International Journal of Agriculture and Rural Development

Evaluation of Exchange Rate Policy on Agricultural Trade in Nigeria

RO Mejeha

The objective of this study was to evaluate the effect of exchange rate policy on agricultural trade in Nigeria. Secondary data were used for the study and were analyzed using multiple regression analysis and correlation analysis. Data were collected from 12970-2003. The regression resul ofts showed total output of cocoa, worls price of cocoa, exchange rate and average rainfall to be the significant determinan ts of cocoa export; world price of palm oil and rainfall for palm oil; and the significant determinants of rice importa wre world price of rice, time trend, exchange rate and local output of rice. The correlation results showed that there is a positive and significant relationship between exchange rate and export volume of palm oil and import volume of rice respecctively. Government support to farmers in the form of credit and input subsidies is a veritable policy option that would enab le the farmers to enhance their productivity. These would lead to increase export of cocoa and palm oil and reduced importation of rice. These would invariably enhance the foreign exchange earning capacity of the country as well as helping in the match towards acheiving self-reliance and self-sufficiency in food production.

Nursery and Field Establishment of Moringa Oleifera: The Federal University Of Technology, Owerri, Nigeria Experience

MC Ofoh

Moringa oleifera fondly called “The miracle tree” is currently drawing global attention as a multi-utility plant. The products of this miracle plant (also called a life saver) have been reported to be useful to nutritionists, animal scientists, pathologists, entomologists, environmentalists, practitioners of natural medicine, etc. Though the Moringa tree is widespread throughout the tropics, around farms and compounds and often used as fence especially in Northern Nigeria, not much has been done to enhance its large scale production to ensure sustained availability. The Federal University of Technology, Owerri has keyed into the Moringa oleifera initiative through its Centre for Agricultural Research. About 2 hectares of this plant have been successfully established in the University farm sourced from different locations (Ilorin, and Lafiagi in Kwara State and Mokwa in Niger State), all in Nigeria. So far, some nursery practices have been developed for this crop including the avoidance of heavy shades and seed dressing with Apron Star 42 WS^® (20% Thiamethoxam + 20% Metalaxyl-M + 2% Difenoconazol). Field trials are currently going on to monitor the performance of the seedlings in the field.

Adoption of Bee Keeping Technologies by Farmers in Imo State

EO Ubeh

The study assessed the adoption of Beekeeping technology in Imo state. Structured questionnaire was used in collecting data from thirty (30) beekeepers purposively selected from the sturdy area. Data collected were analyzed using descriptive statistics and regression analysis. The findings revealed that the average age, average household size, and average annual income of the respondents was 36yrs, 5 persons, and N470, 666.6 respectively. The socio–economic characteristics of the respondent like their annual income, access to credit, and extention contact had position effects on the rate of adoption with an average adoption score of 5.067, the age of the respondents had negative effect on adoption. The study recommends support for beekeeping, and beekeepers through training, funding and public enlightenment.

Characterization and Classification of Soils on a Toposequence in Afikpo, Southeastern Nigeria: A Geographical Information System (GIS) Approach

SN Obasi

This study was carried out in 2008 on a toposequence located at Afikpo, Southeastern Nigeria and aimed at characterizing and classifying soils of the area for optimal utilization using a transect technique. Three pedons were dug on soils of the crest, midslope and footslpe at an inter-pedal distance of about 100 m. At the crest, (pedon A) colour ranged from grayish red (2.5YR 5/2) moist to dull orange (7.5 YR 7/4) moist; Pedon B (midslope), colour matrix graded from light gray (10 YR 7/1) moist to light yellowish orange (10 YR 7/6) moist while at the Pedon C (Footslope), colour graded from dull yellow orange (10 YR 7/3) moist to dull orange (5 YR 7/4) moist. Soils were sandy and Silt/clay ratios were low and increased down the slope. Organic matter, Total N and Available P were all low and deceased down the profile. Base saturation values were 25.4, 27.0 and 54.75% for crest, mid and foot slopes, respectively. However, in all the physiographic views; OM, TN, P and Base saturation indicated high variability (HV) except at the footslope where OM and Base saturation varied moderately (MV). Pedons A and B were classified as Typic Kandiudults (Plinthic Acrisol) while Pedon C as Typic Kandiudalf (Albic Luvisol).

