FUDMA Journal of Agriculture and Agricultural Technology
FACULTY OF AGRICULTURE FEDERAL UNIVERSITY DUTSIN-MA, NIGERIA
HARNESSING ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE IN AGRICULTURAL EDUCATION: A CATALYST FOR CREATIVITY AND PRODUCTIVITY IN BAGWAI LOCAL GOVERNMENT AREA OF KANO STATE, NIGERIA
This study explored the role of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in enhancing creativity and productivity in agricultural education in Bagwai Local Government Area of Kano State, Nigeria. A mixed-methods approach of data collection was employed, using a structured questionnaire and focus group discussions. Data was analyzed using descriptive analysis, Likert scale and regression. The study reveals that AI tools can personalized learning, increase crop yields and learners’ creativity, enhance productivity and promote sustainable agricultural practices. The findings concluded that AI has the potential to transform agricultural education, enabling students to develop the skills and knowledge needed to address the complex challenges facing the agricultural sector. Study recommended that Government should make AI facilities available and accessible to the students. Educators should inculcate the knowledge of AI integration to student’s curriculum in agricultural education and this will ultimately be promoting intelligent transformation in this industry. There is need for education instructors to track students’ perceptions of AI over time, and this will enable educators to identify learning gaps and adjust their teaching strategies accordingly. Government and other stakeholders in education should incorporate AI-powered tools in agricultural education, and this would enhance student’s familiarization with these technologies and become better prepared for their future careers.
Copyright (c) 2025 FUDMA Journal of Agriculture and Agricultural Technology https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0
ASSESSMENT OF FARMERS’ KNOWLEDGE ON CONTRACT FARMING IN KWARA STATE, NIGERIA.
This study analyzed the level of farmers' knowledge on contract farming in Kwara State, Nigeria. It described their socioeconomic characteristics, examined the knowledge of the respondents about contract farming, investigated their sources of information, examined attitudes toward contract farming and assessed participation levels. A two-stage sampling procedure was used to select 152 farmers. Data were collected through a structured interview divided into five sections. The analysis employed descriptive statistics (frequency, percentage, mean, and ranking) and inferential statistics (ordinal logistic regression). The majority of respondents were male (94.7%) and married (96.1%), with 75.0% having completed tertiary education. Over half (90.8%) of the farmers demonstrated knowledge of contract farming, with an average of 4.2 years of experience in the field Findings showed that farmers relied heavily on extension agents for agricultural information (73.2%). The result of the ordinary logistic regression indicated that Knowledge of contract farming among respondents is significantly influenced by marital status, income, association membership, and farm size. Therefore, it is recommended that extension organizations continue to support farmers’ development in this sector, provide detailed information on contract terms, and improve various information channels. Farmers' attitudes during the contract should always be addressed and aligned with the contract agreement.
Copyright (c) 2026 FUDMA Journal of Agriculture and Agricultural Technology https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0
RAPID IMMOBILISATION AND SPERM FAILURE CAUSED BY NATURALLY OCCURRING BACTERIOSPERMIA IN AFRICAN CATFISH, Clarias gariepinus
Bacterial contamination of semen is a recognized cause of reduced sperm function in many vertebrates, but the acute impacts of naturally occurring bacteriospermia on teleost semen under hatchery conditions are inadequately characterized. This study evaluated the short-term effects of indigenous mixed bacterial flora on pooled Clarias gariepinus semen and assessed whether two common dilution ratios (1:1 and 1:2) mitigate bacterial damage. Pooled semen from six male broodstock was assessed at baseline, immediately following dilution (0 h), and at 3 and 6 h post-dilution during chilled storage (4°C). Sperm motility, viability, and concentration were measured using standard laboratory techniques. Bacterial species present in semen were isolated and identified using culture-based methods and biochemical profiling. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics with effect size calculations and bootstrap confidence intervals. Baseline motility and viability were high (77.5% and 74.0%, respectively). Four bacterial species were identified in semen samples: Staphylococcus aureus, Klebsiella sp., Proteus spp., and Serratia sp during the study. By 3 h post-dilution, both dilution groups exhibited complete loss of motility (0%) . Viability declined to 34.0% (1:1 dilution) and 33.0% (1:2 dilution) at 3 h, and further to 12.5% and 10.0% respectively by 6 h. The 1:1 dilution showed a marginal advantage in preserving viability, but neither dilution prevented rapid sperm incapacitation. A positive correlation was observed between fish body weight and testes weight (r = 0.67, bootstrap 95% CI: -0.12 to 0.94).Naturally occurring mixed bacterial contamination rapidly and severely impairs Clarias gariepinus semen during short-term storage. Dilution alone is not protective. The experimental findings emphasize the critical importance of aseptic handling, individual male screening, and development of evidence-based extenders to preserve fertilization capacity in fish hatcheries.
COMPARATIVE STUDY OF THE PHYSICAL EGG QUALITY CHARACTERISTICS FROM CHICKEN, QUAIL, AND TURKEY IN IBADAN NIGERIA
Egg quality is composed of those characteristics of an egg, such as cleanliness, Haugh unit, shape index, egg weight, shell quality, yolk index and chemical composition that affect its acceptability by consumers. External egg properties can provide forehand information on egg content, and their evaluation can predict product yield. The study was conducted in Ibadan, Oyo State, Nigeria. Eggs from three different poultry species, namely layer chickens, quail, and turkeys, were collected from five farms across the state for the research. Data were analysed using descriptive statistics and ANOVA at α = 0.05. Egg length (EL), egg weight (EW) and shell weight (SW) for chicken egg showed no significant difference at (P<0.05) with values ranging from (5.27±0.06cm-5.45±0.09cm), (60.64±1.73cm-63.59±1.11cm) and (7.13±0.23g-7.53±0.34g) respectively. Quail egg showed no significant difference for parameters such as the shell weight and shell thickness, with a value range of (1.24±0.09-1.46±0.04g) for shell weight at (P<0.05). All the parameters for turkey eggs, except egg weight, showed significant differences across farms. Chicken Egg content (EC) (yolk and albumen weight) showed no significant difference at (P<0.05). Turkey egg showed no significant difference for the egg content, and the highest value was recorded for farm D (64.10±2.79g), and the lowest for farm A (57.40±1.48g) at (P<0.05). The obtained results averages for yolk colour are (3.20±0.25, 3.30±0.15, 3.50±0.22, 3.80±0.42 and 6.00±0.54%). These results are important for predicting product yield, with yolk colour indicating consumers’ perceptions of the final processed product.
