Journal of Agricultural Economics, Environment and Social Sciences

LIFT ABOVE POVERTY (LAPO) BANK CREDIT AS AN INNOVATION FOR IMPROVING THE INCOME OF THE USERS IN MAKURDI LOCAL GOVERNMENT AREA OF BENUE STATE, NIGERIA

2025-09-29T11:57:57+00:00

The study assessed LAPO bank credit as an innovation for improving the income of users
in Benue State, Nigeria and adopted multi-stage sampling technique of sample size, 100
with descriptive and inferential statistics as tools of analysis of data from primary source.
Results showed that 69.0% of the respondents were males, married (62%), having one
form of formal education or the other (77%), mean age of 34.58 years, mean annual
income of N348.670.00, mean household size of 9 persons and mean experience of 8.69
years. The variables that influenced the probability of use of LAPO bank credit were
education, household size, access to credit and experience, they were all significant at 1%
level of probability, while sex was significant at 5%. The study finds that LAPO bank credit
improves the income of the users as income after usage significantly improved compared
to income before usage. The study concludes that LAPO bank credit innovation could be
a panacea to improve the income of the users as it has high potential for contribution to
growth of Nigerian economy. It is recommended that government and non-governmental
agencies should come with more interventions to provide soft loan to citizens so as to
create greater impact on their income.

ASSESSMENT OF PERCAPITA SUGAR CONSUMPTION PATTERN AND HOUSEHOLD FOOD EXPENDITURE IN BAUCHI STATE, NIGERIA

2025-09-29T11:57:57+00:00

The study analysed per capita sugar consumption patterns and food expenditure in Bauchi
State, Nigeria. A cross–sectional data were collected from 412 households through a multi –
stage sampling technique. The data were analyzed using descriptive statistics and double-log
regression model. The result revealed that households' mean monthly per capita sugar
consumption was 779.11g, 806.86g and 835.57g in the northern, central and western zone,
respectively. In the northern zone 58.7% of the respondents consumed more sugar during the
hot season. While in western zone 64.2% consumed more sugar during the cold season;
likewise, in central zone it was 38.5%. The mean monthly sugar expenditure for the households
in the northern, central and western zone were N2,221.50 N2,492.07 and N1,824.33
respectively Furthermore, white sugar was found to be the most preferred and most regularly
consumed with 80.4%,76.0% and 71.5% in northern, central and western zone, respectively.
The mean monthly total expenditure and food expenditure for the households in the northern
zone were N70,185.31 and N42,751.75 respectively, while in the central zone, it was
N48,336.54 and N28,649.04 respectively and in western zone it was N50,287.88 and
N27,687.88 respectively. The result for elasticity demand for sugar indicated that it is a normal
commodity with an income coefficient of 0.482, while price elasticity was 0.629, with an R2
value of 0.524 and the F-value was (39.969) significant (P<0.01). Based on the recommended
level of sugar intake of 25g per capita per day by WHO the study area sugar consumption is
slightly higher at 27g per capita per day. As most of the literature on the theme provides a
medical, nutritional or health-related point of view, there is a lack of studies on sugar
consumption that actually consider the balance or shares of sugar expenditure from
household’s food expenditure and how they vary across social determinants. The study
therefore recommended that household should be encouraged by government and non
governmental organizations to plan meals that moderate sugar intake.

INFLUENCE OF CINNAMON AND GARLIC ON CHEMICAL AND MICROBIAL PROPERTIES OF BEEF MINCED MEAT

2025-09-29T11:57:57+00:00

The study was conducted to determine the influence of cinnamon and garlic on proximate and
microbiological properties of beef minced meat (Dambun nama). Dambun nama was produced
using three different spices (Cinnamon powder 10g/kg, Garlic powder 10g/kg, Cinnamon plus
Garlic powder10g/kg at 1:1, including control). The meat was cooked at 60°C for 60-140
minutes during which preferred seasonings were added. The meat was then pounded with
mortar and pestle until the matrix was formed. It was then dried in a hot air oven for 30minutes
at 60°C and fried for 20 minutes with little oil. All samples were subjected to proximate and
microbial analyses. The proximate analysis revealed significant difference (P<0.05) across the
beef minced meat samples on moisture and ash content. Dambun nama made from T4 (Garlic
plus Cinnamon powder) had the lowest (5.14%) moisture content, highest value of protein
(44.03%) and ash (5.33%) content. On microbiological analyses, significant difference
(P<0.05) was observed on E. coli with highest count of (0.90 x102 cfu/g) in T3 (Cinnamon
powder), while the lowest count (0.01 x102 cfu/g) was found in T4. Staphylococcus aureus (0.81
x103 cfu/g) and Salmonella spp. (0.66 x103cfu/g) were all recorded higher count in T1, while
least count was found in T4. It was concluded that addition of cinnamon and garlic either
individually or in combination, significantly influenced both the proximate and microbial
quality of the experimental beef minced meat. The sample treated with a combination of garlic
and cinnamon (T4), showed the most favorable results such as lowering the moisture content
which enhances the shelf life, high protein and ash content indicating improved nutritional
value. Low microbial counts were also observed, particularly in total viable bacteria, E. coli,
Salmonella spp., and Staphylococcus aureus, proving better microbial safety and longer shelf
life stability.