Resource Use Efficency by Rural Poor Cassava Farmers in Imo State: Implications for Poverty Alleviation

MO Okoronkwo

The decline in agricultural output has led to an unprecedented increase in poverty and malnutrition, illhealth and other social vices in sub-Saharan Africa. Consideration of cassava as a “woman Crop” constraints a societies productivity and ultimately slow its rate of economic growth. The economy pays for this in reduced labour productivity today and diminished national output tomorrow. Motivated by this, the study aim is to assess the possibility of alleviating poverty in the rural set-up through efficient and effective use of resources by rural poor cassava farmers in Imo State. It adopts a multistage sampling technique, and a total of 120 cassava farmers were used for the study. The data was analyzed using double log regression equation which later yields efficiency measures that were not distorted by statistical noise to estimate the efficiency level of resource/allocation by rural poor cassava producers. The result indicate that F-ratio was statistically significant at 5% level suggesting that the estimated variables exert a very significant influence on cassava output and hence the model is good for policy recommendation. The result also indicate that the sum of elasticity is 1.75 which implies increasing returns to scale; an indication of maximum technical efficiency (an irrational stage of production). Labour was the most limiting factor in cassava production suggestion that the technologies that enhance productivity of labour are likely to achieve significant positive effects on cassava production. This paper is of the view that raising agricultural productivity holds the key to encouraging a stable rate of transition to an industrialized economy which invariably would reduce the escalating poverty in the rural economies of Nigeria.

Isolation and Identification of Spoilage Fungi Associated With Rice (Oryzae Sativa) Millet (Pennisetum Americamum) and Soybean

C Ibeabuchi

The main purpose of this work was to isolate and identify the spoilage fungi associated with rice, millet and soybeans. Each grain was purchased from a different market in Owerri metropolis and was wetted for four days. The grain fungi were isolated using cultural and microscopic methods. They were cultured with potatoe dextrose agar (PDA) at 37 oC for four (4) days and their morphological characteristics were identified. The spoilage fungi isolated were Aspergillus species, Rhizopus, Penicilluim, Fusarium, Eurotium, Mucor, Geotrichum, Alternaria, Cladosporium and Actinomyces species. The predominant spoilage fungi in the grains were Aspergillus species. The populations of some spoilage fungi isolated from the grains were not high enough to produce effective dosage. However, there is need to adopt strict hygienic, storage, and preservative practices to prevent the fungi from spoiling the grains.

Physical, Chemical, Functional and Sensory Properties of the ‘White’ Variety of African Yam Bean (Sphenostylis Sternocarpa)

O Ijeoma

The physical, chemical, functional and sensory characteristics of white variety of African Yam Beans (AYB) were studied. The physical characteristics were examined by subjective method for shape, testa texture, seed colour and testa attachment to the cotyledon. Proximate composition was by Association of Official Analytical Chemist method. The sensory characteristics of the AYB flour were evaluated by preparing the local food popularly called “moin moin”. The average seed weight and size were 0.13±0.01 and 0.70x0.48x0.38, respectively. The result of the chemical analysis shows the moisture, protein, fat. Crude fibre, ash and carbohydrate contents to be 8.59 %, 22.30 %, 1.36 %, 4.98 %, 2.40 % and 60.37 % respectively of the dehulled flour of AYB seeds. The functional properties were also analyzed and the results for the water and oil absorption capacities were 1.53 mlH20/g and 1.96 mlOil/g, respectively. Also, the swelling index, foam capacity, emulsion capacity and wettability were 223 ml/ml, 32.2 %, 2.50 ml/g and 41 seconds respectively. The packed bulk density was found to be 0.98 g/ml while the loose bulk density was 0.95g/ml. The overall acceptability of the food was quite high but the appearance was the least acceptable. The result of this study shows that African Yam Beans has properties that could be of use in food formulation systems.

Efficacy of Garlic and Other Plant Extracts In the Control of Septorial Leaf Spot of Tomato (Lycopersicon Esculentum)

OP Obilo

The attempt by man to improve crop yield in order to produce enough food for consumption by the increasing population is a decision in the right direction which has led to search of biopesticides of plant origin. The research work studied the effect of different rates of garlic juice in the control of septorial leaf spot of tomato caused by the fungus Cercospora sp. and also other plant extracts were compared with garlic so as to ascertain the effectiveness of garlic in the control of these leaf spots. The 0.5L of garlic (Allium sativum) spray produced the least number of infected leaves in all the different rates of applications. The utazi (Pergularia spp) spray was significantly different (P<0.05) from the bitter leaf (Vernonia amygdalina) and garlic (Allium sativum) spray and produced significantly lower number of infected leaflets (0-1.5) than that of the bitter leaf (1.5-3.0) and garlic (2.7-3.7) spray throughout the 6 weeks.

