bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
DIALLEL ANALYSIS OF RESISTANCE TO FUSARIUM EAR ROT (Fusarium verticillioides) IN MAIZE (Zea mays L.)
Authors: Dzarma, D. J.  , Izge, A. U.  , Sabo, M. U.  , Buba, U. M.
Published: October 2024

The experiment was conducted during the dry season of 2018 at Lushi irrigation station Bauchi and was evaluated at Bauchi and Yola during the rainy season of 2019 to determine the diallel analysis of resistance to fusarium ear rot in maize. Six maize inbred lines resistant to the disease and a farmers’ variety (local variety) X- lawanti susceptible to fusarium ear rot were crossed. A nursery trial for the formation of an initial f1 breeding population using full diallel mating design was carried out at Lushi Irrigation Station Bauchi. Six parents and their resultant 36 F1 were evaluated in a Randomized Complete Block Design (RCBD) with three replications at Bauchi and Yola. The results of the study revealed a Significant difference among the genotypes studied. The combining ability analysis revealed significant difference in all the traits except number of leaves per plant, cob length, number of husks and silks per ear, DS 4%, DS 5% and hundred grain weight. The findings also indicated that both additive and non-additive gene actions in maize were important in controlling grain yield and other agronomic traits. For most traits genotypes SMLW 28X SMLW 183, SMLW 51 X LV and LV X SMLW 28 been identified as good general combiners while SMLW 28 X SMLW 20 AND SMLW 183 X LV was identified as good specific general combiners for kernel yield. Parents SMLW 51, SMLW 21, SMLW 58 and SMLW 183 were found to be resistant to fusarium ear rot across locations for all traits except number of leaves per plant, number of silks per ear DS 0%, DS2% and 100 grain weight.
COSTS AND RETURNS ANALYSIS OF POTATO PRODUCTION UNDER PLATEAU STATE POTATO VALUE CHAIN SUPPORT PROJECT (PS-PVCSP)
Authors: Kolo, A.  , Balere, Y.
Published: October 2024

The study analyzed costs and return of Irish potato production under Plateau State Potato Value Chain Support Project (PS-PVCSP). Multi-stage sampling technique was used to select 180 farmers across 17 local government areas. Descriptive statistics and gross margin were used for data analysis. The results show that male and female accounted for 57.78% and 42.22% of Irish potato production, respectively. The result indicated that 47.22% of Irish potato farmers were within age bracket of 36-45 years. The result revealed that majority (62.22%) of the farmers were married with a mean household size of 7 persons. The result also shows that 37.78% of Irish potato farmers had no formal education. The costs of production show that cost of seed accounted for 51.39% of the total variable costs. This was followed by labour, estimated at 26.09%. Meanwhile, the cost of pesticides appears to be the least, representing less than 0.53% of the total variable cost. Farm gate sales accounted for the largest share of revenue, put at 78.57%. In all, total returns stand at N 699,018.7, while gross margin stood at N 382,842.7. Producers were faced with the incidence of blight, particularly in the wet season, as reported by 22.78%, followed by inadequate capital (15%) and high cost of inputs (11.67%). However, access to micro-credit could have prospect in improving the productivity of farmers and contributing to uplifting the livelihoods of disadvantaged rural farming communities. It can be concluded that Irish potato production in Plateau State is a profitable venture. It was recommended that project should enhance productivities and incomes of Irish potato farmers through provision of inputs as well as infrastructure and institutional development that will enhance capacity building of project beneficiaries and linkages to services such as credit, insurance and market.
EFFECT OF FADAMA IIIAF ON INCOME LEVEL OF RURAL BENEFICIARIES IN NIGER STATE
Authors: Eloyi, S.  , Ali, A.
Published: October 2024

The study evaluates the effect of Fadama IIIAF on the income level of rural beneficiaries in Niger State, Nigeria. The methodology adopted include Net farm income and propensity score matching using beneficiaries. The finding of the study showed the net farm income (NFI) and return on naira investment the results showed that beneficiaries in the study area have more profit than non-beneficiaries with return to investment of N 15.3 for each N 1 invested. The propensity score matching reviewed that the Fadama IIIAF beneficiaries were more rewarded with mean income of N 694,266.7 as against N197,733.3 for non-beneficiaries. A test of balancing property was conducted and the results showed that the matching property was satisfied and all the matching shows that productivity was positive and highly significant at 1% for beneficiaries and also shows productivity increased by 6.478 for beneficiaries than non-beneficiaries. The study recommended that given the positive impact of the project on the beneficiaries’ similar interventions should be extended to communities that did not benefit from Fadama IIIAF project.
GENOTYPIC VARIABILITY AMONG MAIZE (Zea mays L.) GENOTYPES AND THEIR CROSSES UNDER MOISTURE STRESS IN PARTS OF BAUCHI AND PLATEAU STATES OF NIGERIA
Authors: Okafor, S. U.  , Izge, A. U.  , Buba, U. M.
Published: October 2024

