Journal of Agricultural Extension

Action Against Child Labour for Sustainable Agricultural Development in Nigeria

2024-08-05T10:27:02+00:00

Definition of child labour

International Labour Standards

Summary of the 2022 National Child Labour survey report

Actions to ensure Sustainable Agricultural Development in Nigeria

Questions

Perceived Influence of Locust Beans Processing on the Income of Rural Women in Kwara State, Nigeria

2024-08-05T12:29:03+00:00

One of the biggest challenges in using African locus beans is the processing method, depriving many rural women of the opportunity to earn daily income. However, this study was conducted to determine the perceived impact of African locust bean processing on rural women's income in Asa and Ilorin East Local Government Areas. A multi-stage sampling procedure was used to select 300 respondents. Primary data was collected using a structured interview schedule. The results showed that the majority of the respondents (71.2%) use traditional methods to process African locust beans. There was a positive and significant (p<0.05) relationship between earned income, perceived limitations and impact of African locust bean processing on rural women. Inadequate technical know-how (63.84%), low demand for African locust beans (62.32%), high cost of African locust beans seeds (23.56%), and high loan interest rate (16.34%) were found to be the main limitations in African locust beans processing. It was concluded that African locust bean processing has the potential to improve the economic situation of processors.

Level of Utilisation of Mobile Phones Among Maize Farmers in Osogbo Agricultural Development Programme Zone of Osun State, Nigeria

2024-08-05T12:54:28+00:00

The study assessed the level of utilisation of mobile phones among maize farmers in the Osogbo (ADP) Zone of Osun State, Nigeria. Using a three-stage sampling procedure, 120 respondents were sampled and interviewed. Data were analysed using percentages, weighted mean scores (WMS), chi-square, and correlation analyses at p=0.05. The results reveal that the majority (63.3%) indicated a moderate level of utilisation of mobile phones and weather reports ranked first (WMS=2.47) of all the indicators of the utilisation of mobile phones. Increase in farmers’ income ranked first (WMS =2.76) of all the perceived benefits of utilisation of mobile phones. There was a significant association between age (χ² =22.716), marital status (χ²= 19.566), level of formal education (χ² =24.195), and utilisation of mobile phones. The study concluded that there was a moderate level of utilisation of mobile phones in the study area and recommended that respondents should further increase and improve on mobile phone utilisation as doing this would further increase the various benefits derived from mobile phone utilisation in accessing agricultural information.

Actors’ Involvement in the Processing Activities of Locust Beans (Parkia BiglobosaJacq.) in Osun and Oyo States, Nigeria

2024-08-11T12:02:41+00:00

The study assessed actors’ involvement in the processing activities of locust beans in Osun and Oyo States, Nigeria. Specifically, the study described the entrepreneurial activities along the processing stage of locust beans and determined the level of involvement of actors in the processing activities of Locust beans in Osun and Oyo States, Nigeria. A multistage sampling procedure was employed to select 135 respondents for the study. A structured interview schedule was employed to elicit primary data. As part of the entrepreneurial activities of processing locust beans, all the respondents still cooked the unprocessed locust bean seeds using firewood while calabash and thick clothes were used for the fermentation process. Very few (1.5%) of the respondents produce more than 12kg (eight congos) of locust beans in a processing period. About 64 percent of the respondents had high level of involvement in the processing activities of locust beans. The study concluded that respondents are highly involved in the processing of Locust beans in the study area. Based on the findings, it is recommended that agro-industrial extension education by extension agencies on improved processing techniques should be encouraged to further enhance involvement in the processing of locust beans.

Male and Female Involvement in the Adoption of Improved Sesame Production Technologies in Ofu Local Government Area of Kogi State, Nigeria

2024-08-11T12:11:40+00:00

The study analysed gender involvement in the adoption of improved sesame production technologies in Ofu Local Government Area of Kogi State, Nigeria. Using a multistage sampling technique, 120 respondents were selected for the study. Data analyses were achieved using percentage, mean statistics (M), and sigma scoring methods. Findings showed that farmers were aware (M=5.874) of and adopted (M =5.541) improved sesame production technologies. One hundred per cent of males and 66.79% of females respectively were involved in ploughing with a hoe; 82.5% of males and 61.9% of females respectively harrowed, while 26.3% of males and 14.3% of females ploughed after the first rain. Lack of access to credit facilities (M=2.84), high cost of farm inputs (M=2.71), high cost of fertilizers (M=2.65), poor extension contact (M=2.55), poor storage facilities (M=2.49), poor access roads (M=2.48) were rated as serious challenges to producing sesame. Although most of the sesame producers were aware of and adopted improved production technologies, the adoption rate was higher among the male than female sesame farmers. Farmers should form themselves into well-managed cooperatives to access good quality inputs from certified merchants and credit facilities to invest in farming.

