bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
COMPARATIVE ANALYSIS OF SERBIAN AGRICULTURE AND AGRICULTURE OF OTHER HIGH MIDDLE-INCOME COUNTRIES
Authors: Andjelković Tiana , Janković-Milić Vesna , Lepojević Vinko , Jovanović Sonja
Published: October 2024

The goal of countries that have excellent comparative advantages for the development of agriculture, such as Serbia, is rural development and the general development of agriculture as an economic branch. This is logical, given the great importance of food available to everyone. According to the World Bank classification, Serbia belongs to the group of countries with high middle income. The aim of this paper is to present the impact of the economic development of the observed countries on the production of food. Methodologies applied for this research are: single correlation and single and multiple regression models and indicators such as global food security index, gross domestic product per capita, share of agriculture in gross domestic product for the year 2022 will be used.
MULTI-CRITERIA MEASUREMENT OF AGRI-ENVIRONMENTAL PERFORMANCE IN EUROPEAN UNION COUNTRIES
Authors: Marković Milan , Stanković Jelena , Marjanović Ivana , Krstić Bojan , Papathanasiou Jason
Published: October 2024

The purpose of the paper is to assess the agri-environmental situation in the European Union at the national level. To realize that goal, a multi-criteria analysis of indicators from the official European database was used. The results of the ranking show that Portugal, Estonia, and Ireland are at the top according to agri-environmental performance, while the worst ranked countries are Malta, the Netherlands, Slovenia, and Cyprus. The common agricultural policy of the European Union must be designed to improve the position of certain countries, based on the experience and sustainable agricultural practices of the leading countries in this area, considering the obtained research results. This study can contribute to the creators of agri-environmental policies in the preparation of the future strategy of the agricultural development of the European Union countries.
GENDER PERSPECTIVES OF TWIN TRANSITION IN AGRICULTURE AND FOOD SECTOR COMPANIES: EMPIRICAL EVIDENCE FROM SERBIA
Authors: Paunović Mihailo , Štrbac Dijana , Živković Lazar
Published: October 2024

This paper investigates the gender perspectives in the twin transition of companies in Serbia’s agriculture and food sector, focusing on their adoption of information and communication technologies (ICT) and green/ environmental activities. Using primary data from computer-assisted telephone interviews, a comprehensive survey was conducted among sector companies. Statistical analysis included descriptive statistics and non-parametric tests to compare differences between groups. The results highlight the significant impact of gender diversity on digitalisation adoption. However, disparities emerge in the green transition, particularly in waste reduction through recycling, raw material reuse, and supplier selection based on environmental criteria. No gender-specific differences were found in reducing harmful emissions or using ecofriendly packaging. This study enhances understanding of gender dynamics in the agri-food sector’s twin transformation and highlights how gender perspectives influence digital and environmental practices. The findings inform policymakers and businesses on promoting gendersensitive strategies for sustainable development and economic growth in Serbia and beyond.
THE IMPACT OF RAKIJA CULTURAL HERITAGE AND RAKIJA MARKETING ON THE CONSUMER PURCHASING DECISIONS
Authors: Adžić Slobodan , Pavlović Marko , Milunović Marijana , Pavlović Đorđe , Savić Tot Tijana , Radanov Pavle
Published: October 2024

This is the first study on the tradition and cultural heritage of the rakija market based on consumer behavior analysis. The primary objective is to investigate the impact of cultural tradition on consumer behavior regarding the purchase of rakija, the national alcoholic beverage of Serbia. The secondary objective of this research is to measure the magnitude to which the marketing program of distilleries influences consumers’ purchases of rakija. The research data were collected in Serbia from December 2023 to March 2024 utilizing a survey approach. Electronic data collection was carried out through an online questionnaire. The study sample comprised 608 valid respondents (n=608) who were chosen randomly. Traditional cultural heritage affects the purchase of rakija; however, the UNESCO recognition of šljivovica as part of its intangible heritage list does not. Moreover, the marketing program of distilleries affects the purchase of rakija. However, the effect sizes of these phenomena are insignificant.
ECONOMIC ASPECTS OF DIGITALIZATION IN SERBIAN AGRICULTURE: FARMERS’ ATTITUDES
Authors: Kljajić Natasa , Paraušić Vesna , Stanković Zorana
Published: October 2024

One of the ways to achieve economic, environmental, and social sustainability in agriculture is to introduce digitalization in the production process or its digital transformation. The primary research objective in this paper is to obtain empirical knowledge about the various economic aspects of investing in digitalization in Serbian agriculture. The research relies on interviews conducted in the period April-October 2023 using a semi-structured questionnaire, covering a sample of 53 agricultural holdings on the entire territory of Serbia. The results show that the interviewed farm managers do not show a high degree of satisfaction with the achieved level of digitalization on the farms they manage. Nevertheless, based on the analysis of economic parameters of investment in digital solutions (return on investment period, perceived benefits, costs, investment limitations, financial support), the largest percentage of respondents (56.6%) intends to intensify investments in digitalization on their farm in the next period.
ENHANCING AGRICULTURAL PROGRESS VIA SUSTAINABLE PRODUCTION AND CONSUMPTION
Authors: Nistoroiu Bianca-Florentina , Privitera Donatella , Prahoveanu Ștefan Laurențiu , Emek Mustafa Latif , Condeianu Ovidiu
Published: October 2024