This study was carried out to determine the performance of hybrids from early inbred lines under moisture/drought stress and comparing yield performance of the top cross with their parental open-pollinated varieties for grain yield and yield related traits using ten (five males and five females which are known to be drought tolerant) parents. Nursery trial for the formation of initial breeding population (F1) through a Line x Tester mating design was conducted in 2019 dry season at Lushi Irrigation Station, Bauchi. The ten parents and their resultant 25 F1 (hybrids) were evaluated in a randomized complete block design (RCBD) with three replications at Bauchi and Jos towards the end of 2019 rainy season. Significant differences were observed among the studied genotypes, indicating that these traits were affected by location. Significant differences were also observed in the combining ability analysis in all the traits under study. The result also revealed that both additive and non- additive gene action were important in controlling drought tolerant, grain yield and other agronomic traits in maize. The parents TZEI-17, SAMMAZ-37, SAMMAZ-38, SAMMAZ-39, SAMMAZ-40 and TZEI-129 have been identified as good general combiners for earliness, drought tolerance and yield per hectare. Therefore, they can be employed in breeding programs targeted at improving certain traits. TZEI-11 × SAMMAZ-39, TZEI-129 × SAMMAZ-40, × TZEI-129× SAMMAZ-38, TZEI-16 × SAMMAZ-37, TZEI-16 × SAMMAZ-52, TZEI-11 × SAMMAZ-52, TZEI-23 × SAMMAZ-40 and TZEI-17 × SAMMAZ-38 was also identified as good specific combiners for earliness, drought tolerance, kernel yield and better parent heterosis in Bauchi and Jos combined locations.
SOCIO-ECONOMIC FACTORS INFLUENCING MAIZE FARMERS’ AWARENESS ON CLIMATE CHANGE IN NORTHEAST NIGERIA
Authors: Mohammed, A. M.  , Muhammad, M. B.  , Garba, A.  , Sadiq, M. S.
Published: October 2024

The study examined the socio-economic factors influencing maize farmers’ awareness on climate change in Northeast, Nigeria. A multi-stage sampling procedure was employed in the selection of 337 respondents for this study. Descriptive and logit regression were used in analyzing the data. The results indicated that over one-third (37.09%) of the farmer’s fell within the age bracket of 41-50 years. Majority (87.80%) of the farmers were male and most (98.00%) of them were married. Further, the study showed that 44.5% of the farmers had between 7-10 household members and 14.8% of them had 11-13 household size with mean of 8 members. The result of awareness on climate change revealed that farmers were aware on the shortfall of rainfall (4.027) was ranked 1st while awareness on decrease in agricultural production (3.991) was rank 2nd. The estimated parameters of the binary Logit model show that level of education was found to positively influence awareness level of farmers at 5% significance level with coefficient of (β=0.5902). The marginal effect for education variable showed that one additional year in educational status of the household head increases the probability of 45% level of awareness of farmers on climate change issues The study recommend that government should provide good policy to improved extension service delivery and regular workshops, conferences, and international affiliations should be organize to provide updates on climate change issues as well as regular contacts with NiMet information in the study area.
ADOPTION OF IMPROVED CASSAVA (Manihot spp) PRODUCTION TECHNOLOGIES IN ISOKO NORTH AND SOUTH LOCAL GOVERNMENT AREAS OF DELTA STATE, NIGERIA
Authors: Owigho, O.  , Eromedoghene, E. O.  , Ovwigho, B. O.
Published: October 2024

The study examined the adoption of improved cassava production technologies in Isoko North and South Local Government Areas of Delta State, Nigeria. Simple random and snowball sampling techniques were used to select 297 cassava farmers. Data were collected using a structured interview schedule. Data were analyzed using frequency counts, percentages, mean, and multiple regression. Majority (61.60%) were females. The mean age of the farmers was 41.20 years. Majority of the cassava farmers completed their secondary school education. Majority (63.40%) of the farmers adopted planting date. The cassava farmers agreed that improved cassava cultivars have a higher yield than local cultivars ( = 2.88), they are disease resistant ( =2.50), improved cassava cultivars have more tuber yield per stand ( =2.73) and improved cassava cultivars mature very fast ( = 2.91). The constraints facing cassava farmers on the adoption of improved cassava technologies include inadequate access/unavailability of planting materials ( = 3.49), lack of agricultural inputs like fertilizers, herbicides, and pesticides ( =3.01) and irregular visits by extension agents ( = 3.14). There was a significant difference between the adoption of improved cassava technologies and education (t=2.793, p=0.006). The study concluded that most cassava farmers were middle age, meaning they could carry out manual farming. Adoption of improved cassava production technologies was low. Thus, there was a large difference between the technologies and adoption. It was recommended, among others, that the Delta Agricultural Development Project intensify efforts at making farmers adopt cassava production technologies.
SMALLHOLDER FARMERS’ ATTITUDE AND AWARENESS ON THE SYSTEM OF RICE INTENSIFICATION INNOVATION PRACTICES IN NORTH-WEST, NIGERIA
Authors: Abdulkarim, H. A.  , Muhammad, M. B.  , Aliyu, A.  , Bello, O. G.
Published: October 2024

The study examined the smallholder farmers’ awareness and attitude on the system of rice intensification innovation practices in North-west, Nigeria. Data were collected using structured questionnaire and interview schedule administered to randomly selected 315 rice farmers via a 3-stage sampling procedure. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics. Majority are males (91.7%), married (75.0%), with secondary education (66.7%) and no extension contact (91.7%). Average age of 32 years, farming experience of 11 years, monthly income of N30, 637.51k, farm size of 7.0 hectares and household size of 5 persons. The respondents have favorable attitude towards SRI innovation practices (=1.54±1.23). The categorization of attitude shows that majority (58.7%) were with favorable attitude. Greater proportion indicated low awareness level (65.3%) on SRI innovation practices (=2.37±1.54). There are several severe constraints to implementation of SRI practices with constraint index of =3.21±1.47. The study recommends that awareness campaign on SRI practices be instituted using different information dissemination methods. Periodic advisory services be provided to increase the attitude, understanding and awareness of the clienteles on the SRI components as well as boosting the adoption to strengthened food security.
OPTIMUM COMBINATION OF MULTPLE FARM ENTERPRIESES AMONG SMALLHOLDER FARMERS IN NIGER STATE, NIGERIA
Authors: Jacob, T. A.  , Tanko, L.  , Baba, M. K.  , Ajayi, O. J.
Published: October 2024

