bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
OPTIMUM ENTERPRISE MIX UNDER RISK AND LIMITED RESOURCE CONDITIONS AMONG SMALLHOLDER LIVESTOCK FARMERS IN KWARA STATE, NIGERIA
Authors: Adewumi, A.  , Tanko, L.  , Ibrahim, F. D.  , Yisa, E. S.
Published: April 2023

The study developed optimum and a set of risk efficient livestock enterprise mix for smallholder farmers in Kwara State, Nigeria. Multi-stage sampling procedure was used to select 127 smallholder livestock farmers. A structured questionnaire complimented with interview schedule was used to obtain cross-sectional data from the farmers. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics, farm budgeting technique, LP (linear programming) and T-MOTAD (Target minimization of total absolute deviation) models. The LP result prescribed 0.25TLU of cattle/goat/sheep, 0.37TLU of broiler and 0.47TLU of broiler/layer for optimum gross margin in plan I; and 0.29TLU of cattle/goat/sheep, 0.37TLU of broiler and 0.47TLU of broiler/layer were prescribed in plan II under the limited resource condition. A set of feasible risk efficient farm plans I, II and III were obtained with the T-MOTAD model. The plan I prescribed 0.25TLU of cattle/goat/sheep, 0.37TLU of broiler and 0.47TLU of broiler/layer. Plan II prescribed 0.07TLU of cattle/goat/sheep, 0.28TLU of broiler and 0.79TLU of broiler/layer; and plan III prescribed 0.36TLU of cattle/goat/sheep, 0.05TLU of broiler, 0.48TLU of cockerel and 0.23TLU of broiler/layer. Gross margin increased from ₦218,170.75/TLU in the existing plan to ₦242,662.30/TLU and ₦247,676.00/TLU in optimum plans I and II, respectively, and to ₦242,670.60/TLU, ₦235,065.60/TLU and ₦222,897.90/TLU in risk efficient plans I, II and III, respectively. Gross margin was more sensitive to variation in the prices of output than other variables. Labour and capital were the major limiting resource across all the plans for the livestock enterprises. It was concluded that the livestock farmers had the potential to maximize gross margins per unit enterprise in the optimum and risk efficient farm plans as resources were not optimally allocated in the existing plan for livestock activities. Farmers should therefore adopt the prescribed optimum and risk efficient farm plans.
ASSESSMENT OF COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT PROJECTS BY SHELL PETROLEUM DEVELOPMENT COMPANY IN EMPOWERING CLUSTER COMMUNITIES IN KOLOKUMA/OPOKUMA LOCAL GOVERNMENT AREA OF BAYELSA STATE, NIGERIA
Authors: Ominikari, Abraham Godwin  , Itekume, Elohor
Published: April 2023

The study assessed community development projects available by Shell petroleum Development Company (SPDC) in empowering rural dwellers in Kolokuma/Opokuma Local Government Area of Bayelsa State. Purposive sampling technique was used to select 105 respondents. Data obtained were analyzed with descriptive and inferential statistics. Findings showed that road construction (m = 2.87), scholarship to youths (m = 3.39) and skill acquisition for youth (m = 2.85) were the recognized empowerment projects of SPDC. Availability of SPDC empowerment projects in the study area benefited rural dwellers in terms of provision of employment, serving as source of income, allowing them to acquire knowledge/skills, making some rural infrastructure available, enabling them become an entrepreneur and offers leadership opportunity to them. There was significant difference in the mean ratings on benefits derived by cluster communities on rural development projects. In conclusion, scholarship to youths, and skill acquisition for youth were the empowerment projects of SPDC made available to rural dwellers. The study recommended that there is need to review SPDC projects to make it more robust in providing empowerment projects such as pipe born water, building of schools, building of health centres/general health care, rural electrification, provision of vehicles for rural transportation, and provision of farm equipment which the rural dwellers in cluster communities in Kolokuma/Opukuma Local Government Area of Bayelsa State could not identify as being made available to them by SPDC.
ECONOMICS OF PARTNERSHIP FISHING AMONG FISHERMEN IN RIVERINE AREAS OF EBONYI NORTH AGRICULTURAL ZONE OF EBONYI STATE, NIGERIA
Authors: Esheya, Samuel Esheya
Published: April 2023

The study examined economics of partnership fishing among fishermen in riverine areas of Ebonyi North agricultural zone of Ebonyi State, Nigeria. Partnership farming as a form of agribusiness organisation is generally assumed to increase output, improve welfare and lead to financial independence. To test this assumption, switching regression model was employed to ascertain the effects of a fisherman switching from participation in partnership fishing, not participating and discontinuing with partnership fishing. Analysis revealed that for all the respondents, joining partnership would raise their income by N87.93. Income difference under partnership  revealed that partnership  fishermen’s income was N20.84 lower than the average of all sampled fishers; whereas that of former partnership and never partnership fishers’ were N32.92 and N186.44 higher than the average of all sampled fishers, respectively. The partnership fishers’ income difference outside partnership was N15.50 higher than the average of all sampled fishers; whereas the former and never partnership fishers’ income were N178.0 and N24.48 lower than the average of all sampled fishers, respectively. The study, through the selection equation, identified education, extension visit and group membership to have positive impact (P<0.01) on partnership fishing participation; and age and credit negatively determined fishers’ participation in partnership fishing.
RESPONSE OF MOISTURE STRESSED TOMATO (Solanum lycopersicum L.) GROWTH CHARACTERS TO ANTITRANSPIRANTS AT KANO IN SUDAN SAVANA OF NORTHERN NIGERIA
Authors: Isa, H. M.
Published: April 2023