The paper’s main aim is to discuss the importance of reducing environmental impact, conserving biodiversity, and addressing socio-economic concerns within the context of agriculture. The research methodology involves a comprehensive review of existing literature, and data analysis to address the following research questions: By emphasizing the interdependence of ecological, social, and economic factors, the paper provides insights into holistic approaches to sustainable agriculture. The paper contributes to the field by offering practical recommendations and policy implications for policymakers, practitioners, and stakeholders involved in agriculture. It highlights the importance of collaborative efforts among various stakeholders to foster innovation, promote knowledge sharing, and drive systemic change towards a more sustainable food system. Through its interdisciplinary approach, the paper bridges gaps in understanding and offers pathways for achieving agricultural progress while safeguarding the environment and ensuring food security for future generations.
Análisis del impacto ambiental de los agroquímicos usados en el cultivo de Cacao CCN-51 (Theobroma cacao L.) en la comunidad El Encanto del Cantón San Lorenzo, Ecuador
Authors: Troya Medina Nuvia Lisbeth
Published: October 2024

El cultivo de cacao representa un pilar fundamental de la economía ecuatoriana, especialmente con la variedad CCN-51 (Theobroma cacao L.), sin embargo, el uso indiscriminado de agroquímicos en el proceso productivo de esta variedad de cacao está vinculado a la generación de daños progresivos en el medio ambiente. Ante ello, surgió la necesidad de analizar el impacto al ambiente de los agroquímicos empleados en la producción Cacao CCN-51 en la comunidad El Encanto del Cantón San Lorenzo en Ecuador considerando que es el centro de la economía local. Se consideró que es una investigación básica, no experimental, por lo que en primer lugar, se evaluó la percepción de la comunidad sobre el uso de agroquímicos en el cultivo de Cacao CCN-51 mediante la de encuestas a 150 productores cacaoteros locales. Luego se determinó el impacto ambiental de los agroquímicos empleados en el cultivo de Cacao CCN-51 a través de la matriz Conesa-Fernández y por último se propuso estrategias de buenas prácticas agrícolas para minimizar el impacto ambiental de los agroquímicos en el proceso de cultivo de Cacao CCN-51. Como principales resultados se obtuvo que existe un alto interés por parte de los agricultores (90,7%) en cultivar con métodos más sostenibles para el medio ambiente, además a partir de la matriz se identificaron 3 impactos ambientales severos, 6 moderados, 1 bajo y 5 positivos, con ello dentro de las principales estrategias de minimización de los impactos identificados está la educación ambiental y manejo de prácticas alternativas sostenibles.
FORECASTING THE NIGERIAN CASHEW NUT PRODUCTION AND HARVESTED AREAS
Authors: Mahmud, H. U.  , Adebayo, C. O.
Published: October 2024

The main purpose of this study was to forecast Nigeria total cashew nut area production and total crop harvested. Forecasting future land that may be used under cultivation will help Nigeria Government to make policies on available land use and further cash crop production capacity. Projection of total cash crop production is important for implementing proper measures to increase earnings from exports in the country. The study was conducted to forecasts total area and production for Cashew in Nigeria. The findings of the study are based on data from the years (1961 to 2020) and was taken from the database of FAO (2022). ARIMA Models from time series analysis were applied. In the model selection criteria, the model with the lowest Akaike coefficients, SBIC, AIC, sum of squared residual and Mean Absolute Percentage Errors (MAPEs) of forecasting values were used in selecting an adequate model. Thus, ARIMA 1,1,0 was selected for both the harvested area and total production. Forecasting of the data was done up to 2040. The forecasted values were area harvested (190,779.74ha) and production (129,541.18 metric tonnes). The study presents an insight to national policy makers regarding this essential crop and provides them with a reference range of values in area harvested and production in future so that they may be able to effectively deal with cashew production in Nigeria.
COMBINING ABILITY STUDY AMONG LINES OF COWPEA (Vigna unguiculata L. Walp) FOR YIELD AND YIELD RELATED COMPONENTS
Authors: Jahun, B. Y.  , Izge, A. U.  , Buba U. M.  , Sabo, M. U.
Published: October 2024

The study was carried out to determine the combining ability among lines of cowpea (Vigna unguiculata (L.) Walp) for yield and yield related component using (four male and five females) parents, that were mated in a line x tester mating design that generated 29 progenies, to determine mode of gene action, estimate heritability and the association of the measured traits. Significant differences were observed among the studied genotypes implying variation among the genotypes. Genotypes performance across location was significant (P ≤ 0.05) for plant height and yield. The genotype performance across location showed grain weight among the parent ranges from 239.67kg to 279.33kg with Dan’lla (IAR-17-2006) being the highest and the cross IAR-07-105-0 x Ex-Borno recorded highest mean weight of 279.33kg and the least (200kg) was recorded by Dan’lla (IAR-17-2006) x Dan Wuri-11 (IAR-07-023). This study also revealed that both additive and non-additive gene action were important in controlling yield and other agronomic traits. The male parent IT93K-452-1 is good general combiner for plant height (-3.93; P<0.01). IT93K-452-1 is good general combiner for number of branches (-3.30; P<0.01) and grain weight (-55.38; P<0.01). The female parent Itas Early was good general combiner for leaf area (-11.34; P<0.01), number of branches (-3.30 P<0.01) and average pod length (-2.76; P<0.01) but for grain weight Dan Wuri-11 (IAR-07-023) (-55.34; P<0.01) is a good general combiner. The crosses IAR-07-105-0 x Itas Early, IAR-07-105-0 x Bahaushe IAR-17-008, IAR-07-105-0 x Kanannado White (IAR-011-084), and IAR-07-105-0 x Dan Wuri-11 (IAR-07-023) were good specific combiners for plant height were as IAR-07-105-0 x Bahaushe IAR-17-008 were the best specific combiners for number of leaves and IAR-07-105-0 x Bahaushe IAR-17-008, IAR-07-105-0 x Kanannado White (IAR-011-084), IAR-07-105-0 x Ex-Borno and IAR-07-105-0 x Dan Wuri-11 (IAR-07-023) for leaf area and so also IAR-07-105-0 x Itas Early, IAR-07-105-0 x Bahaushe IAR-17-008, IAR-07-105-0 x Kanannado White (IAR-011-084), IAR-07-105-0 x Ex-Borno and IAR-07-105-0 x Dan Wuri-11 (IAR-07-023) are thoroughly good specific combiner and also pod weight and average pod length are specific combiner were grain weight was significant and positively correlated with number of leaves chaff weight and average pod length, path coefficient analysis revealed that the only trait that had direct positive contributors to grain weight in was chaff weight (0.833).
ASSESSMENT OF MAIZE FARMERS' PERCEPTION AND EXTENT OF UTILIZATION OF AGRICULTURAL EXTENSION SERVICE DELIVERY IN KADUNA STATE, NIGERIA
Authors: Abdulwahab, M. J.  , Akinola, M. O.  , Yusuf, H. O.
Published: October 2024

