bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
USE OF INDOLE-3-BUTYRIC ACID (IBA) AND NANOFORMULATED HORMONE IN MARCOTTING OF MALAYSIAN HYBRID OF CACAO (THEOBROMA CACAO L.)
Authors: Jibrin A. D.  , Domingo E. A.
Published: April 2023

Experiments were conducted at Agricultural Experiment Station, Lagalag, Tiaong, Quezon (13.80 North latitude, 121.400 East longitude, 35 m.a.s.l) to examine rooting response of marcotted Malaysian hybrid of cacao (Theobroma cacao L.) stems as influenced by Indole-3-butyric acid (IBA) at 0, 100, 200, 300, 400, 500, 600, 700, 800, 900 ppm, nanoformulated hormone at 0, 50, 100, 150, 200, 250, 300, 350, 400, 450 ppm and distilled water. Experiments were arranged in Randomized Complete Block Design (RCBD) replicated three times. Results showed IBA and nanoformulated hormone concentrations were significant on all root parameters. 900 ppm IBA and 250 ppm nanoformulated hormone developed callus in 5 days, produced highest percent rooting (80 and 100 %), root density (4.00 and 5.00), roots dry matter (4.80 and 3.67 g plant-1), root length (7.77 and 12.17 cm), number of roots (8.33 and 15.67), number of lateral roots (15.67 and 16.67), specific root length (1.60 and 3.40 cm g-1) and root diameter (0.40 cm), respectively. Increasing concentrations of IBA tends to increase rooting responses of marcots and decrease rooting characteristics at every increasing level of nanoformulated hormone. Proximate analysis showed significant changes in nitrogen and carbohydrate concentrations before and after experiments. Cacao can be vegetatively propagated via marcotting in combination with either IBA or nanoformulated hormone for increase supply and year round availability of planting materials which is limited due to the long gestation period of cacao.
IMPACT OF FADAMA III PROJECT ON WOMEN EMPOWERMENT IN DARAZO LOCAL GOVERNMENT AREA OF BAUCHI STATE, NIGERIA
Authors: Ma’ule, U. M.  , Bappa, B.
Published: April 2023

The study was specifically conducted to examine the impact of Fadama III project on women empowerment in Darazo Local Government, Bauchi State, Nigeria. A sample of 110 women were randomly selected from four Fadama Community Association’s (FAC’s) constituting of eight Fadama User Groups (FUGs) and other economic interest groups; drawn from the two districts of Darazo and Sade in Darazo Local Government. A structured questionnaire administered through interview was used to obtained relevant data. Findings revealed that the livelihood activities in which women farmers were mostly involved were related to (35%) small ruminant animals (sheep and goats) breeding with major animals being sheep, subsequently followed by (35%) groundnut processing machines being their major economic activities in the study area. Finally the research recommends various methods and strategies for empowering women in order to become productive members of the society.
SOCIO-ECONOMIC DETERMINANTS OF CONSUMERS’ WILLINGNESS TO PAY FOR ORGANIC PRODUCTS IN ABEOKUTA SOUTHWEST, NIGERIA
Authors: Adekunle, C. P.  , Oyekale, T. O.  , Oladeji, S. O.
Published: April 2023

This paper investigates the factors affecting consumers’ willingness to pay a premium price for organic products (green vegetables and tomato) in Abeokuta, southwest, Nigeria. The study collected primary data from a sample of 120 respondents. The data were analyzed by descriptive statistics and Contingent Valuation Method (CVM). The results show that respondents are willing to pay a premium price of 59% and 68% for organic green vegetables and tomato, respectively. The results show that the bid price, prior knowledge, safety issues and income were significant for the two models. Moreover, In the first regression model for green vegetable, it was revealed that bid price, prior knowledge, safety issues, concern issues, level of education and income were significant at p<0.01, p<.1, p<0.05, p<0.01, p<0.1 and p<0.01, respectively. Analysis further indicates that respondents are willing to pay a premium price for organic products if they have prior knowledge of the greater quality and health benefits. The study further discloses that the respondents with larger size in the household are less likely to pay a premium price for organic products. Analysis also indicates that the higher the price premium of organic products, the lower the respondent’s willingness to pay for organic products. Therefore, efforts aimed at attracting more consumers of organic products by policymakers, together with marketers and producers, should focus more on lowering the price of the organic products.
INTROGRESSION OF BACTERIAL BLIGHT RESISTANCE GENES; Xa33 AND Xa38 INTO RICE GENOTYPE ADT 47 THROUGH MARKER ASSISTED SELECTION
Authors: Ahmed, A.  , Ramalingam, J.  , Sheriff, H. H.
Published: April 2023

