Federal University Dutsin-Ma Journal of Agriculture and Agricultural Technology

Effects of feeding dried orange pulp fortified with and without probiotic (Saccharomyces cerevisiae) on growth performance, lipid metabolism, and oxidative stress biomarkers in Red Sokoto goats

M.U. Sani, I.M. Bitrus, W.W. Ishaya, T.F. Mbahi, G. Odenigbo — Sun, 23 Aug 2026 00:00:00 +0000

This study examined the effects of feeding 30% dried orange pulp (DOP), both with and without the probiotic Saccharomyces cerevisiae, on the growth performance, lipid metabolism, and oxidative stress indicators of Red Sokoto goats. Four dietary treatments (T1: Control; T2: 0% DOP + 1% Probiotic; T3: 30% DOP without Probiotic; T4: 30% DOP + 1% probiotic) were randomly assigned to twelve goats, aged four to five months in a feeding experiment lasting 70 days. The result revealed that DOP successfully replaced traditional energy source maize offal. Although initial and end body weights varied greatly, there were no significant variations in overall weight gain, feed intake, or feed conversion ratio between treatments. Notably, showing the lowest levels of triglycerides and total cholesterol, the combination of 30% DOP and probiotics (T4) greatly enhanced lipid regulation. DOP inclusion up to 30% did not compromise antioxidant defence mechanisms, as shown by the lack of significant changes in oxidative stress indicators (MDA, GPx, and CAT). According to the findings of this study, dried orange pulp is a sustainable and nutritious substitute feed source that can provide Red Sokoto goats with extra metabolic advantages when combined with probiotics in their feed rations.

Strain and age effects on growth traits in broiler chickens

A.A. Adeoye — Sun, 23 Aug 2026 00:00:00 +0000

Growth trait are quantitative traits influenced by both genetic and environmental factors. This study was carried out to investigate the effect of strain and age on growth traits of four different strains of broiler chicken. Four hundred (400) day old broiler chicks comprising of one hundred Cobb, Ross, Arbor acre and Marshall strains each, were purchased from reputable hatcheries and raised under the same management for a period of 10 weeks. Data collected on the growth traits were subjected to analysis of variance and Pearson correlation. Effect of strain was significant (p<0.05) on body weight at weeks 2 and 8, with highest values in Arbor acre (313.20 g) and Cobb (2012.80 g), respectively. Significant effect of strain on wing length was observed at weeks 2, 4 and 8, highest values were observed in Aboraca (10.50 g), Ross (13.60 g) and cobb (22.40 g). Wing span was affected by strain in weeks 2, 8 and 10 while breast girth, neck length and body length were significantly affected at weeks 2 and 8. Shank length was significantly affected at weeks 2 and 10 while beak length was affected at week 2. Significant effect (p<0.05) of age was observed in all the strains. Growth traits significantly increased from week 2 to week 10. The phenotypic correlations among the traits were positive and very highly significant (p<0.00001). It ranged, 0.857 to 0.977 (Marshal); 0.854 to 0.959 (Ross); 0.851 to 0.977 (Aboraca); 0.903 to 0.986 (Cobb). Strain and age had significant effect on growth traits and the traits are positively highly correlated in all the strains.

Sex and age effects on hematology and serum metabolites of noiler chicken

A.A. Adeoye — Sun, 23 Aug 2026 00:00:00 +0000

Haematological investigation provides the opportunity to clinically study the presence of several metabolites and other constituents in the body of animals and it plays a vital role in the physiological, nutritional and pathological status of an organism. A total of one-hundred and fifty (150)- day old Noiler chicken (70 –males and 80 females) were used to study the impacts of sex and age on hematology and serum metabolites in Noiller chicken. Data collected at 6th, 8th, and 10th week on hematological parameters and serum biochemistry were subjected to two-way analysis of variance and Pearson correlation. At 6th week, sex had no significant effect (p>0.05) in both hematology parameters and serum metabolites. At 8th week, sex significantly (p<0.05) affected Mean corpuscular volume ( MCV), Mean corpuscular hemoglobin (MCH), albumin/globulin ratio (A/G) and chloride, with higher values recorded in female except in chloride. Sex effect was observed in white blood cell (WBC), total protein (TP) and AST at 10th week. In female virtually all the parameters considered were significantly (p<0.05) affected by age, except red blood cell (RBC), mean corpuscular haemoglobin concentration (MCHC) , glucose, chloride, urea and creatinine. While in male, age effect was only observed in urea, MCH, MCV, WBC and platelet. The correlations among the hematology parameters ranged between -0.678 and 0.999 while among the metabolites was -0.958 and 0.586 for both sexes. It could be concluded that hemato-biochemical parameters considered are age–dependent in female more than male while sex effects were limited.

