highly vulnerable, vulnerable, marginally vulnerable, and safe zones. The result revealed that parts of Bauchi, Kano, Katsina and Plateau States that were within the basin were not much vulnerable to flood hazards. However, close to half of the land area (48.43%) in Kaduna State were found to fall in either highly vulnerable or vulnerable zones, while 88.9% of the land area of Niger State within the Basin was also either highly vulnerable or vulnerable. Kaduna metropolis (comprising of the entire Kaduna North and South LGAs as well as parts of Igabi and Chikun LGAs), which is the most populated town within the entire basin was found to be more vulnerable to floods than any of the other LGAs in the State. In Kaduna South, 86.87% were highly vulnerable, almost half (44.88) of the land area of Kaduna North were also highly vulnerable. It was concluded that rainfall, topography urbanization and land-use were the main factors responsible for flood hazards. Proper land-use management and monitoring as well as sustainable utilization of the entire River Kaduna basin were recommended to minimize the constant occurrence and effects of floods in the area.