Antitranpirants are foliar sprayed chemicals to plants in order to reduce the rate of moisture loss and increase productivity of irrigated crops. To test antitranspiracy of Salicylic and Benzoic acids, field experiment was conducted at the Teaching and Research Farm of the Faculty of Agriculture, Bayero University Kano (11˚ 97ʹ 98.6ʺ N, 8˚42ʹ 03.7ʺ E) 475 m elevation) during 2011/2012 and 2012/2013 dry seasons   to study the effects of antitranspirants and moisture stress on crop growth and development stages of tomato. The treatments consisted of two antitranspirants at four concentrations each (0, 200, 400 and 600 ppm) and three moisture stress stages (vegetative, flowering and fruit setting). Antitranspirants and moisture stresses were assigned to the main plot and concentrations were used as sub-plot treatment. These were replicated three times and laid out in a split-plot design. Data were taken on some growth attributes of tomato and subjected to analysis of variance data using Statistical Analysis Software (SAS). The results revealed that, application of Salicylic acid at 600 ppm significantly enhanced leaf area, total dry matter, crop growth rate, relative growth rate and net assimilation rate better than application of Benzoic acid. Interaction between and among different factors were significant on leaf area, total dry matter, crop growth rate and relative growth rate. Flowering and fruiting stages were found to be the critical growth stages for moisture stress of tomato. The study concluded that application Salicylic acid enhanced the growth characters of moisture stressed tomato better than Benzoic acid. It was recommended that 600 ppm of Salicylic acid should be foliar sprayed on moisture stressed tomato in the study area.
ANALYSIS OF PERCEIVED CAUSES AND FACTORS INFLUENCING VEGETABLE FARMERS-PASTORALISTS CONFLICTS IN KADUNA STATE, NIGERIA
Authors: Lawal Bello  , Sani, M. H.  , Abu, I. A.  , Danwanka, H. A.
Published: April 2023

The study was carried out on analysis of perceived causes and factors influencing vegetable farmers-pastoralists conflicts in Kaduna State, Nigeria. Multi-stage sampling procedure was employed to select 360 respondents from the study areas of Northern, Southern and Central Senatorial districts of Kaduna State. Data were collected through structure questionnaire and analyzed using descriptive (mean, frequency distribution, percentages and standard deviation) and inferential statistics (logistics regression). The results showed that 80.6% and 91.6% of the vegetable farmers and pastoralists were found to be male, majority (80.2%) and (86.1%) were married farmers and pastoralists, respectively. Also, the vegetable famers and pastoralists had relatively higher education of 34.1% and 31.8%, respectively. A grand mean of 3.79 was revealed as the perceived causes of vegetable farmers-pastoralists conflicts meaning there was persistence conflicts in the study area. So, the results disclosed the major causes of farmer-pastoralists conflicts to include influx of migrant herders/transhumance and night grazing (= 4.32), inadequate grazing reserve (= 4.25) and destruction of crop by animals (= 4.24) as perceived by vegetable farmers. However, the pastoralists perceived major causes of conflicts to include inadequate grazing reserve (= 4.44), destruction crops by animals (= 4.21) and encroaching grazing reserves (= 4.11). The results of logit regression on factors influencing farmers-pastoralists showed that age, and widow, number of livestock were found to be positively significant (P≤0.01), respectively. Household size, educational level and farm size were significant (P≤0.05) in influencing conflicts. The coefficient (-0.16) of number of livestock was found to be negative but significant (P≤0.01) implying that as number of livestock increases, the tendency to participate in a conflict also increases.it was concluded that vegetable farmers-pastoralists conflicts in the study was mostly influenced by age, education level, household size, farm size and number of livestock. The study recommended that grazing areas should be provided for pastoralists as a means of preventing farmers and pastoralist conflicts like the ranching (ruga) policy by the federal government and private partners.
CHALLENGES FACED BY USAID MARKETS II RICE FARMERS IN NIGER STATE, NIGERIA
Authors: Yusuf, A. A.  , Nnaji, J. O.  , Abdulshakur, M. M.  , Ibrahim, S.
Published: April 2023

