https://jaat.fudutsinma.edu.ng/index.php/jaat/issue/feed FUDMA Journal of Agriculture and Agricultural Technology 2025-05-18T15:28:38+00:00 Dr. Aderemi Adesoji jaat@fudutsinma.edu.ng Open Journal Systems <p>FUDMA Journal of Agriculture and Agricultural Technology</p> https://jaat.fudutsinma.edu.ng/index.php/jaat/article/view/370 NUTRIENT DETERMINATION AND APPARENT NUTRIENT DIGESTIBILITY OF GRAVID GILTS FED CASSAVA PLANT MEAL-BASED DIETS 2025-04-07T07:12:46+00:00 M.A. ADEYEMI ma.adeyemi@oaustech.edu.ng R.A. OLORUNSOLA mr.olojugba@oaustech.edu.ng <p>Three CPMs products were developed from cassava variety (<em>Tropical Manihot Species</em> (TMS) 30572) harvested at 24 months after planting. The different cassava plant parts (sun-dried unpeeled cassava tuber meal, cassava leaf meal and tender cassava stem meal) were mixed at different ratios of 2:1, 2.5:1 and 3:1 while the ratio of the leaves to tender stems was 5:1 across the three CPMs products. The apparent nutrient digestibility of the developed CPMs products by pre-gestation gilts, and the proximate composition, minerals, amino acids, vitamins, fatty acids and apparent nutrient digestibility of CPM-based diets for gravid gilts were determined using standard laboratory procedures. Results showed that CPM products 2 and 3 had higher crude protein and crude fibre digestibility coefficients and were better digested than CPM product 1. The proximate composition of CPM-based diets differed significantly (p&lt;0.05) across dietary groups. The amino acid contents increased with increasing inclusion of unpeeled cassava tuber meal to the CPM-based diets. Also, the Calcium, Phosphorus, Manganese and Chlorine content were influenced (p&lt;0.05) by increasing inclusion of unpeeled cassava tuber meal. The apparent nutrient digestibility of the CPM-based diets was significantly (p &lt;0.05) higher in 100% CPM-based diets and comparable to the value obtained for the group fed maize-based diet. In conclusion, the CPMs products 2 and 3 had comparable nutrient contents as maize meal and the digestibility coefficient of the nutrients in the experimental diets fed to gravid gilts increased with increasing inclusion of unpeeled cassava tuber meal. Cassava plant meal could give comparable reproductive performance when fed to gravid pigs.</p> 2025-04-07T00:00:00+00:00 Copyright (c) 2025 FUDMA Journal of Agriculture and Agricultural Technology https://jaat.fudutsinma.edu.ng/index.php/jaat/article/view/371 IMPACTS OF BIOCHAR ON SOME MICROBIAL POPULATION, SOIL PROPERTIES AND YIELD OF TOMATO IN A DIFFERENT LAND USE SYSTEMS SOUTHWEST, NIGERIA 2025-04-07T07:23:16+00:00 M.R. OLOJUGBA mr.olojugba@oaustech.edu.ng <p>Changes in soil microbial communities may impact soil fertility and stability because microbial communities are key to soil functioning by supporting soil ecological quality and agricultural production. This study was conducted to investigate the Impacts of biochar on microbial activities on soil properties, crop growth and yield in a different Land use systems Southwest, Nigeria<strong>. </strong>The study was carried out between March to August 2023 and 2024 in Okitipupa Southwest, Nigeria with the objectives to determine the impact of biochar application on microbial abundance., to evaluate the influence of biochar on some soil physical properties, to evaluate the influence of biochar on some soil chemical properties and to determine the impact of biochar on the growth and yield of tomato. The design was Complete Randomized Design (CRD) with four treatments: control, oil palm plantation and agroforestry all treated with biochar except for the control. The results were subjected to statistical analysis and mean were separated at 0.05%. The results show that addition of biochar increases soil pH from 5.0 to 5.3 in farmland soil 4.8 to 5.5 in agroforestry soil and 5.1 to 5.2 in Oil palm plantation soil. Also, addition of biochar increases the population of Trichoderma from 4.00 cfu/g to 6.00 cfu/g, 8.00 cfu/g to 10.00 cfu/g and 5.00 cfu/g to 6.00 cfu in farmland soil, agroforestry and oil palm soils respectively. Aspergillus population also increased from 4.00 cfu/g to 5.00 cfu/g, 4.00 cfu/g to 8.00 cfu/g and 4.00 cfu/g to 7.00 cfu/g in farmland, agroforestry and oil palm soils respectively. Tomato yield was 14.06ton/ha, 12.77 ton/ha, 09.00 ton/ha and 4.67 ton/ha farmland, agroforestry, oil palm plantation and control soil respectively. It was observed that, addition of biochar to soils increases the presence of soil microbial, yield and some soil chemical properties in the study area. Therefeore, it is the finding of this study that proper use of biochar in the current agro ecological zone could be beneficial to agriculture especially crop production.