The study was conducted to determine the Optimum Combination of Multiple Farm Enterprises among Smallholder Farmers in Niger State, Nigeria. Multi-stage sampling technique was used to select respondents across the farm enterprises from the three agricultural zones of Niger State. Data were collected through interview schedule and structured questionnaire administered to 198 sampled farmers through a cost route approach, and analyzed using the linear programming model.  The model was applied to each enterprise combination. The study revealed that all enterprise combinations had increase in the returns of the optimum plan over that of the existing plan. To maximize gross margin, the model recommended cultivation of 0.41 ha of yam, 2.6 ha of melon/sorghum and 0.38 ha of melon and sorghum for the crop enterprise, while the crop/livestock/fishery enterprise had yam/cowpea (1.96ha) along with the production of 5.83 heads of livestock recommended. The crop/fishery farmers are to cultivate 0.33 ha of maize/cowpea, 1.17 ha of maize/melon and to produce 0.22 of 100 fishes to maximize gross margin.  The result further indicated labour and capital borrowed as the major factors of production limiting the attainment of profit maximization across the State.  The study therefore recommended that, farmers should adopt the prescribed optimum farm plan developed according to the respective enterprise combinations to enable them effectively use their available resources to increase productivity and income.
LENGTH-WEIGHT RELATIONSHIP AND CONDITION FACTOR OF MACROBRACHIUM FELICINUM AT AMASSOMA AND OTUAN AXIS OF IGBEDI CREEK, BAYELSA STATE, NIGERIA
Authors: Binaebi, E. D.  , Obomunu, B.  , Kainga, J. S.
Published: October 2024

The growth parameters of Macrobrachium felicinum at Amassoma and Otuan Axis of Igbedi Creek, Bayelsa State, Nigeria were investigated utilising Length-Weight Relationship and Condition factor of the species. The specimens were collected from fishers at the sampling stations and analysed. The largest specimen of M. felicinum in both stations recorded was 8.0cm. The average length and weight were 5.014±1.557 cm; weight 3.436±2.596 g and 5.108± 1.234 cm; 3.254±2.200 g in Amassoma and Otuan at Igbedi Creek. The results showed negative allometric: 2.372 and 2.518 at Amassoma and Otuan respectively. Fulton’s condition factor, K for M. felicinum was greater than one, 2.596 at Amassoma while 2.442 at Otuan. There was positive correlation coefficient between total length and weight 0.965 at Amassoma while 0.939 at Otuan. The species M. felicinum was caught in a single month of November, for a twelve-calendar month research. Therefore, this study recommends an in-depth study on the population status of the species at Igbedi Creek.
AN EXPLORATORY STUDY OF VALUE ADDITION INITIATIVES USED BY SWEET POTATO PROCESSORS IN KWARA STATE, NIGERIA
Authors: Ejiko, S. A.  , Adekunle, A. O.  , Akinola-Soji, B.  , Owojaiye, O. B.
Published: October 2024

The study assessed the value addition initiatives used by sweet potato processors. A structured interview schedule was used in data collection. A multi-stage sampling technique was used to select 130 respondents. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics and Pearson’s Product Moment Correlation. Results reveal that age, years of processing experience, household size and annual income were 30.38years, 5.8years, 4 persons and ₦118,876.94. Radio and family & friends were the most important source of information to processors while 52.3% and 56.9%. 90.8% of respondents had low knowledge on improved value addition initiatives. Furthermore, there was positive and significant correlation between knowledge level of sweet potato processors and their source of information (r =0.341, P<0.001). The major constraints were perishability of sweet potato, farmers’ low knowledge in sweet potato value chain, high cost of processing equipment, inadequate storage facilities and inadequate extension services. The study concluded that source of information, knowledge level and constraints influenced the processors practice of value addition to sweet potato. The study recommended the need for an aggressive promotion of value addition to sweet potato through trainings and workshops, organizing processors in groups association and linking them to reliable markets, provide more robust extension and agricultural support services to build the capacity of smallholder processors.
ASSESSMENT OF THE ADOPTION OF MILLET PRODUCTION TECHNOLOGIES IN YOBE STATE, NIGERIA
Authors: Idris, S. P.  , Idi, S.  , Bose, A. A.
Published: October 2024