The study analyzed the challenges faced by USAID market II rice farmers in Niger State, Nigeria. Multi-stage sampling procedure was used to select respondents for the study. A total of 247 respondents made up of 130 participants and 117 non-participants were randomly selected from two participating Local Government Area of Niger State, Katcha and Lapai. The respondents were interviewed with the aid of structured questionnaire. Analytical tools used were descriptive. The result shows that the average age for participant and non-participant farmers were 43 and 41 years, respectively, which indicate that, respondents were in their most productive ages. The results also revealed that male farmers are more involved in the agricultural programme especially in the study area than females. Majority (96.90%) of participant farmers and 92.31% of non-participant farmers  were married while few of them were single. The study further revealed that 55.38% of the participant farmers and 61.54% of the non-participant farmers had household size within the range of 1 – 10 person. The participant farmers were more educated with over 55% of respondent’s being literate, while about 42% of non-participant farmers had acquired one form of education or the other; 68% participant farmers had farming experience of between 1-10 years with average contact with extension workers of three times for the farmers that participated in the USAID/MARKETS II programme and once for non-participant farmers, all participating farmers in the intervention were members of a cooperative association with few non-participant farmers in the cooperatives. The maximum farm size observed was found to be 4 hectares for both categories of rice farmers. The major constraints identified were high cost of inputs, inadequate capital, access to market and pest and diseases. It was concluded that participating in USAID/MARKETS intervention had broadened the knowledge base of the participants through advisory services of the programme, its enhanced the output, increased the income and living conditions of the participants more than that of the non-participants in the study area. The study recommends that intervening agencies on agriculture should ensure that strong institutional linkages and facilitation created among farmers, input suppliers, credit institutions and market for effective service delivery.
CONSTRAINTS ON FISH PREFERENCE AND CONSUMPTION PATTERN IN LAGOS STATE, NIGERIA
Authors: Oyebamiji, B. A.  , Sotean, O. J.  , Tolorunju, E. T.  , Oladeji, S. O.  , Ojo, O. O.
Published: April 2023

Fish is one of the main key ingredients on global menu consumed by rich and poor people. This study examined constraints associated with fish preference and consumption pattern in Lagos State, Nigeria. Multi-stage sampling procedure was used to select 112 respondents for the study. Data were collected on types of fish preferred, respondents’ income, constraints and forms of fish consumed using a structured questionnaire. Frequency counts, percentage, mean and Pearson Product Moment Correlation (PPMC) were used to analyze the data. Result revealed that the most preferred frozen, fresh and processed fish were Mackerel (x̄ = 1.46), Clarias spp (x̄ = 0.85) and fried fish (x̄ = 1.38), respectively. Most of respondents’ income (30.4%) fell between N10,001 to N20,000. Inadequate power supply (x̄ = 1.69), high cost of fish (x̄ = 1.58), and poor income (x̄ = 1.56) were some of the constraints that affected fish consumption in the study area. Mackerel (94.5%), fried fish (74.9%) and Gymnarchus niloticus (37.8%) were the most consumed form of frozen, processed, and fresh fish respectively. Result of PPMC showed that relationship exists between consumers’ income level (ᵡ2 = 0.008; r = 0.398; and P≤ 0.05) and consumption of fish. Also, there exists a difference (P≤ 0.05) in the consumption pattern of fish between rural and urban consumers (t = -2.109; df = 109; and P = 0.037). The study concluded that consumers’ income level and access to power supply posed great challenge to consumption and preference for fish in the study area. Government should intensify effort in providing stable power supply.
THE USE OF INFORMATION AND COMMUNICATION TECHNOLOGIES AMONG AGRICULTURAL EXTENSION PERSONNEL IN LAGOS STATE, NIGERIA
Authors: Taiwo, A.  Mauzonsu  , Amoo, Z. Olayiwola
Published: April 2023

To enhance agricultural production in developing countries, the use of information and communication technologies (ICTs) in extension delivery services is of great importance. This study examined personal characteristics of respondents, type of ICTs available, benefits of use of ICTs and constraints to use of ICTs among extension officers in Lagos State. Simple random sampling technique was used to select one hundred (100) Agricultural Extension Personnel from among the Extension agents employed in the State’s ministry of agriculture and cooperative. Structured questionnaire was used to obtain data from the respondents. Descriptive statistics such as frequency distribution, percentage and mean were used to present and summarize the data. Inferential statistics (chi-square and Pearson Product Moment Correlation) were used to describe the type of relationship that exists between the variables in the stated hypotheses. The mean age of the respondents was 39years. Fifty five (55%) were females, and 57% of respondents were B. Sc. holders. Majority (70.0%) were married and 64% were Christians. The mean job experience of the respondents was 16years. Availability of radio set rated high by majority (72%) while 91.0% of respondents had access to radio set. In provision of current information; television was rated high by majority (93%) while in contacting farmers, extension service delivery and improved production; mobile phone was rated high mostly (80%), (84%) and (78%), respectively. High access charge of internet was identified as constraint among majority (81%) of the respondents. Inferential statistics revealed a significant relationship between personal characteristics of respondents and use of ICTs such as age (X2 = 5.2003, P<0.05), religion (X2 = 3.822, P<0.05) are related, further result of correlation test of relationship between personal characteristics. Age (r = 0.183, P<0.05) and Educational level (r = 0.218, P<0.05) and use of ICTs were significantly related. Moreover, test of analysis showed significant relationship between type of ICTs available (r = 0.605, P<0.05) and use of ICTs. In conclusion, higher education level of respondents affected their use of ICTs and influenced by their age. Therefore, the development agencies/institutions involved in Agricultural extension programmes should be sincere and improve upon their efforts.
EFFECTS OF COMMUNITY AND SOCIAL DEVELOPMENT PROJECTS ON WELFARE OF RURAL FARM FAMILIES IN NIGER STATE, NIGERIA
Authors: Ibrahim, M.  , Olaleye, R. S.  , Tsado, J. H.  , Dalap, S. L.  , Makusidi, H. M.
Published: April 2023