The study assessed maize farmers' perception and extent of agricultural extension service delivery utilization in Kaduna State, Nigeria. A multi-stage sampling procedure was used to select the 334 maize farmers. Data were collected using questionnaire and analyzed using descriptive statistics. The study reveals (72%) of the maize farmers had some level of education and (50%) had 1- 8 years of experience in maize farming. With an average experience of 10 years. The study further reveals that the majority (53%) had contact 1-3 times with the extension agents while (37%) had no contact with the extension agents in the study area. The result shows the maize farmers’ perceptions of agricultural extension service delivery (4.04%) had positive responses and satisfaction with planting spacing (3.52%), fertilizer application (3.27%), mulching (3.62%), weed control and harvesting (3.56%). The result further showed that demonstration of improved maize production practices (4.08%), and access to maize extension information (3.87%) were effectively utilized. The result further reveals that politicization, inadequate supply of farm inputs, unavailability of extension agents, and difficulty in accessing loans which were ranked 1st, 2nd, 3rd and 4th respectively. In conclusion, these clearly show that the maize farmers were satisfied and effectively utilized the advice, which had a significant influence on their productivity and level of living. Thus, recommended the need for more knowledge on physical innovation to enhance the perception of the maize farmers, public-private partnerships approach to facilitate inputs distribution and extension service delivery, and financial linkages in the study areas.
ASSESSMENT OF THE EFFECTS OF ZERO ENERGY COOLING CHAMBER (ZECC) TECHNOLOGY ADOPTION OF TOMATO (SOLANUM LYCOPERSICUM) AMONG FARMERS IN KANO STATE, NIGERIA
Authors: Bose, A. A.  , Makinta, U.
Published: October 2024

The study assessed the effect of zero energy cooling chamber (ZECC) technology among tomato farmers in Kano State, Nigeria. Multi-stage sampling procedure was used to select 401 farmers in the study area. Primary data were collected using structured questionnaire and data were analysed using descriptive statistics and t-test. The result revealed that minimum, maximum and average quantity of tomato spoiled before adoption of ZECC were 11, 45 and 28 baskets of tomatoes, respectively with a standard deviation of 1.081. Also, the results show that the minimum, maximum and average quantity of tomato spoiled after adoption of ZECC were 1, 16 and 5.5 baskets of tomatoes, respectively with a standard deviation of 3.170. Further, result show that minimum, maximum and average quantity of tomato spoiled before adoption of ZECC were 1, 9 and 3 days, respectively with a standard deviation of 0.949. Also, the results show that the minimum, maximum and average quantity of tomato spoiled after adoption of ZECC were 1, 19 and 12 days, respectively with a standard deviation of 1.462. Result on income of tomato production before adoption of ZECC technology revealed that minimum, maximum and mean income obtained by the farmers were ₦23,000.00, ₦55,000.00 and ₦55,2550.00, respectively. While the minimum, maximum and mean income after adoption of ZECC technology were ₦39,000.00, ₦98,000.00 and ₦94,624.00, respectively. Result on paired t-test on the quantity of tomato spoiled, duration of spoilage and income, before and after adoption of ZECC technology revealed that there was significant difference at P< 0.001, P<0.05 and P<0.01, respectively. The constraints affecting adoption of ZECC technology were inadequate government support as a severe constraint, pest and disease, among others. The study concludes that there was positive impact on tomato storage using ZECC technology. The study recommends enhancement on training farmers on ZECC technology in order to increase level of adoption which in turn increase life shell of tomatoes and farmers’ income in the study area.
INFORMATION NEEDS OF COCONUT FARMERS IN BADAGRY LOCAL GOVERNMENT AREA OF LAGOS STATE, NIGERIA
Authors: Taiwo, A. M.  , Hussain, L. A.  , Ogunleye, F. O.  , Oladeji, J. O.
Published: October 2024

