bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
DETERMINANTS OF BORROWING DECISION AND TRANSACTION COSTS OF ARABLE CROP FARMERS IN ABIA STATE
Authors: Kalu, U. E.  , Obioma, I. E.
Published: October 2024

The study examined determinants of borrowing decision and transaction costs of arable crop farmers in Abia State. A multi-stage sampling technique was used to select 120 arable crop farmers in the study area. Data were analysed using descriptive statistics (means and percentages) and inferential statistics (gross margin analysis, transaction cost measure and regression analysis). The cost and return analysis show that purchase price was the most important cost variable in the arable crop farming business. On average, an arable crop farmer realized a gross margin of ₦200,674,000. Furthermore, application fee, contracted amount, interest rate charge, paper works, office (legality) costs, collateral costs, amount of loan applied, distance to lending institutions, transportation cost and loan period were the transaction cost characteristics that affects borrowing decision of arable crop farmers in the study area. The result of the regression analysis reveals Pseudo R2 of 0.1902, meaning that 19.02% of variations in borrowing decision and transaction costs of arable crop farmers in Abia State was explained by the independent variables included in the model. The constraints of arable crop production in the study area were poor of storage facility ( = 2.52), poor demand of products ( = 3.76), unfavourable government policy ( = 3.43), lack of collateral ( = 3.01), inadequate labor inputs ( = 2.98), lack of credit facilities ( = 3.10), delayed loan acquisition period ( = 3.11) and complex documentation processes ( = 2.83). It can be concluded that arable crop farming business in the study area was profitable and generated a good revenue. Based on the findings it was recommended that extension services should be made available to farmers in the study area in order to increase the awareness of various credit sources and arouse the interest of farmers in the area in the use of credit. Credit institutions should be located near the farmers to reduce transaction costs and policies should also be targeted to reduce interest rate for farmers.
EFFECT OF MACROECONOMIC VARIABLES ON ECONOMIC GROWTH IN NIGERIA: 1990-2024
Authors: Madaki, L. J.
Published: October 2024

The study investigated the effect of macroeconomic variables on economic growth in Nigeria covering 1990-2024. Expost-facto research design was adopted for the study. To achieve this, the researcher employed secondary data on included variables to carry out the analysis. The data were collected from the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) and National Bureau of Statistics (NBS). Auto regression Distribution lag (ARDL) model adopted with modification for the study. The data were subjected to diagnostic test which include Unit root test and Cointegration test before estimating the model. The findings of the study showed that the coefficient of Foreign Exchange Rate (FER) was statistically significant at 5% level, while Interest Rate (IR), Inflation Rate (INF) and Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) were no statistically significant at 5% level. It was concluded from the result analysis that Foreign Exchange Rate (FER) has positive and strong influence on economic growth, Interest Rate (IR) and Inflation Rate (INF) has a positive and weak influence on economic growth, while Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) has a negative and weak influence on economic growth in Nigeria during the period under review. The study recommended that Nigeria government and other policy maker/ key players should ensure to have sound macroeconomic policies that would formulates good policies towards growth. And that the environment should be conducive for domestic investors and companies towards indigenous productivity which will facilitate export economy and discourages import economy. This, by implication, would contribute immensely to economic growth in Nigeria.
CONSTRAINTS TO EFFECTIVE PARTICIPATION IN SMALL SCALE DRY SEASON RICE PRODUCTION BY RURAL FARMERS OF GOMBE STATE NIGERIA
Authors: Saleh, A.  , Ochi, J. E.  , Sani, M. H.  , Sulaiman, A.
Published: October 2024

The study examined the constraints to effective participation in small-scale dry season rice production by rural farmers of Gombe State Nigeria. A multi-stage sampling techniques were used to select 357 respondents from eighteen villages for their popularity in the dry season rice production. Data were collected from primary sources using structured questionnaires supported with oral interview and then subjected to descriptive statistics such as the; frequency distribution, tables, mean percentage and Garrett’s ranking technique for analysis. The results revealed a wide range of production constraints, and thus, out of the fifteen identified major constraints to dry season rice farming in Gombe State, the inadequate capital and credit sources were the most critical issue, ranked the first having 86 Garrett’s mean score with 3.33% position. Moreover, rice farmers have identified other constraints affecting dry season rice farming in the following Garrett’s rank order as; high costs of input resources (2nd) with 10.0% position; inadequate extension contact (3rd) with 16.67% position; crop pest and diseases (4th) with 23.33%; land fragmentation (5th) having 30.0% position; inadequate farm machinery (6th) with 36.67% position; inadequate improved seeds/planting materials (7th) with 43.33% position;, hike in transportation costs (8th) having 50.0% position. Moreover, the poor processing/storage facilities (56.67%), low market prices of paddy rice (63.33%), high cost of hired labour (70.0%), depletion of soil fertility (76.67%), incessant security challenges (83.33%), Natural disaster/climate change (90.0%), and as well as inadequate irrigation water (96.67%) were among the constraints to effective participation in the dry season rice production in the study area. This implies that, small-scale dry season rice farmers are faced with multidimensional problems. The study therefore, recommends holistic approach involving government and non-governmental agencies should be employed to tackle the identified challenges so as to improve productivity and general well-being of the farmers.
DETERMINANTS OF LIVELIHOOD DIVERSIFICATION AMONG FARMING HOUSEHOLDS IN NIGERIA
Authors: Chinalurum, C. A.  , Ojoko, E. A.  , Junaidu, M.
Published: October 2024