Factors influencing the use of information and communication technologies (ICTs) among rice farmers in Kano State, Nigeria

S. Abudu, Y.M. Abdullahi — Sun, 23 Aug 2026 00:00:00 +0000

The study analyzed the factors influencing rice farmers’ use of Information and Communication Technologies in six selected Local Government Areas of Kano State. The study described the socio-economic characteristics, determined factors influencing the use of ICTs and identified the perceived constraints associated with the use of ICTs by rice farmers in the study area. Multistage sampling procedure was used to select 680 respondents for the study. Both primary and secondary data were used. The data were analyzed using descriptive statistics and multiple regression model. The result showed that the majority (70.59%) of rice farmers were male. Most (51.47%) of them were between 41-50 years of age, indicating that they were in their productive years. The majority were married (58.97%) and had large household size (61%) of between 6-10 people. Educationally, 61.76% of them were secondary certificate holders with farming experience (57.79%) between 6-10 years and 69.56% cultivated 1.1-2.0hectares of lands. The result also revealed that farmers belonged to one cooperative society and another (59.41%) with 6–10years of membership and a mean of 8years. Farmers equally had access to extension services (57.21%) and no credit facility (73.68%). The study revealed that age, sex, farming experience, household size, farm size, educational level, extension contact and membership of cooperatives significantly influenced rice farmers’ use of ICTs with an R2 value of 0.86. The perceived constraints of the farmers were high cost of ICTs, inadequate access to extension services and lack of credit facilities, epileptic network, power and electricity supplies and language barriers. It was concluded that socio-economic factors significantly influenced ICT usage among rice farmers. Farmers should make use of their membership of cooperatives to contribute money together in eradicating the problem of high cost of ICTs and also install alternative source of power to equally overcome the problem of irregular power supply.

Assessment of farmers’ knowledge on contract farming in Kwara State, Nigeria.

O.L. Abdulrahman, F.O. Issa, M.S. Ukpi, L.K. Olatinwo, F.M. Olooto — Sun, 23 Aug 2026 00:00:00 +0000

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 ordeal 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.

Constraints to adoption of climate- smart agricultural practices by yam farmers in Ekiti State Nigeria

O.O. Ayegbusi, O.G. Bello, A.G. Shitu, S.S. Jibia, D.T. Uchi — Sun, 23 Aug 2026 00:00:00 +0000

The study examined the constraints to adoption of CSAPs by yam farmers in Ekiti State, Nigeria. A multistage-sampling procedure was used in selecting 150 yam-farmers and data were collected with the aid of questionnaire and interview-schedule. Both descriptive and inferential statistical tools were used. The result shows that available used CSAPs are crop rotation (84.7%), mulching (73.3%), early harvesting of yam (70.0%), planting of improved yam set (65.3%), planting cover crops and shade trees (59.3%) and early staking of the yam (58.7%). The majority (86.0%) were aware of CSAPs. The main source of information on CSAPs is extension workers (30.0%), Social Media (22.0%) as well as family members and Radio program (17.0%) among others. The adopted CSAPs are cultivating short-duration yam varieties, mulching, cover cropping, and crop rotation with adaptation index value (KAI) more than the grand index value (0.66 to 0.95). the Chi-square analysis between constraints to adoption and awareness of CSAPs shows a negative relationship with insufficient contact with extension on smart practices (χ2=-123.701), high cost of implementation of climate smart practices on yam (χ2=-112.321), lack of clear understanding of the smart practices on yam production (χ2=-57.649) respectively among others at 1% significant level. Major constraints to adoption are inadequate extension services (0.34), inadequate training on CSAPs (0.29), Inadequate information on CSAPs or Inadequate credit and funding to adopt CSAPs (0.28) among others. It was recommended that all constraints to adoption of CSAPs be contained and mitigated while more awareness campaign on CSAPs be promoted to improved food security.