Bacterial blight is one of the serious diseases of rice. Utilization of resistant varieties is considered to be the most effective method of control.  ADT 47 rice genotype has nearly been improved with the blight resistance genes xa5, xa13 and Xa21, through marker assisted selection (MAS). As the objective of this study, marker assisted backcrossing breeding (MABB) was adopted for targeted introgression of the broad spectrum resistance genes, Xa33 and Xa38 to the Improved ADT 47 rice variety. The rice genotypes FBRI-15, PR114 were used as donors of Xa33 and Xa38 genes, respectively. The marker RMWR7.1 linked to Xa33 and the sequenced-tagged site marker Os04g53050-1 specific to Xa38 were validated in parents who were used for foreground selection. True F1 hybrids were selected using the polymorphic markers. Out of one hundred and thirty seven SSR markers, forty-two were polymorphic for Improved ADT 47 x FBRI-16 which was used for background selection. Foreground selection revealed that a single F1 plant was heterozygote in Improved ADT 47 x FBRI-15 and it was used to develop BC1 generation. At BC1F1, one plant was found to be heterozygous for Improved ADT 47 x FBRI-15. At BC2F1, a single plant was found heterozygous as well from the cross. In the final BC3F1 population, one heterozygous plant  was validated from the  cross, the plant was subjected to background selection for selecting plants having the genetic background similar to that of the recurrent parent (i.e., confirmation of recurrent parent genome recovery) using the forty-two dominant SSR markers. In BC3F1, there was a 92.80% parental genome recovery in the Improved ADT 47 x FBRI-15. This high parental genome line was selfed to produce BC2F2 for selection of homozygous lines for xa5, xa13, Xa21 and Xa33/Xa38. The study recommends that the BC2F2 plants will be selfed using pedigree method and then advance to preliminary yield trial (PYT), then Advanced yield trial (AYT) and finally to on farm assessment for release.
ASSESSMENT OF WOMEN PARTICIPATION IN AGRICULTURAL COOPERATIVE IN ZARIA AND ENVIRON, KADUNA STATE, NIGERIA
Authors: Joshua, F. Y.  , Bashir, M. F.
Published: April 2023

The study assessed women participation in agricultural cooperative society in Zaria environment of Kaduna State Nigeria. The objectives of the study were to examine the socio-economic characteristics of women participating in agricultural cooperative society; identify the business activities that women engage in as co-operative members; evaluate the annual income of members of the cooperative society and identify the challenges faced by women as members of the cooperative. A survey research design was adopted and four (4) women agricultural cooperatives societies were purposively selected. In each of the cooperative societies, 25 members were randomly selected given a total of 100 respondents and the data was collected using structured questionnaire. Out of the 100 questionnaires distributed to respondents only 95 were retrieved and used for data analysis. Simple descriptive statistics (frequency and percentage) and inferential statistics (Chi-Square) were used to analyze the data. Results revealed that 41.05% of women in agricultural cooperative were within the age of 26-35 years and 71.58% were married with 36.84% having a family size of 10 and above. On the type of business activities, majority (93.68%) indicated that they were engaged in crop production. The result on the annual income of members showed a significant difference before and after joining the cooperative. Yet, insufficient capital, poor market and low level of education were identified as the major challenges faced by members of the cooperatives. The study recommended that the Government and non-governmental organization should partner with women agricultural cooperative society to improve their capital base, cooperative members should organized adult education programme, seminar or workshop to improve the members’ education and entrepreneurial skills.
EFFECTS OF EXTENSION WORKERS VISIT ON THE FARMERS PRODUCING QUALITY PROTEIN MAIZE IN BILLIRI LOCAL GOVERNMENT AREA OF GOMBE STATE, NIGERIA
Authors: Tata, L. A.  , Sani, M. H.  , Ibrahim, A. A.  , Akeweta, N. J.
Published: April 2023

This study analyzed the effects of extension workers visit on the farmers producing quality protein maize in Billiri Local Government Area of Gombe State, Nigeria. Among the farming households, 105 were selected randomly. Structured questionnaires were used to collect information from the respondents. Descriptive and inferential statistics were used to analyze the data. Findings from the study showed that majority (53.33%) of the respondents got QPM seeds through Sassakawa Global 2000. Most (39%) of the QPM farmers were visited on quarterly basis. The F-ratio of 2.996 was significant indicating that the model is suitable for the data. The co-efficient for contact with source (0.126) was shown to be positive but not significant which implied that though the respondents have been visited by extension agents but the frequency of visits was low and this affected farmers’ awareness of QPM technology which could be the reason for low rate of adoption of quality protein maize (QPM) by other farmers that have refused to adopt the technology. It is therefore recommended that extension services/ sources should be strengthened by employing more extension workers by Government, Private organizations and Non-governmental agencies for efficient information dissemination to farmers especially at the rural level and also encourage farmers to form groups that will enable them narrow the gap of technology transfer.
ANALYSIS OF THE EFFECTS OF HIV/AIDS ON COMMERCIAL CROP FARMERS IN KADUNA STATE, NIGERIA
Authors: Michael, H. Y.  , Ibrahim, I.  , Shani, B. B.  , Laah, J. G.
Published: April 2023

The study was conducted to analyze the effects of human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) and the acquired immune deficiency syndrome (AIDS) among commercial crop production famers in Giwa Local Government Area (LGA) of Kaduna State, Nigeria. A structured questionnaire was administered to 65 respondents selected using a cocktail of sample methodologies, which elicited information on socio-demographic characteristics of respondents, HIV status, types of crop produced, effects of HIV on crop production, increase or decrease in commercial crop production of infected famers. The data was analyzed using statistical package for social science (SPSS) and results were presented using simple descriptive statistical analysis as well as analysis of variance for testing the significance of means between groups. The result revealed that there was a significant difference (P<0.05) in the crops output among men, women and youth, with the calculated F=13.724 greater than the Table F= 3.33. The results, therefore, accepts the fact that HIV/AIDS affects commercial crop output as well as income of the farmers in the study area. The study recommends that poverty reduction strategies or measures need to be given top priority and further enlightenment campaigns on the need for safe sexual practices to reduce HIV infection rates to the farmers.
NUTRITIONAL CHARACTERIZATION OF GMELINA ARBOREA Roxb LEAF AND SEED MEAL AS POTENTIAL AQUACULTURE FEED INGREDIENT
Authors: Abdullahi, M.  , Umar, R.  , Isiyaku. M. S.
Published: April 2023