EFFECTS OF CINNAMON (Cinnamomum verum) ON MICROBIAL ACTIVITIES OF SMOKED-DRIED AFRICAN CATFISH (Clarias gariepinus, BURCHELL 1822)

2025-09-29T11:57:58+00:00

The study was carried out to evaluate the effects of cinnamon (Cinnamom verum) on microbial
activities of smoked Clarias gariepinus. Samples of Cinnamon were purchased from food
Vendor in Lafia modern markets, Nasarawa State and then shade dried for two days. 200g of
Cinnamon was ground into powder and distributed into various concentrations (T1;0g/l,
T2;25g/l, and T3;50g/l) representing treatments. Five kilogram of Fresh Clarias gariepinus of
average weight of 250g was purchased from Insha Allah fish Farm in Shabu Lafia Local
Government Area. The fish were dressed by degutting, removal of spines and washed
thoroughly with clean water. The fish were immersed in the stock solution for 15mins before
smoking using charcoal smoking kiln. After smoking of the fish, the dried samples were
packaged and taken for microbial analysis. Data was analyzed using descriptive analysis by
means and standard deviation and results were presented using charts and tables. Fourteen
microbial organisms in which ten (10) bacterial and four (4) fungal were isolated. Fish smoked
without Cinnamon was recorded with the highest Total Heterotrophic Fungal Count
(3.80x10E3), Total Heterotrophic Fungal Count (5.08x10E3) and Total Heterotrophic
Bacterial Count (8.98x10E6) respectively. Cinnamon verum concentration at 25g/l was
effective against microorganisms due to the reduction in the number of total heterotrophic
fungal count (2.31x10E3), total coliform count (2.27x10E3) and total heterotrophic bacterial
count (3.98x10E6) respectively. Microbial analysis should be carried out to ascertain the best
storage condition and material for the smoked fish.

GENDER PARTICIPATION IN CLIMATE-RESILIENT AGRICULTURE: A STUDY OF FOOD SECURITY OUTCOMES IN KEBBI STATE, NIGERIA

2025-09-29T11:57:58+00:00

The study examined gender participation in climate-resilient agriculture (CRA) practices and
its implications for food security in Kebbi State, Nigeria. Data were collected through surveys
and interviews with 220 farmers, focusing on understanding the participation rates of male
and female farmers in various CRA practices, the constraints they faced, and the factors that
influenced food security outcomes. Descriptive statistics (Frequencies, percentages and mean)
and inferential statistics (Binary Logistic Regression) were used to analyze the data. Results
show that male farmers had higher participation rates in most CRA practices, including the
cultivation of drought-resistant crops and agroforestry, with an average participation rate of
59% for the male and 54% for the female. The study also identified several constraints that
hindered participation, with female farmers facing more significant challenges than their male
counterparts. These challenges included land ownership, access to credit, cultural restrictions,
and domestic workload. The results of logistic regression analysis revealed that factors such
as gender, access to CRA inputs, extension contact, land ownership, education level, household
size, access to credit, and experience with climate shocks significantly influenced food security.
Male-headed households, households with access to CRA inputs, and those with regular
extension contact were more likely to be food secure. The study concludes that gender
disparities in participation in climate-resilient agriculture practices contributed to unequal
food security outcomes. Although both male and female farmers participate in CRA practices,
the female farmers faced more barriers that limited their full participation and ability to
enhance their food security. It is essential to recognize the role of female farmers in
agricultural decision-making processes because they play crucial role in household food
security and to address the socio-economic factors that limit women’s access to resources.
Recommendations included the need for targeted interventions that will reduce the gender gap
in CRA practices by providing women with better access to land, credit, and extension services.
Empowering female farmers through training, promoting gender-inclusive policies in
agricultural development, and improving women farmer’s access to climate-resilient
agricultural inputs are critical steps.

ANALYSIS OF FACTORS INFLUENCING FOOD SECURITY AMONG SMALL SCALE BROILER PRODUCERS IN SOUTHERN TARABA, TARABA STATE, NIGERIA: DAILY PER CALORIE INTAKE APPROACH