The study examined the determinants of livelihood diversification among farming households in Nigeria. Secondary data from the generalized household survey (GHS) 2018/2019 wave 4 was used in for study. The GHS survey used a two-stage stratified sample selection process to generate its data. Descriptive statistics, Herfindahl index, and Tobit regression model were used for data analysis. The result shows that majority (88.49%) of the farming households were headed by male, who were married (86.42%) with a mean household size of 9 persons, mean age of 51 years and mean farm size of 1.2 hectares. About 65.31% of these households had one form of educational attainment or the other and 9.32% belonged to cooperatives, while only 18.07% had access to credit. Majority (98.09%) of the farming households engaged in livelihood activities outside agriculture with a Herfindahl index of 0.36. The Tobit regression result also showed that age, sex, marital status, tertiary level of education, household size, income, and the location of a household were factors that significantly affected the ability of the households to diversify their livelihood activities. In conclusion, the study established that farmers in the research area engaged in livelihood diversification in order to improve their household welfare and therefore recommended that agricultural activities be improved through the provision of new technologies, irrigation and credit facilities. This will bring about increased incomes for the farming households. Thereby, encouraging the farmers to engage more into agricultural activities other than non-farm activities
ECONOMICS OF CHILLI PEPPER PRODUCTION IN JERE LOCAL GOVERNMENT AREA, BORNO STATE, NIGERIA
Authors: Tahir, A. D.  , Saleh, R. A.  , Muhammad, M. U.
Published: October 2024

The study analyzed the economics of chilli pepper production in Jere Local Government Area of Borno State. One hundred and fifty-four Chilli pepper farmers were selected randomly and interviewed for the study using a structured questionnaire. The data collected were analyzed using descriptive statistics, gross margin and multiple regression analysis. The results show that majority (70%) of the respondents were within the age bracket of between 26-40 years with majority (86%) being male and married. The result also show that 52% had primary education, 36 % had secondary education while only 2% had tertiary education with majority (68%) of the respondents having a household size of between 5-15 people per household. The result further revealed that majority (60%) of the respondents makes use of their personal savings, while 4% had access to credits. The result on profitability analysis revealed the total revenue per hectare, gross margin and the return on naira invested of the Chilli farmers in the study area as ₦404,000, ₦293,020.00 and ₦3.64 respectively. Furthermore, labour cost account about 30.2% of the total variable cost, followed by the cost of harvesting operation covering about 18.7% and cost of fertilizer 16.8%, the remaining variable cost account for the remaining 34.3% The result of the regression analysis revealed that quantity of seed, quantity of fertilizer use, labour in man-days and quantity of pesticide were the significant factors determining the production of chili pepper. The study concluded that Chilli production is profitable business in the study area going the level of return per Naira invested. Weeds, pests, high cost of transportation and inadequate storage facilities were the major problems encountered by the Chilli Pepper farmers. The study therefore recommend that government and NGOs should come up with policy that will address issues affecting the production by providing good storage facilities.
ASSESSMENT OF LIVELIHOOD DIVERSIFICATION ACTIVITIES AMONG WOMEN CROP FARMERS IN GOMBE STATE, NIGERIA
Authors: Tata, L. A.  , Abu, I. A.  , Garba, A.  , Abdullahi, S.
Published: October 2024

The study examined the livelihood diversification activities among women crop farmers in Gombe State, Nigeria. A multi-stage sampling procedure was used in selecting 416 respondents. Data were collected using structured questionnaire and analyzed using descriptive statistics. The result revealed that mean age of the respondents was 34 years. Majority (76.2%) of the respondents were married with a mean household size of 4 persons. The result also showed that 44.2% of the respondents had secondary education while more than half (56.3%) had a mean farm size of 1.6ha. Majority (77.4%) of the respondents moderately diversified their livelihoods. Fashion designing (2.40), sales of provision (2.37), water, vegetables and bakery (2.39) were recorded to be the major types of livelihood diversification as indicated by mean values. The study concluded that women crop farmers in the study area moderately diversified their livelihood activities. In view of that the study recommended that, women crop farmers should be properly empowered by stakeholders, private and non-governmental organizations on ways to increase income and exposure to more diversification opportunities.
ASSESSING THE FACTORS INFLUENCING COMPETENCIES OF AGRICULTURAL EXTENSION PERSONNEL IN KANO STATE, NIGERIA
Authors: Umar, S.  , Kofarmata, M. U.  , Abdullahi, A. G.
Published: October 2024