The study assessed adoption of millet production technologies in Yobe State, Nigeria. Multiple sampling techniques was used in selecting the respondents, one hundred and seventy farmers were selected. Primary data was obtained using structured questionnaires and analyzed using both descriptive and inferential statistics. The results revealed that majority of the respondents were male, married and had attended certain levels of formal education. Also, the result revealed farmers had an average age of 42.2 years. The finding further shows an average of 17.2 years of farming experience, also with an average of 9.0 persons per households. The result also shows that the respondents had different sources of income and with an average of ₦284,500.3 per annum with an average farm size of 3.1ha. The result also shows that all the respondents had adopted various forms of technologies on millet production. The result also reveals that early maturity (78.8%), fertilizer application (68.2%), planting space (65.3%) among others were the reasons for adoption of the technologies. The finding further shows that socioeconomic factors had significant influence on adoption of millet production technologies were educational level has significant coefficient and influencing adoption of millet production at P<0.05, farm size and marital status had positive coefficient and significantly influencing adoption at P<0.001 and P<0.05, respectively. High cost of inputs (74.7%), labour (72.9%) and pest/diseases (71.8%) were the major constraints faced by the farmers in millet production. The study concluded that farmers had adopted different technologies and socioeconomic factors had significant influence on adoption of technologies among the farmers. Farmers should form associations and cooperatives to pull down resources and increases their access to inputs at subsidized rates, NGOs should provide inputs at subsidized rates to farmers in the study area.
IMPACT OF WOMEN IN AGRICULTURE (WIA) TRAINING ON WELFARE STATUS OF RURAL HOUSEHOLDS IN OYO STATE, NIGERIA
Authors: Ogunwande, I. O.  , Akomolafe, R. O.  , Ogundeji, R. O.
Published: October 2024

The study examined the impact of Women-in-Agriculture (WIA) training on welfare status of rural households’ welfare in Oyo State, Nigeria. A multistage sampling procedure was used in selecting 360 respondents disaggregated into 180 trained and 180 untrained women under the Agricultural Development Programme. Well-structured questionnaire was used to collect data. Descriptive Statistics (DS), Endogenous Switching Regression (ESR) and Likert Rating Scale (LRS) were used in analysis. The socioeconomic results for participants and non-participants in WIA training were age (58years and 25years), household size (8 members and 5 members) and income (N54,345.00 and N35,040.00) respectively and training on soya milk and cheese (98.6%) production was scored first among others. Log-likelihood (-542.772; p<0.01) and Wald chi2 (109.64; p<0.01) revealed the appropriateness of ESR model. Participation in WIA training was positively influenced by education (0.0392; p<0.05), household size (0.2278; p<0.05) and extension contact (0.7347; p<0.01) while education (0.0193; p<0.05), number of seasonal training (0.2245; p<0.01) and monthly income (0.1250; p<0.01) increased household’s welfare. Improvement in income of the respondents was scored highest (4.19) among the benefits highlighted. It is suggested that more trainings that are related to boosting the productive efforts of rural women be organized by the stakeholders in agriculture.
PERFORMANCE OF WATER MELON FARMERS IN YOBE STATE, NORTH EAST NIGERIA: A FARM BUDGET ANALYSIS
Authors: Umar, S. M.  , Galadima, M.  , Makama, S. A.  , Isah, M. A.
Published: October 2024

The study investigated the performance of water melon farmers in Yobe state, Nigeria. Using multistage sampling procedure, a total of 274 respondents were sampled from three major water melon producing LGAs during 2021/2022 cropping season. Data elicited from questionnaires and interviews were analyzed using farm budgeting techniques and regression analysis. The findings of the study revealed that, a total variable costs of N 163,700/ha and a profit of N 598,510/ha of water melon whose output was determined as 15,280 Kg/ha. Operating and gross ratios which measures financial success and financial position of the business were less than 1. The study further discovered that, age of the respondents, experience in water melon production, farm size, yield per ha, irrigation fee and price per kg of water melon were the significant variables influencing farmer’s profit. Major constraints hindering water melon in the state were inadequate formal and informal funding, reduction in yield due to insects/pest and lack of storage/preservation technology. The study therefore suggests adequate funding through cooperative farming and formal credit arrangements as this would create more opportunity for land expansion and technologically advanced water melon production in the study area.
STRATEGIES FOR AGRICULTURAL EXTENSION SERVICES DELIVERY DURING INSECURE SITUATIONS IN BENUE AND NASARAWA STATES, NIGERIA
Authors: Adzenga, J. I.  , Umar, I. S.  , Onyenkazi, H. A.
Published: October 2024

The study examined some strategies that can be employed for agricultural extension services delivery by field extension workers of Agricultural Development Programmes (ADPs) to farmers during insecure situations in Benue and Nasarawa States, Nigeria. A total of 121 extension personnel were selected through stratified sampling technique. Data were collected with structured questionnaire and analysed using descriptive statistics. The results on the socio-economic characteristics of extension field workers show that majority (75.21%) of the field extension workers were male, with an average mean age of 41.5 years. Most (88.43%) of the extension field workers were married and majority (62.81%) have attained HND as their highest educational qualification, with 14 years as the mean number of years of extension experience. The results also revealed that delivery of extension services to farmers in internally displaced persons camps (90.90 %) and secured zonal offices (38.01%) were identified as alternative strategies while radio programmes (85.95%) and mobile phones (51.23%) were the preferred ICT components for extension services delivery to farmers during insecure situations. The study concluded that extension services delivery to farmers in internally displaced persons camps and secured zonal offices were identified as the major strategies while radio programmes and mobile phones were the preferred ICT components for extension services delivery to farmers in insecure areas. The study recommends the institutionalization of agricultural extension services by extension agencies in IDPs camps in the county like every other essential service so as to facilitate access to knowledge and productive resources that will increase their productivity and wellbeing upon return to their communities when peace is restored.
QUALITY CHARACTERISTICS OF RETAIL FRIED CHICKEN OBTAINED FROM SOME FAST FOOD BRANDS IN IBADAN, NIGERIA
Authors: Adediran, O. A.  , Olagunju, P.
Published: October 2024