</p> 2025-04-07T00:00:00+00:00 Copyright (c) 2025 FUDMA Journal of Agriculture and Agricultural Technology https://jaat.fudutsinma.edu.ng/index.php/jaat/article/view/372 THE IMPACT OF ARBUSCULAR MYCORRHIZAS FUNGI (AMF), IDOLE-3-ACETIC (IAA), AND NPK ON SOIL CHEMICAL PROPERTIES AND GROWTH OF CASSAVA IN OKITIPUPA, SOUTHWEST, NIGERIA 2025-04-07T07:31:54+00:00 M.R. OLOJUGBA mr.olojugba@oaustech.edu.ng O KOLAWOLE mr.olojugba@oaustech.edu.ng <p>Conventional agricultural practices mainly rely on agronomic measures and chemical inputs to improve nutrient use efficiency (NUE) which could lead to soil degradation and loss of biodiversity, with detrimental consequences for soil health and ecosystem functioning. This study aims to evaluate the impact of Indole-3-Acetic Acid (IAA), Arbuscular Mycorrhizal Fungi (AMF) as inoculants in combination with NPK doses on soil chemical properties and cassava yield in Okitipua between April to August 2014, Southwest Nigeria. There were five treatments&nbsp;&nbsp; namely, Arbuscular mycorrhizal Fungi, idole-3-acetic (1g), NPK 15:15:15 fertilizer (300kg/ha), Abuscular mycorrhizal Fungi + NPK. 15:15:15 fertilizer and control, the experimental design was Randomized Complete Block Design (RCBD). The results were subjected to statistical analysis using SPSS. AMF showed low impact on the soil from the experimental site. It has showed effect on few soil parameters (Soil pH, TOC, Na<sup>+</sup>, Mg<sup>2+</sup> and base saturation). The addition of NPK to the soil showed positive impact in some soil parameters such as TOC, Na<sup>+</sup>, K<sup>+</sup>, Ca<sup>2+</sup>, Mg<sup>2+</sup> and base saturation. The combination of NPK and AMF (NPK+AMF) has shown more impact in most soil parameters such as TOC, Na, Na<sup>+</sup>, Ca<sup>2+</sup>, Mg<sup>2+</sup>, base saturation and Mn. NPK, AMF, and the combination of NPK, NPK + AMF have shown impact in the growth of cassava by increasing the height of the cassava plant. NPK, IAA, and NPK+AMF have shown impact in the leaves by the increase in the number of leaves. Only NPK, NPK + AMF had shown impact on the stem of the cassava by increasing the number of stems in all weeks after planting (WAP). The stem diameter shows significant increase from week 1 to week 6 with the help of the applications of NPK and NPK+AMF. This research gives information on the use and benefits of AMF, AMF + NPK in a appropriate proportion to grow cassava in Okitipupa and its environs. If properly managed, it is a promising step to reduce the total dependence on the mineral fertilizers for the growth of cassava in the study area.</p> 2025-04-07T00:00:00+00:00 Copyright (c) 2025 FUDMA Journal of Agriculture and Agricultural Technology https://jaat.fudutsinma.edu.ng/index.php/jaat/article/view/373 INFLUENCE OF GRADED DOSE OF PROBIOTICS SUPPLEMENTS ON PACKED CELL VOLUME AND BODY WEIGHT DURING GESTATION PERIOD AND PREGNANCY PHASE OF NEW ZEALAND WHITE FEMALE RABBIT (DOES) 2025-04-08T13:21:54+00:00 D. ILIYASU drdisambo@gmail.com F.A. LAWAN drdisambo@gmail.com A.M. ABDULLAHI abubakarabdu1113@gmail.com A.R. MUSTAPHA drdisambo@gmail.com I.D. PETER drdisambo@gmail.com F.I. YUSUF drdisambo@gmail.com A. ABBA drdisambo@gmail.com U.M. BAMANGA drdisambo@gmail.com M.H. TIMTA drdisambo@gmail.com <p>Probiotics are live bacteria that, when administered in enough concentrations, provide health advantages to the host. This study was designed to determine the influence of graded dose of probiotics on packed cell volume (PCV) and live body weight of female rabbits during gestation and pregnancy phases. Twelve healthy adult female rabbits (does) were purchased and housed at the Laboratory Animal Research Unit