| 1 |
Author(s):
Christiana Fwenji Zumyil, Toma Maina Antip.
Page No : 1-20
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Impacts of Climate Change on Plant Growth: Implications for Policy and Research.
Abstract
Plant growth is heavily facilitated by the extent to which many interacting climate variables remain within appropriate conditions. The Ongoing global climatic change can significantly alter conditions for plant growth, in turn upsetting ecological and social systems. While there have been substantial developments in understanding the physical features of climate change, complete studies incorporating climate, biological, and social sciences are less common. This paper used climate projections under alternative mitigation situations to show how changes in environmental variables that limit plant growth could influence ecosystems, research, policies and humans. Results showed multiple climate variables becoming limiting for plant growth, particularly in tropical areas, which resulted in considerable reductions in plant yields. Furthermore, the paper posited that reductions in plant growth due to unsuitable growing days can lead to less suitable condition for plant growth and tree mortality can trigger ecological responses, including changes in plant community composition. The paper concludes by recommending that afforestation programs should be vigorously pursued.
| 2 |
Author(s):
Ifeoma Monica Nwawuike, Opara D. C., Chidinma F. N..
Page No : 21-32
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Effect of Land Cover Variations on the Fertility Status of Soils of Umuhu in Ngor-Okpala Area of Imo State.
Abstract
The study was conducted to ascertain the effect of four different land cover (cassava cultivated field (CCF), oil palm plantation (OPP), plantain plantation (PP) and forest land (FL)) on the fertility status of soil of Umuhu in Ngor-Okpala area of Imo State, Nigeria. Random sampling technique was used in the collection of soil samples from the four different land covers. The sampling was done at the beginning, middle and end of each land cover. 12 Composite samples were collected from all the land cover types with 3 per land cover. The composite samples were prepared for routine laboratory analyses. Data generated were analyzed statistically using analysis of variance. The textural classes of all the sampled soil were of loamy sand. The soils which has plantain plantation as its cover had the highest pH(6.4), Total N (0.229 %), Soil organic matter 4.70 %, Available P (27.05 mg kg-1), Exch. Ca (6.492 cmolc kg-1), Exch. Mg (3.942 cmolc kg-1), Exch. K (0.953 cmolc kg-1), Exch. Na (0.06 cmolc kg-1), Exch. H (1.2 cmolc kg-1) and CEC (28.4 cmolc kg-1) with its exch. Al in trace amount (<0.001 cmolc kg-1). The soil under CCF despite been under low cover, did not show much degenerate due to the shifting cultivation being practice in the study location. However, the result obtained from the study indicated that the different land covers especially that under plantain plantation (PP) has affected the soils fertility at different rate. A factor strongly controlled by high content of organic materials, a dense vegetative cover which mitigates erosion effects and the addition of ash as a means of fertilizing the soils under plantain plantation being practice in the study area.
| 3 |
Author(s):
Mohammed Sirajul Islam, Ummeya Shiha Alam, Al-amin Hossain, Md. Tarikul Islam.
Page No : 33-42
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Socio-Economic Status of Buffalo Farmers and Management Practices of Buffaloes at Shahjadpur Milk Pocket Area in Bangladesh.
Abstract
Buffalo is the most neglected species of large ruminant, despite contributing safe and sustainable milk and meat production in Bangladesh. A survey was conducted at five unions of Shahjadpur upazilla under Sirajganj district which is called the milk pocket area in Bangladesh. The objective of the survey was to find out the socio-economic condition of buffalo farmers in these areas. Prior to conducting the survey work from February to June 2024, a questionnaire was designed and pre-tested. SPSS software was used to statistically analyze the collected data. The results revealed that majority (84%) of buffalo farmers were male and mostly (72%) practiced by middle aged (30-45years). Education level of farmers had no schooling (12%), primary (50%), secondary (22%), higher secondary (16%) and graduation (0%), respectively. In the survey area, majority (76%) of the farmers reared young male (1.5 to 2 years) buffalo of for fattening. Additionally, 72% farmers raised buffaloes with intensive system and rest 28% with semi-intensive. The involvement of respondents in farming, business and others were 84, 8% and 8%, respectively. Most (60%) of the farmers dewormed their buffalo regularly but only 28% practiced regular vaccination. The main factors limiting buffalo production in the study locations were high price of concentrate feed (88%), lack of pond for wallowing (70%), lack of improved dairy buffalo breeds (60%), lack of green fodder (30%), unavailability of lank loan (18%) and training facility (24%). The net income from fattening one buffalo per half yearly was BDT 26713. It indicates that rearing buffaloes for fattening purpose in the selected areas was profitable.