Comparative physico-chemical properties, amino acids and volatile components of yoghurt produced from cow, goat, and camel fresh milk

O.O. Adekoyeni, A.F. Adegoke, V. Jackson, M.O. Eveso, M. Yohana — Sun, 23 Aug 2026 00:00:00 +0000

The study evaluated and compared the physicochemical properties, amino acid profiles, volatile compounds, and organoleptic characteristics of yoghurts produced from fresh camel, sheep, and cow milk to determine their respective quality profiles. Fresh milk was obtained from camels, sheep, and cows, then pasteurized and processed into yogurt using a Yogourmet® starter culture containing active bacterial cultures (Lactobacillus bulgaricus, Streptococcus thermophilus, and Lactobacillus acidophilus). The yogurts were analysed for physicochemical properties (pH, Brix, specific gravity, viscosity, total solids, moisture, and lactic acid), amino acids, sensory attributes, and volatile compounds using standard methods. The physicochemical parameters ranged as follows: pH (4.32- 4.50), specific gravity (1.030 – 1.038), brix (18.20 – 21.00%), moisture (71.00 – 74.20 %), total solids (25.80 – 29.00 %), lactic acids (0.85 – 0.95 %), and viscosity (4450 – 4000 mPa.s). Camel milk yoghurt showed highest proportions of most of the essential and non-essential amino acids. The volatile compounds identified in the yogurts were classified as alcohols, aldehydes, acids, esters, and aromatic compounds. Specifically, aldehydes (including furan, hexanal, heptanal, octanal, and decanal) and esters (such as ethyl acetate, ethyl propionate, ethyl hexanoate, ethyl octanoate, and ethyl butyrate) were primarily responsible for the flavor profiles of the yogurts, based on their relative proportions. Ethyl pyrazine, 2 – Acetyl – 1 – pyrroline, Benzyl alcohol were aromatic compounds identified. Sheep milk yoghurt was the most viscous, smooth, and spreadable with a robust flavour, while cow milk yoghurt achieved the highest overall acceptability due to its balanced flavour and absence of off-flavours. Camel milk yogurt was characterized by a thinner, more watery consistency and a more pronounced sourness, but sweet than the other samples. All the samples were acceptable.

Analysis of crop-livestock farmers’ food security status in Kaduna State, Nigeria

F.U. Anosike, G.Z. Rekwot, I. Yakubu, N. L. Uedeme, O.B. Owoshagba, S.A. Agada — Sun, 23 Aug 2026 00:00:00 +0000

The study focused on estimating the food security status of crop-livestock farmers in Kaduna State. Data were collected from 351 farmers using questionnaire. Tools of analysis used were descriptive statistics and food security index. Results shows that the mean age of most farmers 38 years. Average household size is 8 persons. Average farm sizes is 3.5 hectares., with an average farming experience of 8years in crop-livestock integration. Most (53%) of the farmers do not belong to any cooperative society, while, 59% had contact with extension agent, and 68% do not have access to credit. Food security index showed that few households 21% were food secured with an average calorie intake of 4325.13kcal daily, and 79% were food insecure with an average calorie intake of 1287.77kcal daily. 45% of farmers identified high cost of inputs, while 38% of farmers identified inadequate capital as constraints respectively. The study recommends that households who are not food secured be assisted, both by Government and Non-Government Organizations with farm input at a subsidise rate, to help them increase production of staple crops and livestock to enhance their income and by extension improve their food security status,

Assessment of male and female participation in livestock group activities in Kwara State, Nigeria.

M.A. Abdulazeez, O.L. Abdulrahman, F.M. Olooto — Sun, 23 Aug 2026 00:00:00 +0000

Livestock production plays a significant role in Nigeria’s agricultural sector, contributing to food security, income generation, and poverty alleviation. In Kwara state, the involvement of both male and female farmers is essential for improving productivity and fostering inclusive agricultural development. The main objectives of the study was to assess the level of participation of male and female farmers in livestock group activities. Specific objectives were to; describe the socio-economic characteristics of livestock groups farmers in the study area, examine the level of participation in male and female livestock production activities, and identify the factors associated with participation between male and female in livestock group. An interview schedule was used to extract information from One hundred and Eighty-two Livestock groups farmers using Frequency counts, percentage, mean score, standard deviation, and Logistic regression analysis. Findings revealed that Male respondents were predominantly aged 41 above (50.4%) while female respondents 40years of age bracket (59.6%) with a mean score (38.6), secondary education being the most common (36.0% for males, 40.4% for females), majority of respondents were married (90.4% of males, 84.2% of females). Male respondents have low participation (MS 2.55) compared to female respondents demonstrated significantly higher involvement in livestock production activities (MS 2.58). The study conclude that women are actively involved in livestock production activities in the study area and the study recommended promoting inclusive livestock development programs; to address barriers to participation and leverage the strengths of both genders.

Effect of plant growth regulators and methods of application on the growth and yield of waterleaf (Talinum triangulare (jacq.) (jacq.))