2025-09-29T11:57:58+00:00

This study analyzed the determinants of food security Status among Small-scale Broiler
Production in Southern Taraba State, Nigeria. Specific objectives were to describe the
Socioeconomic Characteristics of broiler producers, estimate their food security status and
analyze the determinants of food security among broiler producers. A multistage sampling
technique was employed to collet primary data from 138 respondents using well structure
questionnaires. Data collected were analyzed using descriptive statistics, estimate of food
security index using daily per calorie intake approach and logistics regression model. The
findings revealed that 64% of the respondents were male with a mean age of 35 years and
average household size five people, up to 80% of the respondents had formal education with
an average farming experience of nine years. Farm size was an average of 37 broilers reared
with an average loan amount of ₦8,841. About 87% of the respondents had no extension visit
and 81% were not member of cooperative organization. Furthermore, 76.8% of the
respondents were food secure, 13% were marginally food insecure, 4.3% were moderately food
insecure and 5.8% were severely food insecure. Determinants of food security status of the
farmers showed that household size, farming experience and number of broiler produced were
significant determinant of food security at 1% level of significance. Access to credit was
significant at 5% while age of producer and level of education were significant at 10%. Number
of broiler and access to credit had negative influence on food security. It was concluded that
age, household size, level of education, farming experience, number of broilers and access to
credit were determinants of broiler farmers’ food security in the area. It recommended that
knowledge sharing among farmers should be encouraged to enhance productivity.

ECONOMIC EVALUATION OF YAM PRODUCTION IN EKITI STATE, NIGERIA

2025-09-29T11:57:58+00:00

This study examined the economics of Yam Production in Ekiti State. Four local government
areas (Ikole, Ise, Irepodun/Ifelodun, and Ekiti South-West) were purposively selected based on
their level of yam production. Multi-stage sampling technique was adopted for this research
and a total number of 100 respondents were interviewed. Descriptive statistics, budgetary
analysis and regression analysis were employed for data analysis. Socio-economic analysis
shows that average age of yam producers in the study area was 47 years and majority (66%)
of them were males. Most of the respondents were married (46%). Education-wise, a
significant percentage possessed primary education (46%), and a few have tertiary education
(10%) implying a relatively high level of basic education. Approximately 42% have 1 to 5 years
of farming experience, with farm size of 1-5 hectares (73%). The result of budgetary analyses
showed that yam production was profitable with an average net farm income of ₦1,396,612.17
per hectare. The constraints faced by yam farmers were also investigated. The most significant
constraint was pest and diseases, with a mean score of 4.33, closely followed by poor storage
facilities with mean of 4.20. Lack of access to improved yam varieties was ranked third with
mean of 4.17, while poor roads and inadequate labor supply were ranked fourth and fifth,
respectively with means of (4.13 and 4.08) respectively.

ASSESSEMENT OF THE ECONOMIC RETURNS OF GREEN AMARANTH (AMARANTHUS VIRIDIS) PRODUCTION IN EKITI STATE, NIGERIA

2025-09-29T11:57:58+00:00

The study analyzed the cost, returns and profitability of Green Amaranth (Amaranthus viridis)
vegetable production within four local government areas of Ekiti State which were Ikole, Oye,
Ikere and Ado LGAs. A multi-stage random sampling technique was adopted for this research.
A total of 80 respondents were selected. The study employed analytical techniques such as
descriptive statistics, budgetary analysis and regression analysis. The result revealed that the
age range of 30 to 39 years had the highest percentage with 32.5% while males were 63.7%
and 68.8% were married. Household size of 6 to 10 persons had the highest percentage with
35% while majority had tertiary qualifications with 82.5%, implying a high level of education
and also 42.5% had 1 to 5 years of farming experience. Profitability analysis revealed that
total revenue generated by the respondents was ₦72,135,000 per hectare and gross margin
value of ₦54,688,700, with net margin of ₦45,345,000. The return on investment was ₦3.13
indicating that for every one naira spent, ₦3.13 will be realized as revenue and hence being
profitable. Regression result indicated that the model accounted for 85.0% variability in
vegetable production in the study area. Constraints faced by vegetable farmers were climate
change, lack of storage facilities, pest and diseases, fluctuation in prices and lack of credit or
access to finance and if the positive regression variables were maintained and the constraints
combated green amaranth production in the study area will be highly profitable.

ANALYSIS OF FOOD SECURITY STATUS OF FARMING HOUSEHOLDS IN WUKARI LGA, TARABA STATE, NIGERIA

2025-09-29T11:57:58+00:00

The study analyzed the food security status of farming households in Wukari LGA, Taraba
State, Nigeria. The specific objectives were to describe the socioeconomic characteristics of
the farming household’s heads on food security; determine the food security status of the
farming households; and to describe the copping strategies adopted by the farming households.
Data were collected from 114 farming households through questionnaire and were analyzed
using descriptive statistics and Food Security Index (FSI) estimation. Descriptive analysis of
socioeconomic characteristics of the sampled households revealed that respondents had
average household size of 10 persons with a sizeable proportion of household heads (36.0%)
within the age category of 41-50 years, while 21.1 and 18.4% were in the age categories of 31
40 and 51-60 years, respectively. Similarly, 52.0% of the household heads had no formal
education while 71.9% earned ≤50,000 naira per capita per year. The summary statistics of
food security indices among the sampled households showed that majority (52.63%) of the
farming households were food insecure with about 42% short of calorie availability to achieve
the basic minimal calorie requirement of 2,730 kcal/day/person. Coping strategies such as
‘reducing number of meals per day’, ‘restriction of consumption by adults to feed the children’,
limit meal portion at meal time’ and ‘reliance on the use of less preferred and expensive food’
were the commonly used coping strategies by the stressed households in the study area. The
study concluded that household heads’ socioeconomic characteristics such as household size,
educational attainment of the household head, and household income generation have
influence on the food security of the household and that farming households were food insecure
with about 42% short of calorie availability. Households in the study area employed various
coping strategies to attenuate the effect of food insecurity. Thus, the study recommended that
farming households be provided with more educational opportunities and farm extension
services to improve upon their food security status. The household heads should be encouraged
to save more in order to increase/improve their capital base and invest it in the business to
enjoy economies of scale. Deployment of concerted efforts such as farm inputs subsidy and
distribution of palliatives as coping options by government and concerned stakeholders should
be made to bring such segment out of food insecurity