This study examined the effect of community and social development projects (CSDP) on welfare of rural farm families in Niger State, Nigeria. A multi-stage sampling technique was used to select 300 beneficiaries. Structured questionnaire and interview schedule were used to collect primary data and analysed using descriptive and inferential statistics. The result revealed mean age of 42 years while majority (97.3%) of the beneficiaries acquired formal education with mean household size of 8 people. Majority (84.0%) of the beneficiaries were members of cooperative societies. The effect of CSDP intervention in health sector includes; number of children enrolment in schools (z = 8.94), number of students studying science courses (z = 5.93) all increased but distance to schools (z = -18.11) was reduced. The effect of CSDP intervention in water sector include; time taken to get water (z = -7.34), number of reported water-borne diseases (z = -32.84), cost of buying water (z = - 3.83) all reduced but number of people using borehole water (z = 7.63) increased. The effect of CSDP intervention in transport sector includes; number of vehicle plying the road per day (z = 10.40) increased but time taken to travel (z = -15.58) was reduced. The effect of CSDP intervention in health sector includes; number of medical staff deployed (z = 2.96), number of people seeking medical counseling (z = 2.54) were increased while distance to heath center (z = 6.42) was reduced. On perception, the results revealed that provision of educational facilities (= 2.17), water supply to the community (= 2.20), provision of healthcare facilities (= 2.28) and provision of motor able roads (= 2.19) were perceived to be effective. Meanwhile, intervention such as provision of agricultural inputs ( = 1.35) and provision of extension services (= 1.25) were perceived not to be effective. Poor mobilization and time consuming rank 1st and 2nd in terms of severity of the problems while problem of site location rank lowest 12th. The study concluded that CSDP had significant effect on the income of the beneficiaries as well as on their welfare. It was recommended that extension agents should increase their contacts in order to reach out to large number of farmers for greater mobilization and participation in the project; also the program should be scaled up in other Local Government Areas (LGAs) of the State and the project should have flexible policy that removes bureaucracy for easy access to micro-projects.
CROP FARMERS-PASTORALISTS PERCEPTION OF RESOLUTION STRATEGIES TO END RECURRING CONFLICTS IN BENUE, STATE NIGERIA
Authors: Oguntolu, F. R.  , Sani, M. H.
Published: April 2023

The study analyzed crop farmers-pastoralists perception of resolution strategies to end recurring conflicts in Benue State, Nigeria. Multi-stage sampling procedure was used to select crop farmers and pastoralists for this study, a total of 100 crop farmers and 27 pastoralists were selected. Data were collected using structured questionnaire and interview schedule. Frequency distribution, percentages, mean scores and ranking were used in presentation of results. Crop destruction and lack of full permanent ownership of grazing land to settle pastoralists were ranked 1st and 2nd by the crop farmers as factors responsible for crop farmer-pastoralist conflicts while the pastoralists ranked unclear demarcation along routes and grazing reserves as well as inadequate infrastructural facilities as 1st and 2nd, respectively. Crop farmers ranked traditional and community leaders; 1st as efficient in conflict resolution and they disagreed with the statement that police were efficient in managing conflicts. On the other hand, the pastoralists ranked pastoralist leaders; 1st as being efficient in managing conflicts while traditional and community leaders was ranked 2nd. As regards the opinion on measures to end the recurring conflicts, 31.3% of the crop farmers agreed that anti-grazing law should be upheld to curb conflicts; and 18.3% revealed that both farmers and pastoralists should embrace dialogue. About 45% of pastoralists, however, revealed that provision of grazing areas will prevent conflicts and 37.1 % indicated that cattle routes should be established. The study established serious crops and properties, destruction of livestock and disruption of peace as the major effects of crop farmers-pastoralists conflicts in the study area. It was therefore, recommended that the traditional institutions should be strengthened through constitutional amendment for more effective alternative dispute resolution strategies for conflict resolution in the study area.
UTILIZATION AND PROFITABILITY OF GOOD AGRICULTURAL PRACTICES ON MAIZE FARMERS IN ONDO STATE, NIGERIA
Authors: Adetarami, O.  , Olagunju, O.  , Odeyemi, A. A.  , Johnson, S. B.
Published: April 2023

The study is designed to determine the utilization and profitability of good agricultural practices (GAP) programme on maize farmers in Ondo State, Nigeria. The primary data used in the study were collected with the aid of structured questionnaire and multi-stage sampling procedure to select 240 respondents. Descriptive statistics, budgeting technique, and binary logistic regression model were major statistical tools employed to achieve the specific objectives and a four-point Likert-type scale was used to analyze the degree of utilization of the GAP programme practices in the study area. Findings showed that farmers under the utilized GAP programme had a mean profit of ₦55,300.33 (US$ 145.53). Further analysis showed a benefit-cost ratio (2.46) of the profitability of the GAP. The logistic regression revealed that age of maize farmer, level of education, extension contact, farm size, monthly income and training experience were the major determinants influencing the utilization of the GAP programme in the study area. The study concluded that the utilization of GAP programme by maize farmers contributed substantially to the profitability of their business. It was therefore, recommended that effective general extension services should be extended to the study area to intensify the use of GAP introduced technologies by farmers for maize production.
MARKETING OF MELON AND PRICE ANALYSIS OF TRANSACTION COSTS IN BIDA LOCAL GOVERNMENT AREA OF NIGER STATE,
Authors: Ndanitsa, M. A.  , Mohammed, U. S.  , Mohammed, D.  , Ndako, N.
Published: April 2023