The study analysed the level of competencies and factors influencing the competencies possessed by extension staff in Kano State. First, three LGAs were randomly selected from each of the three zones of the state. Then, primary data were collected from all the extension staff in the selected LGAs using a structured questionnaire and analysed using descriptive statistics and ordered logit regression model. The result showed that majority (93.4%) of the respondents were found to be male, 55.9% were between the ages of 18 – 40 years, 84.8% were married, and majority (67.2%) were found to have had 1-5 household members. The result also showed that all the respondents attended formal educational institutions. The main occupation of the most (90.6%) of the respondents is extension services, whereas 87.1% were earning income of N30,000 – N50,000 monthly. Areas in which the extension agents showed high levels of competencies include farm management (M = 3.16), identifying major pests (M = 3.41), weed identification and control (M = 3.55), and fertilizer application (M = 3.41). The result showed that age (β = 0.0824169, P-value = 0.005), education (β = 2.978308, P-value = 0.000) and distance to farm (β = -.0415872, P-value = 0.002) were significant at influencing the competencies of extension agents. Inadequate transport facilities such as vans, motorcycles and bicycles were identified by the majority (78.1%) as the major constraint. It is concluded that a good remuneration is one of the major indicators that attract competency delivery among extension agents. It is recommended that more programmes such as the Sasakawa Africa Fund for Extension Education (SAFE) that collaborate with higher institutions to provide more capacities and opportunities should be encouraged.
DRY MATTER PARTITIONING AND SEED WEIGHT OF CASTOR (Ricinus communis L.) AS INFLUENCED BY VARIETY, NUTRIENT SOURCES AND AGRO-ECOLOGY IN BAUCHI STATE, NIGERIA
Authors: Shuaibu, Y. M.
Published: October 2024

The research was carried out at Abubakar Tafawa Balewa University teaching and research farm, Bauchi located in the Northern Guinea Savannah and Bulkachuwa village of Katagum LGA located in Sudan Savannah both in Bauchi state, during the wet seasons of 2016, 2017 and 2018 to study the dry matter partitioning and seed weight of castor (Ricinus communis L.) as influenced by variety, nutrient sources and agro-ecology. The treatments consisted of five nutrient sources (poultry manure, cow dung, chicken feather, municipal waste, mineral fertilizer) and a control and two varieties of castor (Ex-India 1 and 2), these were factorially combined to give 12 treatment and laid out in a randomized complete block design (RCBD) with three replications. The results of the experiment revealed a significant (P≤0.05) difference among the treatments used throughout the study period. The result further indicated that, application of poultry manure, chicken feather and mineral NPK fertilizer produced statistically (P≤0.05) similar results in most of the parameters observed but significantly (P≤0.05) better than cowdung and municipal waste. The control consistently had the lower values for the parameters measured. The results also showed that, variety Ex-India 2 proved to be superior over Ex-India 1 on all the characters observed. Study on location on the other hand, Bauchi was found to be better than Bulkachuwa location throughout the study period. In terms of study season however, crop grown in 2018 performed statistically (P≤0.05) better than those of 2016 and 2017 wet seasons on most of the characters studied. Based on the findings of this study, application of poultry manure or chicken feather at the rate of 2t/ha or mineral NPK fertilizer (at the rate of 100:50:50 kg/ha) to Ex-India 2 can be recommended for farmers in the study area.
ANALYSIS OF CONSUMERS BEHAVIOUR ON RICE CONSUMPTION IN BAUCHI STATE, NIGERIA
Authors: Akpan. K. R.  , Danwanka, H. A.  , Murtala, N.  , Hamidu, B.
Published: October 2024

The study analyzed the consumer’s behavior on rice consumption in Bauchi State, Nigeria. A multi stage sampling technique was used in selecting 450 respondents for the study. Data were collected using questionnaire and analyzed using descriptive and inferential statistics. The result shows that majority (81.3% and 85.1%) of the respondents were male and married. The result also showed that about 37.6% and 24.9% of the respondents had tertiary and secondary education. The result further shows the mean age, mean household size, mean annual household income, mean monthly quantity of rice purchased mean price of rice per mudu and mean monthly rice expenditure as 40 years, 9 persons per household, N370, 526, 19.74 and N779.38, 20,738 respectively. The result revealed that about 44.0% and 27.3% of the respondents consume rice on monthly and special occasions with majority (58.9%) of them having preferred white rice and stew as their best rice dishes. The result further showed that household size, educational level, occupation of the household head, marital status price of rice and household head income, were the significant (P<0.01, P<0.05 and P<0.10 respectively) factors determining rice consumption and expenditure in the study area. The result concluded that rice is a major staple food in every household in the study area, but it is not regularly consumed by most of the household in the study area because of the high cost. From the findings of the study, positive relationship between price and expenditure shows rice is no longer a luxury food but a necessity food which is now used to prepare different forms of dishes such as tuwo, kunu, masa, Dan wake and therefore serve as substitute for most cereal based food. It is therefore recommended that government should provide policies and programmes that will improve the production of rice in the study area and the country at large that will increase the supply of the commodity in the market, hence reducing its price.
ANALYSIS OF PRODUCTIVITY OF RICE FARMERS IN JERE LOCAL GOVERNMENT AREA, BORNO STATE, NIGERIA
Authors: Makinta, A. A.  , Mohammed, D.  , Baba-Wuro, F. A.
Published: October 2024