INFLUENCE OF SOCIO-ECONOMIC VARIABLES ON FOOD SECURITY STATUS OF FARMING HOUSEHOLDS IN WUKARI, TARABA STATE, NIGERIA

2025-09-29T11:57:58+00:00

This study examined the Influence of Socioeconomic Variables on Food Security Status of
Farming Households in Wukari, Taraba State, Nigeria. A multi-stage sampling technique was
used to randomly select 112 farming households for the study. Data were collected on
socioeconomic characteristics, food consumption pattern and causes of food insecurity using
a structured questionnaire. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics, food security index
(FSI) and binary logistic regression model. The summary statistics of food security indices
revealed that majority (56.2%) of the selected households were food insecure, and out of the
households that experienced food shortage incidence, majority (51.6%) indicated that food
shortage was mostly experienced in the third quarter of the year (July- September). The
regression analysis on the influence of socioeconomic characteristics on food security status
among farming households indicated that household size (P<0.01), education level (P<0.05)
and household income (P<0.05) were statistically significant with 0.623, 2.471 and 1.044
exponential values respectively. High food prices; conflict and civil unrest; and high cost of
transportation were ranked the topmost causes of food insecurity in the study area. The study
concluded that majority of the selected households were food insecure with the incidence of
food insecurity more concentrated in the third quarter of the year (July – September). And that
food security status was significantly influenced by the socioeconomic characteristics of the
household heads with high food prices; conflict and civil unrest; and high cost of transportation
as the topmost causes of food insecurity in the study area. It was recommended that facilitating
access to adequate and affordable food; affordable means of transportation; and taking into
consideration by policy makers, the significant socioeconomic factors influencing food security
will improve the food security status of farming households in the study area.

DETERMINANTS OF UPTAKE OF CLIMATE-SMART AGRICULTURAL PRACTICES AMONG CASSAVA FARMERS IN IMO STATE, NIGERIA

2025-09-29T11:57:58+00:00

Climate-smart agricultural practices are critical for transforming and reorienting farmers in
response to the increasing impacts of climate change. This study analysed the determinants of
the uptake of CSA practices among cassava farmers in Imo State, Nigeria. Specifically, it
assessed farmers’ socio-economic characteristics, awareness and use of CSA practices, the
factors influencing uptake of CSA practices and the barriers faced by Cassava farmers. Data
were collected from 180 cassava farmers using structured questionnaires and analysed with
descriptive statistics and the binary logit model. The results showed that the average age of
farmers was 50 years, 60% were female, and 66% were married, with an average household
size of six. Farmers had, on average, 12 years of formal education and 22.5 years of farming
experience. Nearly all the Cassava farmers (96.7%) were aware of CSA practices and had
contact with extension agents. Key determinants of CSA uptake included sex, education level,
farm size, and frequency of extension contact. Major barriers included inadequate funding,
insecure land tenure, limited access to credit, poor extension coverage, and insufficient,
timely information and inputs. The study recommends that to enhance the uptake of Climate
Smart Agricultural (CSA) practices among cassava farmers in Imo State, extension services
should be strengthened to provide regular training and technical support. Farmers should
form cooperatives to enable resource sharing and better access to inputs and markets. In
addition, disseminating timely, localised climate information through accessible platforms by
Meteorological agencies, Ministries of Agriculture and Agricultural Extension agents can
help farmers make informed decisions.

CONSTRAINTS TO CLIMATE CHANGE ADAPTATION STRATEGIES AMONG MAIZE FARMERS IN NORTH-EASTERN NIGERIA

2025-09-29T11:57:58+00:00

The study assessed constraints to climate change adaptation strategies among maize farmers
in Northeastern, Nigeria. A Multi-stage sampling procedure was employed in select 337
respondents for the study. Frequency counts, mean, percentage, ranking and factor analysis
(PCA) were used to analyze the data. The results showed that over one-third (37.09%) of the
farmers’ age with mean of 40 fell within the age bracket of 41-50 years and majority (87.80%),
(60.8%) of the respondents were male and not members of any organization while most
(98.00%) of the farmers were married.. Findings further indicated that drought was the major
perceived cause of climate change (X=4.2) and farmers affirmed that land degradation causes
weather variability (X=3.9). The result concludes that significant reasons contributed to low
adaptation of improved climate change strategies among the respondents and respondents
were less likely to adapt climate change strategies due to unfavorable government policies.
The study suggested that socio-economic factor, environmental factor and climate information
factor, policy factor, institutional factor, weather factor, personal and disease control factor,
were the main factors affecting climate change adaptation strategies among maize farmers in
the study area.