The study assessed the transaction cost of Melon ‘egusi’ in Bida Local Government Area (LGA) of Niger State, Nigeria. A Multi-stage sampling procedure was used to draw samples from the study area. Data collected with the aid of questionnaire were analyzed using descriptive and inferential statistics, as well as gross margin analysis. The results revealed that majority (57%) of the sample marketers were males. Also, the results revealed that larger proportion of these actors were between the ages of 36 and 40 years with a mean age of 38 years. Majority (77%) of the marketers were married, with larger proportion (30.0%) having marketing experience of between 6-10 years. The mean marketing experience was 13 years. Larger proportion (33.0%) of the respondents had between 6-10 persons as family size, with a mean household size of approximately 11 persons. Majority (81.0%) had one form of modern education stitches or the other. The effect of marketing cost on final price of melon in the study area showed an R2 value of 0.685. However, the variables such as cost of loading, cost of offloading, distance from the farm to market, quantity of melon transported to the market and cost of transportation were positively related to the final price of marketing melon. The significant variables that influence the final price were; cost of loading, cost of off-loading, and distance from farm to the market. Cost of loading and distance to the market were significant at P≤0.01 Also, the coefficient for cost of off-loading was significant at 10%. The generated revenue from the sales of melon was N35,093.33, whereas, the total costs incurred from the melon marketing was N32,645.0, with a net income of N2,448.30. The constraints to melon marketing in the study area include; poor feeder road (68.3%), price instability (66.7%), and low demand/supply (31.7%). It was recommended that government and other stakeholders should help provide good marketing infrastructure for efficient marketing such as good feeder roads that link the rural areas to major cities/major consuming centres. It was also recommended that there should be regular capacity building to empower the marketers to acquire skills for effective negotiations so as to reduce transaction costs (loading, off-loading, security) and farm gate price will reduce the final price.
EFFECT OF ORGANIC MANURE ON SORGHUM PRODUCTIVITY GROWN IN RESIDUAL MOISTURE IN BAKURA, NIGERIA
Authors: Musa, A.  , Shani, B. B.  , Alhassan, G. A.
Published: April 2023

Agriculture is mainly under rain-fed conditions in Zamfara State as the rainfall is very uncertain and temperature is increasingly high which is a major challenge and detrimental to crop growth and development. Therefore, climate risk management in agriculture (rainfed and residual moisture) is among the most important pillars of food security and resilience of agro-ecosystems. The objective of this study was to address residual farming system in Bakura area of Zamfara State. The experimental design was a dispersed randomized complete block design with 4 to 6 replications where each farmer was considered as a replication. The findings revealed that the treatment F7 (18 kg ha-1 of NPK + 500 kg ha-1 of organic manure gave the highest mean grain yield in 2012, 2013 and 2014; and the treatment F0 (0 kg ha-1) gave the lowest mean grain yield.
SEROPREVALENCE OF BRUCELLOSIS IN SMALL RUMINANTS IN YOBE STATE, NIGERIA
Authors: Lawan Shettima K.  , Abdullahi, U. S.  , Mbap, S. T.
Published: April 2023

A serological study was conducted between October, 2019 to February, 2020 to investigate the prevalence of Brucellosis in sheep and goats in Yobe State. A total of 415 serum samples were collected from three, randomly selected Local Government Areas of the three Senatorial Districts of the State. The samples were first subjected to Rose Bengal Plate Test (RBPT). Positive samples were further subjected to Serum Agglutination (SAT) and 2Mercapto-Ethanol (2ME) tests. For the Ovine species, the seroprevalence rates were 9.87, 3.61 and 1.68% for RBPT, SAT and 2ME, respectively. The corresponding rates for Caprine were 6.74, 1.44 and 1.68%. Generally, SAT followed by 2ME were better in discriminating between positive and negative animals and thus reducing the chances of false positive/negative. Chi square test was used to determine significance between proportions among species, breeds and sex within RBPT and, management within SAT were statistically significant (P<0.05). Yankasa (6.26%) had higher rate than Uda (3.61%) and Balami (0.42%). The rate of 5.78% for Red Sokoto was also higher than 0.03% for West African Dwarf. It is concluded that Brucellosis is a challenge to small ruminant production in the study area. To lower the occurrence of Brucellosis in the study area, more attention should be paid to Yankasa and Red Sokoto breeds.
PROFITABILITY OF COWPEA GRAINS STORED WITH PURDUE IMPROVED COWPEA STORAGE TECHNOLOGY IN BENUE STATE, NIGERIA
Authors: Asogwa, U. G.  , Taru, B.  , Cynthia, Nwobodo  , Ikpeamaeze Gaius C.
Published: April 2023