The study focused on information needs of coconut farmers in Lagos State, Nigeria. Simple random sampling technique was used to select 120 respondents for the study. Data were collected on the respondents’ personal characteristics, sources of information available to the respondents, respondents’ level of awareness of improved coconut production technologies, perceived effect of lack of information on coconut production and information needs of the respondents using a structured questionnaire. Data were analyzed using frequency counts, percentages, mean, standard deviation and Pearson Product Moment Correlation. Results showed that the mean age of the respondents was 45years, 68.3% were male, 75.8% were married, 60% were Yoruba, while mean years of formal education was 9. The most utilized sources of information among the respondents were contact/fellow farmers =3.68. On the level of awareness of the respondents on coconut production technologies, majority of the respondents were fully aware of transplanting of seedlings =2.74. Perceived major effect of lack of information on coconut production was non-awareness of processing methods =3.91. The major information need of the respondents was on improved nursery practices =2.78. Correlation analysis showed there was significant relationship (r=0.36; p=0.00) between respondents’ level of awareness of coconut production technologies and their information needs. The study concluded that among the information needs of the farmers, the major information need was on improved nursery practices. It is therefore recommended that extension agents intensify efforts in liaison with research institutes for information on improved nursery practices to meet farmers need in coconut production.
EFFECT OF PUBLIC WORKFARE (PWF) PROGRAME BENEFICIARIES UNDER YOUTH EMPLOYMENT AND SOCIAL SUPPORT OPERATION (YESSO) IN GOMBE STATE, NIGERIA
Authors: Kolo, A.  , Saleh A.  , Mudathir, A.  , Isiyaku, A.
Published: October 2024

The study evaluates the effect of public workfare (PWF) programe beneficiaries under Youth Employment and Social Support Operation (YESSO) in Gombe State, Nigeria. The result of demographic characteristics of Public Work Fare shows that majority (75.1%) of the PWF beneficiaries were female and only 24.9% were male. The age distribution of the PWF beneficiaries shows that 56.7% of the beneficiaries were within age bracket of 18-27 years with mean age of 26 years. Moreover, 48.8% of the PWF beneficiaries were married with mean household size of one person per head. The result also shows that 70.1% of the PWF beneficiaries had no formal education. Thus, low level of formal education is likely to affect the consumption patterns of beneficiaries and influence traditional attitudes. In the same vein, the result revealed that before YESSO intervention, the PWF beneficiaries spend N 5,046.27 per month on food consumed while currently the beneficiaries spend N 8,067.67 per month. The percentage change in the value of food consumed by beneficiaries was 59.87%. The total value of assets owned by PWF beneficiaries before YESSO intervention was N 7,425.10. While presently under YESSO intervention, the total value of assets owned by PWF beneficiaries was N 11,630.70. In the same vein, the percentage change in total value of assets owned by PWF beneficiaries was 56.6%. This implies that, there was an increased in the total value of assets owned by PWF beneficiaries. However, 67.2% of the PWF beneficiaries engaged in sanitation services to the community and 32.8% of the PWF beneficiaries engaged in providing local security services in the community. The result further shows that there was 85.5% increase in utilization of financial service due to YESSO intervention in Gombe State and majority PWF beneficiaries has increase self-worth and Self-esteem. Furthermore, 95.0% of the beneficiaries’ reported that there was lack of sanitation equipment’s like hoe, shovel, hand gloves, brooms while 94.0% of the beneficiaries’ reported that there was lack of security equipment’s like, uniforms, ID card, touch light, bow and arrow.
CLIMATE CHANGE EFFECTS ON MAIZE OUTPUT IN NIGERIA: AN AUTOREGRESSIVE DISTRIBUTED LAG BOUND APPROACH
Authors: Audu, I. A.
Published: October 2024

The study examined climate change effects on maize output in Nigeria. Data were secured from the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) and the Nigerian Meteorological Agency (NIMET) from 1981-2018. The effect of climate change was analyzed using Autoregressive Distributed Lag Bound approach, Error Correction Model and Augmented Dickey– Fuller tests for stationarity test. On the effects of climatic variables on cassava output, the coefficient of multiple determination (R2) 0.6434, shows that about 64.34%, of the variations in maize output was explained by the climatic variables. F-statistics of 4.41 is significantly higher than the lower bound of 2.9 and the upper bound of 3.8 at 5% level. This indicates that there is a long run relationship between maize output and the climatic variables in the model. The ECM value of maize output is -0.213. The magnitude of the coefficient estimate of ECM suggests that 21.3% of the disequilibrium caused by previous years’ shocks converges back to the long-run equilibrium in the current year. This reveals that the speed of adjustment will adjust to the long-term equilibrium. This paper recommends the need for programmes to intimate farmers with modern adaptation strategies especially the use of irrigation facilities to supplement rainfall in the study area. Sensitization of farmers on the importance of weather forecast.
ECONOMI ANALYSIS OF BROODING AND SELLING OF BROILER ENTERPRISE AMONG WOMEN IN LAFIA LOCAL GOVERNMENT AREA OF NASARAWA STATE, NIGERIA
Authors: Mamman, B. D.  , Anda S. A. D.  , Zaknayiba, D. B.  , Moren, S.
Published: October 2024