Participation of Rice Farmers in Research Outputs Dissemination Activities in Katcha Local Government Area, Niger State

2024-08-11T12:33:43+00:00

The study examined the level of rice farmers’ participation in extension activities for disseminating research outputs, analysed perceptions of the relevance and effectiveness of research outputs disseminated, and identified constraints to the dissemination of research outputs by farmers. Quantitative data were obtained from 111 rice farmers through a multistage sampling procedure. Correlation analysis was used to test the relationship between constraints to dissemination and participation in research output dissemination. The results revealed that for relevance, the response with the highest mean was “addresses specific challenges” ( =2.17±0.96). For effectiveness, the highest mean was recorded by “improved understanding of soil fertility and nutrient management” ( =2.24±1.02). Respondents mostly participated in training ( =3.94) and group meetings ( =3.87). The main constraints to dissemination were low motivation ( =3.73) and poor communication of extension programme time ( =3.73). Low motivation (r = −0.96, p = 0.00) and inadequate number of farmers as extension agents (r = −0.14, p = 0.04) had a negative significant relationship with participation. The study recommended the decentralization of extension programmes to communities to enhance farmers’ participation.

Willingness to Pay for Private Extension Services among Yam Farmers in Nasarawa State, Nigeria

2024-08-11T12:41:49+00:00

This study assessed the willingness to pay for private extension services among yam farmers in Nassarawa State, Nigeria. A multi-stage sampling procedure was used to select 295 respondents. An interview schedule was used to obtain data, which were analyzed using percentages and chi-square statistics. A significant majority (72.20%) of yam farmers are willing to pay for private extension services, with a willingness to pay, significantly associated with education (X² = 12.1; p < 0.001), income (X² = 14.5; p < 0.001), access to credit (X² = 16.3; p < 0.001), age (X² = 4.2; p < 0.05), marital status (X² = 3.8; p < 0.05), and membership of association (X² = 4.5; p < 0.05). The findings also highlight the crucial role of non-governmental organizations (NGOs) and private sources in providing extension services, with 55.25% and 40.68% of farmers receiving services from these sources, respectively. In contrast, only 4.07% of farmers received extension information from government sources, indicating a gap in government-led extension service delivery. The study recommends strengthening government extension service delivery systems, collaboration with NGOs and private sources and targeted extension programs to improve yam production and sustainability.

Socioeconomic Characteristics Influencing the Adoption of Improved Maize Production Techniques among Farmers in Billiri Local Government Area, Gombe State, Nigeria

2024-08-30T14:00:24+00:00

The research evaluated the socioeconomic characteristics influencing the adoption of improved maize production techniques among farmers in Billiri Local Government Area of Gombe State, Nigeria. A multi-stage sampling procedure was employed. From a population of 900 maize-growing households, 218 respondents were randomly chosen as the sample size. Data were analysed using percentages, mean, and logit regression. Results reveal that the mean age of the farmers was 39.6 years, the majority (61.9%) of the farmers were male and most (81.7%) of the respondents were married. About three-quarters (72%) of the respondents attended tertiary education, the average household size of the participants was 9 persons, and the average farming experience was 9.2 years. Improved maize varieties were the most introduced maize technology to the farmers (80.8%), but fertilizer had the highest adoption rate (50.2%). The high cost of fertilizer was revealed by 68.1% of the respondents to be the major constraint facing the farmers Farmers’ education and credit were both significant at 1% and positive while experience obtained from farming and contact with extension agents were both statistically significant at 10%; farming experience was positive while extension contact was negative. Fertilizers should be subsidized by the government and education made affordable.

Tertiary Agricultural Students’ Perception of Social Media Use during the COVID-19 Pandemic Era in Oyo State, Nigeria

2024-08-30T14:32:06+00:00

This study investigated tertiary agricultural Students’ perception of Social Media Use during the COVID-19 Pandemic Era in Oyo State, Nigeria. A total of 210 students were selected using a multi-stage sampling procedure. Data on respondents' perceptions, benefits, predisposing factors, and constraints to use SM were collected through a questionnaire. Data were analysed using frequency counts, percentages, and mean. Most respondents (68.0%) had a positive perception of SM, while 74.5% derived high benefits from the use of SM during the COVID-19 pandemic. The quest for agricultural information (=1.82) constituted the most predisposing factor to use SM, while the high cost of devices (=1.74) was the most constraint to use SM. The students were favourably disposed to SM during COVID-19 pandemic era in Oyo State, Nigeria. Educators should consider integrating SM as a digital platform into their teaching strategies, providing training and resources to students to ensure that they are using social media in a responsible and effective manner.