Competition between human and lower animals for available energy and protein supply especially during the dry season has led to shortage of necessary food materials such as maize, sorghum, millet, groundnut, soya beans, and wheat among others. This problem is probably due to the continuous human population increase, to mitigate this challenge, Gmelina arborea leaf and seed meal were nutritionally characterized. The leaves and seeds were collected from the field, sorted, washed, shed-dried and milled separately, and divided into several portions for analysis. Anti-nutrient, proximate, mineral and amino acid content of leaves and seeds were evaluated. The results showed anti-nutritional content were found to be significantly higher in leaf than in seed (P˂0.05) with Saponin value 99.95±30.00 in leave and 91.63±0.02 in seed. The crude protein content in the leaf (12.59±0.22) differed significantly (P˂0.05) than in the seed (7.92±0.17). The carbohydrate content was found to be higher in leaf (51.80±0.18) than in seed (27.67±0.23). The mineral content of the leaf and seed contain high level of potassium 11600.00±0.00 ppm and 1700.00±0.00 ppm respectively. There was significant difference mineral contents between both parts, essential and non-essential amino acids were found to be higher in seed than in the leaf with no significant difference (P>0.05). Conclusively, Leaves and seeds of Gmelina arborea were good sources of energy characterised by high saponin, flavonoid and carbohydrate (NFE); and present in the leaf and seed were essential minerals and amino acids. The study, therefore, recommended that anti-nutrient removal processes should be used to reduce anti-nutrient content to a tolerable amount for fish feed formulation.
ANALYSIS OF PRICE FLUCTUATION FOR CEREALS IN MAIDUGURI METROPOLITANT COUNCIL, BORNO STATE, NIGERIA
Authors: Samuel, P.
Published: April 2023

The study analyzed the price fluctuation of cereals in Maiduguri Metropolis of Borno State, Nigeria. The data were collected through the use of questionnaire administered to 120 respondents. Frequency distribution and percentages were used to analyze the data. The results of the study showed that 70.8% of the cereal marketers were male while 29.2% were female. The percentage of the marketers that were married was 6.6%, while 35% were single. The family size analysis revealed that 50% of the marketers had family size above 10 persons and 16.7% less than five. Findings on the source of initial capital outlay showed that 50% got their initial capital from friends and 20.8% from personal saving. The result also showed that 75% of the marketers were retailers and 25% were wholesaler. On the analysis of causes of price variation, the result revealed that annual variability in production and speculative activities of middlemen were indicated by 58.3% each of the respondents, while poor storage of cereal had 16.7%. It indicated that sorghum had degree of price fluctuation of 9.8% while millet had 8.6%. Analysis of the effect of price fluctuation showed that inflation was indicated by 62.5% of the respondent, while high cost of labour had 16.7%. About 54% of the marketers had their commodities for future sale at the time of harvest in order to cope with price fluctuation, while 20.8% used contract sale to processors and manufacturers as their coping strategies against price fluctuation. It was recommended that women should be supported financially by the government and private organizations through the administration of soft loans and other credit facilities. Also, farmers and marketers should be educated through the extension agents to adopt new methods of cereal production in order to increase the supply of cereal to meet up with the demand.
ANALYSIS OF LIVELIHOOD BENEFITS DERIVED FROM FOREST RESOURCES UTILIZATION AMONG FARMING POPULACE IN KOGI AND NIGER STATES, NIGERIA
Authors: Mohammed, U.  , Umar, I. S.  , Olaleye, R. S.  , Salihu, S. I.  , Pelemo, J. J.
Published: April 2023

The study analysed of livelihood benefits derived from forest resources utilization among farming populace in Kogi and Niger States, Nigeria. Multi-stage sampling techniques was used to select 326 of rural populace. Data were collected using structured questionnaire and interview scheduled and analyzed using descriptive statistics (percentage, frequency and mean). The result revealed 87.1% of the rural farmers had increment in the procurement of the food items while 77.3% improvement in expenditure on cultural ceremonies. Moreover, truck N47, 852 and car N56, 763 were the most working and household assets acquired by rural populace in the last season. It was recommended that farming populace should engage in the use of forest resources in order to enhance their livelihood. Also, farming populace should utilize forest resources in order to acquire more household assets.
FARM LEVEL ASSESSMENT OF POST-HARVEST LOSSES ESTIMATION AND MANAGEMENT OF YAM IN BENUE STATE, NIGERIA
Authors: Ahungwa, G. T.  , Ahungwa, J. I.
Published: April 2023