ANALYSIS OF ACCESS TO RESOURCES IN CATTLE PRODUCTION IN NORTH-EASTERN REGION OF NIGERIA
The study was conducted to explore the cattle farmers’ access to resources in north-eastern region of Nigeria. A two-stage sampling procedure was used to select one hundred and twenty (120) cattle farmers from whom primary data were collected through the use of interview schedule. Data were collected on socio-economic characteristics and access to resources. Analysis of the data was done using both descriptive (mean, percentages) and inferential (Multiple Regression Analysis) statistical tools. The results revealed that the mean age was 45.02 years. Most (66.7%) cattle farmers were males and most (99.2%) were married. The majority (83.3%) had no formal education and no contact (83.3%) with extension agents. All (100%) cattle farmers belonged to cooperative society. The cattle farmers’ access to natural resources (land and water), extension training and new production technologies was low. The results of Multiple Regression Analysis showed that formal education (β=0.38) and sex (β=-0.24) contributed significantly to cattle farmers’ access to resources at 0.05 level of significance. The study concluded that cattle farmers’ access to resources was low and may probably explain low productivity characterizing cattle production. It was therefore recommended that National Livestock Transformation Plan (NLTP) should be implemented with active collaboration of Federal Government and other stakeholders to make cattle farmers transit from extensive system to ranching to enhance access to land, water, extension and new technologies for improved productivity.
ANALYSIS OF FACTORS INFLUENCING LIVELIHOOD DIVERSIFICATION AMONG SMALLHOLDER RICE FARMING HOUSEHOLDS IN FLOOD PRONE AREAS OF JIGAWA STATE, NIGERIA
The study investigates livelihood diversification among flood prone smallholder rice farmers in Jigawa State, Nigeria. Primary data were collected using questionnaire administered to the rice farmers. Multistage sampling procedure was used to select 293 respondents for the study. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics and Beta regression model. The livelihood diversification activities mostly engaged by the farmers were arable farming (92.3%), livestock production (35.4%), and fish farming (20%), (30.8%) engaged in off-farm processing while about (50.6%) engaged in non-farm local services combined, the outcome further reveals that formal work and migrant wage services are the least preferred activities among the categories, with (16.8%) and (8.1%) respectively. The result of the beta regression analysis on factors influencing smallholder farmer’s vulnerability to flooding in the study area shows that age (P<0.01), livelihood economic activity (p<0.005) and access to transport were negatively significant p< 0.005) while extension contact services (p<0.001) and weather information was positive and significant (p<0.005). The study concludes that livelihood diversification activities engaged mostly by the respondents in the study areas is low, therefore it is recommended that Farmers should be encouraged to diversify more into other income generating activities to reduce the adverse effect of the flooding event.
PHYTOREMEDIATION POTENTIAL AND EFFECT OF ORGANO-MINERAL FERTILIZER ON LEAD (Pb) UPTAKE BY MAIZE (Zea mays L.) AND SUNFLOWER (Helianthus annuus L.) FROM CONTAMINATED SOIL
The role of organo-mineral fertilizer in enhancing the phytoremediation efficiency of plants like maize and sunflower has not been adequately addressed. Thus, this study investigates the phytoremediation potential of maize (Zea mays) and sunflower (Helianthus annuus) for the removal of lead (Pb) from contaminated soils, with the effects of Organo-Mineral Fetilizer (OMF) treatment. The study also evaluated the concentration of Pb in both topsoil and subsoil before and after treatment with OMF, as well as the distribution of Pb across different plant tissues parts. The samples were assayed for their Pb content utilizing Flame Atomic Absorption Spectrophotometer. Descriptive and inferential statistics were used for data interpretations. The results revealed that sunflower exhibited a significantly higher Pb removal efficiency compared to maize, with control sunflowers removing 75.58% of Pb from the topsoil and 83.58% from the subsoil, while maize removed only 18.83% and 14.21%, respectively. Despite these increases in biomass, OMF treatment did not significantly improve Pb translocation or enhance the phytoremediation efficiency of either plant. These findings suggest that while OMF treatment promotes plant growth, it may not be the most effective strategy for enhancing Pb removal in phytoremediation efforts. The study recommends further optimization of OMF formulations and the exploration of other soil amendments to improve both maize and sunflower growth and metal uptake, as well as long-term field trials to assess the sustainability and practicality of phytoremediation in real-world conditions.
DRIVERS OF FOOD LOSSES AND WASTES AMONG FARM HOUSEHOLDS IN SOME SELECTED LOCAL GOVERNMENT AREA OF OYO STATE, NIGERIA
The study examined the drivers of food losses and wastes among farm households in some selected local government area of Oyo State, Nigeria. The study described the socioeconomic characteristics of the farm households, identified the causes of food losses and wastes among the farm households, determined the factors affecting farm households food losses and wastes and also identified the management strategies used by farm households to minimize food losses and wastes in the study area. Two stage sampling technique was used to select 86 farming households from two local government areas from who data were collected. The data were collected using questionnaire and analyzed with the aid of descriptive statistics and Ordinary Least Square regression model. Results obtained shows that farmers in the study area were mostly in their productive age with mean of 47 years, 80.2% were married with average household size of 5 persons and about 90.3% had formal education. The result also revealed that over/excessive purchase, unfavorable weather condition, pest and diseases attack and inadequate storage facility were the causes of food losses and wastes respectively. The OLS result showed that gender, household size, frequency of power supply, awareness on environmental effect of food losses and wastes and total income were the factors significantly affecting food losses and wastes among the farm households. However, the farm households employed storing food in a sealed container, appropriate meal planning and checking of food expiration date before purchase as strategies to minimized food losses and wastes in the study area. The study therefore recommended that Farm households should avoid over/excessive purchase of food stuff so as to reduce food losses, Also, Government should assist in providing stable power supply to safe food stored and prevent wastage.