Indigenous Technologies for Adaptation and Mitigation of Climate Change in Sub-Saharan Africa

CI Duruigbo

The sub-Saharan Africa have experienced the negative impacts of climate change namely: drought, desertification, flooding, sea level rise, high temperatures, land degradation, biodiversity and ecosystem degradation, famine, intensive rainfall and reduced crop yields. Past global efforts at dealing with the impact of climate change was based on mitigation aimed at carbon sequestration. This was followed by adaptation which was seen as a viable option to reduce the vulnerability of the anticipated negative impacts of global warming. However adaptation and mitigation should not be pursued separately. The resource-poor farmers in sub-Saharan Africa have developed their unique capacity to think, adapt to change in their environment, forecast, accumulate and pass on intellectual wealth to subsequent generations through indigenous knowledge. Farmers in Africa have developed and implemented sustainable adaptation and mitigation technologies which successfully reduced their vulnerability to the climate impact using local ecological knowledge. Such technologies include changing of planting dates, cover-cropping, agro-forestry systems, use of local species of crops and livestock that adapt to the environment, regenerative agricultural practices, ability to forecast the weather for use in planning their cropping seasons, use of zero tillage and conservation agriculture, mulching, use of emergency fodder in times of drought and eco-farming systems that adapt and mitigate climate change impacts. These indigenous technologies are sustainable, culturally acceptable and environmentally friendly. The challenge is thus for various stakeholders and policy-makers to recognize and integrate these local adaptation and mitigation strategies into planning, research and environmental policy needed for tackling climate change scourge in sub-Saharan Africa which is already facing various problems such as poverty, population growth and food insecurity.

An Overview of Benefits of Organic Agriculture as a Climate Change Adaptation and Mitigation Strategy for Nigeria

OC Korie

Organic agriculture is a holistic production management which promotes and enhances agro-ecosystem health, including biodiversity, biological cycles and soil biological activity. It emphasis the use of management practices in preference to the use of off-farm inputs, taking into account conditions requiring locally adapted systems. Organic agriculture is not only a specific agricultural production system, it is also a systematic and encompassing approach to sustainable livelihoods in general, where due account is given to relevant factors of influence for sustainable development and vulnerability, be this on physical, economic or socio-cultural levels. Organic agriculture has a long tradition as a farming system and it has been adapted for many climatic zones and local conditions. Again, it is a recognized potential as a development strategy for rural communities. It reduces the vulnerability of the farmers to climate change and variability. Organic agriculture comprises highly diverse farming systems and this increases the diversity of income sources and the flexibility to cope with adverse effects of climate change and variability such as changed rainfall patterns. This lead to higher economic and ecological stability through optimized ecological balance and risk-spreading. Organic agriculture is an adaptation strategy that can be targeted at improving the livelihoods of rural populations and those parts of communities that are vulnerable to adverse effects of climate change and variability.

Integrated Nutrient Management, Soil Fertility and Productivity of Maize (Zea mays l.) in a Derived Savanna Ultisol of Southeastern Nigeria

DO Nottidge

The response of maize to different rates of NPK 15:15:15 compound fertilizer under basal application of rice-husk ash (RHA) was evaluated in a two-year field experiments in 2009 and 2010. The RHA at 4 t ha^-1 was incorporated into the soil before the application of 0, 100, 200, 300 and 400 kg ha^-1 NPK. The RHA contains 64.00 g kg^-1 Ca, 12.20 g kg^-1 Mg, 12.50 g kg^-1 P, 9.00 g kg^-1 K, 2.10 g kg^-1 N, 1.23 g kg^-1 Organic carbon and had a pH of 10.86. Treatments were fitted in a randomized complete block design (RCBD) replicated three times. Analysis of variance (ANOVA) indicated no significant treatment effects at P = 0.05 on soil pH, Ca, P and K except for soil total N. Curve estimations show values of R² = 0.892** for soil total N and R² = 0.874** for grain yield of maize. Significant increase (P < 0.01) in soil total N status from 0.065 % in the control (0 kg ha^-1) plots to 0.23 % at 400 kg ha^-1 NPK fertilizer relate to the patterns of growth and grain yield of maize test crop. The application of 200 kg ha^-1 NPK gave grain yield of 3016.67 kg ha^-1 when compared with 1755.55 kg and 1944.44 kg ha^-1 obtained, respectively in the control and 100 kg ha^-1 NPK. Grain yield at 300 and 400 kg ha^-1 NPK were not significant (P = 0.05) when compared with that at 200 kg ha^-1. The application of 200 kg ha^-1 NPK tended to be cost effective.