PROFITABILITY OF GINGER PRODUCTION IN JABA LOCAL GOVERNMENT AREA OF KADUNA STATE, NIGERIA

2025-09-29T11:57:58+00:00

The study assessed the profitability of ginger production in Jaba Local Government Area
of Kaduna state, Nigeria. A multistage sampling procedure was used to select respondents
from four council wards in the study area, giving a total of 96 respondents. Structured
questionnaire was used to collect data for the study. Data were analyzed using descriptive
statistics, Gross Margin analysis and ordinary least square regression. Results showed
that ginger production was profitable by a revenue of ₦1,700,000 per hectare of ginger.
Mean total cost incurred by the respondents was ₦746,207.1 with a gross margin of
₦953,792.9. The average rate of returns on investment was 1.28, indicating that for every
₦1 invested in ginger production, ₦1.28kobo was returned. The regression analysis
showed six factors had significant effect on ginger gross margin in the study area. The
coefficient of farm size, seeds, fertilizer, labor, and age were significant at 1%; marital
status was significant at 10%, with an R2 of 0.997 indicating that the variables included
in the model explained 99.7% of changes in the gross margin of ginger production in the
study area. Constraints to ginger production were found to include incidence of pests and
disease, poor access to roads and transportation facilities, and unavailability of farm
inputs. It was concluded that ginger production was profitable in the study area but
producers were limited by some constraints. It was recommended that ginger producers
expand their production in terms of farm size and seed used

ANALYSIS OF THE FACTORS THAT DETERMINE FARMERS' PARTICIPATION IN TOMATO CONTRACT FARMING IN KANO STATE, NIGERIA

2025-09-29T11:57:58+00:00

This study was conducted to analyze the factors that determine farmers' participation in tomato
contract farming in Kano State. The study adopted a multistage sampling technique to select
179 contract and 179 non-contract farmers, making a total of 358 respondents. Primary data
were collected with the aid of structured questionnaire, which were administered to the
respondents, with the help of well-trained enumerators. Descriptive statistics and double
hurdle model were used to analyzed the data collected. Results revealed that contract farmers
were primarily aged between 18 and 35 years (50%), while non-contract farmers were more
commonly found within 36 to 60 years’ age bracket (53.6%). Illiteracy was more prevalent
among non-contract farmers, as 33.7% lacked formal education, while approximately 37.6%
had received only primary. Majority of the respondents were married with about 88% and 89%
of the sampled contract and non-contract farmers, respectively. The farmers were constrained
in accessibility of credit facilities, with the majority of both contract (79%) and non-contract
(83%) farmers relying on personal savings. The mean household size for contract and non
contract farmers was 12 and 13 households, respectively. Among contract farmers, 89% were
cooperative members, while among non-contract farmers, 83% held cooperative membership.
About 90% of contract farmers, had interacted with extension agents, while 82% of non
contract farmers had similar contact. An average farm sizes of 1.2 hectares and 1.3 hectares,
was obtained for contract and non-contract farmers respectively. The outcomes of the double
hurdle revealed that certain factors such as age (0.02), education (0.283), household size
(0.075), access to credit (0.734), number of contacts with extension agents (-0.162),
cooperative membership (1.291), and farming experience (-0.033), played significant roles in
determining participation in contract farming. Educational level (-0.034), household size
(0.005), and access to credit (0.618) influenced the extent of participation. The study therefore
recommended increased farmers’ involvement in cooperatives could increase their level of
participation in contract farming; forming farmer groups could enable economically
disadvantaged farmers to pool their limited resources collectively and establish connections
with contracting firms; and enhanced access to land through the collective allocation of land
to
group of small-scale tomato farmers with the help of government and
stakeholders(contracting firms)could be a viable strategy for promoting increased
participation in contract farming.

