Journal of Community & Communication Research

PROFITABILITY ANALYSIS OF PROCESSING LOCUST BEAN INTO DADDAWA BY WOMEN IN BAUCHI STATE, NIGERIA

U. K Abdulhamid — 2024-06-28

This study analysed the profitability of locust beans processing into daddawa among women in Bauchi State, Nigeria. A multistage sampling procedure was used to select 132 women processors. Descriptive statistics and Net processing income were used in the analysis of the data for this study. The results of the study showed that women locust bean processors had an average age of 44.5 years and a mean household size of 7. The majority (53.4% and 72.52%) of the women processors were married and had formal education respectively. The results also revealed that the total cost of daddawa processing was N3, 301.9, and gross revenue of N5, 875.0 with a net processing income of N2, 073.1, and return per naira invested of N0.63. The major constraints associated with locust bean processors into daddawa were time consuming, inadequate capital, and lack of technological know-how. It was concluded that locust beans processing into daddawa was profitable and a viable venture. It is recommended that the adoption of improved methods of processing is imperative, to ensure timely and non-stressful operation.

AWARENESS AND UTILIZATION OF ORANGE FLESHED SWEET POTATO PRODUCTION IN EBONYI STATE, NIGERIA

Agoh Emilia Chima — 2024-06-28

The study assessed the awareness and utilization of Orange-Fleshed Sweet Potato (OFSP) production in Ebonyi state, Nigeria. A multi-stage sampling procedure was used in selecting 120 respondents for the study. Data was collected with the aid of a questionnaire. The results revealed that the average age of the respondents was 51.2 years, and 71.6% were female, 55% were married with a mean household size of 5 persons respectively. The study further revealed that 75% of the farmers were only aware of two out of three OFSP varieties, and the level of utilization was moderate with a mean score of 2.45. The result further revealed that 81.7% and 71.7% of farmers were constrained by the unavailability and high cost of planting materials, while 65.8% and 65.0% were constrained by the high cost of fertilizer and high cost of labor respectively. Therefore, the study recommended that there was a need to create more awareness and increase the adoption and utilization of OFSP to improve food security and nutrition in Ebonyi state, Nigeria.

RESPONSE OF BROILER FINISHER CHICKENS TO DIETARY INTAKE OF CASSAVA LEAF MEAL

Esiegwu A. C — 2024-06-28

The response of dietary intake of cassava leaves meal on broiler finisher chickens was investigated. The cassava leaf meal (CLM) was used to formulate five broiler finisher diets at 0%, 2.5%, 5.0%, 7.5% and 10% inclusion levels partly replacing soya bean meal in the diet. The diets were represented as T₁ (0%), and T₂ (2.5%). T₃ (5.0%), T₄ (7.5%), and T₅ (10%) respectively. Seventy-five (75) broiler finisher chickens were divided into five treatment groups of fifteen (15) birds each in a Completely Randomized Design (CRD). Each treatment group was further divided into three replicates of five birds per replicate and each of the groups was assigned to one of the treatment broiler finisher diets and fed for 28 days. Data were collected on body weight changes, feed intake, and feed conversion ratio. At the end of the feeding trial, three birds were randomly selected from each treatment (one per replicate) and used for evaluation of the carcass and internal organ weight. Three birds per treatment were also separated and put in an individual metabolic cage for total tract faecal collection. Economic parameters determined were cost/kg weight gain, cost of total feed consumed, and gross margin. Statistical analysis data on the performance result showed that T₁ (0%) and T₂ (2.5%) inclusion levels were significantly better P<0.05 than T₃ (5.0%), T₄ (7.5%) and T5 (10.0%) for average weight changes and average daily weight gain. Performance of broilers declined as the inclusion levels of cassava leaf meal increased from 5% to 10%. Feed intake was similar across treatments. Feed conversion ratio revealed that T₁ (0%), T₂ (2.5%), and T₃ (5.0%) were similar in performance but the efficiency of feed utilization clearly demonstrated that 0% and 2.5% inclusion levels gave the optimum performance inclusion levels. Data on the cost and returns of broiler finisher birds offered dietary cassava leaf meal showed that feed cost per kg weight gain was lowest at 2.5% inclusion level of cassava leaves meal T₂ (2.5%). Gross margin (profit) was best or highest at T₂ (2.5%) followed by the control T₁ (0%). 5%, 7.5%, and 10% inclusion levels representing T₃, T_4, and T₅ indicated negative profit margin which means that cost of production was higher than the revenue. There was no treatment effect (P>0.05) on the live weight, dressed weight, hearts, and the length of intestines of the chickens. The weights of the thigh, the wings, the breast, the drumstick, the shank, the back, the liver, and the gizzard were statistically similar (P>0.05) to the control. This implies that there was no negative effect of the cassava leaves meal on the carcass cuts and organ weights of the chickens. Percentage crude protein digestibility was significantly decreased (P<0.05) at T₃ (5.0%), T₄ (7.5%), and T₅ (10%) cassava leaves meal inclusion compared to T₁ (0%) and T₂ (2.5%). The percentage of carbohydrate digestibility was significantly increased (P<0.05) at T₄ (7.5%) and T₅ (10%) Cassava leaves meal inclusion compared to T₁ (0%), T₂ (2.5%) and T₃ (5.0%). It was therefore concluded that cassava leaves meal could serve as a protein source partly replacing soya bean meal in broiler finisher ration at not more than 2.5% inclusion level.