The study analysed the productivity of rice farmers in Jere Local Government Area, Borno State, Nigeria. Jere LGA was purposively selected due to concentration and availability of rice farmers. A simple random sampling technique was applied to select 50 respondents. Data were collected using structured questionnaire. The data collected were analysed using descriptive statistics and Total Factor Productivity (TFP) model. The findings revealed that the respondents were mostly male (88%) and within the age group of 20-49 years. The result show that majority of the rice farmers were married (58%) and 32 % of the rice farmers had secondary education. The total factor productivity model showed an output growth rate of 0.03%/ha. Major constraints affecting rice production in the area include: labour cost; lack of credit facilities; pest and diseases; and market accessibility. The study concluded that rice production in the study area is productive with a TFP growth rate of 0.03%/ha. The study therefore, recommends that Governments’ policies should be designed to ensure adequate supply of farming inputs such as improved seeds and fertilizers in good quantity and quality at subsidized rate to younger farmers to encourage them as they form majority of rice farmers.
ESTIMATION OF GENOMIC BREEDING VALUE FOR HEAT TOLERANCE (HT GEBTV)IN WADARA DAIRY CATTLE
Authors: Onwuneme, P. C.  , Mancha, Y. P.  , Bello, K. M.  , Wamagi, I. T
Published: October 2024

The research was conducted to estimate the genomic breeding value for heat tolerance (HT GEBV) in wadara dairy cattle breed at Abubakar Tafawa Balewa University Dairy Research and Development Center Gubi campus, Bauchi state, Nigeria. A total of thirty five (35) Wadara dairy cattle were used for the study. The basic parameters measured in the experiment were; rectal temperatures (Morning Rectal Temperature MRT, Evening Rectal Temperature ERT and Increased Rectal Temperature IRT) and subsequent day milk yield (SDMY). Variations were recorded within wadara breed in the basic parameters at P < 0.05. The cow with tag number W383 recorded the highest mean IRT of 1.2 oC, while W368 recorded the lowest mean IRT of 0.3 oC.  W362 and W358 recorded highest mean SDMY of 2.4 l, while W354 recorded the lowest mean SDMY of 0.5 l. W360 recorded the highest mean estimated percentage decline in SDMY per unit increase in IRT of 61.3%/ oC, while W359 record the lowest (22.0 %/ oC). W359 had the highest HT GEBV of +16.7%/0C while W360 had the lowest of -22.6%/0C. The coefficients obtained from correlation analysis between the IRTs and SDMYs of all the lactating wadara cows were used to develop the prediction equation of HT GEBV for all the wadara cattle breed in the farm. Mean regression coefficient of -0.66 l/oC, intercept of 1.70 l and error of estimation of 0.1 were obtained through the analysis. The prediction equation  was developed using genomics best linear unbiased prediction (GBLUP) equation as follow; Yij =1.75 – 0.64Xij + 0.1.The findings from this study showed that there were significant (P<0.05) genomic variations in HT GEBV within the wadara  dairy cattle at Abubakar Tafawa Balewa University Dairy Research and Development Center. Thus selective breeding is recommended in order to improve the population mean of HT GEBV of wadara cattle breed in the farm.
ROLE OF CLIMATE-SMART AGRICULTURE IN ENHANCING SUSTAINABLE AGRICULTURAL PRODUCTION
Authors: Otitoju, M. A.  , Obeten, W. O.  , Ojile, D. O.  , Ya’u, H.
Published: October 2024

With the challenge of global food insecurity increasingly getting more severe, and the problem made worse by the extreme vulnerability of agriculture to climate change, climate-smart agriculture has emerged as an appropriate response aimed at minimising the harmful effect of climate change to agricultural production. This paper seeks to review the role of climate-smart agriculture in enhancing sustainable agricultural production towards attaining global food security. The paper majorly looks at the applications and benefits of climate-smart agriculture, and the constraints and limitations of climate-smart agriculture. This review sees the major strategies for mitigating the constraints in climate-smart agriculture to include, strengthening financial support mechanisms, promoting technological innovations and adoption, enhancing knowledge sharing and capacity building, promoting policy reforms and institutional support and addressing socio-cultural factors. Addressing the constraints and limitations of climate-smart agriculture and promoting its adoption at the global and local levels, are essential for achieving sustainable agricultural production, enhancing resilience, and mitigating climate change impacts.
PREVALENCE OF GASTROINTESTINAL NEMATODES AND ITS ASSOCIATED RISK FACTORS IN SHEEP KEPT IN WUKARI TOWN TARABA STATE NIGERIA
Authors: Nyifi, A.S.  , Felix, P.
Published: October 2024

The study was conducted to determine the prevalence of gastrointestinal nematodes and its associated risk factors in sheep kept at Wukari town, Taraba State Nigeria. Coprological diagnostic technique was adopted for the study. A total of 400 faecal samples were examined for nematode parasites eggs for a period of three months, and 286 out of them had eggs of different nematode parasites with overall prevalence of 71.5%. Infection was either single or mixed.Single infection was more prevalent (68.3%) than mixed infection (3.3%).Three gastrointestinal nematode parasites of veterinary importance were identified. Strongyles had the highest prevalence (49.3%), followed by Trichuris Ovis (13%) and least Strongyloides Papillosus (6%).Prevalence was observed to be significantly higher (P<0.05) in female sheep (76.8%) than the male (56.3%).Age-based prevalence revealed that young sheep had the highest (74.4%) while adults had 70.5% but was not statistically significant (P>0.05). Sheep in poor body condition had the prevalence of 94.5% while those in medium and good body condition had the prevalence of 66.2% and 28.3% respectively. Prevalence was significantly (P<0.05) higher in sheep with poor body condition. It was concluded that gastrointestinal nematodes is prevalent in the study area; sex and body condition score were potential risk factors associated with prevalence of the infection in the study area. Therefore, gastrointestinal parasites control through timely de-worming with broad spectrum anti-helminthics should be encouraged to improve productivity.
EVALUATION OF FIVE MAIZE GENOTYPES (Zea mays L.) FOR MORPHOLOGICAL CHARACTERISTICS AND YIELD IN UYO, SOUTH EASTERN NIGERIA
Authors: Iorshe  Orsar Isaac
Published: October 2024