INFLUENCE OF FERTILIZER COMBINATION AND TRAINING METHODS ON GROWTH AND PHYSIOLOGICAL TRAITS OF FLUTED PUMPKIN (Telfairia occidentalis Hook F.) SAMARU, NORTHERN GUINE SAVVAN, NIGERIA.
A field experiment was conducted during the 2023 and 2024 wet seasons at the Institute for Agricultural Research Farm, Samaru, Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria, located in the Northern Guinea Savanna ecological zone of Nigeria (11°11′N, 07°38′E; 686 m above sea level)to evaluate the effects of fertilizer combinations and training methods on selected physiological growth parameters of fluted pumpkin. The treatments comprised seven combinations of poultry manure (PM) and NPK fertilizer (3 t PM + 250 kg NPK, 3 t PM + 0 kg NPK, 6 t PM + 0 kg NPK, 0 t PM + 250 kg NPK, 0 t PM + 500 kg NPK, 6 t PM + 500 kg NPK and 0 t PM + 0 kg NPK) and two training methods (Single-stake and no training). The experiment was laid out in a Randomized Complete Block Design (RCBD) and replicated three times. The study assessed leaf area index (LAI), chlorophyll content, crop growth rate (CGR), relative growth rate (RGR), and net assimilation rate (NAR) at different growth stages. Results showed that fertilizer combinations significantly influenced most physiological parameters measured. The integrated application of NPK fertilizer and poultry manure (NPK100 + PM100) generally produced the highest values for LAI, CGR, RGR, and NAR across several growth stages, while the control treatment (NPK0 + PM0) consistently recorded the lowest values. At 6 and 8 weeks after sowing (WAS), higher LAI and chlorophyll content were observed under treatments that combined mineral fertilizer with poultry manure, indicating improved nutrient availability and enhanced photosynthetic capacity. Similarly, CGR and RGR increased under fertilized treatments, reflecting improved biomass accumulation and growth efficiency, whereas unfertilized plots exhibited reduced growth due to nutrient limitations. Net assimilation rate followed a similar trend, with fertilized treatments showing higher photosynthetic efficiency compared with the control. Training methods also influenced some physiological parameters; trained plants generally recorded higher chlorophyll content, relative growth rate, and net assimilation rate, while non-trained plants exhibited higher crop growth rate at certain stages due to unrestricted vegetative growth. However, no significant interaction effects were observed between fertilizer combinations and training methods across the measured parameters. Conclusively the results indicate that integrated nutrient management, particularly the combined application of NPK fertilizer and poultry manure, enhances physiological growth performance and photosynthetic efficiency of fluted pumpkin.
UNLOCKING THE POTENTIALS OF TOMATO MARKETING IN NASSARAWA LOCAL GOVERNMENT AREA OF KANO STATE, NIGERIA
Tomato is among leading vegetable crops with high economic value and market potentials, although there are several bottlenecks which affects the marketing of the crops in Nigeria. The study analysed the potentials of tomato marketing in Nassarawa local government area of Kano State, Nigeria, which the specific objectives were to examine socio-economics characteristics, estimate costs and returns from marketing, identify strengths, weakness, opportunities, and threats of marketers, and constraints faced by tomato marketers in the study area. Multi-stage sampling procedures was employed to select 84 marketers for this study. Kobo collect application was used to elicit information marketers using trained enumerators. Data collected were analysed using descriptive statistics, Net farm income analysis (NFI), SWOT analysis and Kendall coefficient of concordance. The result shows that tomato marketers were males (above 75%), married, with an average age of 38 years. The average household size among marketers ranges from 4-6 members, and mean marketing experience of 10 years, which shows some level of experience in tomato marketing in the study area. The result for the Net farm income analysis shows that the tomato marketers make a profit of ₦59,050 per 200kg of tomato fruit baskets sold, which shows tomato marketing is profitable enterprise. The Kendal result for tomato marketers shows a low agreement among them, which shows response diversity among them. The ability to coordinate good supply chain in rural area(x̅=3.21) limited knowledge on tomato handling and storage (x̅=3.27), high demand for tomato(x̅=3.04) and glut during the peak season(x̅=3.43) were the strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, and threats identified respectively by tomato marketers. The major constraints identified were fluctuation in prices and low patronage of tomato fruits. The study concludes that tomato marketing has the economic potentials which is capable of improving tomato marketer’s livelihood status in the study area. It recommends the promotion of specific support programs by Kano Agricultural Development Programme and Government to tackle constraints among marketers in the study area.