ASSESSMENT OF CLIMATE CHANGE, POVERTY, AND AGRICULTURAL GROWTH PERFORMANCE IN NIGERIA (1980 -2017)

A. I Ubokudom — 2024-06-28

The study assessed the climate change, poverty, and agricultural growth performance in Nigeria from 1980 to 2017. It specifically examined and analyzed the trend of climate change, poverty, and agricultural growth performance; examined the effect of climate variability, agricultural growth, and other selected macro-economic variables on economic growth; determined the relationship between climate variability, agricultural growth, poverty index, and economic growth; examined the effect of climate change on poverty level in Nigeria; assessed the impact of climate change on Nigeria’s agricultural share of GDP and ascertained the influence of agricultural growth performance on Nigeria poverty index within the reference period. The study made use of data from secondary sources obtained from the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) Statistical Bulletin, Annual Report and Statements of Account from the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN), National Bureau of Statistics (NBS), Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO), Nigeria Meteorological Agency, World Bank and Index Mundi. The data series of interest covered the period from 1980-2017. It was revealed that forest depletion (0.0005*), carbon emissions (0.0185*), and government expenditure on agriculture (0.0104*) were negatively significant variables affecting real gross domestic product within the reference period while the agricultural production index (0.0002*) was a positively significant variable affecting economic growth. It was also revealed that temperature (0.0316*) was a negatively significant variable affecting poverty within the reference period while forest depletion (0.0026*) was a positively significant variable affecting poverty level. The study further revealed that temperature (0.0115*) and carbon emissions (0.0213*) were positively significant variables affecting Nigeria’s agricultural share of GDP within the reference period and finally government expenditure on agriculture (0.0228*) was revealed to be a positively significant variable affecting poverty index in Nigeria within the reference period. The study therefore recommended that the Federal Government of Nigeria embark on poverty alleviation by providing modern infrastructures in the rural areas and not only in the city. Adequate infrastructures will boost agriculture which can create jobs for the jobless youth and enhance the per capita income of the country, also recycling of the important climate factors should be encouraged in Nigeria to maintain a steady supply of agricultural produce.

ANIMAL-SOURCED PROTEIN CONSUMPTION AMONG RURAL FARMING HOUSEHOLDS IN AKWA IBOM STATE, NIGERIA

K. K Nkeme — 2024-06-28

This study scrutinized farming households’ intake prevalence of animal-source protein in Akwa Ibom State, Nigeria. Data were collected from 150 respondents through a multi-stage sampling procedure using a structured questionnaire and analyzed using descriptive statistics as well as OLS regression analysis. Results revealed that seafood was the most readily available animal-source protein for farming households. Respondents prevalently consumed food items from seafood/fish ((X̅=7.4), cow meat ((X̅=5.1), and goat meat ((X̅=4.8). Coping strategies included, borrowing money (97.8%), reducing the number of meals to be taken in a day (96.4%), and depending on less preferred food (93.7%). The constraints were large household sizes and poor credit access. The result of the OLS regression revealed a significant positive relationship between age, meat availability, knowledge level on the importance of protein, health/allergies, and wealth level at a 1% significant level and household consumption frequency of animal-source protein. Equally, a negative significant relationship was observed between educational level and household size and household consumption frequency of animal-source protein at 1% and 5% significant levels, respectively. The study recommended that the Government should launch enlightenment programmes to educate the households on the need for increased consumption of animal-source protein.