A.N. Muhammad, O.A Adediran, A. Usman, Y.J. Abdulkareem, A.G. Musa — Sun, 23 Aug 2026 00:00:00 +0000

Screen house trial was conducted to study the effect of plant growth hormones and methods of application on the growth and yield of waterleaf. The treatments consisted of three growth regulators (salicylic acid at the rate of 0.4g/L, coconut water at the rate of 100ml, and brassinolide at the rate of 0.1mg/L) with distilled water as control, and two methods of application of growth regulators viz; soaking and spraying, laid out in Completely Randomized Design (CRD) with six replicates. Healthy juvenile stem cuttings of uniform length (10cm) were obtained and growth hormones were applied using the quick dip method for soaking and hand sprayer for spraying in accordance with the treatments. Number of days to first foliage sprout, number of leaves per plant, leaf area, plant height, stem diameter, number of branches, number of days to flowering, shoot and root green biomass were studied at 7days interval. Results indicated that growth hormones significantly (p< 0.05) influenced plant height, number of leaves, days to first sprout, number of branches, absolute growth rate, fresh shoot and root weight. The fresh biomass yield of waterleaf was significantly increased by growth hormones. Salicylic acid recorded 41% and 44%, Coconut water, 27% and 25%, and Brassinolides 23% and 27% in the first and second trials respectively, relative to the control. Methods of application of the growth regulators did not significantly influenced growth of waterleaf implying that both soaking and spraying of salicylic acid, coconut water and brassinolides to stem cuttings could be adopted for improved growth and yield performances of waterleaf.

Tree species diversity, soil physicochemical, biomass and carbon stock assessment in Guyaku grazing reserve, Gombi Lga, Adamawa State.

M.R. Umar, E.T. Adedeji, B.O. Folayan — Sun, 23 Aug 2026 00:00:00 +0000

Forests provide a variety of products and services to human societies, sustain diverse flora and fauna, and, through their interception and processing of solar energy and precipitation, influence climate and the composition of the atmosphere. Deforestation and degradation of forests lead to the emission of carbon dioxide through the burning of forest biomass and the decomposition of plant parts, soil carbon, which accelerates and contributes to a long-term rise in atmospheric carbon dioxide levels. This research aimed at determining tree species diversity, soil physicochemical, biomass and carbon stock assessment in Guyaku grazing reserve. Systematic line transects were employed in the laying of the plots. Two parallel transects of 1500m in length with a distance of 500m between the two parallel transects in the grazing reserves. Sample plots of 50m x 50m in size were laid in alternate rows along each transect at 100m intervals, with 4 sample plots per 1500m transect, totalling 8 sample plots. In each sample plot, all living trees with dbh ≥10cm were identified and measured for diameter at the base, middle and top and total height. Diameter tape/girth and Spiegel relaskop were used for tree height and diameter at the base, middle, top and dbh measurement. Soil samples were taken from four soil depths of 0 – 15cm, 16 – 30cm, 31 – 45cm and 46 – 60cm at three points (i.e. at the two edges and middle of the line). One-way analysis of variance (ANOVA) and Student t-test of significance was used to determine the difference in each soil nutrient according to depth, tree density, species diversity and richness, basal area and bio – volume of the six grazing reserves. Results show that 13 species, 6 families, 86 species/plot and 43 nha-1. Total Ba/ha 0.38cm and 4.39m³ vol/ha. The Fabaceae family has the highest frequency 30 while unknown and moraceae lowest with 7 and 8, respectively. Dbh and height class range 0-10 to 41-50 and <11 to 21-30, respectively. Total biomass, carbon stock and CO2 (5.70ton/ha, 2.85ton/ha and 10.45kg) respectively. Textural classes are sandy loam and sandy clay loam. Physical properties revealed sand 65.58±8.55% higher than silt and clay. Total bulk density 1.52±0.08g/cm³, lower than particle density 2.63±0.23glcm³. Porosity at 41.39±8.05%, while WHC at 19.74±3.08% moderate. Chemical properties showed that P^H 6.52±0.33 is slightly alkaline, EC at 0.07±0.05ds/m. Organic matter 2.15±0.24% higher than OC and TN. Av-p at 9.10±0.74mg/kg. ECEC at 7.64±1.47cmol/kg is higher than Ca, Mg, Na, K, H, AI, TEB, TEA. PBS at 83.52±3.97% higher than ESP at 7.57±2.68%. The findings revealed that porous soils slightly improve growth, with soil structure and mineral density playing roles in dominant tree development. Furthermore, growth traits are moderate to strong and positive, showing good structural consistency. It is recommended that strengthening protection and sustainable management of forest and grazing reserves minimise biodiversity loss and implement comprehensive soil protection strategies.