| 4 |
Author(s):
Rosemary Abayase, Lydia Anyani, Gilbert Owiah Sampson, Rosemary Abayase.
Page No : 43-60
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Food Safety Practices Among Homemakers in the Sagnarigu Municipal of Northern Ghana.
Abstract
This study investigated household food safety practices (HFSPs) employed by homemakers in Sagnarigu Municipality of Northern Ghana. It explored their practices related to food hygiene, food storage, food preparation, handling and cooking, serving, and disposal of food. The study employed a stratified random sampling technique to survey 300 participants across six communities in the study area. Questionnaires were the primary data collection tool, supplemented by observations and unstructured interviews. The study revealed that, on household food safety practices, majority (68%) of homemakers store cooked food at room temperature, store raw vegetables/fruits at room temperature (71.9%) and 36.3% store raw meat/poultry/fish by freezing. Food safety measures employed by homemakers showed that most of the homemakers wash utensils before and after cooking (72.9%) and serve meals when hot (87.2%). Homemakers had a moderate knowledge of food safety, observed good personal hygiene. However, some bad food safety practices were reported such as cooking or handling food when ill.
| 5 |
Author(s):
Odo christopher Emeka, Ogunka-Nnoka Charity, Uwakwe Augustine Amadikwa.
Page No : 61-86
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Ameliorative Effect of Hydrocotyle Verticillata and Laportea Aestuans Leave Extracts on Hematological, Biochemical and Histopathological Indices on 7, 12-dimethylbenz (α) Anthracene (DMBA) Induced-Leukemia in Rats.
Abstract
This study evaluated the ameliorative effect of Hydrocotyle verticillata (H.v) and Laportea aestuans (L.a) leaves extracts on hematological and biochemical indices on 7,12-dimethylbenz(α) anthracene (DMBA) induced-leukemia in wistar rats. Leukemia was induced in rats using standard method. Both extracts were evaluated for their effects on hematological, and biochemical indices using standard methods. The hematological indices showed a decrease in packed cell volume (21.83±0.85%) and hemoglobin concentrations (7.28±0.28g/dl) with an increase in Total white blood cells (30.08±0.51x109/L) in the negative control group. Treatment with the extracts significantly (p<0.05) increased the Hb, and PCV with a decrease in the TWBC levels in all treated groups. Liver enzymes of the standard drug and treated groups showed a significant (p<0.05) decrease when compared to the negative control (group 3) for both extracts. Urea (10.17±0.25mmol/l), creatinine (1.98±0.77mg/dl) hepatic enzymes levels reduced significantly (p<0.05) while Oxidative stress biomarker levels significantly (p<0.05) increased in the standard drug and treated groups when compared with the negative control. Hydrocotyle verticillata and Laportea aestuans have shown to possess hepato-renal protective effect and modulated hematological indices in induced-leukemia.
| 6 |
Author(s):
Ishar C. O., Ikeh M. I., Chiakwelu P. C., Okeke O. A., Okeke C. J., Offor V. O., Obiakor U. A., Oraneli U. B., Benedict A. G,.
Page No : 87-98
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Study of Fungal Organisms Associated with Smoked and Dried Fish Sold in Awka Markets, Anambra State.