The research was carried out in Lafia Local Government Area of Nasarawa State, Nigeria to determined economic analysis of brooding and selling of broiler enterprise among women in Lafia Local Government Area of Nasarawa State, Nigeria. Thirty-five (35) women were randomly selected and a well-structured questionnaire was used to collect data for the study and analyzed using descriptive statistics and farm budgeting technique. The result shows that the mean age of the brooders was 41 years of age and signified that they are young and still energetic. The further shows that majority (91.4%) of the women are literate which help them in managing the resources efficiently for optimum profit. Those that are married constituted about 62.9% while widow/single constituted about 28.6%. The mean years of experience on the business was 11 years and the informal sources of credit constituted 85.7% while formal source was 14.3%. The total cost was N247,375.00 and total variable cost was N244,625.00 which total variable cost has a share of about 90.1% of the cost. The income or revenue was N343,450.00 while the gross margin was N98,825.00 with net farm income (NFI) of N96,075.00. The benefit-cost ratio (BCR) was 1.39 and operating ratio was 0.71 (71.2%), Gross ratio (GR) was 0.72 (72.0%) and the return on investment (ROI) was 0.40 (40%) signified that for every one naira invested, 40 kobo goes to the investor. It was recommended that feed, drugs/vaccine and others be subsidized in order to increase the profit margin of the investors and formal sources of credit should be encouraged.
IMPACT OF FOREIGN AGRICULTURAL AID ON CROP PRODUCTION OUTPUT IN NIGERIA
Authors: Audu, I. A.  , Adebayo, E. F.  , Jonathan, S.
Published: October 2024

The study analyzed the effect of Agricultural Aid on Crop output in Nigeria using time series data from 1991-2018. The level of stability of crop output, official development assistance to agriculture, loans from commercial banks, fertilizer consumption and climate change, Vector auto- regression analysis, Granger causality relationship and variance decomposition analysis were analyzed. Data generated were analyzed using a modified time series regression analysis and Augmented Dickey Fuller test. The unit root test revealed that there was unit root which means that at levels the variables were not stationary but stationary at the first difference. About 96.6% of the variation in crop output is explained by official development assistance, total domestic loans by commercial banks to agriculture, fertilizer consumption and carbon emission. The result reveals that official development assistance to Nigerian agriculture had a positive relationship with crop output, but there is an inverse relationship between total domestic commercial loans to agriculture and crop output. Granger causality test indicated a unidirectional causality between commercial loans and climate change and the result further indicated a bi-directional relationship between ODAA and CC (climate change) to crop output in the country. The variance decomposition analysis result in the long run suggest that innovation to crop output steadily reduces to 47%, while shock to agricultural ODA (24%), loans (2%), fertilizer consumption (14%), and climate change (13%) can cause fluctuation in crop output. This implies that agricultural ODA, fertilizer consumption and climate change are the major determinants of crop output in Nigeria. It was recommended that donor agencies should increase agricultural aid for agricultural production. Nigerian government should implement policies that ensure proper use of aid to agriculture.
PERFORMANCE OF OKRA VARIETIES (Abelmoschus esculentus L. Moench) AS INFLUENCED BY INORGANIC FERTILIZER (NPK) IN BAUCHI, NIGERIA
Authors: Esmond, E.  , Fagam, A. S.  , Amba, A. A.  , Jibrin, M. S.
Published: October 2024

The field experiment was conducted to evaluate the effect of NPK fertilizer on the growth and yield of okra varieties at the research Farm of Abubakar Tafawa Balewa University, Bauchi, Gubi Campus, Nigeria during the 2017 and 2018 rainy seasons. The four NPK rates (Control (0), 75, 150 and 225kg/ha) and three varieties (Clemson spineless, Lima F1 and Yar-Kodon) which were factorially combined and laid down in a randomized complete block design (RCBD) with three replications. The result of the experiment revealed significant difference (P≤0.05) in all the measured parameters. NPK fertilizer application from 0kg/ha to 225kg/ha significantly led to increase in all the parameters measured. The result also showed that the use of NPK fertilizer at the rate of 150kg/ha and 225kg/ha had the weightiest pod weight (2322.70kg and 2265kg and 2630.00kg and 2634.70kg) in 2017 and 2018 season respectively. The variety Clemson spineless and Lima F1 significantly performed better on many of the measured parameters in 2017, except plant height, Number of leaves, and leaf area in 2018. The interaction between variety and NPK fertilizer was however not significant. Stem girth had positive and highly significant correlation with number of leaves (0.6784**), leaf area (0.7531**), fruit weight (0.3986*) and pod girth (0.8939**). Number of leaves also had highly significant and positive correlation with leaf area (0.7399**), fruit weight (0.4546**) and pod girth (0.4959**).  Pod weight had highly significant and positive correlation with pod length (r = 0.6507**) and Number of pods (r = 0.8929**). It could be concluded that the use of improved variety Lima F1 and Clemson spineless and NPK fertilizer at the rate of 150kg/ha can be adopted for okra production in study area.
RESPONSE OF GINGER (Zingiber officinale ROSC.) AS INFLUENCED BY PLANTING DATE, INTRA – ROW SPACING AND NPK FERTILIZER
Authors: Fagam, A. S.  , Garba, A. A.  , Goyit, I.
Published: October 2024

Field experiment was conducted during the 2015, 2016 and 2017 wet seasons at the National Root Crop Research Institute Vom, Plateau State to study the response of ginger (Zingiber officinale Rosc.) The treatments consisted of two separate planting dates (April and May), three intra-rows spacing (10, 20 and a constant 30cm) as well as NPK fertilizer application rates (0, 50, 100 and 150 kg/ha) were factorially combined and laid out in a randomised complete block design (RCBD) with three replications. The results obtained revealed that planting date, intra-row spacing and NPK fertilizer application significantly increased plant height, leaf area, leaf area index, number of rhizomes and weight of rhizomes. It could be concluded that planting date during the month of May, intra-row spacing of 30 x 20 cm and fertilizer application rate of 100kg/ha seem more promising and produced higher yields of ginger in Vom, Plateau State environs.
ALLOCATIVE EFFICIENCY: A CASE STUDY OF SMALL-SCALE DATE PALM FARMERS IN DUTSE AND KIYAWA LGA OF JIGAWA STATE, NIGERIA
Authors: Muhammad, M. U.  , Peter, I. N.  , Adole, P.  , Tahir A. D.
Published: October 2024