Plant-based semen extenders in resource-limited aquaculture: A systematic review of cucumber juice for African catfish

Adebola O. Ajiboye, Olanrewaju S. Olaifa, Foluke O. Jemilehin — Sun, 23 Aug 2026 00:00:00 +0000

Conventional semen extenders pose challenges in resource-limited settings due to high costs and cold chain dependency. This systematic review evaluates plant-based alternatives, emphasizing cucumber juice (Cucumis sativus) for African catfish (Clarias gariepinus). Following PRISMA guidelines, searches of Scopus, PubMed, and Google Scholar identified 48 studies (35 mammalian, 13 non-mammalian) meeting inclusion criteria. Analysis reveals that plant-based extenders function through dual antioxidant and antimicrobial mechanisms: phytochemicals (phenolics, flavonoids, carotenoids, vitamins) scavenge reactive oxygen species while organic acids suppress bacterial proliferation below the spermicidal threshold of 10⁶-10⁷ CFU/mL. Optimal cucumber juice concentrations of 10-20% (v/v) improved motility duration, fertility, and hatchability in C. gariepinus while reducing oxidative markers and bacterial loads. A critical finding is the persistent divergence between mammalian cryopreservation-focused research and aquaculture's emphasis on ambient-temperature solutions using whole plant materials a translational gap representing both limitation and opportunity. Critical appraisal revealed methodological heterogeneity in extract preparation (fresh juices, aqueous/methanolic extracts, commercial lecithin) and inconsistent outcome reporting, with only 25% of studies including fertility outcomes and 43.8% reporting microbial data. No studies provided economic analyses despite claims of affordability. Research priorities include mechanistic characterization of bioactive compounds, standardized preparation protocols, fertility validation under field conditions, and cost-benefit analyses. This review confirms cucumber juice-based extenders offer a sustainable technology for artificial reproduction in resource-limited aquaculture, though standardized protocols and field validation remain essential prerequisites for widespread adoption.

Tomato juice supplementation in physiological solutions and egg yolk extenders improves broiler rooster semen extension

S. Sidi, M. Hashim, A. A. Oloye, K. Ibrahim, R. Hassan, S. Y. Muhammad, S. Umar — Sun, 23 Aug 2026 00:00:00 +0000

The use of semen extenders is essential for maximizing the potential of artificial insemination in the poultry sector. The aim of this study was to assess whether a tomato-based semen extender is appropriate for semen extension in a Broiler parent stock. Three broiler roosters were used the experiment was replicated three times. The process of semen collection involved the stimulation of the copulatory organ through gentle massage of the abdomen and back areas surrounding the testes. The semen was evaluated at room temperature. Pre-extension Semen parameters evaluated were semen volume, pH, motility, concentration, morphological abnormalities and viability which were; 0.45 ± 0.05, 7.25 ± 0.35, 85 ± 7.07, 2.65 ± 0.35 (×10⁹), 8 ± 2.43 and 94 ± 1.41 respectively. Post-extension semen parameters were evaluated at 0, 1, 2,3,4,5,6,7,8 and 9 hours. Extenders used were; Sodium citrate-Egg yolk (control), Sodium citrate and Tomato juice, Physiological solutions (Normal saline, Dextrose, and Dextrose-saline), Tomato juice and Physiological solutions and Tomato juice and Egg yolk. Data collected were subjected to descriptive statistics and means were analyze using ANOVA. Generally, sperms motility decreased significantly with time in all the extenders. However, the combination of sodium citrate, Tomato juice and Egg-yolk based extender significantly improved semen extension up to 60% at 9 hours post extension. The study recommends the use of combination of Sodium citrate, Tomato juice and Egg-yolk for the extension of broiler rooster semen.

Factors influencing the use of information and communication technologies (ICTS) among rice farmers in Kano State, Nigeria