A total of twelve (12) samples of retail fried chicken products were obtained from three (3) well recognized and patronised fast foods brands within, Ibadan, Southwest Nigeria. Fried chicken samples were collected from the retail outlets of the three brands on a weekly basis for four consecutive weeks. Quality characteristics of the collected fried chicken samples were evaluated on a weekly basis. Proximate composition, Microbial load, Trans fat and Sensory analysis were all evaluated using standard procedures. The proximate composition of the fried chicken samples showed that moisture content ranged from 45.64%-60.21%, the crude protein 24.63%-38.52%, crude fat ranged from 15.33%-29.68%, and Ash 6.8%-15.38. Bacteria count ranged from 3.85 x 104 CFU/g to 1.21x104 CFU/g, while trans fat content of all the samples ranged from 0.100%-0.162%. All the brands had E. coli and other foodborne pathogens that can cause food poisoning. Trans fat content of all the brands was within acceptable limits. The study concluded that, there is presence of microbial contaminants in all the brand sample except Brand 2 that had considerable amount of bacterial count or acceptable for consumption. However, the presence of microorganisms in fried chicken portrays a state of poor hygiene and sanitary practices among fast food sellers. The study recommends public awareness programs for fast food vendors on quality and safety practices. Training programs may also lead to an improvement in hygienic practices and implementing a hazard analysis system in street vended and restaurant premises to safeguard public health.
GENDER AND RESOURCE USE EFFICIENCY AMONG COCOYAM BASED FARMERS IN ABIA STATE, NIGERIA
Authors: Kalu, U. E.
Published: October 2024

The study focused on gender and resource use efficiency among cocoyam-based farmers in Abia State, Nigeria. A multistage sampling technique was used to select 180 respondents, consisting of 80 male and 80 female farmers, for the study. Data were collected using questionnaire. Data analysis was performed using descriptive statistical methods (such as mean, percentages, and frequencies), the Z-test, and Cobb-Douglas function analysis. The result showed that on average, a typical male farmer in the study area is 49 years of age with 8 years of education, a household size of about 7 people, and a monthly income of ₦117,418. Also, a typical female farmer was 51 years old, with 11 years of education, a household size of about 7 people, and a monthly income of ₦111,588. The result of the mean output of male and female cocoyam-based farmers in the study area shows that there is a significant positive difference (P<0.05) in the mean output of male and female cocoyam farmers. The result of the Cobb-Douglas Production function showed that the coefficients for quantity of fertilizer used was positive for female farmers and significant at P<0.01. The result showed that the coefficients of capital input, family labor, farm size, and cocoyam setts planted were positive and significant at P<0.05 and P<0.01, respectively. The R 2 values of 0.7487 and 0.8921 for male and female farmers imply that 74.87% and 89.21% of the variation in the dependent variables, respectively, was explained by the respective independent variables included in the model. The result also showed that cocoyam farmers use cutlasses, shovels, and wheelbarrows more efficiently than male farmers. The study concluded that there are differences in the mean output and resource use of male and female cocoyam farmers, as well as in the study area. The male cocoyam farmers in the study area had greater outputs than the females. Based on the findings, it was recommended that resource efficiency be improved through the provision of training and orientation to male and female farmers.
EFFICIENCY ANALYSIS OF FRESH TOMATO MARKETING IN YOLA NORTH LOCAL GOVERNMENT AREA OF ADAMAWA STATE, NIGERIA
Authors: Cosmas, W.  , Hassan, B. K.  , Zubairu, B. M.
Published: October 2024

The study was conducted to analyze the marketing efficiency of fresh tomato in Yola North Local Government Areas of Adamawa State. Purposive and random sampling techniques were employed to select 125 fresh tomato marketers from Jimeta modern market, Old market and Yola by-pass market. Data was collected between January and March 2021, which was analyzed using descriptive statistic, marketing efficiency model and multiple regressions analysis. The study showed that majority (84.21%) and 59.77% of the wholesalers and retailers respectably were male. The young and middle aged traders constituted 92.11% and 100% for wholesaler and retailers respectively, while 65.79% and 72.42% of wholesaler and retailers respectively have no formal education, with 76.32% of wholesalers having marketing experience above 10years, and 70.14% of retailers having between 5-10years.The result for marketing efficiency analyses per week gave 36.83% and 21.04% for wholesalers and retailers respectively, indicating inefficiency in the marketing system. Marketing experience, initial capital, transport cost, tax and cost of loading/offloading were the determinants of marketing efficiency. It was recommended that vegetable marketers should join a cooperative/vegetable marketing association so as to easily access financial support.
NUTRIENT USE EFFICIENCY OF SOYBEAN AS AFFECTED BY PHOSPHORUS FERTILIZATION IN THE SOUTHERN GUINEA SAVANNA OF NIGERIA
Authors: Muhammad, A. Y.  , Adeboye, M. K. A.  , Ezekiel-Adewoyin, D. T.
Published: October 2024