Body Weight and Growth Characteristics of the Progeny Chicks of Two Breeds of the Nigerian Local Chicken in a Humid Tropical Environment

OE Kadurumba

The experiment was carried out to study growth performance and biometrical characteristics of two breeds of the Nigerian local chickens during a period of eight weeks. Ninety four progenies comprising of 42 naked neck and 52 normal chicks were produced from 2 sires and 4 dams each of the genotypes. Differences in body weights and linear body measurements among the two genotypes were significantly different (p > 0.05) at all ages. Those with the normal homozygous gene showed general superiority over the naked neck genotype in body weight, shank length, body length and body width. This may justify the exploitation of the normal gene in breeding programmes for meat and egg production.

Public Health Implications of Aquatic Snails around Fish Ponds in Okwe, Delta State

AA Nwabueze

A survey of aquatic snails around fish ponds in Okwe, Delta State was conducted to identify snails and their public health implications in the area. Snails were collected fortnightly within an hour of active snail search for a period of twelve months from randomly selected eight fish ponds using a scoop net attached to a long wooden handle. The study revealed the presence of Pila ovata, Pila africana, Gabbiella africana, Lymnaea natalensis, Biomphalaria pfeifferi, Bulinus forskali and Bulinus globosus. Out of 824 aquatic snails collected, 393 (47.7%) were P. ovata. Biomphalaria pfeifferi 5(0.6%) was the least in number. Okwe riverside fish pond which is an earthen pond had the highest number of snails collected in the survey. Oye, Okwe riverside and Destiny fish ponds had at least one representative of all the snails collected. Monthly variation of aquatic snails revealed that bulinid snails were significantly (P < 0.5) higher in the dry season than in the rainy season. However, Pila species were not significantly more in number during the rains than in the dry season. The presence of bulinid and Lymnaea snails around fish ponds is suggestive these fish ponds as potential sources of human schistosomiasis, bovine fascioliasis and possibly Clinostomum infection of fishes. The public health implications of aquatic snails are discussed.

Fish Diversity in Relation to Aquatic Macrophytes and Physicochemical Parameters of on a Lake in Asaba, Southern Nigeria

AA Nwabueze

An investigation of fish diversity in relation to aquatic macrophytes and physicochemical parameters of Ona Lake in Asaba was carried out within a period of eighteen months. Fish samples were collected fortnightly from three sampling sites using cast, gill and trigger nets. Aquatic macrophytes found in close association with the fishes were hand picked from a planked canoe. Results obtained showed the presence of the following fish species: Heterotis niloticus Citharinus citharus, Labeo senegalensis, Distichodus rostratus, Malapterurus electricus, Protopterus annectenes, Hyperopisus bebes, Synodontis clarias, Synodontis oceilflfer. Xenomysirus nigri, Oreochromis niloticus, Ctenopoma kinsgsleyae, Channa obscura, Clarias gariepinus, Tilapia melanotheron and Oreochromis aureus. Out of 603 fish sampled, 60 (9.95%) were obtained from site A, 360 (59.70%) from site B and 183 (30.35%) from site C. Aquatic macrophytes found in the lake were: Ipomoea aquatica, Pistia stratiots, Azolla africana, Salvinia numphellula, Utricularia foliosa, Ceratophyllum demersum, Nymphaea lotus, Nymphaea maculate, Leersia hexandra Paspahum polystachyum, Diplazium sammatii and Hydrolea glabra. The diversity of fish species and aquatic macrophytes sampled were significantly (P>0.05) different in the three sampling sites.