FAMILY FARMING: A VITAL STRATEGY TO BATTLE HUNGER THREATS AND INCREASE FOOD SECURITY IN DELTA STATE, NIGERIA
Family farming is an agricultural system managed and operated by a family to produce food and rely on family labour to improve the quality of life by promoting dignity, equity, and reducing hunger and poverty. The study looked at family farming as a critical technique for combating hunger and increasing food insecurity in Delta State, Nigeria. The objectives of this study were to: determine types of family farming practiced, identify crops that are planted and harvested by farming family and investigate the impact of family farming on their livelihood. The study's hypothesis was that family farming did not make a major contribution to family food supply. The study used a sample size of 350 respondents; these were selected through multistage sampling procedure. Data were gathered with questionnaires and were analyzed with means, percentages, and frequencies. The findings revealed that respondents increased their home gardening skills in order to combat hunger and enhance food supply for their households, as well as produce a variety of crops. Maize (74.4%) was the most popular crop, followed by cassava (68%), pumpkin (62.9%), medicinal herbs (60%), and yam (58.3%). The hypothesis was tested with Pearson Product Moment Correlation (PPMC) and the result revealed favorable and significant association between family farming and family food supply. According to the study, family farming not only increases the family's food supply but also its revenue. It is so critical to encourage individuals to develop empty plots within and adjacent to their homes for family farming.
EFFECTS OF CLIMATE SMART AGRICULTURAL PRACTICES ON POVERTY STATUS OFSTAPLE CROP FARMERS IN NORTH EAST, NIGERIA
The study analyzed effects of climate smart agricultural practices on poverty status of staple crop farmers in North East, Nigeria. A Multistage sampling technique was used to select a sample size of 390 for the study. The primary data used were collected with the aid of structured questionnaire. The data were analyzed using descriptive statistics, Adaptation Strategy Use Index (ASUI), Probit regression models and Principal Component Analysis. The socio-economic characteristics result showed majority (67.2%) of respondents were male and large proportion (61%) married. The study revealed crop rotation (2.59), mulching (2.55), irrigation (2.48), crop diversification (2.29), and use of fadama land(wetland) (2.21) were the frequently adopted climate smart agricultural practices. The study revealed a significant relationship between Climate Smart Agricultural Practices (CSAP) and poverty status of the staple crop farmers with a Chi-Square Probability (0.0000) which was less than the alpha value (0.05). The study concludes that CSAP has significant influence on poverty status of the staple crop farmers. Lack of awareness of CSAP, and insecurity on the farm are the main constraints limiting the adoption of CSAP. The study recommends that Government, extension services and local authorities should step-up climate smart agricultural practices awareness drive, strengthen farm security measures, and provide adequate storage facilities to enhance CSAP adoption.
EFFECTS OF SOYBEAN PRODUCTION ON POVERTY STATUS ON FARMERS INAGAIE AND LAPAI LOCAL GOVERNMENT AREAS OF NIGER STATE, NIGERIA
The study examined the effects of soybean production on poverty alleviation among rural farmers in Agaie and Lapai Local Government Areas of Niger State, Nigeria. Two-stage sampling technique was employed to select a total of 123 soybean farmers for this study. Primary data were used and collected through structured questionnaires administered via Kobo Toolbox. Descriptive statistics, Gini coefficient and Foster-Greer-Thorbecke (FGT) poverty index were used to analyze the data collected. Findings from the study revealed that 96.8% of respondents were male, predominantly aged 41-50 years, with 66.7% married and 28.5% having some formal education. Household sizes were mostly fewer than six members (82.1%). The Gini coefficient of 0.183 indicated a relatively equitable income distribution among soybean farmers while FGT analysis revealed that most farmers were non-poor. The constraints faced by farmers included inadequate transport and storage facilities, as well as pest and disease outbreaks. The study concludes that soybean production significantly contributes to poverty alleviation in the study area. Therefore, the study recommends that the government should provide affordable transportation to ease the stress of moving produce from farms to markets. Additionally, adequate storage facilities should be established and soybean farmers should take measures to safeguard their farms against pilferage and theft to enhance soybean production in the study area.
EVALUATION OF OESTRUS, PREGNANCY STATUS AND GROSS GENITAL ABNORMALITIES OF SMALL RUMINANTS PRESENTED FOR SLAUGHTER AT MAIDUGURI CENTRAL ABATTOIR BORNO STATE, NIGERIA
This study evaluated the oestrus status, pregnancy rate, and gross reproductive abnormalities in small ruminants (ewes and does) presented for slaughter at the Maiduguri Central Abattoir, Borno State, Nigeria, between June and August 2024. A total of 500 genital tracts were examined (191 ewes and 309 does). The proportions of grossly normal genitalia were 31.94% in ewes and 33.01% in does Common abnormalities included ovarian cysts, uterine torsion, pyometra, and metritis. Sahel and Red Sokoto goats were the most slaughtered breeds, followed by Yankasa and Uda ewes. The findings highlight the need for reproductive health evaluation and farmer sensitization on the importance of retaining cycling and pregnant females for herd sustainability.
ADMINISTRATIVE CHALLENGES IN IMPLEMENTING SOIL FERTILITY IMPROVEMENT PROGRAMS FOR HORTICULTURE PRODUCTION IN SUB-SAHARAN AFRICA: A REVIEW
Soil fertility remains one of the most pressing agricultural challenges in Sub-Saharan Africa, where the majority of the population relies on farming as a primary livelihood. Declining soil fertility caused by over-cultivation, land degradation, deforestation, and climate variability continues to undermine horticulture production, food security and rural development across the region. While governments, development partners, and non-governmental organizations have introduced several soil fertility restoration and improvement programs, their effectiveness has been severely constrained by administrative challenges. This paper explores the major obstacles hindering successful implementation of such programs, focusing on weak institutional capacity, poor policy coordination, corruption, inadequate funding, and limited farmer participation. It argues that these governance-related issues often overshadow the technical innovations and financial investments introduced to enhance soil fertility management practices and horticultural crop yields. Furthermore, the study highlights how inadequate extension services and lack of accountability mechanisms diminish the adoption of soil fertility improvements practices at the grassroots level. The paper draws from existing literature and policy reports to analyze the recurring administrative bottlenecks and their implications for sustainable horticultural development programs. Findings revealed that unless these administrative barriers are addressed, efforts to improve soil fertility status will remain fragmented and unsustainable. The paper concludes by recommending stronger institutional frameworks, increased funding, transparent governance, inclusive farmer engagement as critical pathways for enhancing the success of soil fertility restoration and improvement programs. Ultimately, addressing administrative challenges is essential for achieving long-term food security, promoting rural livelihoods, and advancing agricultural transformation and horticultural production levels in Sub-Saharan Africa.