Perceived Effect of Fish Harvesting and Processing Methods on the Health Status of Fisherfolks in Cross River State, Nigeria

2024-08-30T14:42:38+00:00

This study investigated the impact of fish harvesting and processing methods on the health of fisherfolks in Cross River State, Nigeria. Employing a multi-stage sampling technique, 162 harvesters and 67 processors were selected from coastal areas with extensive fishing activities. Data were analyzed with percentages, mean, standard deviation, and Spearman rank order correlation analysis. The results revealed that common fish harvesting methods include drift net (97%), gill net (90%), and hook and line (94%), while predominant processing methods were smoking with a chokor oven (94%) and smoking with a cylindrical drum. Insect bites (96.91%), injuries (95.68%) and sunburns (89.51%) were the major health issues faced by harvesters, while insect bites (100.0%), heat burns and injuries (92.54%, respectively, were predominant health issues faced by processors. Bamboo traps (=2.96), machetes (=2.92), and traditional screens (=2.53) significantly impacted the health of fisher folks during harvesting. For processors, smoking (=2.73), roasting (=2.58), and frying (=2.23) had severe health effects. Traditional fishing and processing methods pose significant health risks, causing issues like cold-related ailments, injuries, pneumonia, and heat burns. The study recommends that relevant government agencies establish critical safety regulations and provide appropriate personal protective equipment to fisherfolks involved in harvesting and processing activities

Use of Good Agricultural Practices Among Cassava Farmers in Southwest, Nigeria

2024-08-30T16:21:06+00:00

The study assessed the adoption of good agricultural practices by arable crop farmers in Southwest, Nigeria. Specifically, the study describes the farmers’ awareness of good agricultural practices; ascertains the good agricultural practices arable crop farmers have adopted and identifies the constraints farmers face in adopting GAPs. A multi-stage sampling procedure was used to select 300 respondents for the study. Data were collected through a structured interview schedule. 91.5% of the respondents knew about crop rotation. The majority 86.5% of farmers adopted one or more good agricultural practices. The proportion of the respondents that adopted practices like planting improved cassava varieties, and usage of pesticides approved by NAFDAC and recommended by the ADP extension agent. Among the constraints the respondents faced in adopting good agricultural practices, an increase in the cost of production and management requirements ranked highest. Most farmers were aware of various good agricultural practices and have also adopted one or more of the listed good ones. Agricultural Development Projects should encourage the formation and promotion of farmers’ groups, as it enhances information sharing about good agricultural practices, and thus favours the ease of adoption of good agricultural practices.

Emerging Role of Extension Services in Strengthening the Capacity of Farmers’ Resilience to Climate Change in Nigeria

2024-08-30T22:40:01+00:00

The paper described the climate-resilient technologies and practices as well as the benefits associated with the adoption of such technologies and practices. The paper explored the role of extension services on how farmers’ resilience can be strengthened to ensure food security in the changing climate in Nigeria. The paper also identified the approaches/strategies to extension services in strengthening the resilience capacity of farmers to climate change. Then, the implications for extension services for strengthening farmers’ resilience to climate change were drawn and presented herein. The paper concluded that, there is a need for agricultural extension service providers to extend their mandates and broaden their scope by connecting and working with multiple actors and groups within and beyond the agriculture sector for collective action in strengthening climate change resilience in the agriculture sector.

Research Extension Linkage – A Review

2024-09-01T09:52:02+00:00

The flow of information from research centres to farmers requires continuous contact between actors. If the link is weak the agricultural productivity will not increase. With the introduction of improved technologies, food production can be increased at a geometric pace in response to population growth. However, large numbers of production technologies developed by research institutes over time have not achieved food sufficiency due to poor linkage between research and extension. At times, it takes unnecessarily too long for promising technologies to develop to achieve their objectives. The broad objective of this review is how weak links can be strengthened to improve agricultural communication between research and extension organisations. The specific objectives are to: (i) examine factors influencing research, extension and farmers’ linkage; and (ii) highlight the strategies for strengthening the connection between research and extension. A random sampling technique was used to review 20 relevant articles from Google Scholar. The review concludes that strengthening the link between research and extension is vital for improving agricultural productivity and achieving food security. Key recommendations include fostering collaborative partnerships amongst the stakeholders, enhancing public-private cooperation, and ensuring active involvement of farmers in the research and extension process