IMPACT OF PETROLEUM PRICE FLUCTUATIONS ON LOCALLY AND IMPORTED MILLED RICE PRICES IN NIGERIA

2025-09-29T11:57:58+00:00

The study examined the impact of petroleum price fluctuation on the price of locally and
imported milled rice in Nigeria using secondary data. Descriptive statistics, Johansen co
integration and error correction model were employed. The result showed an upward trend in
crude oil, PMS and AGO prices, alongside consistent increase in the locally and imported
milled rice prices over the study period. The Johansen’s co-integration test statistics revealed
the existence of long-run relationship among all variables. The analysis revealed that crude
oil prices exert an indirect short run effect on rice prices while PMS and AGO have a direct
and significant long run impact. A unit increase in petroleum product prices was associated
with a proportional rise in rice prices, reflecting cost transmission across production,
processing, transportation, and marketing. However, crude oil price effects differed between
locally and imported rice, influenced by domestic fuel pricing policies and import dynamics.
Thus, the findings highlights Nigeria’s rice market vulnerability to global price shocks and
domestic fuel policy changes, with implications for food inflation and food security. To mitigate
rice price volatility, policy measure should focus on stabilizing fuel prices through subsidy
reforms, investing in local refining and alternative energy, promoting energy-efficient
agricultural machinery, enhancing transportation infrastructure, regulating rice import
policies, and establishing price stabilization mechanisms. These interventions could reduce
inflationary pressures from petroleum price shocks and strengthen national food security.

EFFECTS OF POST-HARVEST LOSSES ON INCOME AMONG TOMATO PRODUCERS IN BORNO STATE, NIGERIA

2025-09-29T11:57:58+00:00

The study analysed effects of Post-harvest losses on income among fresh tomato producers in
six LGAs of Borno State namely; Hawul, Bayo, Konduga, Jere, Monguno and Gubio. A multi
stage sampling technique was used to sample 210 producers. The data were collected from
primary source with the aid of structured questionnaire and were analysed using descriptive
statistics and multiple regression. The result revealed that the major causes of post-harvest
losses were pest and disease 96.7%, poor handling practices 95.7%, inadequate storage
facilities 90.5%, time of harvest 81.9%, inadequate transportation facilities 77.6% and varietal
characteristics 62.4%. At the producer’s level, the values of losses at harvest and during
transportation were significant at P<0.01 while values of losses during packaging and
education level were significant at P<0.05. It can be concluded that pest and disease poor
handling practices were among the major causes of post-harvest losses and value of loss during
harvesting, sorting, packaging, storage and transportation reduces the value of income of the
tomato producers. It can be recommended that Government should initiate affordable policies
that will improve the traditional harvesting and storage methods coupled with improved
management practices. This will help reduce post-harvest losses during harvest as well as
make it possible for vegetable farmers to store their farm produce for a longer time. Heat
treatment and sanitization should also be given to the farmers in order to reduce post-harvest
losses.

IMPACT OF TRANSFORMING IRRIGATION MANAGEMENT IN NIGERIA (TRIMING) PROJECT ON THE WELFARE METRICS OF RICE FARMING HOUSEHOLDS IN NORTH-WEST NIGERIA

2025-09-29T11:57:58+00:00

This study empirically assesses the impact of the Transforming Irrigation Management in
Nigeria (TRIMING) Project on the welfare metrics of rice farming households in North-West
Nigeria. The specific objective is to determine the impact of TRIMING Project on the Per
capita expenditure, food expenditure and total household expenditure of the rice farmers.
Endogenous Switching Regression (ESR) approach was used for this analysis. A primary data
was collected from 669 rice farmers (335 participants and 334 non-participants) across
Jigawa and Zamfara States. The findings reveal a significant positive impact of the TRIMING
Project on various household expenditure metrics, including total household expenditure, food
expenditure, and per capita expenditure for participating households. Determinants such as
household size, education level, years of experience, access to irrigation canals, and extension
services significantly influence household expenditure patterns for both participant and non
participant groups. The study also highlights the importance of institutional factors like
cooperative membership and access to credit and extension services in influencing
participation in the TRIMING Project. These results underscore the effectiveness of large-scale
irrigation projects in enhancing the welfare of smallholder farmers and provide crucial
insights for policymakers aiming to improve agricultural productivity and poverty reduction in
similar contexts.

CO-INTEGRATION APPROACH TO PRICE TRANSMISSION MECHANISMS OF CASSAVA IN THE RURAL AND URBAN MARKETS OF BENUE STATE, NIGERIA

2025-09-29T11:57:59+00:00

This study investigates the price transmission mechanisms and degree of market integration
between rural and urban cassava markets in Benue State, Nigeria, using monthly price data
from January 2008 to December 2024. Cassava is a vital staple crop in Nigeria, but its market
is plagued by price volatility and inefficiencies that undermine food security and farmer
incomes. The study employed time-series econometric tools including the Augmented Dickey
Fuller (ADF) unit root test, Johansen co-integration test, Vector Error Correction Model
(VECM), and the Index of Market Connection (IMC) to analyze cassava price dynamics.
Descriptive analysis revealed that urban markets had higher mean cassava prices and greater
price volatility than rural markets, with coefficients of variation of 75.23% and 33.27%,
respectively. The ADF test confirmed stationarity of all price series at level, while Johansen
co-integration results established the existence of long-run equilibrium relationships across
market segments. VECM estimates indicated weak short-run adjustments, with only Otukpo
(urban) and Taraku (rural) markets showing significant responsiveness to deviations from
long-run equilibrium. The IMC value of 0.7761 suggests strong short-run integration between
rural and urban markets, implying that price changes in rural areas were rapidly transmitted
to urban markets. The findings underscore persistent price instability and weak speed of market
adjustments, reflecting structural inefficiencies in cassava marketing. Policy recommendations
include enhancing market information systems, improving rural-urban infrastructure, building
capacity among market actors, and strengthening regulatory frameworks to foster market
transparency and reduce price asymmetries. These interventions are essential to improving
market efficiency, stabilizing cassava prices, and ensuring food security in Benue State and
similar agro-ecological zones.