EFFECTS OF DISSOLVED OXYGEN CONCENTRATION ON HATCHABILITY AND SURVIVAL RATE OF AFRICAN CATFISH (Clarias gariepinus)
This study evaluated the effects of dissolved oxygen concentration on the hatchability and survival rate of African catfish (Clarias gariepinus). Broodstock were induced using pituitary gland extract, and the fertilized eggs were subjected to four experimental treatments: T1 (flow-through with aerator), T2 (flow-through only), T3 (aerator only), and T4 (control, no flow-through or aerator), each in replicate. A Completely Randomized Design (CRD) was employed, and water quality parameters were monitored weekly. Results showed that hatchability was generally low across treatments, with percentage hatchability values of 14.55 ± 1.60% (T1), 18.29 ± 1.19% (T2), 15.15 ± 1.28% (T3), and 32.98 ± 3.21% (T4), with significant difference among treatments (p < 0.05). Fry survival followed the sequence T2 (60%) > T4 (50%) > T3 (40%) > T1 (30%). Water quality parameters remained within acceptable range for the culture of African catfish fry (temperature: 30.95–33.15°C, DO: 6.06–6.53 mg/L, pH: 6.41–6.58). The findings showed that flow-through systems enhance fry survival by maintaining adequate oxygen levels and reducing the accumulation of waste, whereas aeration treatments were less effective, due to unstable power supply. Overall, hatchability was below average across all systems; however, survival rates were higher in flow-through setups. Therefore, it is recommended that hatcheries adopt gravity-fed flow-through systems as a cost-effective strategy to improve fry survival.
FACTORS AFFECTING RICE FARMER’S PERCEPTION ON AGRICULTURAL EXTENSION SERVICES DELIVERY IN KANO STATE, NIGERIA.
This study examined the factors affecting rice farmers’ perception of agricultural extension service delivery in Kano State, Nigeria. The study was motivated by the critical role that perception plays in determining farmers’ responsiveness to agricultural innovations disseminated through extension agents. A multi-stage sampling technique was used to select 279 rice farmers from a sampling frame of 925 across five major rice-producing Local Government Areas; Kura, Garun Mallam, Tudun Wada, Bunkure, and Bichi. Primary data were collected through structured questionnaire and analysed using both descriptive statistics and inferential statistic (Tobit regression models). The findings revealed that education level, cooperative membership, household size, and access to agricultural credit significantly influenced farmers’ perception of extension service delivery at 1%, 5%, and 10% significance levels, respectively. Other variables such as age, sex, farm size, land ownership, and farming experience had no significant influence. The study also established that married and full-time farmers were more likely to have favorable perceptions of extension agents, while farmers engaged primarily in non-agricultural occupations were less likely to do so. The model was statistically significant at the 1% level (LR χ² = 58.50; p < 0.01) with a pseudo R² of 0.210, indicating a good model fit. The study concludes that educational attainment, cooperative participation, and access to credit facilities play critical roles in shaping positive perceptions of extension service delivery. It recommends the strengthening of farmers’ capacity through education, financial support, and institutional linkages to improve the effectiveness of extension programs.
ASSESSMENT OF RURAL AGRIPRENUERSHIP IN SOUTHEAST, NIGERIA
The study assessed rural agriprenuership in southeast Nigeria using 360 respondents selected through multistage sampling procedure. Data for study were collected using structured questionnaire administered in the form of interview schedule and analysed using descriptive statistics and inferential statistics. Results indicated that the agriprenuers were mainly married males (72%) with average age of 41years and household size of 6 persons. Result further showed that agriprenuers were mainly in the five (5) agricultural sector such as livestock production, crop production, agricultural input supply, processing sector and marketing/distribution subsector. The result also showed that economic factors that influence agriprenuership were adequate access to credit and loan (0.952, adequate land tenure system (0.880), income level of agriprenurs (0.836), availability of tax holiday (0.683), and low risk and uncertainties in agriprenurship (0.648). Institutional factors were: financial independence (0.913), high unemployment rate (0.908) and level of profit (0.795) while social factor were level of profit (0.795) and favorable government policy (0.645). The factors that constrained rural agripreneurship activities were poor land tenure system, inadequate infrastructure, high interest rate, high competitive market, and inadequate market information. It was concluded that there are five major areas of rural agripreneurship in Southeast Nigeria which were influenced and hindered by three groups of factors (economic, institutional and social). The study recommended that agripreneurs should be given easier access to bank loans and other forms of financing to enhance agriprenuerial activities.
ECONOMIC ANALYSIS OF WHEAT PRODUCTION IN RINGIM LOCAL GOVERNMENT AREA OF JIGAWA STATE, NIGERIA
The study analyzed economics of wheat production in Ringim Local Government of Jigawa State. Primary data were collected using structured questionnaires from a randomly sampled 137 wheat farmers. The data for the study was analyzed using descriptive statistics, resource use efficiency ratio and gross margin techniques. The result showed that the farmers had an average age of 32 years, 50% of them have a household member ranging between 1 and 7 persons and about 50% of them were not formally educated. The result further revealed that majority of them (96%) had no access to credit. The gross margin analysis result revealed an average cost of ₦142844.70; A revenue and profit of ₦391, 017 and ₦248, 172.30 was generated per hectare of wheat production respectively. The study further showed that labour and agrochemicals were over-utilized in the production of wheat, while farm size, seeds and fertilizer were under-utilized. The wheat farmers were also found to be majorly constraint by high cost of inputs (100%), inadequate capital (92.7%), and poor extension contact (72.9%). The study concludes wheat production in the study area is profitable, however the farmers are not efficiently utilizing the wheat production inputs resources. It can therefore be recommended that innovative wheat production method that will increase farmer’s efficiency shall be disseminated. In addition government shall provide inputs subsidy and improve farmer’s access to extension service.