The study aimed at determining the allocative efficiency of small-scale date palm farmers in Dutse and Kiyawa LGA of Jigawa State, Nigeria. A multi-stage sampling procedure was employed to a total of one hundred and thirteen (113) small-scale date palm farmers. Data were collected using a structured questionnaire and analysed using Frequency and percentages, and stochastic frontier Cobb-Douglas cost function. The result from the stochastic frontier cost function reveals the gamma (γ) parameter as 0.994, this implies that about 99.4% of the variation in output among date palm farmers in the study area was due to cost inefficiencies. The estimated elasticity for the number of trees and quantity of pollen were significant at 0.01% probability level. The mean allocative efficiency was 0.50 this shows that 50% of the farmers are allocative efficient. The result revealed that years of experience is the only variable that does not contribute to allocative inefficiency. It was concluded that date palm production is a profitable enterprise, but 50% of the small-scale date palm farmers are allocative inefficient. The study recommends that government should enact a policy to attract youth into date palm production and the government should give farmer’s education high consideration for efficiency in date production.
EXTERNAL FINANCING, FLYPAPER EFFECT AND OUTPUT IN NIGERIA
Authors: Wilson, A. D.  , Adofu, I.  , Alhassan, A.
Published: October 2024

This study examined the flypaper effect of on the nexus between external financing and output in Nigeria over the period 1970-2022. The Augmented Dickey-Fuller, Philips-Perron unit root tests as well as the Bayer-Hanck Co-integration tests and the Dynamic Simulated Autoregressive Distributed Lags (DARDL) model were used for analysis in this study to examine flypaper effect of on the nexus between both foreign aid (grant) and external debt on income per capita. The finding shows that the variables exhibit mixed order of integration and there is a long-run equilibrium relationship between external financing (debt and aid) and real GDP per capita in Nigeria. Furthermore, the result indicates that a 1% change increase in personal income will result in about 11% increase in real GDP, while 1% decline in ED will lead to 0.3% increase in real GDP in Nigeria.  This indicates that there is a flypaper effect on the nexus between external financing (both debt and aids) and real output in Nigeria in the long run. This implied that the impact of personal income on real income per capita is more than the effect of external debt and foreign aid on per capita income. It means, external debt and foreign aid are not spent on the areas or purposes for which they are needed or meant for in Nigeria. Thus, the external financing should be directed to projects and programmes that have direct impact on the well-being of the people rather than sponsoring the budget. That is, foreign aid and external debt should be spent directly on people-oriented programmes and projects.
EFFICIENT RESOURCE ALLOCATION PATTERNS FOR CASSAVA BASED FOOD CROP FARMERS IN ABIA STATE, NIGERIA: AN APPLICATION OF LP AND T- MOTAD MODELS
Authors: Onu, D. O.  , Simonyan, J. B.  , Igwe, K. C.
Published: October 2024

The study developed efficient cassava-based enterprise patterns for smallholder farmers in Abia State. Multi-stage sampling procedure was used to select 120 smallholder cassava-based farmers. A structured questionnaire was used to obtain cross-sectional data from the farmers. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics, farm budgeting technique, Linear Programming and Target Minimization of Total Absolute Deviation (T-MOTAD) models. The LP result prescribed 0.69ha, 0.63ha, 0.62ha, 0.54ha, 0.58ha and 0.56ha for CY, CP, COk, CMzMe, CYOkP and CMzYP respectively for the smallholder famers. A set of feasible risk efficient farm plans I, II and III were obtained with the T-MOTAD model. Plan I also prescribed 0.69ha, 0.63ha, 0.62ha, 0.54ha, 0.58ha and 0.56ha for CY, CP, COk, CMzMe, CYOkP and MzYP enterprises respectively. 0.59ha for CY, 0.6ha for CP, 0.63ha for COk, 0.58ha for CMzMe, 0.52ha for CYOkP and 0.65ha for MzYP were prescribed in risk efficient plan II; and in risk efficient plan III, 0.40ha, 0.47ha, 0.45ha, 0.43ha, 0.60ha, 0.51ha 0.54ha and 0.35ha for CMz, CY, CP, COk, CMzMe, CMzY , CYOkP and MzYP respectively were prescribed for the farmers.. Gross margin increased from ₦170,717.61/ha in the existing plan to ₦215,667.56/ha in optimum plan, and to ₦209,009.57/ha, ₦197,281.27/ha and ₦188,881.96/ha in risk efficient plans I, II and III, respectively. Labour and capital were the major limiting resource across the plans for the enterprises. It was concluded that the cassava farmers had the potential to maximize gross margins per unit enterprise in the optimum and risk efficient farm plans as resources were not optimally allocated in the existing plan. Farmers should therefore adopt the prescribed optimum and risk efficient farm plans.
EFFECTOF N-POWER TRAINING PROGRAMME ON INCOME STATUS OF NIGERIAN YOUTHS. EVIDENCE FROM SOUTHWEST NIGERIA
Authors: Ogunwande, I. O.  , Esan, M. O.  , Adeosun, K. V.
Published: October 2024