of the Large Animal Clinic, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Maiduguri. The rabbits were randomly divided into four groups: A, B, C, and D. Groups A, B, and C received 300 g, 200 g, and 100 g of probiotic supplements, respectively. Group D, served as control and fed only a basal diet throughout the research period. Drinking water was provided <em>ad</em> <em>libitum</em> throughout the study period. Thereafter, blood samples were collected aseptically via the ear vein once every week for six weeks and the live body weight were measured once every w eek for six weeks. The results revealed that the PCV and the live body weight during gestation period were significant (p ˂ 0.05) among the treated groups when compared to the control (group D). However, the weight during various pregnancy phases was also significant (p &lt; 0.05) among the treated groups when compared to the control (group D). In conclusion, probiotics have influence on the PCV and the live body weight during gestation period and various pregnancy phases of the rabbits does.</p> 2025-04-08T00:00:00+00:00 Copyright (c) 2025 FUDMA Journal of Agriculture and Agricultural Technology https://jaat.fudutsinma.edu.ng/index.php/jaat/article/view/375 ECONOMICS OF CASSAVA PRODUCTION AMONG FARMING HOUSEHOLDS IN OJU LOCAL GOVERNMENT OF BENUE STATE, NIGERIA 2025-04-11T08:42:22+00:00 A. SOOM soomaondonenge@gmail.com T.R. IORLAMEN soomaondonenge@gmail.com I.T. HUMBLE soomaondonenge@gmail.com <p>Cassava plays a critical role in food security, energy security, poverty alleviation, and the economic sustainability of millions of smallholders in developing countries, including Nigeria. Its relevance to the food security in rural and urban areas demand increased processing of its tubers into many products that can satisfy consumers’ diverse tastes. This study, therefore, focused on economics of cassava production among farming households in Oju Local Government Area, Benue State, Nigeria. A multi-stage sampling method was used to select 120 respondents for the study. Primary data were employed with the use of structured questionnaire instrument and were analyzed through descriptive statistics, budgeting techniques, and multiple regression analysis. The result revealed that most cassava farmers (62%) were male, 62% were married, and 70% were literate. The average household size was 5 persons, and the average farming experience was 9 years. Additionally, 70% of the farmers lacked access to credit, while 79% were not part of any cooperative association. The cost and return analysis showed that cassava farmers earned an average gross return (total revenue) of ₦205,000 per/ha, with total variable costs of ₦142,000 and fixed costs of ₦16,650. The total production cost per farmer was ₦158,650 per/ha, resulting in a net farm income of ₦46,350 and a gross margin of ₦63,000. The return on investment (₦0.29) indicated a profit of 29k for every naira invested. The multiple regression analysis identified age, educational level, farming experience, farm size, and cooperative membership as significant factors influencing cassava output. The study concluded that cassava farming in the area was profitable. The following are the recommendations, that increasing the levels&nbsp;&nbsp; utilization of farm size, education and farming experience will result in an increase in the level of output of cassava. Also, farmers be recommended to form goal driven association groups and pool resources together to improve upon their finances.</p> 2025-04-11T00:00:00+00:00 Copyright (c) 2025 FUDMA Journal of Agriculture and Agricultural Technology https://jaat.fudutsinma.edu.ng/index.php/jaat/article/view/376 EFFECT OF BIO-STIMULATION AND CLOPROSTENOL ON PERCENTAGE OF ESTRUS SYNCHRONY AND CONCEPTION IN EWES 2025-04-11T08:53:23+00:00 U. ADAMU edzu1973@gmail.com S. SIDI edzu1973@gmail.com <p>This study examined the effects of biostimulation on estrus synchrony rates and conception rates in ewes. Twelve matured pre-partum ewes, weighing between 21 and 31 kg and 1 – 2 years of age were used for this study. The animals were assigned to four treatment groups (A,B,C and D) each consisting of three (n = 3) animals. Estrus manifestations