NITROGEN UTILIZATION BY WEST AFRICAN DWARF GOATS FED GUINEA GRASS AND TWO CULTIVARS OF CONGO GRASS SUPPLEMENTED WITH PALM KERNEL CAKE AND CASSAVA PEELS

2025-09-29T11:57:59+00:00

This study evaluated nitrogen utilization by West African Dwarf (WAD) goats fed Guinea grass
(Panicum maximum) and two cultivars of Congo grass (Brachiaria mulato II and Brachiaria
ruziziensis) supplemented with palm kernel cake (PKC) and cassava peels (CP). Sixteen (16)
growing WAD bucks were assigned to four (4) dietary treatments in a completely randomized
design: T1 (Guinea grass only), T2 (Brachiaria mulato II + 20% PKC + 20% CP), T3 (Congo
grass + 20% PKC + 20% CP), and T4 (Guinea grass + 20% PKC + 20% CP). Proximate
composition and nitrogen balance were determined using the Kjeldahl method. Results showed
that supplemented diets (T2–T4) had higher crude protein (14.88–16.52%) compared to T1
(9.86%). Nitrogen intake was highest in T2 (2.62 g/day) and lowest in T1 (1.58 g/day). Faecal
nitrogen was higher in T2–T4 (0.61–0.62 g/day) than T1 (0.51 g/day), while urinary nitrogen
was highest in T3 (0.58 g/day). Nitrogen absorption, balance, and retention were significantly
(P<0.05) higher in T2 (2.01 g/day, 1.60 g/day, 61.07%) compared to T1 (1.07 g/day, 0.69
g/day, 43.67%). It is concluded that T2 had better nitrogen utilization and therefore enhances
protein bioavailability in WAD goats. It is therefore recommended that Brachiaria mulato II
should be supplemented with PKC and cassava peels when fed to WAD goats to improve
nitrogen economy and to support sustainable livestock production in resource-constrained
settings.

RESOURCE USE EFFICIENCY OF DRY SEASON IRISH POTATO PRODUCTION IN PLATEAU STATE, NIGERIA: A DOUBLE BOOTSTRAPPING DEA APPROACH

2025-09-29T11:57:59+00:00

The study analyzed resource use efficiency of dry season Irish Potato production in Plateau
State, Nigeria. A random sampling was the main technique used in selecting 109 Irish Potato
farmers that took part in the study. The primary data was collected by trained enumerators and
analyzed using bootstrap Data Envelopment Analysis (DEA) and truncated regression model.
Result of the dry season Variable Return to Scale (VRS) DEA reveals average technical
efficiency (TE) for radial, non-radial and bias-corrected estimates to be 0.95, 0.79 and 0.84
respectively with a mean allocative and economic efficiency of 0.60 and 0.56. The estimated
radial TE score was higher than the bias-corrected TE score indicating over-estimation of the
radial score which in turn leads to bias results. Regression analysis showed that age
(0.01,P<0.00), membership of farm group (-0.19,P<0.00), educational level (-0.15,P<0.00),
extension contact (-0.13,P<0.00) and access to credit (-0.22,P<0.00) were the positive and
significant variables contributing to the efficiency of Irish potato production. In conclusion,
the dry season Irish potato farmers were operating below the production frontier, indicating
possibilities of input reduction for improved on-farm performance. Regression analysis showed
that age, membership of farm group, educational level, extension contact and access to credit
were the positive and significant variables contributing to the efficiency of Irish potato
production. The study recommends the formulation of policies that ensure provision of quality
extension contact, increased credit access and education among Irish potato farmers. There is
also need for training of farmers on effective inputs use management as a potential measures
to enhance their productive efficiency.