The study measured post-harvest losses of yam in volumetric and monetary terms and the determinants of post-harvest losses (PHLs) management capacities of farmers along diverse activities at the farm level in Benue State, Nigeria for four different production seasons. Using a multistage sampling procedure, 240 yam farmers were sampled and interviewed for the study. Empirical results showed that majority of yam farmers (80.42%) experienced substantial losses, ranging from 20% – 49.9% of their total harvest. Averagely, farmers recorded 43.57% loss of yam tubers on account of environmental and institutional factors especially, the erratic rainfall patterns and lack of improved storage facilities. The post-harvest management index indicated that farmers had the capacities to store, consume or sell about 58.5% of their total annual harvest. The prime causes of such losses were attributed to environmental (  = 3.67) and microbiological (  = 3.20) factors, duration needed to store yam profitably (  = 2.88), mechanical damage (  = 2.75), poor marketing (  = 2.68), and inappropriate transportation (  = 2.65) systems. Further, the degree of PHLs management capacities of the farmers’ increased consistently, positively and significantly at P≤0.01 level of significance, with increase in the age, household size, annual income, access and sources of agricultural credit and the number of PHL management technologies adopted, but rather reduced significantly with years of farming experience and extension contacts. To enhance the post-harvest management competence of farmers in Benue State, the capacities of the farmers should be strengthened to access agricultural information, including geo-informatics, and financial services that can be used in minimizing the incidence of post-harvest losses.
DETERMINANTS OF AGRICULTURAL FOOD GRAIN COMMODITY PRICES IN NIGERIA
Authors: Ogbonna, S. I.
Published: April 2023

The study analyzed the determinants of agricultural food grain commodity prices in Nigeria. Secondary data was used for the study and covered the period of 1981-2018. Data obtained was analyzed using regression techniques. The findings revealed that inflation, importation policy, oil prices, quantity consumed of maize, corruption, population, that quantity supplied of maize and time variable significantly influenced the prices of maize in Nigeria within the period under review. Inflation, importation policy, quantity consumed, corruption, government capital subsidy, population and time variable significantly influenced the price of wheat in Nigeria within the period under study. The results further disclosed that on aggregate level, inflation, importation policy, quantity consumed of grains, corruption, government capital subsidy, population, quantity supplied of grains and time variable significantly (P≤0.5) influenced the price of food grains in Nigeria within the period under review based on the specified model. The study therefore, recommended that government should put in place necessary strategies to curb the rate of corruption and ensure political stability in the country that favours food grain price regulation as well as ensure that the prices of food grains in Nigeria, especially that of wheat and maize are made affordable to consumers and that it encourages the farmers to remain in the production of food grains in Nigeria.
APPLICATION OF TECHNOLOGICAL INNOVATION IN PROMOTING THE ADOPTION OF N2AFRICA COWPEA VARIETIES FOR INCOME GENERATION IN BORNO STATE, NIGERIA
Authors: Abdullahi, A.  , Mustapha, A.  , Jajua, M.
Published: April 2023

The study investigated the use of technological innovation in promoting the adoption of N2Africa cowpea varieties for income generation in Borno State, Nigeria. A multi-stage sampling procedure was used for the study, with a purposive selection of three (3) Local Government Areas (LGAs) namely; Biu, Hawul and Kwayakusar. The data was obtained from 244 respondents. Descriptive statistics were used to describe the socio-economic characteristics and inferential statistics namely; adoption score, probit regression model and profitability model were also used. The results revealed that males dominated the farming population in the study area. The highest adoption score of the technological innovation was IT89KD-288 (60%) and the lowest was UAM09-1046-6-1 (48%); and spacing had the least score across the improved cowpea varieties. The probit result revealed that three (3) variables (sex, age and extension contact) significantly (P≤0.077*, P≤0.065* and P≤0.002***) influenced the adoption of UAM09-1046-6-1, whereas, (education and household size) significantly (0.027** and 0.011**) influenced the adoption of IT99K-573-2-1 improved cowpea varieties. There was profitability in the production of the improved varieties, which led to generation of income among the cowpea farmers. It was recommended that farmers should be linked with good input dealers to enable them have fertilizer at affordable prices, increase in extension services on influencing more farmers to produce UAM09-104606-1 due to its high yield.
EFFECTIVENESS OF CREDIT UTILIZATION AMONG FARMERS IN UGHELLI NORTH LOCAL GOVERNMENT AREA OF DELTA STATE, NIGERIA
Authors: Ikpoza, E. A.  , Ohwo, O. A.  , Nwajei, C. A.  , Tabuanu, C. O.
Published: April 2023

The study sought to examine the effectiveness of credit utilization among farmers in Ughelli North Local Government Area of Delta State, Nigeria. Multi-stage random sampling technique was used in selecting 120 farmers from 20 villages randomly selected from the 5 (five) clans. Descriptive and inferential statistics was used to analyze the data. The result revealed that the respondents were predominantly males and married (56.7%). Majority (50%) had only six (6) years of formal education and 51.7% of them had between 0.50 - l.5 ha of farm size. Many of (61.2 %) also did not belong to any form of farmer association and 67.8% had other sources of income to support their farm income. Nigerian Agricultural Cooperation and Rural Development Bank (NACRDB) had the greatest mean response of 3.83 as a source of credit to farmers in the study area. The farmers had very few (20%) contacts with extension agents. The probit regression result indicated that, membership in farmers’ association, number of visit by extension agents and farming experience were statistically significant at P≤0.05 confidence level. The chi-square value of 14.64 with a p-value less than 0.046 implies that the independent variables were statistically significantly in predicting the log likelihood of effective use of micro credit by respondents. It was concluded that there was no effectiveness in the utilization of credit by farmers in the study area. The study recommended prompt processing of loan applications and timely disbursement of loans to successful applicant; proper monitoring of credit utilization by credit agents; increasing amount of loans to farmers as this will help to increase their size and operation and ensure food security and Government intervention to reduce the high rate of lending by micro credit institutions.
DETERMINANTS OF VEGETABLE CONSUMPTION AMONG HOUSEHOLDS IN ONITSHA METROPOLIS OF ANAMBRA STATE, NIGERIA
Authors: Arua, R. N.  , Ezenwanne, O. C.  , Ibe, J. C.  , Umaru, I. I.
Published: April 2023