Insect infestations impose serious challenge to cowpea storage and negatively affect trade and utilization of cowpea in Nigeria. Purdue improved cowpea storage (PICS) technology provide effective control against these storage pests, thus allowing farmers to tap into better grain prices during the lean season. The study assessed the profitability of cowpea grains stored with Purdue improved cowpea storage technology in Benue State, Nigeria. The objectives of the study include; to determine the effect of PICS technology use on cowpea loss and to estimate the returns to cowpea stored with PICS technology. Two hundred and forty (240) respondents were identified and interviewed using snowballing non-random sampling techniques. The analytical tools used for the study were the gravimetric (count and weight) method and marketing margin analysis. The result of the study revealed that storing with PICS technology reduced weight loss in cowpea by 15.3%, valued at N3,450 per bag per season. The use of PICS technology gave a higher marketing margin of N11,297.88/bag with farm-to-retail price spread of 45.5% than N8,285.83/bag and farm-to-retail price spread of 37.8% in woven bag. It is recommended that; farmers group should be used as a platform to promote and create awareness on the economic benefits of PICS technology use.
FACTOR ANALYSIS OF CAUSES OF COMMUNAL CONFLICTS IN BENUE AND NASARAWA STATES, NORTH-CENTRAL, NIGERIA
Authors: Adzenga, J. I.  , Onyenkazi, H. A.  , Abubakar, H. N.
Published: April 2023

The study investigated some factors associated with communal conflicts from the perspectives of farmers from Benue and Nasarawa States, North-Central Nigeria. The specific objectives were: to determine the estimated social and economic losses suffered by farmers from communal conflicts, and to; identify the underlying causes of communal conflicts in the study area. A multi-stage sampling procedure was used to obtain a sample size of 391 farmers. Information was elicited using questionnaire and interview schedule and analysed using both descriptive and inferential statistics. The result revealed that farmers experienced social and economic losses in monetary terms in the areas of crop, livestock and other social assets. Factor analysis showed that the underlying causes of communal conflicts in the study area were: ethnic factors (Eigen-value of 4.24), cultural factors (Eigen-value of 2.880), Infrastructural factors (Eigen-value of 2.038), population pressure factors (Eigen-value of 1.829), social factors (Eigen-value of 1.502), Institutional factors (Eigen-value of 1.481). The study recommended among others that government should make the right political decisions and policies that will ensure proper management of land resources in the event of population explosion and increasing competition for land resources to ensure that communal conflicts does not erupt in the process.
PRODUCTION INPUTS ALLOCATION AND PERFORMANCE BENCHMARK OF RICE FARMS IN ANAMBRA STATE, NIGERIA
Authors: Osuafor, Ogonna O.  , Ude, Kingsley D.  , Enwa, Sarah  , Okonkwo, Ada R.
Published: April 2023

The study analyzed the production input allocation and the performance benchmark of rice farms in Anambra State, Nigeria. Efforts at improving farm management and production notwithstanding, more is yet to be achieved in that regard in Anambra State and Nigeria at large.  Past studies concentrated on areas like profitability, resources and production efficiency with little or no focus on benchmarking the production and the pattern of input mix. To achieve the broad objective, four (4) specific objectives were outlined thus: (i) categorized production input patterns based on farm performance and based on expenses (iii) determined a performance standard/ benchmark from the category after identifying the existing standard, (iii) identified the diverse effect of production inputs cost on rice farm output for different production levels, and (v) identify the causal factors of difference in farm performance in the study area.  A multi-staged sampling technique was employed in the selection of 120 farms. The study utilized primary data generated by the researcher using structured and pretested questionnaire. Descriptive statistics, net farm income, quantile regression and ANOVA were used for the analysis of the primary data gotten through the administration of a structured questionnaire. The 120 farms were grouped as top performers (40), average performers (40) and below average performers (40). The top performing farms had an average net farm income of N340,305 while the average farms and below average farms had N207,567 and N92,258, respectively. The benchmark standard for rice farms in Anambra State was N390, 500. The basic effects of the cost variables on the farm performance as identified with the quantile regression was that the higher the net farm income, the better the opportunities available to increase performance. The major causal factor of differences in farm outcome were, financial constraints, managerial ability, level of input utilization at the farm level, size of farm, high cost of inputs, pests and diseases, and seasonal variation or climate change. The ANOVA result showed that mean expenditures was not significantly different. The study therefore, recommended that cost management and better production instructions should be taken seriously by the extension agents and government should subsidize agricultural inputs for farmers.
GOVERNMENT AGRICULTURAL LAND ACQUISITION AND RURAL FARMING HOUSEHOLDS’ LIVELIHOOD IN SOUTH WEST NIGERIA
Authors: Osinowo, O. H.  , Ogunnaike, M. G.  , Mufutau, R. A.
Published: April 2023