DETERMINANTS OF FISH FARMERS' WILLINGNESS TO PAY FOR PRIVATE EXTENSION SERVICES IN UYO AGRICULTURAL ZONE, AKS

Jemimah Timothy Ekanem — 2024-06-29

The study examined the determinants of fish farmers’ willingness to pay for privately provided extension services in Akwa Ibom State. Their socioeconomics and fish farming characteristics, the type of extension services needed, constraints to the willingness to pay, and the factors that affect their willingness to pay for privately provided extension services were also identified. A structured questionnaire was used to elicit data from 120 fish farmers, randomly selected across the study area. Descriptive statistics and a logistic regression model were used to analyse the data. The results showed that a sizeable number (55.8%) of fish farmers in the study area were willing to pay for privately provided extension services, while 44.2% of the respondents were not. Extension services in high demand by the fish farmers were information and technical knowhow on record keeping (3.50) breeding and method of improving fingerling breeds (3.45), construction of the modern ponds (3.44), selection of fish species (3.42) and water quality management (3.42). Fish farmers were constrained by inadequate capital or financial incapability. The fish farmers’ willingness to pay for privately provided services was driven by age (0.860), stock size (1.206), their knowledge level towards private extension service (0.795), and the type of extension services needed (1.131). There is a need for private extension service providers to render professional services to fish farmers in the State. Therefore, the fishery extension delivery system in Akwa Ibom State should be restructured through an agricultural extension transformation agenda to encourage this.

CROP COMBINATION PATTERNS IN YAM-BASED CROPPING SYSTEMS AMONG FARMERS IN SOUTHERN ADAMAWA STATE, NIGERIA

D. S Oaya — 2024-06-28

The study analyzed the crop combination patterns and profitability in yam-based cropping systems among farmers in southern Adamawa State, Nigeria. The specific objectives were to; identify the crop combination types and to estimate the profitability of yam-based cropping systems, Primary data were obtained from two hundred and ninety-eight (298) respondents using a simple random sampling procedure. Data were analyzed using mean, frequency counts, gross margin, and net profit analysis. Cropping systems revealed that sole yam accounted for 22.82% of the cropping system and 22.72% of the total hectares allocation, while, mixed cropping accounted for 77.18% of the cropping systems and 77.28% of the total hectares allocation. The total hectares allocation for the yam-based cropping system was 603 ha, with sole yam and mixed cropping covering 137 ha and 466 ha respectively. A total of five mixed cropping systems; yam/cowpea (22.15%), yam/maize (13.76%), yam/maize/cowpea (17.11%), yam/maize/groundnut (13.09%) and yam/sorghum/cowpea (11.07%) were identified. The result of the gross margin analysis revealed that the yam/cowpea enterprise had the highest gross margin per hectare of ₦409,735.39, while the Yam/maize/cowpea enterprise had the least gross margin per hectare of ₦254,007.44. The gross margin per hectare (GM/ha) in all six enterprises was positive, and the operating ratio was less than one. More farmers should be encouraged by Government and non-governmental organizations to go into yam production enterprise because it is profitable.