Abstract
Fungal contamination of fish is considered as the major cause of spoilage and constitute a significant public health problem. This study was carried out to determine the fungal organisms associated with smoked and dried fish samples: Scomber scombrus (Mackerel), Sardinella longiceps (Sardine), Oreochromis niloticus (tilapia), Clarias gariepinus (catfish), Gadus morhua (Stock fish), Ethmalosa fimbriata (Bonga fish), and Citharinus citharus (Mangala) sold in Awka markets, Anambra State, Nigeria. A total of fifty (50) fishes, 25 smoked and 25 dried fishes were obtained from three markets in Awka and examined microbiologically for viable fungal infestation using Potato Dextrose Agar (PDA) media. A total of 121 fungal organisms were isolated from 25 smoked and 25 dried fish samples and identified. The isolated fungi were Mucor spp, Aspergillus niger, Aspergillus flavus, Penicillium spp, Fusarium spp and Rhizopus spp. It was observed that all the fish samples harboured multiple fungal organisms. Aspergillus niger was the fungus with the highest mean fungal count of 9.00±5.568, followed by Mucor spp (8.00±1.732), while Aspergillus flavus was the lowest (3.67±1.528). In the dried fish samples, Gardus morhua (stock fish) had the highest infestation with fungi (1.08±1.083), while in smoked fish, Clarias gariepinus (catfish) had the highest infestation. The high level of fungal contamination can be attributed to poor handling of fish and the environment. Considering the danger to public health, food and safety authorities should intensify their monitoring efforts towards controlling fish contamination and fish sellers should also be sensitized on hygienic fish handling techniques.
| 7 |
Author(s):
Sabiha Sultana (Ph.D.), Rakibul Hassan (Ph.D.), Ayesha Shiddika Afsana, Eshtiak Ahamed Pehan, Anowar Hosen, Sonia Sultana, Md. Ariful Islam.
Page No : 99-116
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Assessment of the Present Status of Milk Handling and Management Practices in Some Areas of Bangladesh.
Abstract
Milk contamination by dairy workers' spoiled hands, unclean utensils, microbes, and polluted water has caused many milk-borne epidemics. Most milk-borne zoonoses are also contracted by drinking infected milk. Bangladesh lacks milking hygiene and farmer awareness, assessed the milk cleanliness of dairy farmers awareness and practices in different regions. This study was aimed at documenting the present milking and management practices of dairy producers in particular districts of Bangladesh. From June 2020 to June 2022, 300 small dairy cow owners in twelve areas were surveyed using a preset questionnaire. Results revealed that male respondents (59.5%) outnumbered female respondents (41.33%) across various age categories. Most farmers milked animals at the shed and washed their hands before milking. Over half of dairy farmers cleanse the udder and teat before milking. More than two-thirds of farmers let the calf suckle before and after milking, while 98.02 percent used concentrate feed for teat massage. Most farmers (95.58%) manually milked cows twice daily. The majority of farmers sell their milk (77.25%) rather than drink it (10.17%). The study found that 93.92 percent of milkmen cleaned the milking pail using water, while 3.5–2.5 percent utilized sand, ash, or detergent. Only 53.66% of dairy farmers wash their cows' udders and teats after milking, which may not be aware of potential contamination from dipping teats in sterile cream. Mastitis prevention was not practiced by 85.42 percent of respondents. Four to eight percent of producers know about antibiotics, milk adulteration, milk safety, and food safety issues. The application of scientific management approaches to milking is still lacking in the study areas. Therefore, training programs on improved milking management procedures can help farmers produce clean milk, increase dairy animal production, and increase farming income.
| 8 |
Author(s):
Adeyolanu Deborah T., Okelola Olufeme E..
Page No : 117-132
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Irrigation Water Management and Food Security in Nigeria.