The study was carried out at Teaching and Research Farm of the Federal University of Technology Minna to determine the effect of Phosphorous fertilization on the agronomic nutrient use efficiency (ANE) and partial factor of productivity (PFP) of P in soybean production. The treatments consisted of five P rates (0, 15, 30, 45, and 60 kg ha-1), these were factorially arranged and laid out in a randomized complete block design (RCBD) with three replicates. Physicochemical properties of soil of the experimental site was assessed using a standard procedure described by IOAC. The result of soil analysis revealed that, soil of the study site was dominated by sand with slightly acidic reaction. The result further showed that, soil organic carbon was low while available P was moderate. There was response to P with the highest grain yield of 857 kg ha-1 obtained from soybean fertilized with 45 kg P-1. The efficiency of applied nutrients in increasing grain or biomass yield (ANE) and increase in yield pertaining to an increase in only a single specific nutrient applied (PFP) were significantly affected by P fertilization and their values were significantly reduced as the P rate increased. Application of 15 kg P ha-1 had the highest ANE and PFP values of 9 kg grain kg P-1 and 42 kg grain kg P-1respectively. Phosphorus fertilizer may be applied at rate of 15 kg ha-1 for economic and profitable yields and for efficient use of P to minimize environmental pollution by P. In conclusion, Phosphorus was more efficiently used by soybean at lower rate compared to a higher rate as indicated by ANE and PFP.  The study recommends Lower rate of P should be applied for higher P use efficiency. Phosphorus fertilizer should be applied at the rate of 15 kg ha-1 for economic and profitable yields of soybean.
EFFECTS OF INTEGRATED NUTRIENT AND WEED MANAGEMENT ON WEED DYNAMICS AND MAIZE PERFORMANCE IN MINNA, SOUTHERN GUINEA SAVANNA OF NIGERIA
Authors: Thomas, D. M.  , Adeboye, M. K. A.  , Mamudu, A. Y.
Published: October 2024

A field trial was conducted during the rainy season of 2023 at Minna, southern guinea savanna of Nigeria to determine the effects of inorganic NPK fertilizer and poultry manure as nutrient sources, and control of weeds using manual (hoe) weeding and chemical methods on weed dynamics and performance of maize. The treatments consisted of four nutrient sources (control, NPK fertilizer at the rate of 90-30-30 kg ha-1; poultry manure (PM) at 10 Mg ha-1; NPK fertilizer at the rate of 45-15-15 kg ha-1 combined with PM at 5 Mg ha-1) and four weed management (control; pre-emergence herbicide at planting and  post-emergence herbicide at 5 weeks after sowing (WAS); two hoe-weeding at 2 and 5 WAS; pre-emergence herbicide at planting and one hoe-weeding at 5 WAS). These were factorially combined and laid out in a randomized complete block design (RCBD) with three replications. Data collected were subjected to analysis of variance and means were separated using Student Newman Keuls (SNK). The results showed that integration of inorganic NPK fertilizer with manure and control of weeds using pre-emergence herbicide and one hoe-weeding at 5 WAS gave significant reduction in weed density and significantly higher weed control efficiency compared to control. The integration of inorganic NPK fertilizer with manure, and control of weeds using pre-emergence herbicide and one hoe-weeding at 5 WAS had significantly higher yield and yield attributes than control. The integration of inorganic fertilizer with manure and control of weeds using pre-emergence herbicide combined with one hoe-weeding at 5 WAS seems to enhance maize production and is recommended for farmers in the study area.
EFFECT OF COVID-19 PANDEMIC ON SELECTED CROP FARMERS IN TARABA STATE, NIGERIA
Authors: Kolo, A.  , Isyaku, A.  , Mudathir, A.  , Idi, S.
Published: October 2024

The study evaluates the effect of COVID-19 pandemic on selected crop farmers in Taraba State, Nigeria. Multi-stage sampling technique was employed to select 300 households from 36 districts/wards across the selected six (6) LGAs of Taraba State. The analytical tools used for the study includes descriptive statistical tools (percentages, mean, maximum and minimum,) and inferential statistics (Z tests and farm budgeting technique). The result shows that majority (66.3% and 78.3%) of the respondents were male and married respectively. Only 29.3% of the farmers had secondary education and 29.0% had primary education. The farmer’s level of education may likely upscale the farmer’s access to information on awareness of Covid-19 preventive measures. However, a mean of 46 years and 18 years were reported for farmer’s age and farming experience, respectively. Average household size of respondent was put at 9. The results show that 45.3% of the respondents had their sources of information about coronavirus from mass media (television, newspapers, radio and GSM calls from friends and relatives). It was disclosed that 64% of the respondents said Covid-19 pandemic brought about hike in prices of food items and 22% said coronavirus led to scarcity of food items in local market. The result further shows that there was significant difference (p<0.05) in the yield of crops produce (Maize, Rice, Yam and Groundnut). The reduction in yield of crop may attributed to restrictions in movements and social distancing. The cost and return analysis show that total variable cost of production per hecter of Maize (N105,169.80k), Rice (N109,626.94k), Yam (N73,190.48k)  and Groundnut (N105,750.67k) has slightly increased and farmers recorded lower margin. It can be concluded that the major source of information about of COVID-19 pandemic was mass media and the effect of COVID-19 pandemic has reduced yield of major crop produce (Maize, Rice, Yam and Groundnut). The study recommends short-term and long-term economic recovery package for farmers, include cash and food grants for immediate support for economic recovery during period of COVID-19 Pandemic.
ASSESSMENT OF POVERTY STATUS OF FISH MARKETERS IN TARABA STATE, NIGERIA
Authors: Ali, A.  , Dzever, D. D.  , Olagunju, I. O.
Published: October 2024