ANALYSIS OF FACTORS INFLUENCING LIVELIHOOD DIVERSIFICATION AMONG SMALLHOLDER RICE FARMING HOUSEHOLDS IN FLOOD PRONE AREAS OF JIGAWA STATE, NIGERIA.
AN INVENTORY OF SOME WILD EDIBLE PLANTS (WEPs) IN KATSINA STATE, NIGERIA.
An ethnobotanical Survey of wild edible plants in some selected Local Governments Area of katsina State namely: Katsina, Funtua and Kusadawas conducted. The objective was to identify and document wild edible plants and the knowledge associated with these plants in the study area. Ethnobotanical informations on wild edible plants were collected .Guided semi-strucruwred questionnaire was used. Consensus method and group discussion was used to verify informations obtained from the respondesnts. Descriptive statistics was used to analyzed the data. In the present. In the present study, 44 wild edible plants species spread across 26 families 35 genera based in local claims as food were documented. The family Fabaceae is the most cited family represented by 6 species (13.33%), followed by Moraceae represented by 5 species (11.11%), and then Malvaceae and Arecaceae represented by 3 species each (6.66%), Anacardiaceae, Apocynaceae, Capparaceae, and Euphorbia each represented by two species (2.22%) and then Asteraceae, Araceae, Annonaceae, Buseraceae, Cleomaceae, Chrysobanaceae, Capparaceae, Discreaceae, Ebenaceae, Lamiaceae, Loganiaceae, Myrrtaceae, Nymphae eae, Olaceae, Poaceae, portulacaceae, Sapotaceae Vitaceae and Zygophyllaceae are each represented by 1 species (2.22%). The study showed the existence of wild edible plants in the study area which alleviate food security during famine time occasionally faced in the study area. The respondesnts stated that wild edible plants are under threat due to altered climate and greater human pressure. This necessitates quick and collaborative measures to maintain the equilibrium between the natural abundance of edible plants in the wild and their by the local community. It was concluded that the study highlights the importance of these plants in ensuring food security, nutrition, and livelihoods for the people of Katsina. The documentation of traditional knowledge and uses of these plants can contribute to their conservation and sustainable utilization. It was also recommended that Conservation measures should be implemented to protect and sustainably manage wild edible plant populations, Local communities should be encouraged to adopt sustainable harvesting practices to ensure the long-term availability of these plant resources, Further research should be conducted to analyze the nutritional value of these wild edible plants.
ASSESSMENT OF THE EFFECT OF RICE FARMING ON SOCIOECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT OF RURAL SETTLEMENTS AROUND ZOBE DAM, KATSINA STATE, NIGERIA.
This study investigates the socioeconomic effects of rice farming on rural communities in the Zobe Dam area. The study used a multi-stage sampling technique to select four Local government areas that share a boundary with Zobe Dam, where rice cultivation is taking place. A total of 325 questionnaires were administered, and a key informant interview was conducted. Systematic sampling was used to select the respondents. Methods of data analysis include the use of tables, frequency counts, pie charts, bar charts, and horizontal bar charts. The finding reveals an overwhelming presence of male farmers (93.2%), indicating that rice farming in the Zobe Dam area is heavily male-dominated, with the majority of farmers falling within the middle-aged group (40–49 years), comprising 45.5% of the total. The results further show that rice farming is predominantly practised by family-oriented individuals, likely household heads who depend on farming for income, food, and family sustenance. Most (59.6%) of the rice farmers have no formal education, indicating a high illiteracy level among the farming population. The socioeconomic benefits were housing improvements such as roofing sheets (86%), cement plastering (77%), tiled floors (66%), which were upgrades from mud houses, and graded roads (88%). There is high ownership of personal/household appliances, such as mobile phones (92%), radios (83%), and fans (18%), indicating basic connectivity and comfort. Farm equipment, such as pumping machines (76%), was widely used, likely for irrigation, while tractors, planters, and dryers (0%) were not. Therefore, youth-focused interventions that offer youth-friendly training, mechanized tools, credit access, and agribusiness models should be developed to encourage younger people to embrace farming as a viable career.
DETERMINANTS OF COMMERCIAL WHEAT (Triticum aestivum) PRODUCTION IN KANO STATE, NIGERIA
The study was aimed at determining factors influencing level of commercialization of wheat production in Kano State, Nigeria. Multi-stage sampling procedure was employed for the study to select 274 wheat farmers which were interviewed using structured questionnaire. The data was analyzed using Household commercialization index (HCI) and ordinal logistic regression model. The result shows that the model group were those who’s HCI were above 75% with 62.41% and the average household commercialization index was (56.38%) the, this implies that wheat farmers have a gap of (43.62%) to achieve full commercialization on wheat in the study area. The ordered logit result indicate that age, dependency ratio, farming experience, amount of credit, frequency of extension contact, distance to market and quantity of output produced were found to be significantly influencing level of wheat commercialization out of eleven explanatory variables. Inadequate credit facilities and Price fluctuation were the major constraints wheat commercialization. It was concluded that wheat production were financially profitable in the area at private prices given current technology, inputs, output price and policy transfers. It is recommended that current agricultural policies on wheat production have affected wheat farmers positively, the policies therefore needs to be sustained, and this would strengthen the competitiveness of the domestic wheat production.