Abstract
Food security remains a persistent challenge in Nigeria, a country with a rapidly growing population and a heavy reliance on rain-fed agriculture. Effective irrigation water management is crucial to improving agricultural productivity and addressing this critical issue, particularly in the face of climate change and increasing water scarcity. This study investigates the current state of irrigation water management and its impact on food security in Nigeria. The research employs a mixed-methods approach, combining an extensive literature review with field surveys, interviews, and focus group discussions with key stakeholders, including farmers, water resource managers, policymakers, and subject matter experts. The findings reveal significant gaps in Nigeria's existing irrigation water management system, including outdated infrastructure, inefficient water distribution, limited access to irrigation technology, and poor coordination among relevant government agencies and agricultural extension services. The study explores the multifaceted relationship between irrigation water management and food security, highlighting the impact of water availability, quality, and accessibility on crop yields, livestock production, and overall agricultural output. The analysis also examines the socioeconomic and environmental implications of poor irrigation water management, such as reduced farm incomes, food price volatility, and environmental degradation. Based on the research findings, the study proposes a comprehensive framework for sustainable irrigation water management in Nigeria. This framework emphasizes the integration of technological innovations, policy reforms, institutional strengthening, and community-based approaches to enhance the efficiency, equity, and resilience of the irrigation system. Key elements of the framework include modernizing irrigation infrastructure, promoting precision agriculture techniques, improving water governance and stakeholder coordination, and enhancing the capacity of farmers and water user associations. The implications of this study are far-reaching, as it provides policymakers, development agencies, and agricultural practitioners with a thorough understanding of the critical role of irrigation water management in achieving food security in Nigeria. The proposed framework offers a roadmap for the implementation of sustainable irrigation practices, which can contribute to increased agricultural productivity, improved rural livelihoods, and enhanced national food security. The findings of this research also offer valuable insights for other developing countries facing similar challenges in the realm of irrigation water management and food security.
| 9 |
Author(s):
Okelola Olufemi Emmanuel, Adeyolanu Deborah T..
Page No : 133-142
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Overview of Agro-allied Industries and Agribusiness in Nigeria.
Abstract
Nigeria's economy has long been heavily dependent on the agricultural sector, with agriculture playing a crucial role in providing food, generating employment, and contributing to the country's GDP. Over the past decade, there has been a growing focus on the development of agro-allied industries and agribusiness in Nigeria, as the government and private sector recognize the immense potential of this sector to drive economic growth and diversification. This abstract provides an overview of the current state of agro-allied industries and agribusiness in Nigeria. It examines the key subsectors, such as food processing, livestock production, and cash crop cultivation, and analyzes the challenges and opportunities facing the industry. The paper discusses the policy and regulatory environment, as well as the role of foreign direct investment and public-private partnerships in shaping the sector's development, impact of Agro Allied industries on the Nigerian economy and the Constraints/factors hindering the operations of agro-allied industries. The abstract highlights the significant contribution of agro-allied industries and agribusiness to Nigeria's GDP, employment, and exports, and underscores the sector's potential to enhance food security, promote rural development, and reduce poverty. It also explores the emerging trends and innovations, such as the adoption of technology, the rise of e-commerce, and the growing emphasis on value addition and sustainability. The findings in this abstract can inform policymakers, investors, and other stakeholders on the strategic importance of the agro-allied industries and agribusiness sector in Nigeria's economic transformation and diversification efforts.
| 10 |
Author(s):
Prisca Akosua Saah Asiedu.
Page No : 143-153
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A Review on Sustainability in Cocoa and Chocolate Processing: A Focus on West Africa.
Abstract
Cocoa is traded internationally and is highly significant to most economies. The majority of cocoa beans are sourced from West Africa; exporting over 70 % of cocoa globally. Despite this, West Africa makes minimal profits as compared to the consumer countries controlling the chocolate industry. A lot of sustainability interventions have been rolled out to ensure the continuous production of the crop. Europe and other international organizations have invested largely in cocoa sustainability. Some interventions have been in the form of certification standards, sensitization and awareness programs, training and empowering farmers, particularly in the West African region. Ghana and Cote d’Ivoire have benefitted from a lot of sustainability programs as the world’s largest cocoa producers. This review delves into several sustainability initiatives implemented in Ghana and Cote d’Ivoire through Voluntary Sustainability Standards, local government regulations, and international organizations. It also highlights the importance of sustainability in ensuring a consistent supply of high-quality cocoa beans for processors and highlights its associated health benefits.
| 11 |
Author(s):
Ifeorah E. Victor, Ekwealor U. Kenneth, Ikegbunam N. Clara, Onyili C. Adachukwu, Nwaogaranya U. Patrick.
Page No : 154-171
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Ecological Assessment of Weed Species in Two Secondary Forests in Anambra State Nigeria.