Contribution of Mobile Phone Services to Rural Livelihood Assets in Atiba Local Government of Oyo State, Nigeria

2024-10-26T20:47:21+00:00

This study examined the contributions of Mobile Phone services to rural livelihood assets in Atiba Local Government areas of Oyo State of Nigeria. Specifically, the study examined the mobile phone features and services used, the respondents’ use of mobile phones for livelihood assets, constraints faced in using mobile phones for livelihood assets, and the relationship between selected socioeconomic characteristics and the use of mobile phones. A multi-stage sampling procedure was used to select 135 respondents using an interview schedule. Variables were analysed with percentage, Weighted Mean score, Chi-square, and Pearson Product Moment Correlation. The result showed the most utilized feature and service of mobile phones was the clock (WMS=3.65), while Poor network (WMS=2.38) constrained its utilisation for livelihood assets. Social capital (vital information sharing (WMS=3.58) was the highest livelihood asset domain for respondents’ mobile phone usage. A significant relationship existed between respondents’ age (r=-0.355), income (r=0.210), gender (59.41), Level of Education (149.79), ownership of mobile phone (85.84) and use of mobile phone for livelihood asset. The study concluded that the poor network hinders the use of mobile phones for livelihood assets. It recommended that mobile network providers should strategies the provision of unalloyed networks to promote rural livelihood assets.

Arable Crop Farmers’ Use of Private Extension Services in Ondo State, Nigeria

2024-10-26T21:31:39+00:00

The study assessed the arable crop farmers’ use of private extension services in Ondo State, Nigeria. A multi-stage sampling procedure was used in selecting 95 respondents in the study area and data were collected through an interview schedule. Data analysis was carried out using percentages and mean statistics. The study revealed there were few private extension service providers, and most (44.2%) of the arable crop farmers did not use private extension services. It also revealed that the respondents had an unfavourable attitude toward private extension services with a grand mean of 2.82. It was further revealed that only a few private extension providers were available to arable crop farmers. The farmers also believed that private extension could not provide all the services required for their agricultural production. The main constraint to private extension was that services of private extension were often geared to meeting the providers’ organizational needs (. The study concluded that farmers had unfavourable attitude to private extension. The study recommended a pluralistic approach to extension services and increased awareness to enlighten farmers about the importance of private extension services.

Farmers’ Climate Change Adaptation Strategies and Cassava Production in Akoko South West Local Government Area, Ondo State

2024-10-27T11:09:11+00:00

This study focused on the effect of farmers’ climate change adaptation strategies on cassava production in Akoko South West Local Government Area, Ondo State. A two-stage sampling procedure was used to select 120 respondents for the study. Data were collected through a well-structured and validated questionnaire and analysed using percentages and mean statistics. Findings from the study revealed that the major climate change events noticed in the study area were high temperature (96.7%), high humidity (86.7%) and reduction in rainfall days (83.3%). Similarly, reduced use of inorganic fertilizers and pesticides ( =2.50) and planting different cassava varieties ( =2.23) were the major adaptation strategies used by the cassava farmers. Farming experience (97.5%) and wealth (96.7%) were the major factors that determined farmers’ choice of adaptation strategies. Consequently, the respondents strongly agreed that their adaptation strategies have led to the timely harvest of their cassava, ( =4.53). Furthermore, a significant relationship existed between the adaptation strategies employed by the farmers and cassava production (r= 0.46, p<0.01). The study concluded that the adaptation strategies adopted by the farmers impacted cassava production. It was recommended that the climate adaptation strategies identified should be harnessed by relevant stakeholders to mitigate the effect of climate change on cassava production.

Consumers’ Willingness to Pay for Value-Added Cassava Flour (Pupuru) in Akoko North-East Local Government Area of Ondo State, Nigeria

2024-10-27T11:45:53+00:00

Agricultural value chains in Nigeria are expanding rapidly to ensure national food security. Of the diverse locally made cassava products, pupuru (fermented cassava flour) is one of the most consumed in Ondo state. The constraint of high perishability necessitates additional processing and bio-fortification as the solution. Value-added bio-fortified pupuru hygienically packaged now adorns store shelves against the traditional pupuru sold in the open market. Information from 120 respondents, was selected through a multi-stage sampling procedure, using an interview schedule to determine their willingness to pay for value-added pupuru. Majority of the respondents consume pupuru (75.8%), at home (62.5%), whenever available (59.2%) and purchase it (51.7%) from the open markets. There is low knowledge, but favourable attitude based on its ease of consumption (ẍ=3.95), preservation (ẍ=3.85) and non-toxicity (ẍ=3.80). The majority (60.0%) are willing to pay the extra cost of value addition. The correlation showed a significant relationship between consumers’ knowledge (r=0.624), perception (r=-0.328) and willingness to pay (p=<0.05) for value-added pupuru. Availability, affordable price and endorsement from trusted people influenced their willingness to pay. Increased investment in value-added, popular local foods like pupuru shows great promise for higher income generation, strengthening household nutritional security and agricultural development.