Prospects and Challenges in the Utilization of moringa oleifera lam. for Agroecosystem Sustainability in Nigeria

NC Adikuru1

This paper reviews the practice of continuous crop production relative to the traditional shifting cultivation system and the associated impacts on the environment. It highlights the potentials of the use of Moringa oleifera for agro ecosystem sustainability. When used as a green manure Moringa can generate as high as 650 metric tons of green matter per hectare through which it can richly supply essential nutrients such as calcium(26.4g kg^-1DM), phosphorus(1.36g kg^-1DM) and potassium(21.7g kg^-1DM). Its plant growth enhancing properties (phytohormone) can increase yield by as much as 20-35% while the cake derived from the oil extraction process is an excellent soil conditioner. Futhermore, Moringa has biopesticidal properties and serves as windbreak and mulch material. These beneficial ecological properties, apart from the medicinal, nutritional and industrial properties which have implications for socioeconomic development of households, suggest that Moringa could be exploited for agroecosystem sustainability as a strategy to supporting the emerging practice of continuous cultivation for food security. The major challenge now is the popularization of the plant among farmers, as studies have shown a high level of ignorance of the plant. This will require a well coordinated programme involving policy development, research in such areas as agronomy, physiology and farming systems as well as extension services.

Sustainability of Beekeeping as a Means of Economic Empowerment, Biodiversity and Food Security

EO Ubeh

This paper assessed the many ways bees and beekeeping contribute to sustainable livelihood. Beekeeping generates much more than honey; pollination of crops, maintenance of biodiversity, income generation, source of food and other valuable services are provided by bees. The economic viability and potential of beekeeping as discussed in this work using benefit- cost-ratio analysis, cash flow and net present value suggest that beekeeping is highly profitable venture and capable of breaking even. Small or large-scale beekeeping contributes significantly to livelihood security, economic empowerment, food security, biodiversity and environmental conservation. It is thus imperative to highlight the prospects of beekeeping as a priority for immediate socio-economic development especially at the rural level where there is limited access to credit.

Effect of Different Levels of Molasses Fed Through Drinking Water on Growth and Economic Performance of Broiler Chickens

EK Ndelekwute

An experiment was conducted to evaluate the effect of molasses fed through drinking water on growth and economic performance of broiler chickens. One hundred and sixty unsexed day old chicks of Anak strain were used. They were divided into four treatment groups with each group having four replicates of ten birds per replicate. Each group had forty birds, replicated into four with ten birds per replicate. The experiment was arranged in completely randomized design (CRD). Treatment 1(without molasses) served as the control. Treatment 2, 3 and 4 were fed 30, 50 and 70 g of molasses per litre of water, respectively. The birds were fed and watered ad libitun.The experiment lasted for 28 days each for starter and finisher phases. At the starter phase, 50 and 70 g/litre significantly improved live weight, protein efficiency ratio (PER) and water intake. During the finisher phase, live weight, daily gain, PER and water intake were significantly (P<0.05) higher in 50 and 70g/litre groups which also had better feed: gain ratio as compared to control. Revenue and gross margin were higher (P<0.05) in 50 and 70 g/litre group than the control and 30 g/litre.

Land Use Types In Relation To Microbial Distribution in a Degraded University Environment

N Okpoho

We studied microbial distribution in soils affected by varying land use types in late 2010. A target soil survey sampling technique aided field collection of soil samples. Soil samples were subjected to routine laboratory analysis. Mean statistic was used to analyze generated data. Soil properties differed among land use types and this influenced distribution of soil microbes. Soils of the petrol dumpsite had the least Ca: Mg ratio but dominated in the content and distribution of Pseudomonas.

Changes in Cations Distribution on Degraded Soils of Otamiri Floodplain, Owerri, Southeastern Nigeria

MU Lekwa

This study evaluated changes cations distribution in degraded soils Otamiri floodplain, having 4 easily idenfiable physiographic land units, namely Upland, Terrace, Levee and Backswamp. Results showed high degradation in Upland and Terrace soils. (Ca/Mg ≤ 3.0) when compared with Levee and Backswamp soils (Ca/Mg > 3.5) at the epipedon. There were distinct morphological differences among these soils, especially in drainage characteristics. This trend was exhibited by other soil properties. The elemental ratios in Upland and Terrace soils indicated poor nutrient balance and this condition is worse given high acidity (pHku ≤, 4.1), low base saturation (≤ 31.0%) and low organic carbon (≤ 1.87%).