A field experiment was conducted at the University of Uyo Teaching and Research Farm in the early cropping season of 2021 to evaluate the morphological characteristics and yield of five maize genotypes in Uyo. The experiment was laid down in a randomized completely block design (RCBD) with three (3) replicates. The experimental materials were five (5) maize genotypes: SC-510, Oba Super – 4, Oba Super – 6, Honey King F1 (sweetcorn) and Ikom White (local control). The parameters evaluated were, emergence percentage at 1 week after sowing (WAS), plant height (cm), number of leaves, leaf area (cm2), stem girth (cm), number of days to first tassel emergence, number of days to 50% tasselling, number of days to first silking, number of days to 50% silking, number of days to harvest maturity, cob weight (g), cob length (cm), cob circumference (cm), number of rows per cob, number of grains per row, weight of 1,000 grains (g) and grain yield (tha-1). Results showed plant height, leaf area, number of leaves, stem girth varied significantly (p<0.05) at 2, 4, 6, 8, and 10 weeks after sowing. Similarly, significant differences (p<0.05) were obtained in yield components and grain yield such as days to harvest maturity, cob weight, cob length, cob circumference, weight of 1,000 grains and grain yield. This study concluded that Oba Super – 6 showed superior grain yield with SC-510 and Ikom White producing the least grain yield. Honey King F1 was an early maturity hybrid, SC-510 was medium maturity and Oba Super - 4 and Oba Super - 6 were late maturity genotypes. Based on the result of this study, further evaluation involving Oba Super - 6 and Oba Super - 4 genotypes which performed significantly better compared with other varieties is recommended in the environment.
ASSESSMENT OF ATTITUDES OF MAIZE FARMERS TOWARD E-WALLET INFORMATION SCHEME ON FERTILIZER UTILIZATION IN BAUCHI STATE, NIGERIA
Authors: Isa, A.  , Abu, I. A.  , Sulaiman, A.
Published: October 2024

The study assessed the attitudes of maize farmers towards e-wallet information scheme on fertilizer utilization in Bauchi State, Nigeria. Multi-stage sampling techniques was used to select one hundred and sixty (160) registered Growth Enhancement Support Scheme (GESS) farmers. Data for the study were collected through a structured questionnaire and analysed using descriptive statistics (frequencies, percentages and mean scores). The result revealed that majority (68.1%) of the respondents were males, with mean ages of 45 years. The result also revealed that 36.9% had secondary education, with a mean farming experience of 14.5 years. The mean household size of the respondents was 8 persons with 41.9% and 25.0% had their major occupation as farming and artisanship, respectively. The result showed that the respondents were satisfied with the scheme activities and consider the quantity of fertilizer and cost of fertilizer to be effective with a mean 3.68 and 3.82 respectively. The result further revealed that the respondents had positive attitude toward the scheme as they strongly disagreed that e-wallet does not end up as a failure (X=4.43) and that the too many noise of success was not a propaganda (X=4.49) and disagreed that the beneficiaries were not selected based on their influence. Some of the constraints identified with the scheme includes poor network (45.6%) and long distance to redemption centres (33.0%). It can be concluded that, the scheme brought great changes in yield, access to fertilizers at subsidized rate and access to improved seed. It is recommended that accessibility to redemption centres and network could increase wider coverage of e-wallet system in the study area.
UTILIZATION OF ATILI (Canarium schweinfurthii) LEAF MEAL AT DIFFERENT LEVELS IN THE DIETS OF BROILER CHICKENS AT VOM, PLATEAU STATE
Authors: Adelowo, O. V.  , Okpara, J. O.  , Okechukwu, O. C.  , Oshibanjo, O. D.
Published: October 2024

The study was carried out to investigate the use of Atili leaf meal in the diets of broiler chickens. One hundred and fifty (150) broiler chicks were used in the study for a period of six weeks in a completely randomised design (CRD). The experimental diets consisted of five (5) inclusion level of Atili leaf meal (0.00%, 2.00%, 4.00%, 6.00% and 8.00%) designated as T1, T2, T3, T4 and T5 respectively. Growth parameters measured during the study include initial weight, final weight, weight gain, feed intake, the Feed conversion ratio and the cost of production. The carcass characteristics across the treatments was evaluated and the parameters measured include live weight, bled weight, defeathered, eviscerated and carcass weight. Dressing percentage internal organ and primal cuts were also calculated. The results obtained showed that the control treatment had the highest final weight 2786.67(g) while the treatment with 2.00% atili leaf meal had the lowest final weight of 2273.33(g). The weight gained was also observed to be higher in the control with no atili leaf meal and lowest in treatment 2. The Feed conversion ratio (FCR) was high in treatments 2 and treatment 5 while T1 had the lowest FCR. Also, the cost of production was observed to be highest in T1 compared to other treatments. But T1 was observed to have the highest mortality while T2 to T5 had no mortality all through the period of the experiment. The carcass results showed that there were significant (P<0.05) variations in the live weight, bled and defeathered weight, eviscerated and carcass weight. The dressing percentage was also significantly (P<0.05) influenced, the back weight, liver, intestine, back weight, the thigh and drum stick were also not significantly (P<0.05) affected by the treatments. Based on the result of this study, it can be concluded that Atili leaf meal can be used in the diets of broiler chickens as source of nutrients and for prophylactics thereby reducing the cost of production.
HOUSEHOLDS’ WILLINGNESS TO CONSUME WHOLE PLANT BASED DIET IN IDO LOCAL GOVERNMENT AREA OF OYO STATE, NIGERIA
Authors: Idowu, A.E.  , Egbetokun, O. A.  , Omonona, B. T.
Published: October 2024