were seen in group A, B, C and D as 100, 66.7, 66.7 and 0% respectively. The percentage conception in the groups confirmed through ultrasound scan were Percentage synchrony was highest in group A, with all the animals being synchronized after the second dose of cloprostenol were administered. In groups B (single dose of cloprostenol with introduction of a ram) and C (double doses of cloprostenol without introduction of ram) percentage synchrony were same. Bio stimulation had a synergistic effect on cloprostenol and their combination will reduce cost of synchronization and is therefore recommended for synchronization programs.</p> 2025-04-11T00:00:00+00:00 Copyright (c) 2025 FUDMA Journal of Agriculture and Agricultural Technology https://jaat.fudutsinma.edu.ng/index.php/jaat/article/view/377 YIELD AND YIELD COMPONENTS OF MAIZE/COWPEA INTERCROP AS AFFECTED BY ROW-ARRANGEMENT AND COWPEA VARIETIES IN THE SUDAN SAVANNAH 2025-04-12T16:29:47+00:00 F.M. HABIB fatyhabib5@gmail.com T.T. BELLO fatyhabib5@gmail.com S. MIKO fatyhabib5@gmail.com E.A. SHITTU fatyhabib5@gmail.com <p>Field experiment was conducted during the 2023 rainy season at the Teaching and Research Farm of Faculty of Agriculture, Bayero University Kano (11ᵒ58N, 8ᵒ25E) and Institute for Agricultural Research Farm Minjibir (12ᵒ10’42N, 8ᵒ39’33E) to determine the productivity of maize/cowpea intercrops as affected by cowpea varieties and row arrangement in Sudan savanna of Nigeria. The treatments consisted of two cowpea varieties (SAMPEA19 and SAMPEA21) and four row arrangements (1M:1C, 1M:2C, 2M:1C, 2M:2C). Sole maize and cowpea were established in each replication for evaluation of intercrop productivity. These were laid out in a split plot design and replicated three times. Row arrangement was assigned to the main plot and cowpea variety to the sub plot. The result of the study at both locations revealed that grain yield of maize at BUK (2286.8 kg ha<sup>-1</sup>) and Minjibir (1211.2 kgha<sup>-1</sup>), was higher in 1M:1C than other row arrangement.<sup>&nbsp; </sup>In the case of cowpea, SAMPEA 21 recorded highest values for number of pod/plants, 100 seed weight, pod yield and grain yield at both locations, 1M:1C row arrangement recorded the highest Pod weight at BUK (2034.2 kg ha<sup>-1</sup>) and Minjibir (1801.2 kg ha<sup>-1</sup>) and grain yield of 1717.7 and 1596.3 kg ha<sup>-1</sup> at BUK and Minjibir respectively. All the treatment combinations resulted in land equivalent ratio (LER) greater than 1.0 with combination of SAMPEA21 and 1M:1C (1.58, 1.40) recording the highest LER value in both locations.</p> 2025-04-12T00:00:00+00:00 Copyright (c) 2025 FUDMA Journal of Agriculture and Agricultural Technology https://jaat.fudutsinma.edu.ng/index.php/jaat/article/view/378 EFFECT OF CLOPROTENOL AND BIO STIMULATION ON ESTRUS SYNCHRONY, ONSET AND DURATION IN UDA EWE 2025-04-15T12:45:10+00:00 U. ADAMU edzu1973@gmail.com A.M. DUNFAWA edzu1973@gmail.com <p>The influence of biostimulation in combination with cloprostenol administration on estrus synchronization was studied. Twelve matured pre-partum ewes, weighing between 21 and 31 kg and 1 – 2 years of age were used for this study. The animals were assigned to four treatment groups (A, B, C and D) each consisting of three (n = 3) animals. Estrus manifestations were seen in group A, B, C and D as 100, 66.7, 66.7 and 0% respectively. The time to onset of estrus for groups A, B, C and D were 36.33 ± 8.32, 26.23 ± 2.81, 23.14 ± 0.14 and 0.00 ± 0.00 h respectively. The duration of estrus was 33.30 ± 12.60, 15.67 ± 13.58 and 0.00 ± 0.00 h respectively. Percentage synchrony was highest in group A, with all the animals being synchronized after the second dose of cloprostenol were administered. In groups B (single dose of cloprostenol with introduction of a ram) and C (double doses of cloprostenol without introduction of ram) percentage synchrony were same. Bio stimulation had a synergistic effect on cloprostenol and their combination will reduce cost of synchronization and is therefore recommended for synchronization programs.