Herbage Dynamics and Soils of two Different Sites of Calotropis procera (ait) r. Br. (Asclepiadaecae) in the Northern Guinea Savanna Zone of Nigeria

JE Omijeh

The relative abundance of Calotropis procera (Ait) R. Br. (Asclepiadaeceae), types and relative abundance of herb species in association with it and the soil types in two different sites, Tudun Sarki (ABU) and Basawa in the Northern Guinea Savanna zone of Nigeria were assessed. To determine herbage dynamics, herbs in each quadrat of the experimental sites were harvested, sorted out according to species, counted and identified in the herbarium. Simpson’s index, D = ∑P_i² was used to obtain relative frequencies and abundance of species. Soil samples were derived from the quadrats and analysed in the laboratory for physico-chemical and chemical properties. The percentage distribution of herbs in relation to Calotropis procera ranged between 0.09 – 50% and 0.21 – 47.6% for Tudun Sarki(ABU) and Basawa respectively, while percentage distribution of Calotropis procera ranged between 37.5 – 64.5% and 35.5 – 90% for Tudun Sarki and Basawa respectively. Herbs species common to Basawa sites include, Senna, Sporobolus pyramidalis, Calotropis procera, Sida acuta, Indigofera numlarifolia, Acanthospermum hispidium and Chamaecristi rotundifolia while those common to Tudun Sarki(ABU) include, Calotropis procera, Spermacoce radiata, Bracharia, Sida, Senna and Desmodium numlarifolia. Top soils in both sites were dominated by sandy clay and loam. Total nitrogen values were more in the surface horizons in both sites. Values of exchangeable bases were high, hence lower values of exchangeable acidity were recorded. In terms of number of species and Simpson’s index per quadrat, there is no significant difference (P< 0.05) in both experimental sites.

Determinants of Yield Gap in Upland Rice Production in Southwestern Nigeria

OI Akintayo

Nigeria has comparative resource advantage in terms of favourable climatic, edaphic, and ecological conditions in the production of rice, yet local production has not been able to meet the growing demand which is expanding across all socio-economic classes. The inability of the Nigerian rice economy to satisfy the domestic demand and the consequent growth of rice import quantity and value remains a cause of concern. The magnitude and determinants of upland rice yield gap were examined and analyzed in this study. Employing a multi-stage sampling technique, data were obtained through the use of structured questionnaire administered to a sample of rice farmers in Ekiti state, Nigeria. Respondents cultivated three improved rice varieties – ITA 150, WAB 189 and FARO 55 with average yield gaps of 1.52, 1.38 and 0.91 tons per hectare, respectively. This makes these rice varieties under-exploited as farmers operate at levels where they obtain an average of 49% of the potential yield. Factors which would contribute significantly to the narrowing of rice yield gap in the study area include increased fertilizer (nutrientenhancing substances) use, increased agrochemical use and increased amount of available farm credits for direct farm investments.

Economic Assessment of Palm Oil Processing in Owerri Agricultural Zone of Imo State

AO Chukwu

The study was on economic analysis of palm oil processing in Owerri Agricultural zone of Imo State, it was designed to determine the costs and returns of palm oil processing in the area of study. Seventy five (75) palm oil processors were randomly sampled from the study location and a structured interview schedule was used in data collection. Profitability model specified as NR = P₁Q₁ – (P₁X₁ + FC), percentages and ordinary least square (OLS) multiple regression model specified as Y = f(x₁, x₂, x₃, x₄, x₅, x₆, x₇, e) were employed for data analysis. Results showed that the net returns of palm oil processors is significant at 5% level and therefore profitable since every N1.00 invested in processing 1 tonne fresh fruit bunch (FFB) has a return of N1.10. Inadequate palm fruits, poor transportation services and irregular water supply were major constraints identified to have affected the processors. The study recommends assistance of Nigeria Institute for oil palm Research (NIFOR) to ensure adequate supply of improved varieties of Oil Palm fruits to the target population. The government should also ensure adequate provision of transport services and other infrastructures that could easy palm oil processing.