EFFECT OF LIVELIHOOD INCOME GENERATING STRATEGIES ON RURAL AND URBAN FARM HOUSEHOLD EXPENDITURE IN ABIA STATE, NIGERIA

S. O Offor — 2024-06-28

This study analyzed the nature and effect of livelihood income generating strategies on rural and urban farm household expenditure in Abia State, Nigeria. A multistage simple random sampling technique was used to collect data from 120 (60 rural and 60 urban) farm household heads, using a well-structured questionnaire. Data collected were analyzed using the Simpson diversification index (SDI) and Ordinary Least Square regression (OLS). The Simpson diversification index (SDI) result showed that the majority of the rural (90.80%) and urban (80.80%) farm households diversified their livelihoods into diverse income strategies. About 46.70% of the rural farm households and 13.30% of urban farm households were highly diversified with index level of ≥0.51. 15.80% and 42.50% of the rural and urban farm households were in the low level of diversification range (0.02−0.25) respectively while 28.30% and 25% of the rural and urban farm households were in moderately diversified category. This is with an index score of 0.26-0.50 respectively. The OLS regression result showed that diverse livelihood income generating activities have an important influence on household livelihood outcomes. The coefficients of Off-farm Income, Non-farm Income, and On-farm Income & Off-farm Income strategies were statistically significant and positively related only to livelihood outcome of the rural farm household at different probability levels; while Non-farm Income and On-farm Income & Non-farm Income strategies were significant and positively related only to livelihood outcome of the urban farm household at different probability levels. Non-farm Income strategies were significant and positively related to livelihood outcome of both rural and urban farm households at 10% and 1% probability levels respectively. Based on the findings, policymakers, together with rural and urban development actors are encouraged to promote diverse income generating strategies especially, the non-farm income activities in both areas in order to support a sustainable livelihood outcome and poverty reduction of farm households in the areas.

EFFECT OF TRANSACTION COST ON MARKET INTEGRATION OF COWPEA BETWEEN KANO AND ABIA, IMO AND ENUGU STATES, NIGERIA

S. O Offor — 2024-06-28

The study analyzed the effect transaction cost has on market integration. The study used secondary data of cowpea monthly price obtained from National Bureau of Statistic (NBS) (2016-2018). It looked at the effect of transaction cost on market integration in the study area. It used Threshold Autoregressive error correction model (TAR) to realize the objective. It was ascertained that transaction cost had effect on market integration. The effect of transaction cost was determined by the market asymmetry of prices between the source and destination market prices of cowpea; with the threshold value of 0.929, 1.011 and 1.327 respectively for Abia, Imo and Enugu States. The result indicated evidence of nonlinearity in the error correction and long-run asymmetry (asymmetry in the speed of adjustment) and a well distribution of observation in the `IN` regime: variation of values smaller than the threshold θ, that is, it is inside threshold interval, 38.5, 38.5 and 46.2%) as well as the OUT regime: deviation of values outside the threshold, 61.5, 61.5and 53.8 %). The study therefore, recommended that policies that improve infrastructural development (good road network) should be encouraged to reduce effect of transaction cost on market integration.

IMPACT OF MAIZE FARMERS’ PARTICIPATION IN COMMUNITY-BASED AGRICULTURE AND RURAL DEVELOPMENT PROGRAMME (CBARDP) PROMOTED THROUGH RADIO JINGLES IN KADUNA STATE

P. O Orji — 2024-06-28

This study assessed the impact of Maize farmers’ Participation in the Community-Based Agriculture and Rural Development Programme (CBARDP) promoted through radio jingles in Kaduna State. The study described the socioeconomic characteristics of the farmers; and assessed the impact of farmers’ participation on the yield and income of the farmers. Data were collected from 189 respondents sampled through a multistage procedure using a structured questionnaire. Ranking, Chi-square and Z-test were used to analyze the data. The results showed that the majority (86.2%) of the participants were married, while male respondents were 94.0% with a mean age of 43 years and no formal education (50.0%). The estimated average annual yield increased from 1340.04kg/ha before the participation to 2087.25kg/ha after the participation, while the average annual income also increased from ₦111,459 before the participation to ₦193,903.70 after participation. The study concluded that farmers’ participation in CBARDP promoted through radio jingles significantly increased their yield and income after participation. Therefore, it was recommended that more radio jingles should be utilized to mobilize farmers towards participating in similar programmes across other locations in Nigeria so as to move the farmers from their present status of yield and income to where they ought to be.