INFLUENCE OF RUMEN DIGESTA SUPPLEMENTED WITH ENZYMES ON THE CARCASS COMPOSITION AND BLOOD PROFILE OF BROILER CHICKENS
This study investigated the effects of varying levels of cattle rumen digesta supplemented with 0.025% Fullzymes on carcass characteristics and blood profile of broiler chickens. A total of 180 unsexed day-old Cobb chicks were randomly assigned to five dietary treatment groups, each comprising 36 birds with four replicates of nine birds per replicate, in a Completely Randomized Design (CRD). The experimental diets included 0% (T1), 5% (T2), 10% (T3), 15% (T4), and 20% (T5) inclusion levels of rumen digesta. Data were collected on carcass yield, internal organ characteristics, hematological parameters, and serum biochemical indices. Results showed no significant differences (p > 0.05) in overall carcass traits and most internal organ weights across treatment groups, except for the heart and gizzard, which exhibited significant variation (p < 0.05). Hematological indices, including packed cell volume (PCV), red blood cell count (RBC), hemoglobin concentration (Hb), mean corpuscular volume (MCV), mean corpuscular hemoglobin (MCH), and mean corpuscular hemoglobin concentration (MCHC), were not significantly affected (p > 0.05) by dietary treatments. Similarly, biochemical parameters such as glucose, albumin, cholesterol, creatinine, and urea remained statistically unchanged (p > 0.05), while total protein levels showed a significant difference (p < 0.05) among treatment groups. In conclusion, the inclusion of up to 20% cattle rumen digesta supplemented with 0.025% Fullzymes in broiler diets had no adverse effects on carcass quality or blood parameters. Therefore, it is recommended as a viable alternative feed ingredient in broiler production.
FLUCTUATIONS IN MARKET PRICES OF FOOD PRODUCTS PROMPTED BY THE ACTIVITIES OF BOKO HARAM INSURGENTS IN MAIDUGURI, BORNO STATE, NIGERIA
In the North-eastern part of the Nigeria, the Boko Haram insurgency has not only consumed an estimated 32 thousand people, mostly from the agrarian communities in Borno State but has also neutralized the 420,000 tons wheat production capacity of the state which is 30% of annual national consumption. In Borno, food crops are majorly produced by smallholder rural farmers, who faces challenges of capital, adequate knowledge and skills, security and infrastructure to sustained production of basic food crops. These challenges were compounded in Maiduguri by the emergence of Boko Haram insurgents that started since 2009. This has led to the increase of some market prices of food products and poor nutritional status of the residents of Maiduguri and its environs. The insurgents after sent out of Maiduguri in 2009, dwelled in neighbouring rural areas and displaced the rural settlements whose major occupation was farming. This study explored the impact of insurgency on market prices of food products in Maiduguri metropolis. Multistage and purposive sampling techniques were used to select the respondents for the study. Quantitative and qualitative data were collected using questionnaire and FGD. The quantitative data were analyzed using descriptive statistics of frequency count and percentage. Whereas, the qualitative data were analyzed using content analysis. The study reveals a fold increase in some market prices of food products like maize, rice, millets among other and a decrease in prices in crops like wheat, cowpea among others. However, these fluctuations are attributed to only insurgency but other intervening variables like availability and consumption preferences of consumers, transportation cost, road infrastructure and proximity to the markets. The study recommends support and improved security for rural farming populace, subsidy by the government on some basic food crops like maize, rice, millets among others
EVALUATION OF FARM PLAN AMONG IRRIGATED MAIZE FARMING HOUSEHOLDS IN LERE LOCAL GOVERNMENT AREA OF KADUNA STATE, NIGERIA
This study evaluated optimal farm plan of irrigated maize production among farmers in Lere, Local Government Area, Kaduna State, Nigeria. Multi-stage sampling technique was used to randomly select 180 maize farmers in the study area. Primary data were collected through the use of questionnaire and analyzed using descriptive statistics, net-farm income model, linear programming model and principal component analysis. The result showed that majority of the maize farmers in the study area were male, their mean age was 36 years. All of the farmers had one form of education or the other. The mean household size of the respondents was 8 persons. The mean years of farming experience was 14 years. Majority (83%) of the respondents considered maize farming as their primary occupation. About 72% of the respondents had a farm size that ranges between 1-3 hectares, with a mean non-farm income of N116,388 per month. About 67% were members of cooperative society. Majority of the respondents had access to credit. Irrigated maize production was profitable, with total revenue, total cost and net-farm income of N1,952,335.0, N493,193.2 and N1,459,141.8 respectively, and Return On Investment of 2.96. The result of the Linear Programming analysis showed that labour used (h/ha) was binding, while yield (kg/ha), farm size used (ha), seed used (kg/ha) and fertilizer used (kg/ha) were not binding. The major constraints identified in maize production in the study area were classified under four major components: economic factors (24.64%), institutional factors (25.26%), environmental factors (36.78%) and infrastructural factors (13.37%). The study recommended that in order to ensure efficient utilization of resources in the study area: government should initiate adult education programmes for farmers; policy makers should consider the land consolidation; and farmers should invest in labour saving agricultural machinery.
SUSTAINABLE AGRICULTURAL PRACTICES AND ALLEVIATING POVERTY IN THE POST-FUEL SUBSIDY ERA AMONG SMALL HOLDER MAIZE FARMERS IN PLATEAU STATE.