Evaluation of Effects of Maize Extension Package on Farmers Indigenous Practice

AO Chukwu

The study examined the effects of maize extension package on farmers indigenous practices in Nwangele Local Government Area (LGA) of Imo State, Nigeria. Both farmers and extension agents were the target audience. Fifty (50) farmers and two (2) extension agents were purposively sampled from the selected communities in the LGA. A structured questionnaire was used to collect primary data. Simple percentages, t-test and mean statistic were employed for data analysis. The hypothesis of the study was tested using t-test at 0.05 significant level and was rejected hence t-cal of -18.651 < t-tab of -2.101 signifying significant effect. The effects were significant on local planting spacing, number of seeds planted per hole, number of times of weeding, pest and diseases control method and storage method. It was further found that most indigenous practices are rapidly disappearing and abandoned following the introduction of the modern practices. The study therefore recommends consideration of farmers indigenous practices while developing and promoting modern packages.

Field Evaluation of Various Plant Biocides in the Control of Black Sigatoka Disease in Plantians

EM Nwokeji

A field experiment was conducted at the Federal University of Technology, Teaching and Research Farm, Owerri in 2005 to evaluate the efficiency of using seven plant biocides (extracts) in the control of Black Sigatola disease in plantains. The experiment was carried out using the randomized complete block design with three replications. The Treatments include: Azadiractha indica (neem plant), Vernonia amygdlina (Bitter leaf) Ocimum gratissium (Nchanwu) Pergularia sp (utazi) Allium sativum (garlic), Citrus aurantifolia (lime) and Piper guinensis. (African Black Pepper). Data on disease development and efficacy of each plant biocide were collected at flowering on 5 plants of maturity per plot using the youngest leaf spotted (YLS) method. The proportion of the leaf area showing symptoms was scored on a scale of 0 to 6. A disease severity index (DSI) which also had a low DSI was also calculated were analyzed using the analysis of variance. Pair-wise testing between means was done using the Duncan New multiple range test at 5% level of probability. Results indicated that the ethanol extracts of plant biocides from Azadiractha indica and Piper guinensis were significantly (P. = 0.05) more effective than other plant biocides as observed from the youngest leaf spotted (YLS) assessed at flowering after 8 spray applications. The DSI recorded two weeks before harvest has 1.6 for Azadiractha indica and 0.8 for Piper guinensis which confirmed results from the YLS assessment. It is hereby strongly recommended to apply ethanol extract sprays of Azadiractha indica and Piper guinensis extracted at the rate of 20g plant material dissolved in 100ml ethanol due to its high level of fungitoxic ability on Black Sigatoka disease in plantains. It was also observed that ethanol extract of plant materials was more effective and efficacious in fungitoxic ability than the water extracts respectively.

Determinant of Profit Efficiency among Small Scale Traditional Palm Oil Processors in Nigeria: A Profit Function Approach

C Kadurumba

This study was designed to examine the determinants of profit efficiency among traditional palm oil processing in Nigeria, using stochastic Cobb – Douglas profit frontier model. A Multi – Stage random sampling technique was used to select 240 traditional palm oil processors from which input – output data were collected. Instrument of data collection was via well – structured and pre – tested questionnaire. The result of the Cobb – Douglas analysis showed that the mean farm level profit efficiency was 79 percent. Critical determinants of profit efficiency of traditional palm oil processors were age of processors, educational level, house hold size, net farm income, cooperative membership, credit availability, interest on loan, plantation ownership and mechanization level. Higher output and profit efficiency could be attained by efficient allocation of the employed resources, which is vital to the sustainability of Agriculture in Nigeria.

Value of Bitter Leaf (Vernonia amygdalina) Meal as Feed Ingredient in the Diet of Finisher

CS Durunna

A 28-day feeding trial was conducted to evaluate the effect of bitter leaf (Vernonia amygdalina) leaf meal as feed ingredient on the performance, feed cost and carcass and organ weights of finisher broilers. The leaves were air dried under room temperature, ground and sieved through a 3 mm mesh to produce the meal. Laboratory analysis revealed that the meal contained 15.67 crude protein, 6.95 ether extract, 11.53 crude fibre, 13.00 total ash and 38.18% nitrogen free extract. The leaf meal was used at 0,5,10 and 15% inclusion levels to formulate the test rations. Thereafter 168 Marshall broiler strain (at their fourth week of age), were shared into four groups and assigned to the four treatment diets in a Completely Randomised Design (CRD). Data were collected on feed intake, body weights, feed conversion ratio, carcass and organ weights and cost of production. There were significant (P<0.05) differences in final body weight, body weight gain, feed conversion ratio and carcass weights between the birds on the 0% inclusion of the leaf meal and the rest of the groups and between the birds on 5% and the birds on 10 and 15% inclusion levels. No significant difference (P>0.05) was observed in the organ weights. Abdominal fat weight, cost of feed production per kilogram price and profit made decreased significantly (P<0.05) as the inclusion levels of the leaf meal increased across the groups. The results of the study suggest that dietary inclusion of Vernonia amygdalina leaf meal in broiler finisher diet at a level not exceeding 10%, does not have any adverse effect on their performance.