The survey was carried out to assess the impact of N-Power training programme on income status of Nigerian youths in Southwest Nigeria. A multi-stage sampling procedure was employed to select 240 respondents which were disaggregated into 120 beneficiaries and 120 non-beneficiaries of N-power programme. Data were collected using structured questionnaires. Descriptive statistics (DS), Endogenous Switching Regression (ESR) and Likert Scale Rating (LSR) were used in analyzing the socioeconomic characteristics, impact of N-power training on welfare and perceived benefits of N-power training. The result shows that the average age of beneficiaries and non-beneficiaries was put at 29years and 28years, respectively. The beneficiaries and non-beneficiaries had mean household size of 9members and 6members respectively with and monthly income of N58, 273.00 and N17, 246.00 respectively. Log-likelihood (-2.6554; p<0.01) and Wald chi2 (79.20; p<0.01) suggest that the ESR model was fit and appropriate; welfare was positively influenced by household size, monthly income and frequency of training while participation in N-power training was found to be influenced by household size, frequency of training and access to information. Pair t-test hypothesis correlation result (0.224; p<0.01) led to acceptance of alternate hypothesis that there is a significant difference in the monthly income of beneficiaries and non-beneficiaries of N-power. It was recommended that more resources should be mobilized towards recruiting more youths for the N-power scheme.
SOCIO-ECONOMIC DETERMINANTS OF PROFITABILITY OF PIG PRODUCTION TECHNOLOGIES AMONG PIG FARMERS IN SOUTH EAST, NIGERIA
Authors: Kaine, A. I. N.  , Ume S. I.  , Abojei, J. O.  , Ojeah, A. I.
Published: October 2024

The study was conducted in South East, Nigeria. One hundred and twenty farmers were used for the study. Multi stage random sampling technique was used to select the farmers. Structured questionnaire was used to collect data required for the study. Data collected was coded and analyzed using both qualitative and quantitative techniques. The result of the study revealed that the respondents were relatively young, well experienced with a mean of 9 years production experience and low-income earner with a mean income of ₦649,991. 67. Result of the coefficients of production experience showed a direct relationship between the variable and the farmers’ profit at 5% level of significance in all the production technology used. The coefficient of access to credit for all the production technology was positive and significant at different level (10%, 5% and 5%) for intensive, semi intensive and extensive production technology. There was a positive relationship between the education attainment of the farmers and profit generated at 1%, 5% and 10% level of significance for semi intensive, intensive and extensive production technology respectively. The coefficient of cost of medication for extensive production technology was negative: -0.528 (-2.005) but significant (P<0.01determinant of profit earned. The result of the profitability analysis determined showed that pig production was viable and profitable in the study area for all the technologies used. ROI was of 55k, 45k and 50k for intensive production technology, semi intensive production technology and extensive production technology respectively. Some of the recommendations were that farmers should form cooperative society, pull their resources together and enjoy the benefits of economics of scale and policy makers should develop policies that will enhance credit availability to pig farmers among others.
GENDER DYNAMICS IN CROP FARM MANAGEMENT
Authors: Ahmed, A.  , Lawal, A. F.  , Sule, B. A.  , Ndagi, I.  , Adedeji, S. O.  , Ahmed, W.
Published: October 2024

The study examined Gender dynamics in farm management in Niger State, Nigeria. Multi-stage sampling technique applied to select 251 crop farmers (90 females and 161 males). Data were collected using structured questionnaires. Data were analysed using t-test analysis and Cobb-Douglas functions. The t-test highlighted significant gender disparities, with males dominating in factors such as farming experience and farmland size at P<0.001, and access to credit and training at P<0.1. Conversely, no significant gender differences were observed in decisions related to crop choice, farm scale, labor employment, and purpose of farming. Common challenges identified by both genders included capital constraints, inadequate amenities, pest and diseases, and insecurity. Regarding farm scale determinants, the pooled result found age, farmland size and farming experience statistically significant at P<0.001, while gender and sole ownership significant at P<0.1. The female-specific analysis underscored farmland size and production cost positive and significant at P<0.001, extension and other jobs significant at 10%, training and farming experience negatively related with farm scale and significant at P<0.05 and P<0.1 respectively. While for males, age, farmland size and production cost significant at P<0.001, sole ownership and farming experience significant at 10%. These results advocate for gender-specific policies and programs, emphasizing targeted support for female farmers, enhancing access to farmland, and promoting cost-effective production techniques.
PRODUCTIVE PERFORMANCE AND FINANCIAL BENEFITS OF BROILER CHICKENS FED FOUR DIFFERENT COMMERCIAL DIETS
Authors: Numkwi, L.  , Doma, U. D.  , Sanusi, M.  , Jama’a2, N. A.
Published: October 2024