The study examined determinants of vegetable consumption among households in Onitsha metropolis of Anambra State, Nigeria. Data for the study were collected using structured questionnaire administered to 80 respondents drawn from four (4) zones in the municipality of Onitsha. Data were analyzed using frequency, percentages, mean and multiple regression analysis. Result showed that the age of the respondents, marital status, home distance to market and total monthly income had a positive significant (P≤0.05) influence on the level of vegetable consumption. The perishable nature of vegetable, seasonality of the product, high cost of vegetable and taste were factors that militate against vegetable consumption. These constraints notwithstanding, vegetable is consumed both on-season and off-season but with less consumption during off-season due its high price. It was recommended that vegetable farmers should organize themselves in cooperative groups in order to provide machines that can process vegetables into forms that can be stored to reduce post-harvest losses as well as making vegetables almost available in all seasons.
COMPARING PROFITS OF ORGANIC AND NON-ORGANIC FLUTED PUMPKIN AMONG SMALLHOLDER FARMERS IN DELTA STATE, NIGERIA
Authors: Okonkwo-Emegha, K.  , Isibor, C. A.  , Okafor, I. P.
Published: April 2023

The study was conceptualized to compare profits of organic and non-organic farming technologies among smallholder fluted pumpkin farmers in Delta State, Nigeria. A multistage sampling technique was employed in the selection of location and respondents. The data were collected using structured questionnaire from 240 organic and non-organic smallholder fluted pumpkin farmers. Data obtained was analyzed using descriptive statistics and enterprise budgeting method. Results indicated that the profit realized by organic and non-organic (conventional system) fluted pumpkin farmers was N561,850 and N222,130 per farmer per plot, respectively. The study concluded that organic system of vegetable production was more profitable than conventional system. It was recommended that farmers should concentrate more on organic system of fluted pumpkin production to enable good profit.
EFFECTS OF AGRICULTURAL TRACTOR LEASING PROGRAMMES ON FARMERS IN NIGERIA: 2015 - 2017
Authors: Shani, B. B.
Published: April 2023

The study analysed effects of agricultural tractor leasing programmes on farmers in Nigeria for the period 2015 - 2017. The study was carried out in Kaduna, Katsina, Osun and Ogun States, respectively. A random sampling technique was used in selecting 200 beneficiaries who registered with their State tractor owners and operators association of Nigeria (TOOAN). The sampling frame comprised all the registered TOOAN farmers’ beneficiaries in the surveyed States who took bank loan. Data collected were analysed using simple statistical tools like frequencies, percentages, means, and inferential statistics (multiple linear regression analysis). The results showed that within the study periods, a total of 987 farmers applied for bank loan through State chapters of TOOAN in Nigeria totalling N137,049,650 leaving a credit supply gap of N65,163,900.00.00. The total amount of loan repaid by the beneficiaries during the period was N35,230,180.00 which gave a repayment rate of 69% and a default rate of 31%. The loan granted to the beneficiaries increased national output by 23.3% and affected positively on the beneficiaries’ income. It was recommended that government should continue to encourage increased funding in collaboration with private sectors agricultural mechanization service providers to the agricultural sector for increased accelerated food production in Nigeria by small and medium scale farmers.
THE EFFECTS OF EMIGRATION AND REMITTANCE ON FOOD SECURITY STATUS OF FARMING HOUSEHOLDS IN EDO STATE, NIGERIA
Authors: Essien, N. S.  , Baba, K. M.  , Ojo, M. A.  , Coker, A. A. A.
Published: April 2023

The study determined the effects of emigration and remittance on the food security status of farming households in Edo State, Nigeria. From four (4) Local Government Areas across the State, 297 farming households were sampled randomly for the study. Structured questionnaire and interview schedule were used to obtain primary data from the farmers. Data were analyzed with descriptive statistics, food security index (FSI) and a probit regression model. The FSI classification revealed 78.41% of the households with emigrants, 64.75% without emigrants and 72.82% of the pooled results were food secure. Probit regression analysis showed that emigration status at P≤0.01 and remittance income at P≤0.10 probability levels had significant positive effect on the food security status of the farming households. Household size, farm income and access to credit each at P≤0.01, off-farm income at P≤0.05 and farming experience at P≤0.10 probability levels had significant influence on the farmers’ food security status. It was concluded that emigration status and remittance had significant positive effect on the food security status of the farming households in Edo State. Nonetheless, food insecurity still remains a major issue among the farming households in the area that cannot be overlooked by the government. It was therefore, recommended that efforts should be made to ensure that farmers are well enlightened and encouraged through extension service delivery to diversify their livelihood, engage and invest their income in productive farm and off-farm activities towards improved standard of living.
FACTORS DETERMINING PROFIT IN WATER MELON (Citrullus lanatus) MARKETING IN GOMBE AND BAUCHI STATES, NIGERIA
Authors: Mohammed, S. Y.  , Kubura, H.  , Biye, S. U.  , Hassan, A.
Published: April 2023