RESOURCE USE EFFICIENCY IN HONEY PRODUCTION IN ABIA STATE, NIGERIA

N. U Uchechukwu — 2024-06-28

The study accessed the resource use efficiency of Bee farmers in Abia state. Multi-stage sampling technique was used in selecting 120 bee farmers from two Agricultural zones-Ohaofia and Umuahia. Questionnaire and interview methods were used to gather information from the farmers and data were analyzed using descriptive and inferential statistics. The result of the analysis showed that the mean age of the respondents was 41 years with the majority (53.7%) of the farmers married, having a mean household size of 5 persons and a mean educational level of 16 years. The mean income was N77562.50 with an average experience of 5 years. The coefficient of the number of beehives and baiting material were both significant at a 1% level and were positively related to the output of honey. The study revealed that honey production in the study area was a sustainable and profitable venture. It is revealed in the study that for every one naira spent in the process of production and marketing, not less than two naira was realized as profit. The study recommended that Bee farmers in the study area should be given proper training on the rudiments of beekeeping.to ensure a proper understanding of the use of modern equipment and adopt technology capable of increasing not only the profitability of the enterprise but also making efficient use of the resources available for honey production since the resources were overused.

NUTRITIONAL STATUS EFFECT OF UNICEF NUTRITION AND HEALTH PROGRAMME ON RURAL WOMEN PARTICIPANTS IN SOUTH-EAST NIGERIA

F. C Nzeakor — 2024-06-28

The study determined the level of participation in the UNICEF nutrition and health Programme of rural women in South-East Nigeria. A multi-stage random sampling was used to source for the 288 women. The data collected through questionnaire and scheduled interview sessions were analyzed using descriptive statistics such as mean scores, Body Mass Index (BMI), and ordinary least squares regression. The result showed that there was a high level of participation by the respondents (=3.16) in the programme activities. The study recommended the upscaling of the training programme, using the trainees’ sensitization and inclusion of more women in the programme while also advocating for the use of the participants as sensitizers to get other rural women aware and interested in the programme.

ANALYSIS OF POVERTY STATUS AMONG SMALLHOLDER RICE FARMERS IN KANO STATE, NIGERIA.

M. A Dayyabu — 2024-06-28

The study examined the poverty status among smallholder rice farmers in Kano State, Nigeria. A multistage sampling technique was used to select 210 smallholder rice farmers from a population of 914 smallholder rice farmers using a well-structured questionnaire. Data were analyzed using Descriptive statistics, a Multi-dimensional Poverty Index, and a Logit regression model. The results revealed that the households which ranged between 5.55 - 19 were not multidimensional poor represented 18.57%. Households that ranged between 20 - 33.3 were near multidimensional poor but not exactly multi-dimensional poor representing 46.19%, and households that ranged between 33.4 - 50 were multi-dimensional poor representing 27.62%, while households that ranged between 50-72.15 were in multidimensional poor, representing 7.61 %. The factors influencing the multidimensional poverty status of smallholder rice farmers in Kano State were household size (p<0.1), farm size (p<0.1), and cooperative membership (p<0.1). It was concluded that the majority of the smallholder rice farmers in the study area were multi-dimensionally poor. The study recommended that the fewer rice farmers identified as non-poor should intensify their rice production and other income-generating activities, to be above the poverty line to avoid falling into poverty easily either by the occurrence of natural disaster or any form of shock in the enterprise

INDIGENOUS METHODS OF ADAPTING TO CLIMATE CHANGE IMPACT AMONG CASSAVA FARMERS IN AKWA IBOM STATE, NIGERIA

I. J Udousung — 2024-06-28

The study assessed the indigenous adaptation methods to climate change impact among cassava farmers in Akwa Ibom State, Nigeria. Primary data were collected with a structured questionnaire and recorded responses during focus group discussions. A sample size of 180 farmers were randomly selected for the study. Data were analysed using descriptive statistics. Findings revealed that 53.3% of the respondents were male while 46.7% were female. A large proportion (59.4%) of the respondents were within the age range of 40 -50 years. The mean age was 40 years. A total of 15 practices were known to cassava farmers, however, only ten (10) variables were highly practiced. These included mulching (x̄ = 3.822), organic manure (x̄ = 3.817), mixed cropping and cover cropping (x̄ = 3.878), early maturing varieties (x̄ = 3.839), Improved varieties (x̄ = 3850), relay cropping (x̄ 3.678), total dependence on rain (x̄ = 3.656), early planting (x̄ 3.061), pests and diseases resistant varieties (x̄ = 3.706) changes in planting (x̄ = 3.561. The result of the hypothesis revealed that the mean difference was statistically significant at a 5.0% level of probability. The study therefore recommends more robust collaboration among cassava farmers and stakeholders for evolving innovative approaches and adaptive measures for the climate change phenomenon in the State.