S. Abudu, Y.M Abdullahi — Sun, 23 Aug 2026 00:00:00 +0000

The study analyzed the factors influencing rice farmers’ use of Information and Communication Technologies in six selected Local Government Areas of Kano State. The study described the socio-economic characteristics, determined factors influencing the use of ICTs and identified the perceived constraints associated with the use of ICTs by rice farmers in the study area. Multistage sampling procedure was used to select 680 respondents for the study. Both primary and secondary data were used. The data were analyzed using descriptive statistics and multiple regression model. The result showed that the majority (70.59%) of rice farmers were male. Most (51.47%) of them were between 41-50 years of age, indicating that they were in their productive years. The majority were married (58.97%) and had large household size (61%) of between 6-10 people. Educationally, 61.76% of them were secondary certificate holders with farming experience (57.79%) between 6-10 years and 69.56% cultivated 1.1-2.0hectares of lands. The result also revealed that farmers belonged to one cooperative society and another (59.41%) with 6–10years of membership and a mean of 8years. Farmers equally had access to extension services (57.21%) and no credit facility (73.68%). The study revealed that age, sex, farming experience, household size, farm size, educational level, extension contact and membership of cooperatives significantly influenced rice farmers’ use of ICTs with an R² value of 0.86. The perceived constraints of the farmers were high cost of ICTs, inadequate access to extension services and lack of credit facilities, epileptic network, power and electricity supplies and language barriers. It was concluded that socio-economic factors significantly influenced ICT usage among rice farmers. Farmers should make use of their membership of cooperatives to contribute money together in eradicating the problem of high cost of ICTs and also install alternative source of power to equally overcome the problem of irregular power supply.

Effect of weed control strategies on the growth performance of groundnut (Arachis hypogaea l.) varieties in the Nigerian savanna

M. Haruna, D. M. Jibrin — Sun, 23 Aug 2026 00:00:00 +0000

A field trials was conducted in 2015 wet seasons at the Teaching and Research Farm of Samaru College of Agriculture, Ahmadu Bello University Zaria (11° 11' N, 07° 38' E, and 686m above sea level) located in the northern Guinea Savanna ecological zone of Nigeria and Institute of Agricultural Research Station, Minjibir, Kano state (110 50’N, 08036’E and 458m above sea level) in the Sudan savannah ecological zone of Nigeria respectively. The treatment was factorially combined and laid down in a split plot design with three groundnut varieties SAMNUT24, SAMNUT23 and KAMPALA occupying the main plot and five level of weed control that is weedy check, black polythene mulching, white polythene mulching, pre-emergence herbicide only (Pendimenthalin at 1.5 kg a.i. ha^-1) and manual weeding at 3 and 6 WAS allocated to the subplot and replicated thrice. The results indicated that Plot grown to SAMNUT23 and SAMNUT24 significantly produced the highest hill count with early flowering than to KAMPALA at both locations. SAMNUT24 were generally taller than SAMNUT23 and KAMPALA at 9 WAS. The use of black polythene mulch or hoe weeding twice at 3 and 6 WAS resulted to taller plants at 9 WAS as well as had the earlier in days to 50% flowering than the weedy check. Plots with black and white polythene mulch, pendimenthalin at 1.5 a.i. kg ha^-1 and hoe weeded at 3 and 6 WAS respectively, significantly led to production of more fresh and dry biomass, at 70 days and better haulm weight at harvest than plot grown to weedy check. Based on the results, it can be concluded that SAMNUT24 groundnut variety outperformed SAMUNT23 and KAMPALA with respect to growth characters. While, the use of black polythene mulch or hoe weeded at 3 and 6 WAS controls weed more effectively and resulted in better growth of groundnut in both locations

Growth response of musk melon (Cucumis melo L.) varieties to intra-row spacing and poultry manure rate in Nigerian savanna

I. L. Abubakar, A. G. Adesoji, S. Jari — Sun, 23 Aug 2026 00:00:00 +0000

A two-location trial was conducted during the 2023 wet season in Dutsin-Ma, Sudan Savanna ecological zone, and Malumfashi, Northern Guinea Savanna ecological zone, Nigeria, to evaluate the growth performance of Musk melon (Cucumis melo L.) varieties as influenced by intra-row spacing and rates of poultry manure application. The treatments consisted 2x3x4 factorial combinations of two varieties of musk melon (NEPTUNE F1 and URANUS F1), three different intra-row spacing (25cm, 50cm and 75cm) and four poultry manure rates (0, 5, 10 and 15 tons per hectare). The experiment was laid out in a Randomised Complete Block Design (RCBD) and replicated three times. Variety was only significant (P<0.05) on shoot dry weight and net assimilation rate, where NEPTUNE F1 produced significantly (P<0.05) higher shoot dry weight and net assimilation rate than URANUS F1. Intra row spacing significantly (P<0.05) increased growth parameters, where sowing musk melon at 50cm produced significantly (P<0.05) higher shoot dry weight, relative growth rate and net assimilation rate than other intra row spacings, but 75cm intra row spacing showed better performance on number of leaves and vine length than other intra row spacings in both locations. Application of poultry manure significantly (P<0.05) increased growth parameters, where applying 15 t poultry manure ha^-1 produced significantly (P<0.05) higher values than most of the measured growth parameters. In conclusion, sowing NEPTUNE F1 at an intra-row spacing of 50 cm with the application of 15 t poultry manure ha-1 produced better growth performance of musk melon in the study area.