The study was carried out to evaluate the productive performance and financial benefits of broiler chickens fed different commercial diets. Four most available commercial diets were selected and used for the study. Two hundred day old broiler chicks were randomly allotted to four diets in two replicates with 25 chicks each in a completely randomized design and coded as diets A, B, C and D. Percentages nutrients compositions of the starter feeds showed that Diet A, 22.8 (CP), 4.0 (EE), 5.0 (CF) and 2900.0kcal/kg (ME); B, 22.0 (CP), 5.0 (EE), 5.0 (CF) and 3000kcal/kg (ME); C, 23.0 (CP), 5.5 (EE), 3.0 (CF) and 3050kcal/kg (ME) and D 22.0 (CP), 4.52 (EE), 5.0 (CF) and 3024kcal/kg (ME), while the finisher feeds contained: A, 20.0 (CP), 6.0 (EE), 5.0 (CF) and 3024kcal/kg (ME); B: 22.0 (CP), 4.8 (EE), 4.0 (CF) and 3055kcal/kg (ME); C: 19.5 (CP), 5.5 (EE), 3.0 (CF) and 3100kcal/kg (ME) and D: 20.9 (CP), 6.4 (EE), 3.7 (CF) and 2970kcal/kg (ME). The experiment lasted for seven weeks with four weeks each of starter and finisher phases. Feeds and water were supplied ad libtum while vaccines and other management activities were administered accordingly. Feed intake and weight gain as well as carcass parameters were taken during and at the end of the research period. The results obtained indicated non statistical significance in all the performance parameters observed during the two phases of production (starter and finisher) except daily weight gain (58.42-60.70g) at starter phase with the highest values of 65.86 and 60.70 on diets A and B respectively. Similarly, all the carcass parameters were not significantly influenced by the feed types except on abdominal fat (0.30-0.79%) and caecum (0.60-0.91%) at P<0.05. However, feed cost/kg diet was higher on diet A (N 394.00) and lowest on diet D (N 334.00). Also, feed cost/kg gain was found to be higher on diet B (N 829.26) and lowest on diet D (N 667.25). It was therefore concluded that diet D is the best in terms of feed cost as well as feed cost per kg gain. Diet D is recommended for use in broiler chicken production for better profit margin.
IMPACT OF CLIMATE CHANGE ADAPTION AND AGRI-BUSINESS SUPPORT PROGRAMME ON INCOME AND FOOD SECURITY OF MAIZE FARMING HOUSEHOLDS IN KATSINA STATE, NIGERIA
Authors: Ibrahim, U. M.  , Ibrahim, H. I.  , Nazifi, B.
Published: October 2024

The paper assessed the impact of Climate change Adaptation and Agribusiness support Programme (CASP) on farm income and food security of maize farming households in Katsina State, Nigeria. A three-stage sampling procedure was used to collect data from 436 smallholder maize farming household using a structured questionnaire. Descriptive statistics, food security index and propensity score matching techniques were used to analyze the collected data. Result of descriptive statistics shown that average age of participating household is 48.30 years while for non-participating is 50.52 years old. The average household size of participating households are 9.22 persons while that of non-participating households are 9 persons. And also indicate that majority (89.75%) of participating household head and 94.85% for non-participating household were male with only 10.25% and 3.16% respectively are female. HFIAS result indicate that participating household in CASP programme is more food secured (1.8) then non-participating households. Propensity Score matching result shows that participation in CASP increased Net farm income and food security positively. It can therefore be recommended that participation into the programme can be used as an instrument to reduce food insecurity and increase income among rural farming households. It is also recommended that provision of adequate security by government will enhance climate change adaptation support programme participation in the future.
WEATHER-INDUCED SHOCKS, POVERTY PERSISTENCE AND VULNERABILITY IN NIGERIA: EVIDENCE FROM CORRELATED RANDOM COEFFICIENT MODEL
Authors: Akinjobi, G. A.  , Fanifosi, G. E.  , Ayantoye, K.  , Amao, J. O.  , Adepoju, A. A.
Published: October 2024

The study examined the relationship between varying weather-induced shocks and their effects on households' vulnerability to poverty in Nigeria. Data sourced from National Bureau of Statistics - General Household Survey, 2012/2013, 2015/2016 and 2018/2019 version were used in the study. Correlated Random Coefficient (CRC) model was applied to analyse the objective of the study. The CRC model showed that weather-induced shocks were observed to be significant in the third wave (2015) with respect to wave 2 (2012), while it was seen to be significant (p=0.076) in 2015 with respect to vulnerability to poverty in 2018. The interaction of weather shocks in 2015 and 2018 was significant (p=0.056), suggesting the influence and effect of weather-induced shocks on vulnerability to poverty in Nigeria. Conclusively, weather-induced shocks exacerbate vulnerability to poverty in Nigeria by disrupting livelihoods, destroying assets and displacing populations. Therefore, a robust framework to reduce the impact of weather-induced shock should be formulated through direct research endeavours and community empowerment.
ANALYSIS OF HOUSEHOLD SAVINGS BEHAVIOUR OF DRY SEASON RICE FARMERS IN GOMBE STATE, NIGERIA
Authors: Saleh, A.  , Ochi, J. E.  , Sani, M. H.  , Sulaiman A.
Published: October 2024

The study examined socio-economic determinants of household savings and constraints behaviour and poverty status of small-scale dry season rice farmers in Gombe State. A multi-stage sampling technique was used to select 357 respondents from eighteen villages for their popularity in rice production. Data were collected using structured questionnaires and were subjected to descriptive statistics for analysis. The results revealed the mean age of rice farmers was 38.76 years, 84.31% were males, 89.08% were married with mean family size of 7 persons. Also, majority (78.43%) of the farmers had formal education, with 10.51 years of experience and average farmland size holding of 1.67ha, having mean annual farm income of ₦ 846,337.10. The result also, revealed 62.34% of the farmers were savers. While the average propensity to save was 0.1634 implying 16.34% of the total households’ incomes were saved; the marginal propensity to save derived from simple linear regression model was 0.1406 meaning, holding other factors constant; one-naira increase in the total farm income will result to 0.1406 level increase in household’s savings. The study concluded that, obviously the increase in savings propensity among farming households may indicate their income growth and improved financial situation and hence, brings about changes in their standard of living and as well improve their farm productivity. Thus, the higher level of income occasioned by the expansion in productivity could translate into a higher level of savings. Therefore, government should provide favorable conditions for rural investment, so as to enhance expansion into other non-farm activities.