Sustainable agriculture, in line with the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development, contributes to broader development of Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). The study focused on Sustainable Agricultural Practices and Poverty Alleviation among Smallholder Maize Farmers in Plateau state, Nigeria. This study adopted Multistage sampling technique to randomly select 210 farmers. Primary data was obtained through structured questionnaire administration. Descriptive statistics, 5-point likert scale Multidimensional Poverty Index (MPI) and logit regression model. The result revealed that the average age of farmers was 52 years,85% of farmers were married, with an average household size of 5, 92% of farmers had education, with farming experience of 27 years and farm size was 3 hectares. The farm income was N603,742.86, and 58% of farmers were members of cooperative societies. The result further indicates that maize farmers exhibited a low frequency of adopting sustainable agricultural practices, with a grand mean value of 1.73. The result of Multidimensional Poverty Index indicate that male-headed households (HHs) had a Headcount Ratio (H) of 60.0% and an Intensity (A) of 38.2%, resulting in a Multidimensional Poverty Index (MPI) of 0.229, while female-headed HHs had a Headcount Ratio of 58.0% and a higher Intensity of 57.0%, leading to an MPI of 0.331. The results from the Logit regression model indicate adopting sustainable agricultural practices significantly reduces poverty. Challenges faced by the farmers in adopting SAPs were lack of awareness and technical knowledge, limited access to credit, poor infrastructure, lack of government support, and unpredictable weather patterns. The removal of fuel subsidies significantly increased input costs, leading to higher production expenses and reduced return on investment while sustainable agricultural practices have the potential to alleviate multidimensional poverty, their adoption remains low due to financial barriers, poor infrastructure, and inadequate technical support. Therefore, the study recommends: Farmers should diversify income sources through non-farm activities; Promoting farmer education, and encouraging knowledge-sharing on sustainable practices; and Government policies should focus on expanding access to credit and providing targeted subsidies for sustainable farming.
POPULATION DENSITY AND STRUCTURE OF THE RED-EARED GUENON (CERCOPITHECUS ERYTHROTIS CAMERUNENSIS) IN AFI MOUNTAIN WILDLIFE SANCTUARY (AMWS), NIGERIA
An estimate of Red-eared guenon’s population density and structure was carried out in Afi Mountain Wildlife Sanctuary (AMWS), Cross River State, Nigeria. Line transect method of data collection was used to conduct census. The study was conducted to determine the population density and structure of Red-eared monkeys. Census was conducted in the two sectors of the sanctuary using Ten transects (1.0km length, 0.02km width) and spaced at an interval of 0.5km. Direct method of animal sighting was used. Population density of Red-eared monkeys in the two sectors of Afi Mountain Wildlife Sanctuary was 5/km2 and 2/km2 respectively. However, the mean population density of red-eared monkeys in AMWS was ~ 4/km2. This shows that the population density is similar to previously reported for the monkey species in the study area implying that the population has not increased significantly over time. The variation of Red-eared monkeys in the study area showed that the population structure is composed more of Juveniles than adult (3:1 and 6:1 respectively) implying that there is potential for the population to increase with adequate conservation efforts. The statistical test of significance between the Northern and Southern populations showed no significant difference. (T-tab = 0.482 < t-cal = 0.840 @ p = 0.05). It was therefore recommended that efforts through regular patrols by the rangers should be encouraged to protect the increasing population of guenons in the study area.
A REVIEW OF THE ROLE OF COVER CROPS IN MITIGATING SOIL HEALTH DEGRADATION AND OTHER CHALLENGES ASSOCIATED WITH MAIZE MONOCULTURE
Maize (Zea mays L.) is a staple crop widely cultivated in sub-Saharan Africa, particularly Nigeria. However, its predominant cultivation through monoculture systems has contributed significantly to soil health degradation, reduced biodiversity, increased erosion, and heightened pest and disease pressures. These challenges threaten long-term agricultural sustainability and food security. As a response, the integration of cover crops into maize cropping systems has emerged as a promising sustainable agricultural practice. This review examines the role of cover crops in mitigating the negative impacts of maize monoculture, with a focus on improving soil physical, chemical, and biological properties. The paper discusses how different cover crop types—leguminous, non-leguminous, grasses, and brassicas contribute to improved soil structure, enhanced nutrient cycling, increased microbial diversity, and better water retention. The interaction between cover crops and maize is explored, highlighting benefits such as nitrogen fixation and organic matter enrichment, alongside potential challenges like resource competition if not properly managed. Historical and regional perspectives on the use of cover crops in Nigeria and globally are provided, emphasizing traditional practices and modern innovations. The review also identifies research gaps, including the need for long-term studies and better understanding of context-specific responses of cover crops across varying agro-ecological zones. Ultimately, the paper highlights that integrating cover crops into maize production systems can enhance soil health, reduce dependency on chemical inputs, and build resilience against climate variability. The insights provided serve as a valuable resource for policymakers, researchers, and farmers aiming to adopt sustainable and ecologically sound farming practices.
ARABLE CROP FARMERS’ CLIMATE MITIGATION STRATEGIES THROUGH ORGANIC FARMING IN SOUTHWEST NIGERIA
The study assessed arable crop farmers’ climate mitigation strategies through organic farming in South West, Nigeria. It evaluated arable crop farmers’ perception, examined the benefits, and described the constraints. A multi stage sampling procedure was used in selecting 381 respondents. Data were collected using questionnaire, structured interview schedule, FGD and analyzed using descriptive statistics and Regression Analysis. The study revealed that farmers’ had positive perception, “cover crops reduces evaporation” as the highest (W̄ 4.81). It was observed that arable crop farmers’ most practiced climate mitigation strategy was especially soil water conservation techniques (W̄ 2.83), followed closely by changing planting dates and periods (W̄ 2.82), planting of improved crop varieties (W̄ 2.81) diversification of farming activities (W̄ 2.80). The most constraint was lack of financial support with (W̄ 3.74). Regression test showed there was a moderate positive relationship between perception of organic farming practices and climate mitigation strategies of farmers, the result also revealed a weak negative relationship between constraints and climate mitigation strategies. Despite the financial constraints, farmers in Southwest Nigeria still had positive perception of organic farming practices which enabled them to adopt climate mitigation strategies, resulting in farmers benefiting from improved livelihoods, increased crop resilience, and reduced environmental degradation. The study recommends that there should be collaboration with local government agencies, NGOs and private sector organizations to support organic farming and to overcome financial constraints. Benefits of organic farming should be show cased and farmers should be given timely information on best organic practices, to make informed decisions.