The Nigeria Land Use Act of 1978 placed statutory ownership of land into the State governors’ hands for public interest, and since then, the objectives of this act are yet to be met after 43 years of its enactment. Rural farming households in South West Nigeria has over the years experienced a forceful dispossession of their parcel of land by the State government and the conflicts arising from this take-over have remained largely unresolved both by lawful and peaceful means. The study examined the guiding principles of government agricultural land acquisition and rural farming households’ livelihood in South West Nigeria. The study used primary data sourced from 480 displaced rural farming households whose land has being acquired by government. The respondents were selected using two-stage sampling techniques. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics and the Likert five points scale was used to measures attitudes. The results revealed that the displacement of rural farming households pushed many of the farmers to engaged in other jobs rather than relying only on farming activities. Likewise, there was a notable difference between the income earned by the farmers before and after forceful dispossession. The Likert five points scale revealed that the comprehensive approach to the acquisition and allocation of land and a robust and inclusive engagement strategy with all stakeholders, including affected communities and vulnerable groups was not effective in South West, Nigeria. This was reinforced by the finding that majority (75%) of the respondents reported a substantial knowledge gap and lack of awareness about policy frameworks and procedures associated with government agricultural land acquisition. The study recommended that State government should embrace comprehensive approach to the acquisition and allocation of land as stipulated by Committee on World Food Security-Responsible Agricultural Investment (CFS-RAI) and payment of fair compensation to the affected families whose land has been acquired by government.
THE TREND IN FERTILIZER CONSUMPTION AND ITS IMPACT ON CROP OUTPUTS IN NIGERIA
Authors: Akpan, S. B.  , Ekwere, O. J.  , Nkanta, V. S.
Published: April 2023

The study analyzed the consumption trend of fertilizers (nitrogen, phosphorus, potassium and total/composite fertilizers) and examined its relationships with selected crop outputs from 1962 to 2019 in Nigeria. Time-series data were used and were sourced from the World Bank and Food and Agriculture Organization. The descriptive statistics, correlation analysis and Cobb Douglas production function were applied to analyze the data collected. The results revealed that fertilizer consumption over time exhibited a high level of volatility in Nigeria. The average consumption rate of 7.17 kg/ha for composite fertilizer was far below the minimum rate of 50kg/ha declared in Abuja in 2006 by African countries. Furthermore, the study established significant correlations between fertilizers and selected harvested land yields and crop outputs in the country. This implies that fertilizers can significantly regulate the outputs of crop enterprises in the country. The empirical results revealed that fertilizers were irrationally utilized in the majority of selected crop enterprises as their elasticities were either negative or greater than unity. Moreover, the decreasing return to scale was confirmed for each crop enterprise denoting decreasing contribution of fertilizer inputs to crop outputs growth in Nigeria. Based on the findings, it is recommended that the Nigeria government should work towards achieving the Abuja declaration on fertilizer use.
THE LONG-RUN STABILITY OF NIGERIAN ECONOMIC STRUCTURE
Authors: Dauna Yakubu
Published: April 2023

Nigerian economy is structurally defective because of its dependent on oil. Issues such as inadequate infrastructures, obstacles to smooth trade, unstable economic policies distort the structure of the economy and translate to economic instability. Sustained economic growth is critical to economic stability which this study was aimed to analyze. Secondary data was used for the study which was obtained from Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) statistical bulletin and was analyzed using inferential statistics. Results revealed the existence of stationary relationship between the selected economic sectors at 5% level of significance. The negative coefficient (-0.047895) of NGDP indicated the existence of long-run relationship between the Nigerian Gross Domestic Product (NGDP) and the selected economic sectors and the Error correction model (ECM) value of -0.3414224 connoted long run instability in the economic structure. The result also revealed agricultural and oil sectors as the drivers of the Nigerian economy.
COMPARATIVE SOCIO-ECONOMIC CHARACTERISTICS OF RURAL FARM HOUSEHOLDS THAT USED INSECTICIDE TREATED NETS AND NON-USERS IN AKWA IBOM STATE, NIGERIA
Authors: Veronica S. Nkanta  , Uyime R. Etuk  , Akpan, S. B.  , Archibong, I. V.
Published: April 2023

The study compared the social and economic features of farm households that utilized insecticide treated nets and non-users in the rural areas of Akwa Ibom State. The cross-sectional data were collected from one hundred and eighty rural farming household heads. The descriptive tests and the bivariate t-test were used to analyze data collected. The result revealed that, about 72.22% of the rural farm households used ITNs in the study area. Moreover, the study established the fact that there were no significant differences between ITNs users and non-users in their gender, marital status, farming experience, social capital accumulation, education, access to extension agent, nature of residential building, value of household asset and non-farm income. Contrary to the above findings, a statistically significant difference was found in terms of age, household size, farm Income and farm size between the two groups. Following the findings, the study recommends a bottom-top approach that takes into consideration the social and economic matters of the rural farmers in planning the transfer of ITNs technology to the rural farmers in the region.
ANALYSIS OF PRICE STABILITY OF RICE AND CO-MOVEMENT IN URBAN MARKETS IN NIGER STATE, NIGERIA
Authors: Yunusa, B. J.  , Lawal, A. F.  , Rahji, M. A. Y.  , Ndagi, I.
Published: April 2023