The study determine the factors influencing the net income of wholesale and retail water melon marketers in Gombe and Bauchi States, Nigeria. Multi-stage sampling technique was used to select 300 water melon marketers from 18 markets, 135 and 165 marketers were selected from Bauchi State and Gombe State, respectively. Data were collected using structured questionnaires. The regression analysis result revealed that retail Water melon marketers in scarcity period recorded the higher number of significant variables with the R2 value of 0.520 and F-statistics of 34.309 significant at P< 0.001. The wholesale, results indicated that surplus and scarcity periods gave the best results with only marketing costs and education having positive relationship with net income and significant at P< 0.05 each. Conclusively, the socio-economic variables of marketers at retail category were found to influence more in determining the net income of water melon marketers in the study area. It was recommended that that marketers should ensure to get less marketing cost to purchase large quantity of water melon at a minimum cost, hence, maximise profit in return.
PRICE DYNAMICS OF LOCAL AND IMPORTED RICE IN RURAL AND URBAN MARKETS OF LAGOS STATE, NIGERIA
Authors: Bako, R. U.  , Ibrahim, F. D.  , Adebayo, C. O.  , Mohammed, U. S.
Published: April 2023

The study aimed at analyzing price dynamics of local and imported rice in Lagos State Nigeria. Analytical tools employed in the study include unit root test, Granger causality test and index of market concentration (IMC). The result revealed that all the price series became stationary after 1st differencing with an order of integration of I(1), implying that the prices of both local and imported rice in rural and urban markets were trending upwards in an irregular pattern. The Granger causality test result revealed a bi-directional causality relationship between all the price pairs as the null hypothesis was rejected at P≤0.01 level of probability. The IMC result shows a value of 2.795 and 2.581 for local and imported rice, respectively, indicating low short run relationship among. The study concluded that there is a feedback relationship between rural and urban market and existence of short run relationship between the markets in the study area. It was recommended that the flow of information should be enhanced between spatially separated markets and also firm policies should be implemented on prices to minimized irregularities in rice prices across board.
ANALYSIS OF SOCIO-ECONOMIC AND CONSTRAINTS OF SWEET MELON (CUCUMIS MELON) AND WATERMELON (CITRULLUS LUNATUS) MARKETERS IN GOMBE AND BAUCHI STATES OF NIGERIA
Authors: Mohammed, S. Y.  , Murtala, N.  , Jibril, S. A.  , Mohammed, S.
Published: April 2023

The study examined the marketing institutions and channels for sweet melon and water melon in Bauchi and Gombe States, Nigeria. Multi-stage sampling procedure was used to select 300 sweet melon and water melon marketers from 18 markets, 135 marketers were selected from Bauchi State and 165 from Gombe State. Data were collected using structured questionnaires and analysed using descriptive statistics which include frequency, percentage and ranking method. The result revealed that majority (99%) of sweet melon and water melon marketers were men, married (67.7%), young and active with the mean age of 36 years and a mean family size of 6 people per household. Moreover, 63.3% of the marketers had one form of western education or the other with the mean marketing experience of 9 years. The result also indicated that majority of the marketers with majority being full time sweet melon and water melon marketers and sourced their marketing funds through family and friends. In conclusion, sweet melon and water melon marketers were found to be men, married, young and active with the small number of people per household. Moreover, the marketers had one form of western education or the other and had reasonable years of marketing experience with majority of them being full time marketers and sourced their marketing funds through family and friends. Inconsistence and poor price and poor transportation facilities constituted the major problems to sweet melon and water melon marketing in the study area. The study recommended that government, market’ union leaders and other stakeholders should assist and encourage marketers in providing, procuring and utilizing marketing facilities.
PROFITABILITY ANALYSIS OF SACHET TABLE WATER PRODUCTION IN GOMBE CENTRAL SENATORIAL ZONE, GOMBE STATE, NIGERIA
Authors: Hamidu, K.  , Mohammed, I.  , Danwanka, H. A.
Published: April 2023

The study examined the profitability analysis of sachet table water production in Gombe Central senatorial zone, Gombe State, Nigeria. Multi-stage sampling procedure was used. Gombe Central senatorial zone sachet table water production enterprises were purposively selected. In the study area, 45 production enterprises were selected. Data were analyzed using enterprise budget model to analyses the gross margin, profit, gross ratio, operating ratio, fixed ratio, ratio of gross margin to variable cost, ratio of gross margin to fixed cost and return per naira invested. Gross margin of N2,882,510,640, profit of N2,794,072,980, gross ratio of 0.0343, operating ratio of 0.0034, fixed ratio of 0.0305, ratio of gross margin to variable cost of 290.09, ratio of gross margin to fixed cost of 32.59 and return per capital invested of 29.40  was released. It was concluded that table water production in Gombe Central senatorial zone, Gombe State is profitable. The study recommended the citizens of Gombe central senatorial zone should engage in sachet table water production because it is a profitable venture.
SOURCES AND CHANNELS OF AGRICULTURAL INFORMATION USED BY SOYBEAN FARMERS IN NIGER STATE, NIGERIA
Authors: Funom, Blessing Chika
Published: April 2023