</p> 2025-04-15T00:00:00+00:00 Copyright (c) 2025 FUDMA Journal of Agriculture and Agricultural Technology https://jaat.fudutsinma.edu.ng/index.php/jaat/article/view/383 EVALUATION OF GROWTH PERFORMANCE OF RABBITS FED DIETS CONTAINING GRADED DIETARY INCLUSION OF GARLIC (ALLIUM SATIVUM) MEAL. 2025-05-13T00:33:09+00:00 M. AFOLAYAN moji_afolayan@yahoo.com W.H. KEHINDE moji_afolayan@yahoo.com S. RICHARD moji_afolayan@yahoo.com E.A. SALIHU moji_afolayan@yahoo.com <p>Twenty-four grower rabbits were randomly assigned in a completely randomized design to four diets containing garlic meal at 0.00, 200, 400 and 600g/100kg diet to assess the effect of dietary inclusion of garlic on nutrient digestibility, caecal bacteria count, haematological and serum biochemical parameters. Data were collected on feed intake, faecal output, caecal bacterial count, haematological and serum biochemical indices of the rabbits. Result showed that crude protein and ether extract digestibility coefficients were higher (p&lt;0.05) in groups fed diets containing 400g of garlic. Crude fibre digestibility coefficient was higher in rabbits fed diet containing 200g of garlic and least in rabbits fed control diet. <em>Bacillus </em>and<em> Lactobacillus </em>species were significantly higher (p&lt;0.05) in rabbits fed diets containing garlic at 200g and 400g per 100kg diets followed by those fed diets containing 600g and least for control groups. <em>E. coli, Clostridium </em>and <em>Enterobacteriaceae </em>spp populations were significantly (p&lt;0.05) higher in rabbits fed diet without garlic meal and lower in rabbits fed diets supplemented with garlic. Packed cell volume was highest (p&lt;0.05) for control and least for groups fed diets containing garlic. Serum total protein (7.08 mg/dl), albumin (3.94 mg/dl) and globulin (3.15 mg/dl) were higher in rabbits fed diets without garlic supplementations. Glucose was higher in rabbits fed diets with garlic supplementations at 200g (195.68mg/dl), 400g (175.04mg/dl) and 600g (179.56mg/dl) per 100kg diets and least in the control groups (144.02 mg/dl). Total cholesterol contents were reduced in rabbits fed diets containing garlic at 600g (50.29mg/dl), 400g (59.88mg/dl) and 200g (74.10mg/dl) per 100kg diets compared with the control groups (91.13 mg/dl). conclusively, inclusion of garlic in the diets of growing rabbits up to 600g per 100kg improves nutrient utilization and beneficial caecal bacterial populations and had no detrimental effects on the animals.</p> 2025-05-13T00:00:00+00:00 Copyright (c) 2025 FUDMA Journal of Agriculture and Agricultural Technology https://jaat.fudutsinma.edu.ng/index.php/jaat/article/view/384 EFFECT OF VARIOUS SOLVENT AND CONCENTRATION OF BAOBAB AND Lantana PLANT EXTRACTS ON RADIAL GROWTH OF TOMATO Fusarium WILT (Fusarium oxysporium F. sp lycopersici) 2025-05-13T00:49:14+00:00 P.O. UNAH powoicho@gmail.com A. TIJJANI powoicho@gmail.com M.U. SABO powoicho@gmail.com <p>This study investigated the antifungal potential of Baobab and <em>Lantana camara</em> leave and root (aqueous, ethanol and methanol extracts), 40g, 60g and 80g/250mL where evaluated for radial growth inhibition of <em>Fusarium oxysporium</em>. Mancozeb and sterile distilled water served as positive and negative controls and was laid out in Completely Randomize Design (CRD). Two vertical lines were drawn below each petri-dishes, dividing each dish into four equal sections. A 5mm piece of a 7-day-old FOL culture was inoculated at the center of each petri dish using a sterile 5mm cork borer. The petri dishes were then incubated at 28 ± 2°C for six days, during which data on radial growth inhibition was collected. Results showed that 80g/250ml ethanol recorded the lowest (13.67mm) radial growth and was statistically comparable to mancozeb that recorded lower (12.67mm) at 6 DAI which were better than other treatments and the negative control that recorded the highest radial growth (55.67%). Similar trend was observed under lantana methanol root extract at 80g/250ml concentration recording lower radial growth (8.67%) statistically similar to the mancozeb that recorded the lowest (7.00%) percent radial growth related to negative control that recorded the highest (51.33%) radial growth at 6 DAI. The study highlights the significance of the solvent choice and concentration as antifungal efficacy. These findings suggests that Baobab and <em>Lantana </em>plant extracts have potential as eco-friendly alternative for managing tomato <em>Fusarium</em> wilt. The optimal solvent and concentration combination can be exploited for developing novel sustainable antifungal agents.