The aim of the study was to examine the economic impact of price stability of rice in Niger State, Nigeria. The study determined the  relationship between and among rice prices in the study area. One urban market and three rural markets were purposively selected from each of the three (3) agricultural zones. Secondary data on monthly rural and urban retail prices of local rice were used. The data were  sourced from Niger State Agricultural Mechanization Development Authority (NAMDA). The time series data covered  the period 2009 to 2018. The study utilized coefficients of variation (CVs) and correlation coefficients to determine price dispersion and behavior of local rice in selected markets of Niger State. The coefficients of variation of the  prices of rice indicate that all CVs are less than 100% which showed that the prices cluster around the mean price. Also, the correlation coefficients of retail prices of rice in the urban markets of Bida and Kontagora showed high and significant correlation. It indicates a high co-movement of prices of rice between the two urban markets. No correlation  between Bida and Minna. This implies that as price increases in one market, it increases in the other markets. It can be inferred from the result that there was positive correlation among the two urban markets of Bida and Kontagora (0.85).  and no significant correlation between Bida and Minna, repectively. The study recommended efficient dissemination of market information on the prevailing rice prices and provision of market infrastructures such as road network.
CONSTRAINTS TO FARMERS’ ACCESS, UTILIZATION AND REPAYMENT OF BANK OF AGRICULTURE’S LOAN IN NORTH CENTRAL, NIGERIA
Authors: Unachukwu, V. C.  , Unachukwu, V. C.  , Tanko, L.  , Jirgi, A. J.  , Yisa, E. S.
Published: April 2023

The study analyzed the factors constraining the ease of access, utilization and repayment of agricultural credit of the Bank of Agriculture to farmers in North Central, Nigeria. Multi-stage sampling procedure was used to sample a total of 202 beneficiary farmers of BOA credit in the region. Primary data were elicited from the farmers with the aid of structured questionnaire that was complemented with interview schedule. Data analysis was done with descriptive statistics and principal component model. The result revealed that six (6) factors constitute the major constraints adversely affecting farmers’ access and utilization of BOA loans and they include bank structure and interest rates (10.8%), risks (9.5%), perception and poor loan administration (9.5%), integrity (7.8%), profitability (7.8%) and collateral constraint (7.7%) which explained a total of 53.2% of the variance in the 17 constraining variable components. The study concluded that these factors pose great threat to financing agricultural sector by formal institutions and consequently affecting agricultural productivity of the farmers in the region. It therefore calls for urgent intervention and remedy by all the relevant stakeholders. The study recommended that the procedures for the agricultural loan applications, approval and disbursement should be emendated to aid farmers’ ease of access of the loan and its optimal utilization which conveniently enhances the repayment. It was further recommended that the Bank embrace technology to make up for its poor spread and reach across the country.
DOMESTIC AGRICULTURAL FINANCING THROUGH GOVERNMENT AND COMMERCIAL BANK’S CREDITS AND AGRICULTURAL OUTPUT PERFORMANCE IN NIGERIA
Authors: Ogbonna, S. I.  , Nnamerenwa, G. C.
Published: April 2023

This study focused on understanding the influence of domestic agricultural financing through government and commercial banks credits and agricultural output performance in Nigeria. The study employed time series data obtained from Central Bank of Nigeria, Statistical Bulletin and National Bureau of Statistics which covered from 1981 to 2019. The data obtained were analyzed using econometric method like the multiple regression technique. Findings revealed that agricultural performance in Nigeria within the reference period was negatively influenced by the value of commercial banks loans and advances to agriculture and positively influenced by the credit allocation to agricultural sector under ACGSF and by government capital expenditure on agriculture among other factors. The study concludes adequate financing of the agricultural sector is imperative for a positive performance to be recorded in the sector constantly. Finance is inseparable from agricultural performance in Nigeria. For more positive performance to be recorded in the agricultural sector, adequate financing of the sector is indispensable. Both Government and commercial banks in Nigeria should effectively support the provision of adequate credit to the agricultural sector such that farmers could transit from subsistence to commercial orientation in a sustainable manner in Nigeria.
CHILD ABUSE AND ITS IMPLICATION ON ACADEMIC PERFORMANCE IN IBAJI LOCAL GOVERNMENT AREA OF KOGI STATE, NIGERIA
Authors: Ukwuteno, S. O.  , Ukwuteno, U. J.
Published: April 2023

The study was conducted to examine child abuse and its implication on academic performance in Ibaji Local Government Area of Kogi State, Nigeria. The tools of analysis used were simple descriptive statistics and mean scores. The study used 90 respondents (households) from three districts of the Local Government Area; namely, Onyedega, Ujeh and Unale in proportions of 30:30:30, respectively. Structured questionnaire was randomly administered on the respondents to obtain information on child abuse and its implication on academic performance. The mean age of the respondents was 42.31 years, indicating that most parents are of youthful age. The results of mean score analysis showed that lack of adequate parental care with mean score of 3.98, has the greatest implication on child abuse and academic performance. Also divorced couples and poverty of parents with mean score of 3.30 and 3.23, respectively, played crucial roles in child abuse and poor academic performance. It was recommended that the provisions of the Child Rights Act be made mandatory for all State Governments in the federation to enforce and to compel parents to take adequate care of their children. Defaulting parents should be made to face stiff penalties. Poverty alleviation programme should be strengthened to have visible effects on the rural poor.