The study was carried out on sources and channels of agricultural information used by soybean farmers in Niger State, Nigeria. A multi-stage sampling procedure was used to select 1,075 sample size out of 25,600 farmers’ population from the study area. Findings indicated that non-governmental organizations (NGOs) had mean of 4.50 and standard deviation (SD) of 0.670, the Banks with mean of 4.20 and SD of 1.165, were the most consulted institutional sources of agricultural information for the farmers. The print media that had mean of 3.24 with SD of 0.78) did not fare too well as sources for this group of farmers probably due to low literacy level. However, findings showed that government circular with mean of 3.80 and SD 1.078, newspapers or magazines with mean of 3.40 and SD of 1.280 fared better against extension posters with mean of 3.20 and SD of 1.400 and extension manual mean of 2.90 with SD of 1.136 which are more technical in content. The interpersonal sources that had mean of 4.22 with SD of 0.60 appeared to be more popular for sourcing agricultural information among soybean farmers. Customers with mean of 4.50 and SD of 0.808, and Village heads with mean of 4.40 and SD of 0.490 ranked higher against other interpersonal sources. The on-farm demonstration with mean of 4.30 and SD of 0.782, and farmers training with mean of 4.20 and SD of 0.872 were the most preferred channels for agricultural information in the study area. The study, therefore recommended that soybean farmers should be encouraged to source for more information from corporate bodies and through electronic devices, in particular, the use of mobile phone to link with information providers. Soybean farmers should make optimal use of the various channels of agricultural information available in Niger State.
EFFICACY OF PHOSPHORUS FERTILIZER RATES ON THE GROWTH, YIELD AND YIELD CHARACTERS OF GROUNDNUT (Arachis hypogea L.) CULTIVARS ON JOS PLATEAU, NIGERIA
Authors: Ibrahim, Iro I.  , Umar, U. M.  , Adeniyi, T. O.  , Yaroson, A. Y.  , Adegoke, I. B.
Published: April 2023

This experimental research was conducted in 2018 and 2019 seasons at Federal College of Forestry demonstration farm Jos, Plateau State to determine the efficacy of phosphorus fertilizer rates on the growth and yield, and yield components of groundnut cultivars. The experimental design used was a randomized complete block design (RCBD) comprising of four treatments (0, 20, 40 and 60 kg P2O5ha-1) and four groundnut cultivars (Samnut 10, 14, 17 and 18) that were replicated three times. Data were collected on plant height, number of leaves, stem girth, number of branches and pods/plant, harvest index, shelling percentage, total yield and biomass weight and data were analyzed using analysis of variance (ANOVA) at 5% level of probability with XLSTAT 2018 statistical package. Tukey’s method was used to separate the means where significance was declared. The result showed that the application of 40 kg P2O5ha-1 produced the highest plant height (73.96 cm and 73.92 cm), number of leaves (173.42 and 175.00), stem girth (4.02 and 3.92 cm), number of branches (43.33 and 43.50), number of pods or plant (25.67 and 26.58), harvest index (24.17% and 24.92%), total yield (2516.25 and 2574.58 kg/ha) and biomass weight (3551.58 and 3524.17 kg/ha). Samnut 14 recorded the highest plant height (72.19 cm and 72.54 cm), number of leaves (168.33 and 167.17), number of branches (42.25 and 41.67), number of pods or plant (23.83 and 24.08), harvest index (21.47 and 22.22%), total yield (2297.17 and 2361.33 kg/ha) and biomass weight (3267.58 and 3295.75 kg/ha). It was concluded that application of 40 kg P ha-1 to Samnut 14 produced the highest growth, yield and yield characteristics of groundnut. It was therefore recommended that farmers in the experimental area be encouraged to apply 40 kg P ha-1 to Samnut 14 for optimum productivity of groundnut.
EFFECT OF SOWING DEPTH ON GERMINATION AND GROWTH OF GUM ARABIC (ACACIA SPECIES)
Authors: Aboki, I. Y.  , Fakuta, M. N.  , Lucy, L.  , Oluodo, L. A.  , Musa, H.
Published: April 2023

The study was carried out to determine the effect of sowing depth on the germination and growth of (Acacia species). The materials for the experiment consisted of top soil, river sand, cow dung and polythene bags. Polythene bags measuring 7.5 cm x 20 cm were filled with potting mixture consisting of top soil, river sand and cow dung in a ratio 2:2:1. The filled polythene bags were laid out in a randomized complete block design (RCBD) with each treatment having 25 polythene replicated four times. Two seeds were sown per pot at a depth of 1cm, 2cm, 3cm and 4cm, respectively, and were later thinned to one seeding per pot. It was observed that seed germination was faster with 1cm and 2cm sewing depth followed by 3cm while 4cm depth delayed seed germination. At 1 month after sowing (1MAS), seeds of (Acacia species) were statistically unaffected regardless of sowing depths. However, at 2, 3 and 4 months after sowing, seedling of (Acacia Seyal) significantly gave superior seedling height compared to (Senegalia Senegal). At 1, 2 and 3 MAS, Acacia species though statistically similar significantly increased seedling height and number of primary branches compared to 4cm sowing depth. Shallow sowing depths of 1 and 2cm of (Acacia species) seeds favored seed emergence and seedlings growth characters.
ANALYSIS OF POVERTY STATUS AND COPING STRATEGIES AMONG HOUSEHOLDS IN MICHIKA LOCAL GOVERNMENT AREA OF ADAMAWA STATE, NIGERIA
Authors: Morris, L.  , Onu, J. I.  , Giroh, D. Y.
Published: April 2023