&nbsp;</p> 2025-05-13T00:00:00+00:00 Copyright (c) 2025 FUDMA Journal of Agriculture and Agricultural Technology https://jaat.fudutsinma.edu.ng/index.php/jaat/article/view/385 EFFECTS OF CASSAVA PEEL MEAL ON SEMEN QUALITY AND REPRODUCTIVE POTENTIAL IN GROWING MALE RABBITS 2025-05-13T00:59:39+00:00 A. OYIBO oyiboamina@gmail.com A.A. OKPE oyiboamina@gmail.com B.O. OYEWOLE oyiboamina@gmail.com <p>The semen quality of Growing Male Rabbits Fed Graded Levels of Cassava Peel meal was investigated. Thirty (30) male rabbits of mixed breeds, of about six to seven months old with the average weight of 1050 grams were randomly assigned in a completely randomized design into five treatments groups with six rabbits per dietary treatment (six replicates and a rabbit per replicate). The diet was formulated such that cassava peel meal, replaced 20, 40, 60 and 80 percent of dietary maize while the control was 0%. Results showed that the rabbits fed 40% CPM had the most concentrated, viable and active sperm cells which is a critical factor for ensuring successful fertilization. It may therefore, be concluded that cassava peel meal can be considered a promising conventional energy source for rabbit’s nutrition in terms of improving the semen quality, thereby potentially enhancing the overall fertility status.</p> 2025-05-13T00:00:00+00:00 Copyright (c) 2025 FUDMA Journal of Agriculture and Agricultural Technology https://jaat.fudutsinma.edu.ng/index.php/jaat/article/view/386 ANTIOXIDANT EFFECT OF LYCOPENE ON IN VITRO MATURATION AND FERTILIZATION OF BOVINE OOCYTES 2025-05-13T01:10:03+00:00 S. SIDI shehu.sidi@udusok.edu.ng G. RESIDEWATI shehu.zaid@udusok.edu.ng <p>In vitro embryo production (IVEP) is a vital assisted-reproductive technology with significant applications in producing genetically superior animals through <em>in vitro </em>maturation (IVM), fertilisation (IVF) and culture of zygote. This study evaluated the antioxidant potential of lycopene during in vitro maturation (IVM) and fertilisation (IVF) of bovine oocytes. Fifty ovaries from Belgian Blue cows were collected from a slaughterhouse in Moeskroen, Belgium, and transported to the laboratory. Cumulus-oocyte complexes were aspirated from follicles (4–8 mm diameter) and incubated in modified bicarbonate-buffered TCM-199 with supplements (50 µg/mL gentamycin and 20 ng/mL epidermal growth factor) at 38.5°C in 5% CO₂ for 22 hours. Four experimental groups were established: control (C), lycopene (supplemented with 0.2 µM lycopene), menadione (supplemented with 5 µM menadione), and lycopene plus menadione (L+M), each with 40 oocytes. Following maturation, oocytes were fertilized in media containing BSA and heparin with diluted sperm, co-incubated at 38.5°C in 5% CO₂ for 21 hours. Maturation and fertilisation were assessed under a fluorescent microscope after staining with Hoechst solution. The results showed that oocytes in the lycopene group (L) achieved significantly higher maturation (86.66 ± 5.09%) and fertilisation rates (84.99 ± 5.65%) compared to the other groups (p &lt; 0.05). These findings suggest that lycopene supplementation enhances oocyte maturation and fertilisation outcomes. The study recommends incorporating lycopene into maturation media to improve IVEP efficiency in bovine reproductive technologies.