Abstract
An ecological study was done on weed species in two secondary forests present in Nnamdi Azikiwe University, Awka Campus and Federal college of Education Umunze, Anambra State, Nigeria. Data was collected from the two study sites which were randomly divided for adequate coverage and proper representation. Species dominance, abundance and diversity of weed species were recorded. The result of the study showed that a total of 21 weed species were recorded in Plot 1 study area which is at Nnamdi Azikiwe University, Awka campus; Pennisetum purpureum had the highest species abundance in the study site, with a total frequency of 93 and Dominance index of 28.97. Pennisetum purpureum had a relative density of while Tridax procumbens is the second most abundant with a frequency of 40 and Dominance of 7.10. Rhynchospora corymbosa shows the least in abundance with the frequency of 6. The result of Shannon wiener index for weed species in plot 1 study was 2.56 and this showed that there is high diversity of weed species in the study area. Meanwhile The result of the study in plot 2, which is at Federal College of Education Umunze showed that a total of 18 weed species were recorded; Imperata cylindrica had the highest species abundance in the study site, with a total frequency of 87 and Dominance index of 27.43 while Cypertrus rotundus is the second most abundant with a frequency of 67 and Dominance index of 10.5. Acanthus Montana shows the least in abundance with the frequency of 6 and dominance index of 1.02. The result of Shannon wiener index for weed species in plot 2 study was 2.47 and this also showed that there is high diversity of weed species in the study area. This result invariably indicates a great potential for utilization in conservation and ecological purposes.
| 12 |
Author(s):
Theofrida Julius Maginga, Steven Jofley Kutuku, Hamdun Fadhil Hamza, Gibson Gosbert Mulokozi, Jimmy Nsenga.
Page No : 172-188
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MkulimaGPT: Equitable AI Use via a Swahili Chatbot for Maize Farming System in Tanzania.
Abstract
Maize sector in Tanzania is crucial for the country's food security and economic stability. However, farmers face various challenges, including diseases that reduce yields and limited access to information. To address this, an innovative solution called MkulimaGPT has been developed, it is a text and voice chatbot that uses generative Artificial Intelligence (AI) technology and is accessible through WhatsApp. The platform offers real-time agricultural guidance in Swahili, overcoming language and literacy barriers. It is available through a local phone number and designed to cater to Tanzania's digital landscape by utilizing the widespread mobile network. MkulimaGPT blends generative AI's capabilities with the comprehensive agricultural knowledge base, ensuring its advisory services are contextually rich and technically astute. It is an example of inclusive AI and bridges the gap between farmers and extension services, fostering inclusivity for marginalized groups, particularly women, with a commitment to deliver real-time, and actionable insights for Tanzania's maize farming.
| 13 |
Author(s):
Okoaluu Onuchukwu Theodore, Izundu Alexander Ikechukwu.
Page No : 189-200
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Proximate Constituent and Mineral Content of the Seeds of Africa Yam Bean (Sphenostylis Stenocarpa) Purchased in Ebonyi State, Eastern Nigeria.
Abstract
In sub-Saharan Africa there has been various calls for development of a crop which will be high yielding with increased protein content. One of such plants currently being speculated to be an important source of high protein, carbohydrates, as well as other nutritional substances is African yam bean (Sphenostylis stenocarpa Hochst ex A. Rich. Harms). This work is therefore designed to ascertain the proximate, mineral, vitamin and phytochemical composition of the seed of African yam bean. The seed of African bean where analyzed for proximate mineral vectorment and phytochemical composition using standard methods. Data were subjected to statistical analysis using ANOVA. Results of the percentage proximate composition showed that the seeds contain 8.67 % moisture, crude protein 22.22 %, crude fibre 3.89 %, ash 4.58 %, fat 4.20 %, and carbohydrate 56.44 %. The mineral contents (mg /100g) were found to be 32.07 mg /100g (sodium), 231.20 mg /100g (potassium), 78.67 mg /100g (Magnesium), 159.66 mg /100g (Calcium), 133.53 mg /100g (Phosphorus), 2.32 mg /100g (Zinc), 6.13 mg /100g (Iron). Africa yam bean is an important source of high-quality protein and carbohydrate, as well as other nutritious substances. The present constituent especially their quantitative composition may be an indication of the nutritional as well as medicinal important of the seeds of Africa yam bean. Such interesting high content of certain bioactive compounds such as phenol and flavonoid as well as elevated protein content calls for improved cultivation of this crop for maximum yield and availability.
| 14 |
Author(s):
Atinuke Bolajoko Ogunjesa, Mulikat Bosede Odesanmi.