This study investigated the factors influencing the willingness to increase consumption of whole food plant-based diet and decrease consumption of unwholesome foods among households in Ido Local Government Area, Oyo State, Nigeria. A multi-stage sampling method was used to select 240 households. Data were collected using a well-structured questionnaire and analyzed using descriptive statistics and logit regression models. The results showed that the mean age of household heads was 48 (±9.64) years, and most (75.42%) were male. The level of awareness of whole food plant-based diets was low (8.33%), and the proportion of consumption was also low (0.44). Age, years of education, marital status, and location were significant factors influencing awareness of whole food plant-based diets. The willingness to increase consumption of whole food plant-based diets was influenced by awareness of whole food plant-based diets, household size, and location, while the willingness to decrease consumption of unwholesome foods was influenced by sex, age, years of education, educational level, marital status, occupation, and location. The study concluded that there is a need for awareness campaigns on the benefits of whole food plant-based diets and interventions to address the factors influencing the low consumption of whole food plant-based diets and high consumption of unwholesome foods among households in the study area.
FACTORS INFLUENCING USAGE OF INFORMATION AND COMMUNICATION TECHNOLOGIES AMONG MAIZE FARMERS IN ZARIA LOCAL GOVERNMENT AREA OF KADUNA STATE, NIGERIA
Authors: Fawole, B. E.  , Garba, H.S.  , Ebenehi O.
Published: October 2024

The study examined the factors influencing usage of ICTs among maize farmers in Kaduna State, Nigeria. Simple random sampling was used to select 120 maize farmers. Data were collected using a questionnaire and analyzed using both descriptive and inferential statistics. Results showed that the maize farmers were dominantly males (93.3%) with the mean age of 34 years. Majority (76.7%) were married with large household sizes of up to 10 persons (64%). Most (95.0%) of the maize farmers had various levels of education while majority (68.33%) have up to 10 years of farming experience. However, low productivity is observed as their earnings (85%) are less than N50,000/month, while 65% do not have access to credit. The results of regression analysis reveals that age of the maize farmers was positively significant at (P<0.05). This implies that as the age of the farmers increase there is more likelihood of using ICT. Farming experience was negatively significant at (P<0.01). It means that as the experience of the farmer’s increases there is less likelihood using ICT. The extension agent was positively significant at (P<0.10). It connotes that there is more likelihood in ICT usage as the extension participation increases. The study concludes that age, farming experience and contact with extension agents are the factors that influence the proper usage of ICT among maize farmers in the study area. It can be therefore recommended that aggressive awareness/sensitization campaign to be hosted by extension agents for farmers to be encouraged to access and optimally utilize ICT facilities in order to enhance their productivity.
INFLUENCE OF ORGANIC MANURE SOURCES AND UREA DEEP PLACEMENT ON THE PRODUCTION OF MAIZE (Zea mays L.) IN BAUCHI STATE, NIGERIA
Authors: Sara, S. S.  , Shuaibu, Y. M.  , Garba, A.A.
Published: October 2024

Field experiment was conducted at Bauchi state College of Agriculture, Bauchi during the rainy seasons of 2021 and 2022 to determine the influence of organic manure sources and urea deep placement on the production of maize in Bauchi State, Nigeria. The treatments consisted of four different organic manure (0 t/ha, 5 t/ha Poultry manure, 5 t/ha Cow dung, and 5 t/ha Rice husk) and three urea levels (0, 60, and 120 kg/ha), these were factorially arranged to give 12 treatments combination and laid out in a Randomized Complete Block Design (RCBD) with three replications. Data were collected on plant height, number of leaves, leaf area, stem girth, cob length, cob girth, 100 grain weight and grain yield. All data collected were subjected to analysis of variance (ANOVA) and means were separated using Duncan Multiple Range Test (DMRT). The results obtained showed that, urea deep placement and organic manure had a positive effect on the growth and yield of maize. The result further revealed a significant (P≤0.05) difference among the treatments used. The result showed that, deep placement of 120 kg N/ha proved to be significantly (P≤0.05) better than the other rates in all the parameters observed. Organic manure on the other hand, application of 5 t/ha poultry performed significantly (P≤0.05) better than the other organic sources used throughout the study period. Results of the interaction revealed that, combine application of urea deep placement at 60 kg/ha with 5 t/ha poultry manure produced statistically (P≤0.05) higher growth and yield characters of maize. Urea deep placement application in combination with organic manure gave significantly higher yield than separate application and control. Based on the results of this findings, urea deep placement application at the rate of 60 kg/ha in combination with 5 t/ha poultry manure can be used in maize production to achieve higher productivity in the study area.
IMPACT OF WEST AFRICAN SOY LIMITED (WASIL) ON MAIZE FARMERS FOOD SECURITY IN NORTH-WEST, NIGERIA
Authors: Ebenehi, O.  , Muntakka, M.  , Fawole, B.F.
Published: October 2024