Yield performance of cowpea varieties (Vigna unguiculata (L.) Walp) under varying plant populations and phosphorus fertilizer rates in Nigerian savanna zone

Kabir Sani Shehu, Sanusi Jari, A. G. Adesoji — Sun, 23 Aug 2026 00:00:00 +0000

Two field trials were conducted during the 2023 rainy season in Dutsin-Ma and Funtua to assess the yield performance of cowpea varieties (Vigna unguiculata (L.) Walp) as influenced by plant population and phosphorus fertilizer rates in the savanna zone of Nigeria. The treatments consisted of a factorial combination of three varieties (SAMPEA 20T, SAMPEA 19 and ZAFA), three plant populations (22,267, 26,667 and 33,333 plants ha^-1) and three phosphorus rates (30, 60 and 90 P2O5 kg ha^-1). A Randomized Complete Block Design (RCBD) was used with three replications. The varietal effect significantly (P<0.05) increased cowpea yield and yield components. SAMPEA 19 demonstrated superior grain yield ha^-1 performance (1766kg) compared to ZAFA (1671kg) and SAMPEA (1514kg) in Dutsin-Ma, while ZAFA yielded superior (1915kg) to SAMPEA 19(1856kg) and SAMPEA 20T(1782kg) in Funtua. The plant population of 33,333 cowpea plants ha^-1 produced significantly higher grain yield ha^-1 (1747kg) than that of plant population 26,667(1603kg) and 22,267(1600kg) in Dutsin-Ma, while plant population of 26,667 gave significantly higher grain yield ha^-1 (2016kg) than 33,333(1782kg) and 22,267 (1755kg) in Funtua. Applying phosphorus fertilizer significantly (P<0.05) increased cowpea yield and yield components. Applying 30 P2O5 kg ha^-1 produced significantly higher grain yield (1880 kg ha^-1) than 1547 and 1524 kg ha^-1 for 60 and 90kg P2O5 ha^-1 in Dutsin-Ma, respectively, and higher grain yield (2051 kg ha^-1) than 1802 and 1700 kg ha^-1 for 60 and 90kg P₂O₅ ha^-1 in Funtua, respectively. Applying 30 kg P₂O₅ ha^-1 is the most suitable rate for cowpea production in both locations.

Effect of poultry litter application rate and maturity on growth components and nutritional value of Super Napier grass as ruminant feed

K. J. Onaleye, Aliyu Yakubu, A. J. Patrick, P. A. Henry — Sun, 23 Aug 2026 00:00:00 +0000

The study was conducted at the Livestock Teaching and Research Farm of the Federal University Wukari, Taraba State, Nigeria, to evaluate the effect of poultry litter application rate and harvesting age on growth components, herbage yield and nutritional value of Super-Napier grass (Pennisetum purpureum × Pennisetum americanum). The experiment was a 4 × 4 factorial arranged in a Randomised Complete Block Design (RCBD) with three replicates. Four levels of poultry litter (0, 5, 10, and 15 t/ha) and four harvesting ages (45, 60, 75, and 90 days after cutback) were evaluated. Results showed that increasing poultry litter application rate significantly (P<0.05) improved plant height, stand circumference, number of tillers, stem girth, leaf area index, and biomass yield. Plots that received 15 t/ha recorded the highest plant height (272.81 cm) and biomass yield (71.70 t/ha), while the control recorded the lowest (232.53 cm and 29.57 t/ha, respectively). Harvesting at 90 days after cutback produced the tallest plants (297.42 cm) and the highest biomass (60.14 t/ha), but with the lowest crude protein content (6.27% DM) and the highest Lignin fraction (19.71%). The 60-day harvest yielded the highest crude protein (7.32% DM). A significant (P<0.05) interaction effect was observed between application rate and harvesting age for most growth and nutritional parameters. It was concluded that poultry litter at 10 t/ha combined with harvesting at 60 days after cutback optimizes both yield and nutritional quality of Super Napier grass for ruminant feeding in the Nigerian Guinea Savanna zone.