Page No : 201-210
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Impact of Boiling on Composition of Oven-Dried Curcuma Longa Linn Rhizomes.
Abstract
The effect of boiling Curcuma longa Linn rhizomes prior to oven drying on its proximate, mineral and phytochemical composition was studied. Fresh turmeric rhizomes were sliced to 5 mm thickness and then divided into two parts. The first part was oven dried directly while the second part was boiled prior to oven drying. Both products were then pulverised and subjected to laboratory analysis following standard procedures of AOAC and spectrometry. Boiling had impact on the proximate composition as there were significant (P<0.05) reductions in ether extract, crude fibre and crude protein. Sodium, calcium, potassium and phosphorus contents were significantly reduced with a significant increase in levels of magnesium, zinc and iron (P<0.05). Significant reductions in phytochemicals due to boiling prior to oven drying were also recorded (P<0.05). This experiment therefore shows that boiling Curcuma longa Linn rhizomes prior to oven drying could be of pharmacological importance.
| 15 |
Author(s):
Adelu Akeem Olalekan, Durojaiye Obomeghei Kuburat, Owie Uyinmwen Charity.
Page No : 211-220
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The Potential Role of Beetroot Juice in Hyperglycemia Management: A Review of Mechanisms and Clinical Outcomes.
Abstract
Hyperglycemia, characterized by elevated blood glucose levels, is a significant health concern that affects millions of individuals worldwide. It has been associated with long-term complications affecting the cardiovascular, renal, and nervous systems. Beetroot juice (BRJ), rich in nitrates, betalains, and antioxidants, has gained attention for its potential role in mitigating hyperglycemia and improving insulin sensitivity. This review evaluates the available scientific evidence on the hypoglycemic effects of beetroot juice, explores its proposed mechanisms of action, and discusses its potential as a complementary therapy for diabetes management. By analyzing studies, we found that beetroot juice may help manage hyperglycemia by enhancing insulin sensitivity through its nitrate content, which converts to nitric oxide. Clinical evidence indicates it may lower fasting blood glucose and improve glycated hemoglobin A1c (HbA1c) levels, though results vary. While beetroot juice shows promise as a supplementary treatment for hyperglycemia, more research is needed to determine the optimal dosage, long-term effects, and interactions with other diabetes management strategies
Keywords: beetroot juice, hyperglycemia, diabetes mellitus, nitric oxide, antioxidants
| 16 |
Author(s):
Ezenwa C. M. (Ph.D.).
Page No : 221-239
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Public Health and Microbiological Analysis of Herbal Mixtures Sold at Various Locations of Owerri and its Metropolis: A Case Study of Common Practice among the Populace in the Study Area.
Abstract
The use of herbal drugs has become a common practice among the populace in the study area. Its consumption rate is quite alarming in this recent times therefore the knowledge of its public health importance and microbiological safety should be periotized in all ramifications. This research was focused on assessing the microbial quality of different popular herbal preparations registered by the National Agency for Food and Drug Administration Control (NAFDAC) sold within South-West and South-South regions of Nigeria. The microbial diversity of some herbal drugs were examined by aerobic plate count method and microbial isolates were identified based on their morphological, cultural and biochemical characteristics. A total of five (5) herbal samples from six (6) herbal products (Goko cleanser, Gogorigo, Boom, 7 keys) were analyzed and all were found to be free from pathogenic bacteria and indicator organisms of fecal contamination. However, “The presence of microbial contaminants in non-sterile pharmaceutical products in some herbal mixtures Y-herbal mixtures can reduce or even inactivate the therapeutic activity of the products and has the potential to adversely affect patient taking, the medicine." The possible contaminated organisms were isolated from these product, are E coli, staphylococcus aureus, bacillus sp ,Aspergillus sp proteus sp Rhizopus, penicillin. And the organisms isolated are the same with other finding results from other researchers that work on isolating microorganisms from herbal mixtures.
| 17 |
Author(s):
Babalola D. Akinola, Oyekale O. O., Fapohunda S..