Agricultural Science Teacher’s Knowledge of Rice Production Technology in Edu and Patigi Local Government Areas of Kwara State, Nigeria

2024-10-27T12:04:18+00:00

The study assessed the knowledge of agricultural science teachers on rice production technologies. A two-stage sampling procedure was used in selecting fifty-one agricultural science teachers for the study. Data were obtained using structured questionnaire The data was analysed by frequencies, percentages, means, standard deviation, and multiple regression. The result revealed that Internet (x̄ =1.73) and Agricultural textbooks (x̄ =1.53) were the major sources of information for rice production technology. The respondents had high knowledge (90.2%) of rice production technologies. Poor financial condition (x̄ =2.57) was identified as the major constraint to accessing information on the technologies. Result also revealed that education, years of working experience and place of residence had significant influence (p<0.05) on the teachers’ knowledge of the technologies. The study concluded that with the high knowledge of agricultural science teachers in rice production technologies, when properly equipped, they can serve in advisory capacity to farmers who may not have access to extension officers

Socio-economic Determinants of Adoption of Oil-palm Processing Technologies in Oguta Local Government Area of Imo State, Nigeria

2024-10-27T12:36:15+00:00

The study examined the socio-economic determinants of the adoption of palm fruit processing technologies in Oguta Local Government Area of Imo state. Purposive and multi-stage sampling procedures were used to select 60 palm fruit processors from whom primary data were obtained using a semi-structured questionnaire. Data were analyzed using frequencies, percentages, mean, Likert scale, and multiple regression model. All the processing technologies introduced to the palm fruit processors were adopted. Results of multiple regression analysis using linear functional form as lead equation posted an R² value of 0.740 and showed that household size, age, processing income, credit access, extension access and processing experience were significant determinants of adoption of processing technologies. Meanwhile, 91.67% and 86.67% of the processors were constrained by a lack of funds/financial incapacitation and inadequate credit access respectively. The study recommends that soft loans should be made available and accessible to palm fruit processors in other to equip them with the financial capacity to adopt relevant processing technologies that will not only reduce the drudgery associated with palm fruit processing but also enhance productivity.

Farmers’ Coping Strategies to Households Food Insecurity in Ezinihitte Mbaise Local Government Area of Imo State-Nigeria

2024-10-28T12:21:00+00:00

The study assessed farmers’ coping strategies for household food insecurity in Ezinihitte Mbaise Local Government Area of Imo state, Nigeria. A multistage random sampling procedure was used to select 90 farm households from whom data were elicited using a semi-structured interview schedule. Data were analysed using means, frequencies, percentages, and food security index. Results showed that the farm households' incidence of food insecurity and gap were 0.5111 and 0.4769 respectively, while the severity of food insecurity was 0.2388. Reduced number of meals eaten per day (78.26%), reduced size of meals (73.91%) and less expensive food were identified by 71.74% of the food insecure as coping strategies for food insecurity by farm households. Meanwhile, 75.56% and 70.00% of the farm households reported that low income and poor access to farm inputs were problems constraining their achievement of food security. The study concluded that a higher percentage of the farm households in the study area were food insecure. It was recommended that heads of farm households be encouraged to join and participate in cooperative societies to improve their food security status and access to production resources.

Cocoyam Utilisation Pattern among Rural Households in Ekiti State, Nigeria

2024-10-28T14:16:02+00:00

This study assessed the cocoyam utilisation pattern among rural households in Ekiti State, Nigeria. A multi-stage sampling procedure was used in the selection of 160 respondents. Data were obtained using an interview schedule on sources of information used by the households, the pattern of cocoyam utilisation, respondents’ perception towards cocoyam utilisation and constraints to the utilisation. The Data obtained were analysed using mean scores, standard deviation, frequency and percentages. The results showed that family and friends were the main sources of information (66.3%) utilised by the respondents. Also, direct consumption of the cocoyam tubers (X̄=3.78+3.27) and use for the treatment of snake bites (X̄=2.45+2.05), and treatment of yellow eye (X̄=1.96 +1.57) were the major areas of utilisation either as food/recipe or medicinal pattern. Inadequate infrastructural facility (X̄=2.45) was considered as the main constraint to the utilisation of the cocoyam It is therefore concluded that cocoyam is mainly consumed directly in the study area despite respondents’ awareness and perception on the cocoyam value. The study thus recommends that farmers should be trained by extension institutions on the utilisation of the crop for other economic benefits.