VALUE CHAIN APPRAISAL OF PIGS’ MARKET FLOW, GOVERNANCE, AND SANITARY RISKS IN SOUTH EAST, NIGERIA

U Kalu — 2024-06-28

A thematic study was carried out to establish the flow of pigs and pork in the region and to understand governance and sanitary risks in the value chain. Cross-sectional qualitative data were collected through focus group discussions and key informant interviews with participants. Data were collected on the source and destination of live and slaughtered pigs, value-addition infrastructure, governance, and sanitary risks. A total of 110 participants were involved in the study. The result showed that the sector was not regulated and veterinary/professional/animal health care services were not well patronized. The sale of life pigs was scarcely done with a weighing scale. It was observed that the destination of life pigs was from the region to Akwa Ibom, Rivers, Bayelsa states, and neighbouring countries such as the Cameroons and Equatorial Guinea. Most farmers relied on self-medication for their pigs and the use of herbs was widely practiced. Inspection of animals by certified personnel was not practiced, so, there were biosecurity concerns in most pig farms in the region. There were no formal markets in the pig value chain, although the prospect for the enterprise was high. Women participation in the value chain was 30%, and the market for pigs in the region was not regulated and there existed no grading system. Most times, the brokers set the price. Slaughtering animals close to the farm, head carrying of slaughtered animals, and use of motorbikes were sanitary risk issues in the value chain. Since there was no national policy on pig production, it was recommended that state governments within the region formulate policies to regulate the pig enterprise and provide an enabling environment to attract investors in the value chain. Such policies should include the provision of infrastructures and linkage with foreign investors for the benefit of actors within the value chain.

ENHANCING AGRICULTURAL PRODUCTIVITY IN AKWA IBOM STATE THROUGH HUMAN CAPACITY STRENGTHENING FOR EFFECTIVE EXTENSION SERVICE DELIVERY

N. U Okorie — 2024-06-28

The agricultural sector is pivotal for poverty alleviation and economic development in developing countries, where a significant portion of the population relies on farming for their livelihoods. Agricultural extension services are essential in this sector, providing farmers with vital information, advice, and training to enhance productivity and rural well-being. This study investigates the state of human capacity strengthening within agricultural extension services in Akwa Ibom State, Nigeria, and identifies the constraints faced in this regard. Using a multi-stage random sampling technique, 90 extension agents from the Abak Agricultural Zone were surveyed. The analysis revealed that the extension workforce boasts a solid educational background (78% with tertiary education) and a mix of experience levels (majority 40-50 years old with 5-10 years of service). Additionally, a high percentage of agents have participated in various capacity-building activities, reflecting a commitment to improvement. Key constraints include inadequate funding, poor communication channels, insufficient training materials, unskilled mentorship, and inadequate incentives, all of which hinder the effectiveness of extension services. The study finds that comprehensive human capacity strengthening—encompassing on-the-job training, targeted needs-based training, mentorship programs, and collaborations with research institutes—positively impacts extension service delivery. However, addressing the identified constraints is crucial for optimizing these services. Recommendations include increased funding, enhanced training programs, improved communication strategies, structured mentorship, and better incentive structures. Implementing these measures can significantly bolster the effectiveness of agricultural extension services, leading to improved agricultural productivity and rural livelihoods in Akwa Ibom State.