In Nigeria, farmers depend largely on supports for farm inputs which can be in the form of subsidies in order to improve their livelihoods. These supports are usually made available and accessible to them by government and non-governmental organizations. In this article, the impact of West African Soy Limited Maize Farmers Intervention Scheme was investigated. The study employed Propensity Score Matching to net out the average treatment effect on treated which is the impact of the programme on the beneficiaries using food security as an outcome indicator. Two hundred and eighty-two (282) households head who benefitted from the programme were purposively and proportionately selected while another Two hundred and eighty-two (282) non-beneficiary’s household heads were randomly selected and used as control group. The result revealed that the programme had a positive and significant influence at 5% level of confidence on their food security status and the average treatment effect on treated (ATT) was 0.2037 (20%). The size of the estimated treatment effect suggests an improvement in the livelihood of the beneficiaries compared to the non-beneficiaries. The programme, though a private sector initiative is such that has potential of ensuring increased income as well as food security of the poor resource small scale farmers in the rural areas of North West, Nigeria. The study therefore recommends that female household head need to be encouraged to key into the programme in order to improve their income base. In addition, there is need for increased and rigorous capacity building of the farmers by extension agents of the programme in order to sustain the gains.
LEVEL OF INVESTMENT AND FACTORS INFLUENCING THE POULTRY INDUSTRY IN SOUTH EASTERN NIGERIA
Authors: Ogbonna, S. I.
Published: October 2024

The investment level and factors influencing the poultry industry in southeastern Nigeria were analysed in this study. The sample was chosen using a multi-stage random sampling technique. The study used primary data collected from 135 poultry enterprises in southeastern Nigeria, consisting of 45 enterprises from Enugu State, 45 from Imo State, and 45 from Ebonyi State. The data was analysed using descriptive statistics, such as frequency tables and percentages, as well as the Cobb Douglass multiple regression model. The findings indicate that the stocking of day-old chicks and the feeding of birds are the most demanding aspects of investment in poultry production for enterprises in southeastern Nigeria. There are also noticeable variations in the level of investment across the states in this region. In Enugu State, the level of investment in the poultry enterprise is significantly influenced by profitability coefficients, total expenditure requirements, business age, enterprise size, outstanding debt, and savings amount. In Imo State, the level of investment is significantly determined by profitability coefficients, total expenditure requirements, business age, enterprise size, outstanding debt, and savings amount. In Ebonyi State, the level of investment is significantly determined by profitability coefficients, total expenditure requirements, outstanding debt, enterprise location, and savings amount. Overall, the level of investment in poultry enterprise in the southeastern region of Nigeria is significantly determined by profitability coefficients2.896, total expenditure requirements3.951, enterprise size 3.554, outstanding debt, business stage2.323, enterprise location 3.460, and savings amount 3.264. The study recommends that it is important to consider these factors when formulating policies aimed at enhancing the level of investment in poultry production in the southeast region of Nigeria. This will make investment in the poultry industry profitable, support employment creation opportunities, and ensure chicken meat availability in the southeastern region of Nigeria, as well as in Nigeria as a whole.
ECONOMICS OF TRADITIONAL GROUNDNUT PRODUCTION TECHNOLOGY AMONG MICRO AGRO – ECOLOGICAL FARMERS IN EZZA NORTH LOCAL GOVERNMENT AREA, EBONYI STATE, NIGERIA AND EFFECTS ON THE ENVIRONMENT
Authors: Kaine, A. I. N.  , Ochiaka, C.D.
Published: October 2024

The study examined the economics of traditional ground nut production technology among small holder farmers in Ezza North Local Government Area, Ebonyi State, Nigeria and effects on the environment. Structured questionnaire was used to collect the required data. The sample size for the study was sixty (60) farmers who were interviewed and used for the study. Data generated were coded and analyzed using quantitative and qualitative techniques. The result showed that the farmers were relatively young with large household size. Farm enterprise variable result confirmed that the farmers were small holder farmers with wealth of experience. Gross margin analysis obtained established that fixed cost items formed the major components of the total cost of production representing 63% of the cost components. Ground nut production in the study area was established to be profitable with a positive value of ₦2,967,470.59 per annum. Return on investment was also positive with a value of 3.37. This implied that there was a return of three naira, thirty seven kobo ((₦3.37) for every one hundred naira (₦100) invested. Some of the major constraints were use of crude implements, low price, pest and disease infestation among others. It was recommended that ground nut farmers should thrive to increase their production capacity as well as form cooperative society to enjoy the benefits of economies of scale. Several effects of traditional groundnut production technology on the environment were identified. It was recommended that farmers should be enlightened on the implications and the need for environmental friendliness practices.
REVERSE MIGRATION TO PLACES OF ORIGIN: IS IT A RESPONSE TO COVID-19 EVENTS IN DELTA STATE, NIGERIA
Authors: Giweze, E.A.  , Ehiwario, F.A.  , Ofuoku, A.U.
Published: October 2024