ANALYSIS OF THE EFFECT OF FINANCIAL INCLUSION ON LIVELIHOOD DIVERSIFICATION AMONG CROP FARMING HOUSEHOLDS IN BORNO STATE, NIGERIA

2025-09-29T11:57:59+00:00

The study analyzed financial inclusion and livelihood diversification among crop farming
households in Borno State, Nigeria. Multi-stage sampling technique was used to select 490
respondents for the study. Data were collected through the use of a structured questionnaire,
and were analyzed using both descriptive statistical tools (frequency, percentages, mean,
minimum and maximum values) and inferential statistics (ordered logit regression model). The
result revealed that 75.3% of the respondents are male with 52% aged between 31-40 years
and the average age was 41 years. Majority of the respondents (63.7%) are married with
average household size of 8 persons. Also, about 69% of the respondents had attended one
form of education or another ranging from primary to tertiary education. Similarly, majority
of the respondents (63.3%) had between 11-20 years farming experience with an average farm
size of 1.6ha. Also, the respondents have an average annual household income of ₦453,000.
The ordered logit regression revealed that financial inclusion variables such as using bank
account (p<0.01), employment status (p<0.05), financial literacy (p<0.05), possession of skill
(p<0.01), cooperative membership (p<0.05), distance to financial institution (p<0.01) and
remittance (p<0.001) positively influenced livelihood diversification in the study. The study
concluded that, there is a strong link between financial inclusion and livelihood diversification
among crop farming households to earn income for a better wellbeing and economic
sustainability. The study recommended among others, the need for both private and state
stakeholders to establish policies that will support and enhance rural households financial
inclusion status.

PROXIMATE AND ANTINUTRIENT COMPOSITIONS OF AVOCADO PEAR (PERSEA AMERICANA) PULP AND LEAVES

2025-09-29T11:57:59+00:00

The use of plant resources have gained much attention globally in the management of family
finances especially during economic crisis. Avocado pulp and leaves are nutrient-rich, plant
based diets that can be beneficial as they are believed to possess various nutritional and
therapeutic values. The study analysed the proximate and antinutrient compositions of
avocado pulp and leaves. Specifically, the study determined the proximate content (crude
protein, moisture, crude fibre, ash, carbohydrate) of avocado pulp and leaves and antinutrient
constituents (alkaloid, saponin, tannin) content of the samples. Samples were collected from
Akpa-Edem in Nsukka Enugu state. The raw materials were sorted to remove debris and
defects, washed, peeled, sliced and cut, removed seeds, and to obtain the edible portion,
mesocarp (pulp). leaves of avocado plant were carefully detached from the plant stem, sorted,
washed, air dried, ground to fine flour using disk attrition mill. The ground samples were
stored in airtight bottles for further analysis. The proximate and antinutrient compositions
were investigated on the samples using Association of Official Analytical Chemists. (AOAC)
standard methods. All data were expressed as mean ± SD . Proximate analysis results showed
that protein content of pulp was higher (5.37%) than the leaves (4.90%). Ash content of the
leaves were higher (1.33%) than the pulp (1.04%). The concentration of crude fiber in leaves
were higher (5.71%) than the pulp (1.07). The akaloid content in pear pulp was 1.80 mg and
leaves (2.59 mg). The saponin content of the leaves were higher (2.82 mg) than the pear pulp
(1.20 mg). The tannin content of the leaves were higher (4.87mg) than the pulp (7.73
mg/100g).The result showed that these samples contain appreciable quantities of some
nutrients.The anti-nutritional factors were below the recommended safe limit of alkaloid (25
200mg/100g, saponin (20 – 100mg/100g) and tannin (50 – 100mg/100g). In conclusion,
avocado pulp and leaves should be used in food and drug industries for production of various
foods and drugs.

EXAMINING COMMUNITY PARTICIPATION AND GOVERNANCE IN ECOTOURISM DEVELOPMENT AT ARINTA WATERFALL, IPOLE-ILORO, NIGERIA

2025-09-29T11:57:59+00:00

This study examines community engagement in ecotourism planning at Arinta Waterfall, Ipole
Iloro, Ekiti State, assessing how socioeconomic characteristics influence involvement, current
participation levels, and governance functionality. A cross-sectional survey of 133 households,
selected from an estimated 700, employed a structured questionnaire validated by wildlife and
ecotourism experts. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics and multiple regression in
SPSS v.25. Sociodemographic profiles indicated a slight female majority, varied marital status,
predominantly secondary education, primary engagement in farming or resort employment,
and over one-third earning above ₦50,000 monthly. Regression analysis showed
socioeconomic variables explained 18.1% of engagement variance (R²=0.181,
F(8,124)=3.416, p=0.001); years of work experience negatively predicted engagement (B=
0.616, p=0.013), while gender and education had marginal positive effects (p≈0.06–0.07).
Participation measures revealed moderate involvement, decision-making influence and
capacity-building exhibited gaps despite strong endorsement of public forums and business
integration. Governance structures showed clear frameworks and feedback mechanisms but
uneven leadership support and benefit distribution. These findings underscore multifaceted
engagement drivers beyond demographics, necessitating targeted interventions. Addressing
barriers for longer-experienced residents through flexible engagement opportunities, tailored
capacity-building, and inclusive, context-sensitive governance mechanisms such as
transparent feedback loops and targeted outreach can broaden involvement. Strengthening
leadership commitment and equitable benefit-sharing will align ecotourism initiatives with
community interests, enhancing conservation and livelihood outcomes. This integrated
analysis contributes to literature on institutional and socioeconomic determinants of
participation and informs practice for sustainable ecotourism development in Ipole-Iloro.