</p> 2025-05-13T00:00:00+00:00 Copyright (c) 2025 FUDMA Journal of Agriculture and Agricultural Technology https://jaat.fudutsinma.edu.ng/index.php/jaat/article/view/387 SOCIOECONOMIC DETERMINANTS OF POVERTY INCIDENCE AND AVERAGE TIME TAKEN TO EXIT POVERTY AMONG HOUSEHOLDS IN OYO STATE, SOUTHWEST NIGERIA 2025-05-13T01:26:35+00:00 K.O. ABOABA obalola.oyeyode@udusok.edu.ng D.M. FADIJI obalola.oyeyode@udusok.edu.ng T.O. OBALOLA obalola.oyeyode@udusok.edu.ng N. MUSA obalola.oyeyode@udusok.edu.ng M. UHEGBU obalola.oyeyode@udusok.edu.ng B.B. ABUBAKAR obalola.oyeyode@udusok.edu.ng E.B.E. ODUM obalola.oyeyode@udusok.edu.ng <p>Achieving the United Nations goals of eliminating poverty in its various forms globally will continue to be a delusion without properly examining the role of household socioeconomic characteristics in poverty alleviation, as well as time it takes poor households to exit poverty. This study was however carried out to examine the role of socioeconomic characteristics on poverty incidence and time it takes to exit poverty among households in Oyo State, Nigeria. Multistage sampling procedure was used to select 140 households comprising of 577 persons. The study was carried out in 2019 using primary data. Descriptive statistics, Foster-Greer-Thorbecke (FGT) index and logistic regression model were the analytical tools used for the study. The result showed that mean per-capita annual expenditure and poverty line were ₦143,288.52 and ₦95,525.68 respectively. About 32% of the households were found to be poor, the poverty incidence and severity were 11% and 5% respectively. Furthermore, it will take the poor households 4.21 years to exit poverty if their annual consumption expenditure grows at 10%. Household size increases probability of the poor households to exit poverty while level of education, other occupation, remittances, road networks and clean cooking fuel increases the chance of the poor households to exit poverty. The study recommends intensification of basic and adult education programmes, birth control measures, promotion of economic growth through employment generation, and provision of infrastructural facilities for poverty alleviation.</p> 2025-05-13T00:00:00+00:00 Copyright (c) 2025 FUDMA Journal of Agriculture and Agricultural Technology https://jaat.fudutsinma.edu.ng/index.php/jaat/article/view/388 BIOCHEMICAL AND HISTOPATHOLOGICAL PROFILES OF Oreochromis niloticus (O. niloticus - LINNAEUS, 1758) EXPOSED TO SOLID WASTE LEACHATE 2025-05-13T01:42:19+00:00 S.O. AYOOLA vfakinjogunla.faq@buk.edu.ng C.E. EJIKEME vfakinjogunla.faq@buk.edu.ng V.F. AKINJOGUNLA vfakinjogunla.faq@buk.edu.ng <p>Landfill sites pose significant environmental and human health risks due to the production of leachate, which is heterogeneous and varies temporally and seasonally. This study evaluates the impact of leachate from the Olusosun landfill on 300 post-juvenile <em>Oreochromis niloticus</em> (<em>O. niloticus</em>), assessing biochemical and histopathological toxicity.&nbsp;Fish were exposed to acute concentrations of leachate for 96 hours, and the lethal concentration (LC<sub>50</sub>) was determined using probit analysis. The percentage mortality was recorded at increasing leachate concentrations (580 mL, 600 mL, 620 mL, 640 mL, and 660 mL). Blood samples were collected for biochemical analysis, while organs (liver, kidney, gills, and muscles) were extracted for histopathological examination after 28 days. Statistical analysis was conducted using ANOVA. The 96-hour LC50 value of leachate was 39.05 mL/L, with mortality rates increasing from 0% to 100% as concentration levels rose. Fish exposed to higher concentrations exhibited abnormal swimming behaviors and progressive skin discoloration, with dead fish becoming noticeably lighter in color. Histopathological analysis revealed severe necrosis in the gills and sinusoidal congestion in the liver. Biochemical analysis showed fluctuating creatinine levels, indicating physiological stress. The findings suggest that lower leachate concentrations increase survival chances, while high concentrations&nbsp;pose&nbsp;severe&nbsp;toxic&nbsp;effects.&nbsp;Due to the toxic effects of landfill leachate on <em>O. niloticus</em>, it is recommended that landfills be located away from aquatic ecosystems or that alternative waste management strategies such as closed landfill systems be considered to prevent water contamination.