Economic Analyses of Ware Yam Production in Orlu Agricultural Zone of Imo State

CS Nwosu

The study was conducted in Orlu Agricultural Zone of Imo State Nigeria. Specifically this study examined socioeconomic characteristics of the ware yam farmers, estimated the gross margin of producing ware yam, and determined allocative efficiency of ware yam farmers. Primary data were collected and analyzed using descriptive statistics, gross margin analysis, marginal analysis and multiple regression analysis. Results from the study showed that ware yam production is profitable, with gross margin of N58,863.94 per hectare. The results indicated that cost of planting materials and labour constituted 90% of total variable costs. Also, the input resources of land, stakes, fertilizer, labour and planting materials affected yam output positively and significantly. All the resources were underutilized except stakes since their marginal value products were greater than their marginal factor costs. The study concluded that ware yam production is profitable. However, to increase profit, the allocative efficiency of the farmers needs to improve. The study recommends forming cooperatives where the efficient and inefficient farmers can meet and influence each other. The National Root Crops Research Institute and extension agencies should develop and disseminate appropriate ware yam production techniques that will improve resource use efficiency in ware yam production.

Yield and Composition of Milk of West African Dwarf (Wad) Sheep Fed Graded Levels of Boiled Pigeon Pea Seed Meal Broiler Chicken

U Okah

A study was conducted to evaluate the yield and composition of milk of West African Dwarf (WAD) sheep fed graded levels of boiled Pigeon pea Seed Meal (PSM). Four diets were formulated to contain pigeon pea seed meal at 0, 10, 20 and 30% levels, designated diets A, B, C and D respectively. Four lactating WAD ewes in their second parity and weighing between 15 and 17kg were used to carry out the study in a 4 x 4 Latin square design experiment. Data collected were milk yield and composition. Milk yield (kg/wk) did not differ significantly (p>0.05) between the treatment means. However, the milk yield of animals fed diet D (30% PSM) tended to be higher (4.34kg/wk) than those fed diets A (4.17 kg/wk), B (4.13 kg/wk) and C (3.80 kg/wk). Except for the ash content in which diet D group was significantly (p<0.05) higher than those on diets A and C, all the other milk constituents did not differ significantly (p>0.05). However, lactose content and solids-corrected milk were higher in the diet D group, than for diets A, B and C groups, though similar (p>0.05). Simple regression analysis indicated that milk yield was positively but not significantly (p>0.05) correlated with crude protein, solids- not-fat, and lactose, while negatively but not significantly (p>0.05) correlated with total solids, butterfat and energy. Butterfat and energy were highly positively (p<0.001) correlated. Solids-corrected milk was highly positively (p<0.001) correlated with fatcorrected milk. The results of this study indicated that the dietary inclusion of boiled pigeon pea seed meal at 30% level was optimum for lactating West African Dwarf ewes as this promoted milk yield and adequate milk constituents.

Some Properties of Soils Formed Over Three Parent Materials in Imo State

EN Orji-Uzor

The study investigated properties of soils derived from different parent, materials, Random soil survey technique was used in siting profile pits. Soil profile pits were described according to FAO guidelines. Soil samples were air-dried and sieved with 2-mm aperture before routine determination of properties. Percentage coefficient of variation and simple correlation tools were used for soil data analysis. Results showed that sand varied from 810 g/kg (false bedded sandstone), 590-610 g/kg Imo clay shale) and 850-880 g/kg (coastal, plain sands). Clay varied from 100-170g/kg (False bedded sandstone), 300-310 g/kg (Imo Clay shale) and 110-140 g/kg (coastal plain sands). Organic matter ranged from 8.3-23.0 g/kg (False bedded sandstone), 11.0-28.1g/kg (Imo clay shale) and 6.3-25.0g/kg (Coastal Plain Sands), base saturation ranged from 23.0-28.0% (False bedded sandstone), 50.6- 52.1% (Imo clay shale) and 28.0 -35.0% (coastal plain, sands).