Growth and forage quality of Napier grass as ruminant feed, influenced by poultry litter application rate and harvest age

Sun, 23 Aug 2026 00:00:00 +0000

This study evaluated the effects of poultry litter application rates (0, 5, 10, and 15 tons/ha) and harvest ages (45, 60, 75, and 90 days after cutback, DAC) on the growth parameters, biomass yield, proximate composition, and cell wall fiber fractions of Napier grass. A 4 × 4 factorial experiment was arranged in a split-plot design with three replications at the Livestock Teaching and Research Farm, Federal University Wukari. Poultry litter application rate significantly (p < 0.05) influenced plant height, leaf width, number of tillers, leaf: stem ratio, leaf area index (LAI), and biomass yield, with the highest biomass yield (41.04 tons/ha) recorded at 10 tons/ha. Harvest age significantly affected all measured parameters except leaf: stem ratio and stand circumference. Biomass yield peaked at 75 DAC (38.86 tons/ha), while crude protein (CP) content was highest at 60 DAC (7.85%) and lowest at 75 DAC (4.97%). Fiber fractions increased with maturity. Significant interactions (p < 0.05) between poultry litter and harvest age were observed for most growth and quality parameters. The combination of 15 t/ha poultry litter harvested at 45 DAC produced the highest CP (9.65%), while 10 tons/ha harvested at 75 DAC gave the highest biomass (48.76 tons/ha). Crude protein values across all treatments fell below the 8–12% requirement for goat production, indicating the necessity for protein supplementation. For an optimal balance of biomass yield and forage quality in smallholder goat production systems in Taraba State, poultry litter application at 10 t/ha combined with harvest at 60–75 DAC is recommended

Soil degradation assessment in selected land-use types of Kano State, Nigeria

Sun, 23 Aug 2026 00:00:00 +0000

This study assessed the status of soil degradation across three prevalent land uses; farmland, grazing land, and tree plantations in Kumbotso Local Government Area, Kano State, where a total of eighteen (18) samples (six per land use) using simple random soil sampling methods were collected within the depths of 0-20 cm and composites of two samples for each land use were made and tested for physical (bulk density, texture) and chemical (N, P, K, ESP, BSP, EC, OM) properties. The laboratory results obtained were compared with the standard indicators and criteria for land degradation assessment according to FAO, 1979. The results revealed varying degrees of degradation; physical degradation was evident with tree plantations and grazing lands exhibiting higher bulk density (1.4–1.7 g cm⁻³). Most soils textureof the area were sandy (>85% sand), though some farmlands showed improved silt content (120–130 g kg⁻¹). Chemical degradation was discerned with low P (6.16–51.9 mg kg⁻¹), N (0.1–0.19%), and K (0.33–0.43 cmol/kg) respectively, organic matter depletion (0.58–1.91%) and BS below (1%) signifying very high degradation were observed, while some sites have shown high ESP (up to 31%). EC values in all the sites are within the standard (< 2 dS/m). From the findings, the comparison of the status of the soil's physical and chemical properties with the FAO standard shows that the area is undergoing degradation. Therefore, sustainable land management strategies, including rotational grazing, organic amendments, gypsum application, and agroforestry, were recommended to enhance the soil structure and fertility of the study area. Additionally, policy interventions for promoting soil conservation and farmer education are also needed to combat ongoing degradation and ensure long-term agricultural productivity.

Impact of land degradation on the productivity of smallholder sugarcane (Saccharum officinarum) farmers and the effect of agricultural extension services on their output in Adamawa State, Nigeria

M.K. Idris, O. Ebenehi, B. E. Fawole — Sun, 23 Aug 2026 00:00:00 +0000

This study examined the impact of land degradation on the productivity and efficiency of smallholder sugarcane farmers and the role of agricultural extension services in Adamawa State, Nigeria. A multistage sampling technique was applied to select 546 farmers, comprising 205 affected and 341 non-affected farmers. Primary data were collected through structured questionnaire and analysed using descriptive statistics and multiple regression techniques. The results revealed significant differences in efficiency levels between the two groups. Affected farmers recorded lower mean technical efficiency (0.56) compared to non-affected farmers (0.73), indicating reduced capacity to convert inputs into output due to poor soil conditions. Allocative efficiency findings showed that 62.5% of affected farmers operated below 0.40 efficiency, reflecting poor input combination decisions, while non-affected farmers demonstrated better responsiveness to input prices. Similarly, economic efficiency results indicated that affected farmers were largely concentrated in lower efficiency categories, implying higher production costs relative to output. The regression analysis showed that agricultural extension services significantly influenced farmers’ output, with variables such as extension visits, access to credit, seminars, workshops, and field days positively affecting productivity. However, the impact was stronger among non-affected farmers, suggesting that land quality conditions moderate the effectiveness of extension services. The study concludes that land degradation significantly reduces productivity and efficiency in sugarcane production, while effective extension services enhance output but are constrained under degraded conditions. It recommends sustainable land management practices, strengthened extension delivery, improved access to credit, and policies aimed at soil restoration to enhance productivity and ensure sustainable sugarcane production in the study area.