The investigated reverse migration to places of origin: is it a response to covid-19 events in Delta State, Nigeria. The objectives of this study were to: examined causes of migration; identify the reasons for reverse migration and the challenges of reverse migration. Both structured interview scheduled and questionnaires were used for the study. Purposive sampling procedure was applied for the study. The result shows that natural disasters and conflicts (mean = 3.45). Lack of basic amenities (mean = 3.44). Bad leadership from Government (mean = 3.29). Inequality in wealth and hardship (mean = 3.12) causes migration. Financial factor and poor remunerations (mean = 3.44). Natural disasters and conflicts (mean = 3.19). Caste discrimination and uncertainty about future (mean = 3.18). Underemployment and unemployment (mean = 2.99). Covid-19 issues (mean = 2.95) were agreed reasons for reverse migration. Challenges of reverse migration are economic challenges (mean = 3.44). Mobility challenges (mean = 3.18). Lack of palliative (mean = 2.87). Covid-19 pandemic issues and inter alia causes reverse migration. It is recommended that Government and able bodied persons should create enabling environment in rural areas, that is attractive to all and make a better livelihood. Government should sincerely give palliative, economic empowerment and employment to reverse migrants. Government should have good knowledge on how to control and manage pandemic as well as disseminate same to the populace in case of outbreak of pandemic.
ECONOMICS OF ORNAMENTAL PLANT PRODUCTION IN JOS METROPOLIS OF PLATEAU STATE, NIGERIA
Authors: *Musa, I. M.  , Murtala, N.  , Idi, S.
Published: October 2024

The study the analysed economics of ornamental plant production in Jos Metropolis of Plateau State, Nigeria. A multi-stage sampling technique was used to select 270 ornamental farmers. Data were collected using questionnaire and analyzed using both descriptive and inferential statistics. The study revealed that the mean age of ornamental farmers was 37 years. Also, most (91.9%) and (92.2%) of the respondents were males and married with an average household size of 5 persons. The result showed that the ornamental farmers had average ornamental experience of 8 years. Furthermore, the result showed that mean annual income of ornamental was ₦39,203.70. The result also showed that 30.7% of the ornamental farmers had formal education and 35.9% had horticulture as their primary occupation. The results further revealed that 28.0% had passion and love for nature while, 29.9% had availability of seedlings/flowers in the study area that leads to expansion of ornamental business. Furthermore, the result revealed that 29.2% had planned very well in meeting customer demands and 33.0% of the ornamental farmers had acquired seedling skills while 29.9% had undertook planting training. Also, ornamental plan serve as source of fruits and food for humans and animals (3.87), ornamental plants such as trees provides fresh air to the environment (3.69), ornamental plants are used for medicinal purposes (3.68). Probit results, showed that education level, age and training were found significant (p≤0.05) while, skills, length of experience and household size were found significant (p≤0.01) and sex was found significant (p≤0.001) with Psuedo R2 0.1815. The tobit regression result revealed that price, sales and experience were found to be significant (P < 0.05). The major constraints to ornamental production were low demand/poor patronage (77.8%), poor maintenance (76.7%), inadequate government support (75.6%) and pest and diseases (73.0%). The study concluded that, production ornamental was economical and productive in the study area as majority of the ornamental farmers expands their business due availability of seedlings/flowers, tools and equipment’s. The study recommends that facility assistance in form of credit package, or start up loan should be made available to farmers by agricultural financial agencies and NGO’s to enable floriculturists increase their scale of production and populace should also be stimulated to increase their flower consumption pattern through proper awareness.
ANALYSIS OF LIVELIHOOD DIVERSIFICATION STRATEGIES BASED ON THE SOURCES OF INCOME OF WOMEN CROP FARMERS IN GOMBE STATE, NIGERIA
Authors: Tata, L. A*.  , Abu, I. A.  , Garba, A.  , Abdullahi, S.
Published: October 2024

The study analyzed the livelihood diversification strategies based on the sources of income of women crop farmers in Gombe State, Nigeria. A multi-stage sampling procedure was used in selecting 416 respondents. Data were collected using structured questionnaire and analyzed using descriptive statistics. The major sources of income as perceived were on-farm activities which included livestock farming (62.5%) and crop production (54.8%) while off-farm activities were marketing (65.4%) and processing (54.3%) of farm produce whereas basket weaving (68.3%), laundry cleaning (65.9%) and tailoring (63.7%) were the major non-agricultural livelihood activities. The result also shows that majority (72.8%) of the respondents had access to extension agents and 35.7% were frequently visited monthly. Furthermore, the result revealed that marital status (P<0.01), years of membership (P<0.01), access to credit (P<0.05), land (P<0.05), household head (P<0.10) and household size (P<0.10) were the factors influencing livelihood diversification in the study area. The result of propensity score matching of the livelihood diversification index on income showed (P<0.05) between the treatment and the control. The study concluded that marital status, years of membership, access to credit, and household size were the major factors influencing livelihood diversification in the study area. It is recommended that women should be encouraged to diversify and participate more in extension programs for exposure to communication media and embrace more diversification opportunities.