Effects of COVID-19 Pandemic on Women’s Farming Activities on Some Selected Food Crops in Delta State, Nigeria

2024-10-28T14:32:12+00:00

This study was carried out to examine the effect of the COVID-19 pandemic on women's farming activities on some selected crops in Delta State. A multistage sampling procedure was used to randomly select 120 cassava and maize female farmers.

The major effect of COVID-19 on women’s farming activities identified in the study was a reduction in crops produced and sold =2.51). There was a -27.59% and -17.64% decrement in the output of cassava and maize respectively and an increase in the respondents’ income as the cassava farmers incurred a 28.7% increment in their income while the maize farmers had 28.5%. There was a significant difference in the income generated from cassava production (t=-3.54, p=0.00) and maize production (t=-2.83, p=0.01). It was concluded that the effects of COVID-19 on farming activities were a decrease in the quantity of crops produced and sold, huge cost of farm input, low profit from crops sold, increase in post-harvest loss due to lack of storage, high standard of living, high cost in labour, cost of production and farm input. Subsidy should be placed on farm inputs like fertilizers, seedlings, pesticides and herbicides to reduce the cost of production for the farmers and provide an avenue for the farmers to be able to make a profit from their farms

Differences in Female and Male Farmers’ Participation in Arable Crop Production Activities in Ekiti State, Nigeria

2024-10-28T14:40:10+00:00

This study assessed gender differences in farmers’ participation in arable crop production activities in Ekiti State, Nigeria. A total of 144 arable crop farmers comprising of 72 male and 72 females were selected using a multi-stage sampling technique. Data were collected using a well-structured questionnaire and analysed using frequency and percentage, Mean statistics and linear regression. Results showed that factors that influenced the male’s participation were age (t=-6.090) and household size (t=3.529) whereas only age (t=-2.164) influenced the female’s participation in the process. Furthermore, a significant difference exists in the level of participation (t=13.684) and constraints faced (t=-10.326) by male and female farmers. The study deduced that male farmers participated more in arable crop Production activities than their female counterparts. Training aids should be tailored to meet the specific needs of female and male farmer

Use of climate-smart agricultural practices among smallholder farmers in Ogun State, Nigeria

2024-10-28T14:50:17+00:00

The study assessed the use of climate-smart agricultural practices among smallholder farmers in Ogun state, Nigeria. A multistage sampling procedure was used to select 180 respondents. Data collected were analysed using frequency, percentage, mean, and Pearson product-moment correlation. The majority (70.6%) of the respondents indicated that the source of information on climate-smart agricultural practices was extension agents. All (100.0%) indicated they use minimum tillage, crop rotation, and mulching respectively, cover crop (81.1%), mixed cropping (82.2%), and integrated pest management (80%). Constraints limiting the use of climate-smart practices were: lack of supportive government policy ( = 2.69), insufficient access to credit ( = 2.60), lack of finance to adopt technology ( = 2.27), and lack of information ( = 2.28). Annual income (p= 0.028), education (p= 0.000, and contact with extension services (p= 0.000) had significant and positive correlation with the use of climate-smart agricultural practices by the farmers. The study recommends that the government should implement policies that support CSA practices and improve extension service delivery to increase farmers’ use of climate-smart practices.

Economic Effects of COVID-19 Agricultural Loan Palliative on Poultry and Fish Farmers’ Production in Ondo State, Nigeria

2024-10-28T15:04:30+00:00

This study examined the effects of the COVID-19 Agricultural palliative loan on poultry and fish production in Ondo State Nigeria. The study specifically ascertained the socio-economic characteristics of the beneficiary farmers and determined the effect of the COVID-19 palliative loan on the farmers’ income level. A systematic sampling procedure was used in selecting 100 respondents for the study. Data were analyzed using frequency, percentage, bar charts, chi-square, T-Test and mean statistics. Findings revealed that 72% and 70% of fish and poultry farmers respectively were within the age group of 40-59 with a mean age of 51 years. Results also revealed that there was a 28.7% increment in the income of the fish farmers while poultry farmers received a 5.5% increment. There was no significant difference in the income of the fish farmers (t=-1.25) and poultry farmers (t=-1.24). It was recommended that there should be the creation of a loan monitoring and evaluation committee to provide continuous follow-up and technical support to future beneficiaries of such loans to ensure that they use the loan for the intended purpose.