The study assesses the poverty status of fresh fish marketers in Taraba State, Nigeria. A sample size of 115 fresh fish marketers were selected using the Yamane formula. A Structured questionnaire was used for data collection. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics and the Foster Greer Thobecke model (FGT). The result showed that 86.45% of the fresh fish marketers were female. The mean age of fresh fish marketers was found to be 40.21 years. The mean years spent in formal education among fresh fish marketers was eight years. The average income of fresh fish marketers for 12 months was N281,517.14 while the poverty line was N189,620. The FGT poverty measure showed that 25.20% of the fresh fish marketers were living below the poverty line. The poverty depth was 22.6% while poverty severity was 9.2%. the study concluded that fresh fish marketers were poor and were living below the poverty line. there Therefore, it is recommended that adequate capital and other marketing incentives be provided for fresh fish marketers in order to reduce marketing cost and improve their poverty status.
COSTS AND RETURNS ANALYSIS OF MAIZE AND RICE PRODUCTION IN NIGER STATE
Authors: Eloyi, S.  , Ali, A.
Published: October 2024

This study examined the costs and returns of maize and rice in Niger State, Nigeria. The Population of the study comprises of all maize and rice farmers in the study area. A Multistage stratified random sampling technique was used in selecting 200. Data were collected using questionnaire and analysed using farm budget technique. Findings showed that maize and rice (combined) rice, maize incurred a total cost of N 20,439.08 per ha, N 24,446.81 per ha and N 17,681.51, respectively. Gross margin of N 33,446.65 and N 35,778.79 was recorded under maize and enterprise. It also shows the result of net farm income (NFI) and return on naira invested (ROI) per hectare for maize and rice farmers respectively. The result shows that rice farming in the study area is profitable and it also shows that maize and rice as a combined enterprise is profitable with return of investment of N1.58. Policy implication drawn from the results includes design policies to ensure that farmers’ have good access to fertilizers and seed.
INVESTIGATING THE FACTORS AFFECTING THE CAMEROONIAN AGRICULTURAL EXPORT
Authors: Samka, F. K.  , Abdullahi, N. M.  , Bah, A. S.
Published: October 2024

The study aimed at investigating the factors affecting the Cameroonian agricultural export such as GDP, population, cereal production, and arable land. Time series data from 1980 to 2021 was used. The data was collected from the Food and Agricultural Organization and the World Development Indicators. The autoregressive distribution lag model (ARDL) was used to test the relationship between the given variables. Results show that variables were stationary at the level of the first difference. The bound testing results also indicated that there is co-integration between the agricultural exports and other possible variables. The results from the ARDL model indicated that an increase in cereal production of 1% will lead to an increase in agricultural exports of 1.83% in the long run. Surprisingly, arable land reduces agricultural exports by 11.49% in the long run. In the short run, population and arable land enhance agrarian exports. The Granger causality test estimation, on its part, proved the evidence of unidirectional causality running from GDP and population towards agricultural exports. Policymakers should implement policies to increase cereal production and optimize the use of arable land to boost Cameroonian agricultural exports.
ASSESSMENT OF IMPROVED METHODS OF SHEA-NUT COLLECTION AMONG SHEA-NUT PICKERS IN NIGER STATE
Authors: Ndagi, I.  , Lawal, A. F.  , Paiko, M. A.  , Baba, K. C.
Published: October 2024

The study examine the assessment of improved methods of Shea-Nut collection among Shea-Nut pickers in Niger State. Data were collected with the aid of well-structured questionnaire and focus group discussions, analyzed using descriptive statistics such as frequency distribution, mean and standard deviation. A multi- stage sampling technique was used to select a total of the 200 respondents for the study. The result revealed that the 41.50% of the respondents were within age bracket of 31-40 years. However, 92.5% of the sampled respondents were married with non-formal education. In addition, 53.50% of the respondents earn N50,000.00 as income. Majority (89.00%) of the respondents collect the shear-nut in an opened field. From the estimate of the regression, educational level was significant factor (p<0.05) in determining shea nut collection method. The study concluded that, Shea nut collectors are mainly women, aged and married, with non-formal education. The choice of collection techniques are influenced by occupation and the educational status of the respondents. It is recommended that stakeholders in Shea-nut industry should interact with Nigerian Institute for Oil palm Research (NIFOR) that has the national mandate on Shea tree research and development to produce sufficient quantity of hybrid/improved Shea tree seedling varieties for modern plantation establishments.
EFFECT OF AGRICULTURAL EDUCATION PROGRAMS ON SUSTAINABLE FARMING PRACTICES AMONG AGRICULTURAL SCIENCE TEACHERS IN SELECTED PUBLIC NIGERIA
Authors: Ibironke E. A.  , Abdul K. O.  , Kelani, M. O.  , Bamgbowu, S. A.
Published: October 2024

The study examined agricultural Education for sustainable farming practices among Students in Ojo Local Government Area, Lagos Nigeria. Data were collected from 100 randomly selected agricultural science teachers from 20 public secondary schools through self-administered questionnaires. Structured questionnaires were utilized for data collection, with the reliability of the instruments confirmed by Cronbach Alpha coefficients of 0.754 and 0.864. Among the 100 respondents, comprising 31 male and 69 female, the findings revealed that 35.7% of are fully involved in sustainable farming practices, while 26% frequently involve students in such practices. Regarding the barriers and challenges faced by educators, 22.3% reported a lack of access to up-to-date technological agricultural practices and field equipment, while 34.5% engage their students in sustainable agricultural practices. The study also found a significant difference at P < 0.05 in the effectiveness of agricultural practices in promoting sustainable farming practices. Sustainable farming practices are not attainable without the involvement of Agricultural science education. Agricultural science education plays a crucial role in promoting sustainable farming practices by providing farmers with the knowledge, skills, and resources necessary to implement environmentally-friendly and economically viable farming techniques. The Study concludes that agricultural science education is an effective educational tool that promotes sustainable farming practices in Lagos Nigeria. These findings contribute to the body of knowledge on agricultural education and sustainability, providing insights for policymakers, educators, and development practitioners aiming to enhance agricultural sustainability in developing countries.
ECONOMIC ANALYSIS OF SUGARCANE PRODUCTION IN MAKARFI LOCAL GOVERNMENT AREA, KADUNA STATE, NIGERIA
Authors: Makama, S. A.  , Yusuf, H. G.  , Ibrahim, A. L.  , Abubakar, A. D.
Published: October 2024