</p> 2025-05-13T00:00:00+00:00 Copyright (c) 2025 FUDMA Journal of Agriculture and Agricultural Technology https://jaat.fudutsinma.edu.ng/index.php/jaat/article/view/393 EFFECTS OF NPK 15:15:15 FERTILIER AND SPACING ON THE Physiological Parameters OF OKRO (Abelmoschus esculentus L.) AT DUTSE, JIGAWA STATE 2025-05-18T15:03:26+00:00 O. DANMAIGORO odanmaigoro@gmail.com M.M. UMAR odanmaigoro@gmail.com J. HALIDU odanmaigoro@gmail.com F. MUHAMMAD odanmaigoro@gmail.com D. SULAIMAN odanmaigoro@gmail.com T. ABDULJALIL odanmaigoro@gmail.com K.D. SALAMI odanmaigoro@gmail.com <p>A two-year field investigation was conducted at the Federal University Dutse Teaching and Research Farm, situated in the Northern Sudan Savanna ecological zone of Nigeria, during the 2018 and 2019 rainy seasons. This study aimed to assess the synergistic effects of NPK 15:15:15 fertilizer applications and plant spacing on the physiological parameters of okra. The experiment employed a Randomized Complete Block Design (RCBD) with three replications, comprising three levels of NPK fertilizer (30, 60, and 120 Kgha<sup>-1</sup>) and three spacing (10, 15, and 20 cm). The results revealed significant (p &lt; 0.05) effects of NPK fertilizer application on okra plant height, branching habit, primary branches, fruit length, and pod production per plant. Furthermore, varying spacing treatments significantly (p &lt; 0.05) influenced plant height, leaf production, fruit length, and seed number per pod. The optimal combination of 120 kgha<sup>-1</sup> NPK fertilizer and 20 cm spacing yielded the best results, highlighting the potential for improved okra production in the region. It is recommended that okra farmers apply 120kgha<sup>-1</sup> NPK fertilizer and adopt 20cm spacing to optimize growth, yield, improves food security, creates jobs, and boosts farmer incomes, contributing to economic growth and productivity in the Northern Sudan Savanna zone.</p> 2025-05-18T00:00:00+00:00 Copyright (c) 2025 FUDMA Journal of Agriculture and Agricultural Technology https://jaat.fudutsinma.edu.ng/index.php/jaat/article/view/394 ASSESSMENT OF CONSUMPTION PATTERN OF SWEET POTATO IN ABEOKUTA SOUTH LOCAL GOVERNMENT AREA OF OGUN STATE, NIGERIA 1 2025-05-18T15:28:38+00:00 B.A. OYEBAMIJI oyebamijiba@funaab.edu.ng J.A. OKUNADE oyebamijiba@funaab.edu.ng B.S. ATILADE oyebamijiba@funaab.edu.ng O. ADETARAMI adetaramio@funaab.edu.ng C.I. SODIYA adetaramio@funaab.edu.ng A.J. GBENRO adetaramio@funaab.edu.ng T.T. OYEBAMIJI oyebamijiba@funaab.edu.ng E.T. AKINTOBI oyebamijiba@funaab.edu.ng O.N. ELEGBEDE oyebamijiba@funaab.edu.ng <p>Sweet potatoes contribute significantly to the nation's economic growth, food and nutrition security. Despite the nutritional significance of sweet potatoes, consumption of sweet potato is still underutilized. Hence, the study assessed the consumption pattern of sweet potato in Abeokuta South Local Government Area, Ogun State. Purposive and proportionate sampling techniques were used to select 136 households from three communities. Data were analyzed using descriptive and inferential statistics (multiple linear regression). Result showed that <strong>mean age of 41 years</strong>, majority <strong>(63.2%)</strong> were <strong>male</strong> and <strong>86.8% were married. About</strong> <strong>90% practiced monogamy</strong>, household size averaged of <strong>5 persons per household</strong>, and <strong>51.5% were civil servants</strong>. Furthermore, the result shows that 90.4% of the respondents consumed boiled and 86.8% consumed fried sweet potatoes. Furthermore, finding revealed that consumption of sweet potato was low (51.5%). Also, result in reveal that price of sweet potato ( = 2.43), nutrient and health content ( =2.32), availability ( =2.29), seasonality ( =2.11) were among the essential factors that influence consumption pattern of sweet potatoes. Multiple linear regression revealed that age (β=0.381), sex (β=0.229) and household size (β=0.207) significantly influenced the consumption pattern of sweet potato (p&lt;0.05), while significant relationship existed between agricultural support programs (β=0.226), price (β=0.243), consumer preference (β=0.199), nutrient and health content (β=0.214) and seasonality (β=0.320) and consumption pattern of sweet potatoes (p&lt;0.05). It is concluded that boiled and fried potatoes were consumed and influenced by support programs and nutritional benefits, therefore efforts should be intensified towards sensitization of nutritional benefits of sweet potatoes.</p> 2025-05-18T00:00:00+00:00 Copyright (c) 2025 FUDMA Journal of Agriculture and Agricultural Technology