Crop Farmers’ Participation in Research and Extension Programmes in Ogun State, Nigeria

2024-10-28T15:17:23+00:00

This study assessed crop farmers’ participation in research and extension programmes in Ogun State, Nigeria. Data were obtained from randomly interviewing 160 registered crop farmers, 10 subject matter specialists, and 40 extension workers. The data were analysed using percentages, charts, and an ordered logit model. Results showed that 69.2% of the crop farmers participated mostly in community-based agricultural and rural development programmes. Insufficient funds to conduct research and extension programmes (= 4.96) and brief period allocation for training (= 4.94) were the major factors affecting crop farmers' participation in research and agricultural extension programmes. The major perception of the crop farmers was that research and extension programmes had boosted production capacity (= 2.92). When crop farmers participated in research and extension programmes, the extension agents' main assessment was that the relationships among the farmers had improved (= 2.48). The focus of crop farmers' involvement in research and extension initiatives should be redirected from rural development initiatives to national food programmes.

Effects of Climate-smart Agricultural Practices on Cassava Farmers’ Output in Ebonyi State, Nigeria

2024-11-03T12:44:41+00:00

The study assessed the effects of climate-smart agricultural practices on cassava farmers’ output in Ebonyi State, Nigeria. A multi-stage sampling procedure was employed to select 120 respondents. Data were analysed using percentages, mean statistics and correlation analysis. The results show that early planting was adopted by 100% of farmers. However, a lack of credit (78.33%) was ranked as the highest constraint. A statistically significant positive correlation (0.3131) was found between climate-smart agricultural practices and output. The study concludes that early planting practices are widely adopted, while lack of credit presents a significant challenge to adopting Climate-Smart Agriculture (CSA) practices. Despite these challenges, CSA practices were found to have the ability to enhance cassava farmers’ output. To overcome these challenges, the study recommends implementing robust extension services, providing financial support, and offering education programmes to promote CSA adoption among farmers.

Factors Influencing Dissemination of Research Outputs to Utilisers among Agricultural Research Institutes in Oyo State Nigeria

2024-11-04T06:46:50+00:00

The study assessed factors influencing the Dissemination of Research Outputs (DoRO) among agricultural research institutes in Oyo state. Random sampling was used to select 150 respondents from whom data were collected using a structured questionnaire. Data were analysed using percentages, mean and, principal component analysis. Research outputs generated and disseminated include F3 (80.6%) and TC4 (72.2%) cocoa variety (CRIN); Soybean (100.0%), castor seed (90.9%) and rice (63.6%) (NCRI); Vitamin A cassava (100.0%), TMES (100.0%), TMS13F41343P0022 (90.5%) (IITA), rabbit (76.2%), mushroom (71.4%), cane-rat (61.9%) (FRIN). Level of DoRO among researchers was low (53.3%) due to inadequate funding ((X ) ̅=1.47), weak linkage among stakeholders ((X ) ̅=1.36) and irregular power supply ((X ) ̅=1.15). Funding (0.629), weak linkages (0.583), awareness level of end users (0.675) and corrupt practices (0.717) were factors associated with DoRO. Economic, technical, operational, social and external factors were associated with dissemination of research outputs in Oyo state. Transparency in funding and strong linkage between researchers and extension unit of research institutes should be strengthening.

Effects of Participation of Women Rice Farmers in the Anchor Borrowers’ Programme on Rice Production in Ekiti and Ogun States

2024-11-05T08:47:21+00:00

The study examined the effects of the participation of women rice farmers in the Anchor Borrowers’ Programme (ABP) on rice production in Ekiti and Ogun States. A multistage sampling procedure was used to select 143 respondents. Data were collected using a questionnaire and interview schedule to obtain the enterprise characteristics, and level of rice production of women rice farmers while percentage, mean, Chi-square and Pearson Product Moment Correlation (α=0.05) were used to analyse the data. Average farm size, years of experience and rice yield were 2.2±1.3 acres, 17.4±6.8 years and 1.73±0.23 tons, respectively. Unfavourable attitude (61.5%) towards ABP due to inadequate credit facilities ( ¯x=1.89), delay in input supply ( ¯x=1.89) and other rice production incentives ( ¯x=1.66) explained the low level of women participation (55.2%) in ABP. The production efficiency of respondents decreased from 0.69 to 0.37, likewise, the profitability index from 40.0% to 36.8% after participation in ABP. Women rice farmers’ participation in ABP did not affect the level of rice production in the study area. Increasing loan access and other production incentives by the Government and stakeholders in subsequent agricultural intervention programmes will improve women's participation and rice production.