ASSESSEMENT OF GENDER PARTICIPATION IN RICE PRODUCTION ACTIVITIES IN SOUTH-EAST NIGERIA

F. U Offor-Ikpendu — 2024-06-28

The study assessed gender participation in rice production activities in Southeast, Nigeria. The objectives of the study were to:examine the roles performed by men and women in rice production activities, ascertain the level of men and women participation and constraints faced by women rice farmers in South-East. The study adopted a descriptive survey research design. A multistage sampling procedure was used in selecting a sample size of one-hundred and thirty-one (131) men and eighty-eight (88) women registered ADP women rice farmers for the study. Data were obtained with the help of structured questionnaire, and analyzed using descriptive and inferential statistics such as percentages, means and Z-test analysis. The study revealed that Production roles performed by men included land cultivation (74.0%), bird scaring (72.3%), transportation of harvested paddy rice (64.5%), harvesting (64.1), clearing of farmland (62.3%), heaping/packaging of harvested paddy rice (61.7%), while women dominated in weeding (65.8%), application of fertilizer (51.2%) and planting (50.1%). The level of men participation in rice production was high with a grand mean score of 2.81, while women had a moderate level of participation with grand mean score of 2.33. Constraints like high cost of fertilizer/herbicide, pest and disease attacks, inadequate fund to start-of, inadequate credit facilities, unfavorable weather condition, high cost of labour, and scarcity of labour affected the production activities of men and women at high extent with grand mean score of =2.83 (men) and =2.99 (women). Z-test analysis with the mean value of 2.8089 (men) and 2.3309 (women) of 8.680*** at 0.05 alpha level affirmed that there was a statistical difference in the level of participation of men and women in rice production activities. The study concluded that the level of participation of men in rice production activities in the South-East was high while that of the women was relatively low. Therefore, it was recommended that both government and financial agencies should make loan and other credit facilities accessible to both men and women rice farmers in order to support their rice farming activities and productivity.

DETERMINANTS OF ADOPTION OF YELLOW ROOT CASSAVA VARIETY AMONG FARMERS IN IMO STATE, NIGERIA

Juochi P Okoroh — 2024-06-28

The study analyzed the determinants of the adoption of yellow root cassava varieties among cassava farmers in Imo State. Specifically identified the yellow root cassava varieties available to cassava farmers in the study area; determined the level of adoption of yellow root cassava varieties; evaluated the determinants of adoption of yellow root cassava varieties and identified the constraints to adoption of yellow root cassava varieties among cassava farmers in the study area. Primary data were collected from 120 cassava farmers through a multi-stage sampling procedure using a well-structured questionnaire. Frequency, percentage, mean score, and ordinary least square regression (OLSR) tools were used for data analysis. Results revealed that UMUCAS 38(55.8) and UMUCAS 36 (83.3%) were identified as the available varieties in Imo State. The adoption of yellow root cassava varieties was low ((x̄ =2.3). Low output after processing (90.8%), poor access to yellow root variety stem cutting (75.8%), and high moisture content (80.8%), among others, were the major constraints. Age, sex, educational level, income, cooperative membership, and access to extension agents, were the determinants of adoption of yellow root cassava varieties among cassava farmers in Imo State. The study therefore recommended that Scientists {Crop breeders and Genetist} should find a solution to the high moisture content in the yellow root cassava, which is responsible for low starch content when processed.

EFFECT OF UNICEF-NUTRITION AND HEALTH PROGRAMME ON RURAL UNDER-5 CHILDREN’S NUTRITIONAL STATUS IN SOUTH-EAST NIGERIA

C. O Udensi — 2024-06-28

The study determined the effect of the UNICEF Nutrition and Health Programme on the nutritional status of under-5 children in South-East Nigeria. A multi-stage random sampling was used to source for the 288 women and children. The data collected through questionnaire and scheduled interview sessions were analyzed using descriptive statistics such as mean scores, Mid Upper Arm Circumference (MUAC), and Ordinary Least squares (OLS) regression. Results showed that the mothers of under-5 children presented them actively in the programme activities (=2.92). The under-5 children were regularly immunized against killer diseases (=3.32), they were sleeping under insecticide-treated bed nets (= 2.75). The under-5 children in the South-East are well nourished (MUAC=15.34cm). The OLS regression results show that participation of the Under-5 children in the programme activities has significant effect on their nutritional status with the F-ratio of 26.74 being statistically significant at a 1% alpha level. The study recommended the inclusion of more women and their Under-5 children in the programme while also advocating for the use of the women participants as sensitizers to get other rural women aware and interested in the programme for the betterment of their under-5 children.