Page No : 240-252
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Impacting Arable Farmers’ Perception of Processed Organic Fertilizer Use through Farm Demonstration: Evidence from Maize Farmers in Ogun State, Nigeria.
Abstract
Fertilizer use supports productivity in arable farming. However, improper use of inorganic fertilizers can harm the environment, accelerate climate change and slow down the achievement of the 13th SDG. This study examined the use of farm demonstration in improving maize farmers’ perception of organic fertilizer use in the five major town in Ikenne LGA of Ogun state. Sixty-five maize farmers were selected for the study using multistage sampling technique. Demonstration plots were established near the farmers to observe agronomic impact of organic fertilizer use. Result showed that respondents’ average farm size was less than 1 hectare, 58% had undulating or sloppy lands which are vulnerable to degradation. Only 22% of the farmers mostly use organic fertilizers which they source from unprocessed animal waste. Only 32% of the farmers are aware of commercially processed organic fertilizers. Using the pair-sample t-test, the perception level of the farmers at the end of the demonstration was significantly higher than before the demonstration (t = 14.87, p <0.05). The study recommended that perception enhancing intervention be introduced to farmers in order to increase the use of clean and safe commercially available fertilizers.
| 18 |
Author(s):
Nafack Tsazeu Judicael Boris, Ravoniarison Nivohanintsoa Elinorovololona , Kana Sop Marie Modestine, Ngo NKot Laurette, Njapndounke Bilkissou, Razafimaharo Vololoniriana, Ma-Hong Faratina Lysia, Bé Adeste Fidèle.
Page No : 253-272
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Amelioration of the Nutritional Qualities of Plantain (Musa Paradisiaca L.) Using an Organic Fertilizer.
Abstract
The increase in world population has caused banana and plantain farmers to use excessive amounts of fertilizers to improve agricultural production. However, this excessive use of fertilizers has negative effects on the nutritional quality and shelf life of the fruit. This study aims to improve the nutritional quality of plantain using an organic fertilizer. Eleven treatments were applied to plantain plants in an experimental design consisting of randomized blocks with 3 replications. Three plantain fingers from the second hand of each bunch were peeled, dried, processed into flour and analyzed for biochemical parameters following fertilizer application. The results showed that treatment T4-1 (15 t/ha of Tithonia diversifolia) significantly improved the protein contents in plantain pulp (5.50%). Similarly, treatment T3-1 (10 t/ha of Tithonia diversifolia) improved the concentrations of potassium (8675 mg/kg), magnesium (900 mg/kg), iron (264.97 mg/kg) and sodium (587.99 mg/kg). Principal component analysis revealed that T3-1 (10 t/ha of Tithonia diversifolia) promotes a better transfer of mineral elements into plantain pulp. This study showed that Tithonia diversifolia-based fertilization significantly improves the nutritional quality of plantain.
| 19 |
Author(s):
Olabode O. Efunwoye, Aborisade Abiola T., Oladele Oluwole O..
Page No : 273-287
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Treatment of Tomato (Solanum Lycopersicum L.) Fruits with Powders and Ashes from Tridax Procumbens and Chromolaena Odorata for Shelf-Life Extension.