The research assessed sugarcane production in Makarfi Local Government Area of Kaduna State, Nigeria. Multi-stage sampling procedure was used to select 100 sugarcane farmers for the study. Data were collected with the aid of a questionnaire and analyzed using descriptive statistics, gross margin, and regression analysis. The results revealed that the mean age of the sugarcane farmers was 39 years and majority (94%) of the farmers were married. However, 38% and 48% of the farmers had secondary and tertiary education respectively with an average of 6 years farming experience. The average household size of farmers was 9 persons. The total variable cost (TVC) was estimated to be N239,479.00. The gross margin was found to be N970,521.00/ha. Institutional support for sugarcane production was generally low. Major constraints associated with sugarcane production were inadequate capital and credit, pests and diseases, unavailability of fertilizer at affordable prices, unimproved varieties, and lack of standardized means of measurement. Based on the above findings, this research concluded that sugarcane production in the study area was profitable. It was recommended that the Government should provide adequate support in the form of subsidized inputs for sugarcane production to expand the profitability margin.
DROUGHT STRESS TOLERANCE OF GREEN MAIZE (Zea mays L.) VARIETIES AS INFLUENCED BY SEED PRIMING AGENTS, DURATION AND CONCENTRATION
Authors: Radda, N. B.  , Manga, A. A.  , Adnan, A. A.  , Shittu, E. A.
Published: October 2024

Two experiments (screen house and open field) were conducted at the Research and Teaching Farm of the Department of Agronomy, Bayero University, Kano, Nigeria (Lat 11°58’N, Long 8°25'E, and altitude of 475 m asl) during the 2019 dry season. The open field trials were undertaken between March and May 2019, while the screen house trial was carried out between August and November 2019. The treatments consisted of two varieties (SAMMAZ 15 and SAMMAZ 17), five priming materials (cow dung, poultry dropping, CaCl, KCl, and distilled water), five priming durations (2, 4, 6, 8, and 10 hrs), and two concentration levels (2 and 4%), all fractionally combined to give 100 treatments. The design used was a fractional factorial design in 60 incomplete blocks. The treatments were assigned to the blocks using the design of the experiment platform of JMP version 14 software (SAS Institute Inc..) according to the D-optimality criterion for an ANOVA model that has the main effects of priming agents, priming duration, and priming concentration, including all their 2nd order interactions and a random effect of three replications. The findings from the study show that seed priming, regardless of the priming agent, duration, or concentration used, did not generally have a significant impact on most measured parameters in either open field or screen house environments. However, the positive impact of 2% KCl priming on cob yield in the open field suggests it might be a beneficial strategy for mitigating the adverse effects of drought. In general, on-farm seed priming of maize seeds with KCL can enhance the growth and yield characteristics of the plant while assisting the seedling to withstand drought at the lowest feasible cost.
PROXIMATE COMPOSITION AND MICROBIOLOGICAL QUALITY OF FIVE COMMERCIAL BROILER SUPER STARTER FEEDS SOLD IN JOS NORTH LGA OF PLATEAU STATE
Authors: Idachaba, C. U.  , Abdullahi, I.  , Agada, A. I.  , Kurdor, P.N.
Published: October 2024

The study was conducted to determine the proximate composition and microbiological quality of five selected broiler super starter feeds in Jos North LGA of Plateau State. Five commercial broiler super starter feeds were purchased and designated as samples A, B, C, D and E. A batch of 300g of each feed sample was aseptically collected in plastic bags and analyzed for the proximate composition at the Chemistry Laboratory, Faculty of Natural Sciences, University of Jos. The feed samples were also assayed for microbial contamination (bacteria and fungi) at the Department of Microbiology, Faculty of Natural Sciences, University of Jos. The result of the analysis revealed that percentage crude protein of feed A was highest at 22.49% while feed D had the least crude protein of 18.13%. The metabolizable energy of feeds A, B, C and E were higher than 3000kcal/kg. Feed D was found to fall within the range of 2860-3000kcal/kg recommended for broiler starter chicks. The total plate count ranged from 0.88 to 1.28×105CFU/g, coliform counts ranged between 1.40 to 3.20×104CFU/g, and fungal counts 0.08 to 2.90×105CFU/g. The high coliform count indicated that more attention is needed to improve feed storage practices, warehouse conditions, handling of products and duration of feed storage. The presence of pathogenic microorganisms in poultry feeds is indicative of the level of contamination which could possibly limit growth performance in chickens. Based on the results of this study, it can be concluded that, advocacy for periodic examination of feed nutritional quality and safety to prevent cross contamination of poultry products should be adhered to for profitable poultry production in and around the study area.