The study examined poverty status and coping strategies among Small Scale Farmers in Michika Local Government Area of Adamawa State of Nigeria. Purposive and simple random sampling methods were used to select 342 respondents. Primary data were collected with the aid of questionnaire and analyzed using Foster-Greer-Thorbecke (FGT), Logistic regression and Likert type Scale. The poverty status of the respondents revealed that 64% were poor with poverty gap of 33%. Poverty severity also revealed that the 17% of the respondents were mostly hit by core poverty. Credit size and household size were significant at P≤0.01 while age of household head, farm size, and ownership of farm land, educational level and gender were found to be significant at 5% and positively influence poverty status in the study areas. Plaiting of hair/barbing and credit from Micro-Finance banks (MFBs) were the major non-agricultural poverty coping strategies with mean of x = 3.0 and x = 2.89, respectively, and major agricultural poverty coping strategies were rain fed crop farming and gardening with mean value of x = 3.69 and x = 3.21, respectively. The study recommended that credit accessible to farmers and promote off farm activities as an alternative to livelihood strategies will go a long way in addressing their poverty situation.
EFFECT OF RICE PRODUCTION ON AGRICULTURAL GROWTH IN NIGERIA (1981-2020): EVIDENCE FROM VECTOR ERROR CORRECTION MODEL
Authors: Abah, D.  , Ochoche, C. O.  , Teran, A. D.
Published: April 2023

The study assessed the effect of rice production on agricultural growth in Nigeria (1981-2020). Time series data obtained from archives of Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) and Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) for a period of 39 years were used in the study. The data collected were analyzed using both descriptive and inferential statistics such as trend graphs, growth model and vector error correction model [VECM]. The result of the study revealed that the trend of rice production has fluctuated considerably over the years but has experienced a downward trend in the last few years while the trend of agricultural output in Nigeria has been experiencing an appreciable level of increase over the years. The growth rate and direction of rice production was 4.2% with a stagnated process while agricultural output was 4.4% with an accelerated growth process respectively during the period of study. The result of VECM indicated that in a long run, the coefficient of rice production with a coefficient of 18.942 was positive and statistically significant at P≤0.01. The result showed that the coefficient of determination (R2) is 0.46. The result also showed that the F-statistics (8.112) was positive and significant at P≤0.01 indicating the overall significance of the model. The study therefore, recommended that conscious effort must be made to increase rice production level geometrically so as to maintain pace with the rapid population growth if food security is to be ensured in Nigeria.
ANALYSIS OF FACTORS INFLUENCING ADOPTION OF IMPROVED MILLET PRODUCTION TEHNOLOGIES IN CENTRAL ZONE OF BORNO STATE, NIGERIA
Authors: Alkali, K.  , Sani, M. H.  , Ibrahim, A. A.
Published: April 2023

The study analysed the adoption of improved millet production technologies among farmers in central zone of Borno State, Nigeria. A multi-stage sampling procedure was employed and total of 178 millet farmers were randomly sampled and proportionately drawn at 5% across each of the eight (8) selected villages. Primary data were collected through structured questionnaire and analysed using frequency count, percentage, adoption index, and ordered logistic regression. The results revealed that higher percentage (85.6%) of respondents were male, 57% were married and had age range of 31-40 with mean of 43 years. Similarly, household size had a mean of 11 people, about 52% of farmers had a non-formal education, 46.1% had a farm size of 1-2 ha, and about 47% of the farmers had been involved in millet farming with an average of 10 years farming experience. The adoption index result of 57.2% indicated that the study as a whole recorded medium adoption. The results of the ordered logistic regression disclosed that farm size, and household size; and level of education were negatively significant at P≤0.01 and P≤0.10, respectively. Access to credit and extension contact were positively significant (P≤0.10) and also farming experience had positively significant (P≤0.01) relationship with the adoption of improved millet packages. The major constraint to adoption of improved millet package in the study area was inaccessibility of credit facilities. The study concluded that the adoption of improved millet package as a whole was influenced by socio-economic and institutional factors. The study therefore, recommended that cooperative societies should be strengthened and expanded to accommodate more farmers with a view to having easy access to new agricultural technologies as well as credit facilities.
ASSESSMENT OF THE ROLES OF AGRICULTURAL EXTENSION SERVICES IN IMPROVING THE LIVELIHOOD OF FOOD CROP FARMERS IN KWAYA-KUSAR LOCAL GOVERNMENT AREA OF BORNO STATE, NIGERIA
Authors: Sulum, A. A.  , Aliyu, Y. M.  , Bwala, Y. I.  , Abbas, H. W.
Published: April 2023

This study assessed the roles of agricultural extension service in improving the livelihood of food crop farmers in Kwaya-Kusar local government Area of Bono State, Nigeria. Multi-stage random procedure was used to select 120 respondents from the study area.  Data collected and administered through the use of structured questionnaires were also analyzed using both descriptive and inferential statistics. The results revealed that many (43.3%) of the respondents were between the ages of 36-40 years. Furthermore, from the findings of multiple regression analysis, age, sex, marital status, annual net income, farm size, household size, educational level and extension per person were significant at P≤0.05 level, respectively, while farming experience and access to credit were significant at P≤0.01 level in that order. It was concluded that male dominated food crop production their by putting the female counterparts at the disadvantage side. The study therefore, recommended that the female respondents should be highly involved or encourage to participate actively in food crop production. Also, on poor government funding toward extension service delivery, government, policy makers and other non-governmental organizations (NGOs) should help the farmers by providing funds to boost their production capacity.