The Potentials of E-Extension for Sustainable Agricultural Development in Nigeria

2024-11-05T09:06:55+00:00

The Agricultural sector has not been left out of the revolution technology is bringing to the world. The need for precision farming towards sustainable agriculture has made agricultural information and knowledge more crucial. Agricultural extension agencies have continuously adopted various emerging technologies and their advantages cannot be underestimated. E- Extension is a means of delivering and transferring information to farmers through electronic devices and ICTs. E-extension can reach a wide range of audiences rapidly within a short period. This study examines the e-extension systems that have been adopted in Nigeria, the ICT tools and e-resources used for e-extension were examined. The delivery of advisory services through Farmers' help line, audio-visual messages, short messages and others was explored. This review considered the adoption of e-extension by developed nations. The review was done extensively reviewing publications and literature. The paper also discussed the constraints to e-extension, which were poor electric power supply, low literacy, cost of electronic technology, poor funding of public extension services, low ICT literacy, poor internet connectivity among others. Conclusively, e-extension can transform the lives of farmers via easy access to advisory services if adopted. It is therefore recommended that extension work be encouraged by the relevant sectors.

Preferential Adoption of Bio-fortified Pro-vitamin A Yellow cassava varieties as Smart Feeding for Rural Farmers in Southeast Nigeria

2024-11-05T12:25:30+00:00

This study examined the preferential adoption of bio-fortified pro-vitamin A yellow cassava varieties as smart feeding for rural households. It employed cross-sectional data obtained from 318 farmers in Southeast Nigeria. Data were analysed using percentages, binary logistic regression, Mean, and standard deviation. The study found that the most highly adopted bio-fortified pro-vitamin A cassava varieties were: TMS07/0593 (92.6%), TMS 1371 (80%), and TMS 0539 (77%). The study revealed that access to farmland, farming experience, contact with extension agents, access to vitamin A yellow cassava stems, income from vitamin A yellow cassava, and low carbohydrate content were the significant predictors of adoption of bio-fortified pro-vitamin A yellow cassava varieties in the zone. The result from the study further showed farmers' order of preference for the adoption of bio-fortified pro-vitamin A yellow cassava varieties. The cost-benefit analysis revealed that the cultivation of bio-fortified pro-vitamin A yellow cassava gives a higher profit margin than the cultivation of white cassava. Farmers should be highly involved in farm enhancement collaborations to enhance their access to farm inputs that will boost their production. It is necessary to intensify the production of bio-fortified pro-vitamin A yellow cassava due to its nutritional benefits and higher profitability index.

Women’s involvement in Community Development Projects in Ekiti State, Nigeria

2024-11-05T12:40:44+00:00

This study assessed the involvement of women in community development projects in Ekiti State, Nigeria. A multistage sampling procedure was used to select 160 respondents randomly. A well-structured interview schedule, key informant technique and Focus Group Discussion were used to collect data on the socio-economic characteristics of the respondents, development projects carried out with or without the involvement of the women and determine the perception of women towards their involvement in community development projects. Data collected were analysed using frequency, percentage, mean and Chi-Square. The results revealed that the majority (94.4%) of the women were involved in different community development projects and had favourable perceptions about women's involvement in community development projects (x ̅=3.0). Occupation (X2 =55.869, P=0.000) and level of education (r=0.183, P=0.021) were significantly associated with women's involvement in community development projects. The women had a high level of involvement in development projects. As a result of the low involvement of women in some development projects, the Government and NGOs should motivate and encourage women to be more involved in community development projects. Hence, community project sustainability will be enhanced

Perceived Effect of Water Scarcity on Livelihood Status of Livestock Farmers in Zamfara State, Nigeria

2024-11-23T16:51:55+00:00

The study evaluated the impact of water scarcity on the livelihood activities of livestock farmers in Zamfara State, Nigeria. The study adopted a multistage sampling technique to elicit primary data from 360 respondents. Data obtained were analysed using frequency, percentages and structural equation modelling (SEM). Findings revealed that livelihood activities had a direct effect on social networks (β= 0.944, p > 0.01), awareness (β = 0.572, p = >0.01), farmers’ perception of water scarcity (β = 0.266, p = >0.01) which were positive and significant. The result shows that R2 for a social network, awareness and perception were 51.4%, 37.2% and 61% respectively. This means that livelihood activity causes variance in these variables. The study concludes that livelihood activities significantly influence farmers' perceptions of water scarcity. Therefore, government organizations should invest in the development of subterranean water resources to improve water availability. Additionally, farmers should consider investing in rainwater harvesting infrastructure to mitigate the challenges of water scarcity.