Abstract
Ripe and wholesome tomato fruits of Padma 108 F1 and Platinum 701 F1 were stored in powders and ashes of Tridax procumbens and Chromolaena odorata by complete submergence and surface coating treatments in a completely randomized set up. Fruits were kept in corrugated cardboard boxes at 26.5 0C and RH 83 %. Disease incidence was assessed every 5 days in storage. The days taken for 50 % of the tomato fruits to retain marketable qualities were determined. All tomato fruits treated with the plant materials showed significantly lower disease incidences (p ≤ 0.05) than the untreated fruits. Submerging Padma fruits in ash of C. odorata produced a shelf-life of 106 days while for Platinum fruits, submerging in powder of T. procumbens produced the longest shelf-life of 155 days. Untreated fruits of Padma and Platinum had shelf-lives of 31 days and 53 days respectively. Padma fruits completely submeged in the powders of T. procumbens, C. odorata and surface coated with the powder of C. odorata retained 50 % marketability at Day 61, and 50 % of Platinum tomatoes submerged in the powder of C. odorata remained marketable at Day 116. The preservative effects of the powders and ashes of the two botanicals in tomato fruits could probably be accounted for by combination of moisture absorbent property, restraining airflow, high pH and presence of phytochemicals.
| 20 |
Author(s):
Angye Gaius Fyinbu, Ezekiel Benjamin. Bwadi, Allahnanan Yusuf, Oruonye Emeka D..
Page No : 288-307
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Effects of Climate Variability on Maize Yield in Wukari Local Government Area of Taraba State, Nigeria.
Abstract
This study assessed the effects of climate variability on Maize yield in Wukari Local Government Area of Taraba State between 1999 and 2018. The research design employed in the study was an ex-post facto and analytical design. Hence, the study is a quantitative study that provides statistical data as empirical evidence and produces descriptive and informative sceneries of the topic study. The study employed the use of secondary data, sourced from the Nigeria Metrological Agency (NIMET) and Agriculture Development Program (ADP), Jalingo. Data used in the study were analysed using both descriptive and inferential statistics. The descriptive statistics used in the study were the time series trend analysis, while the inferential statistics employed in the study were the Ordinary Least Square (OLS) regression and correlation analysis. Based on the objectives of this study and data analysis, the results revealed an increasing trend in average annual maximum temperature in the study area, with a 62 percent variability, and a deceasing trend in average annual minimum temperature, with a 44 percent variability. More so, the results revealed an almost uniform but increasing trend in average annual rainfall in the study area between 1999 and 2018, with a 37 percent variability. Furthermore, the results of the trend analysis revealed an increasing trend in maize yield in the study area, with a 50 percent variability. The correlation analysis revealed a non-statistically significant strong positive linear relationship (r = 0.088, sig. 0.712 > 0.05) between the average rainfall and average temperature in the study area. The correlation analysis also revealed a non-statistically significant weak negative relationship (r = -0.072, sig. 0.762 > 0.05) between average rainfall variability and maize yield in the study area. A statistically significant moderate positive linear relationship (r = 0.564, sig. 0.010 < 0.05) was found between average temperature and maize yield in the study area. The linear regression analysis revealed that 33 percent (r-squared: r2 = 0.333) of the variation in maize yield is explained by the variation in rainfall, and temperature between the periods of 1999 and 2018 in Wukari Local Government Area of Taraba State. Hence, rainfall and temperature affect maize yield in the study area by 33 percent. The study thus recommended that farmers should adopt climate change and variability mitigation and adaptive measures. These include the use of resistant and drought tolerant species. In addition, there is need for the Ministry of Agriculture and Taraba State Agricultural Development Programme to educate farmers and farm agents on the realities and effects of climate change and variability, as well as adaptive measures that can be taken. These include better and practicable environmental policies, improved agricultural techniques, and alternative water sources which consist of irrigation farming, and mulching, vis-à-vis creating sustainable food security in the long run.
| 21 |
Author(s):
Danjuma Theophilus, H. C. Chinwenyi.
Page No : 307-316
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Volatility of Agricultural Commodities in Mubi and Dawanau Markets in Adamawa and Kano States in Nigeria.
Abstract
In this paper, we examined the volatility of agricultural commodities like Maize (White), Cowpeas (Brown) and Sorghum (White) in Adamawa and Kano states markets from 2015 – 2022 using data obtained from World Food Programme (WFD) food prices nga. We also compared the volatilities of these agricultural commodities in Adamawa (Mubi) market with the volatilities of the same agricultural commodities in Kano (Dawanau) market to study the evolution of the price of these agricultural commodities in Adamawa (Mubi) and Kano (Dawanau) markets.
