Journal of Community & Communication Research

SPATIAL STUDIES ON GINGER AND PIGEON PEA-BASED AGROFORESTRY SYSTEMS AND IMPLICATIONS FOR CARBON SEQUESTRATION AND SOIL NUTRIENT RECAPITALIZATION IN UMUDIKE, SOUTHEAST NIGERIA

P. I Ekeledo — Fri, 27 Jun 2025 00:00:00 +0000

This spatial study on ginger and pigeon pea-based agroforestry systems assessed the impacts of location and agroforestry systems on soil health and carbon sequestration in southeastern Nigeria. A split-plot design experiment with four replications was employed, using location as the main plot and agroforestry production systems as subplots. Three locations (Olokoro, Western Farm NRCRI Umudike, and Eastern Farm NRCRI Umudike) and four ginger production systems—Ginger-Pigeon Pea Alley System (GPAS), Ginger-Pigeon Pea Scatter System (GPSS), Sole Ginger Unmulched (SGU), and Sole Ginger with Mulch (SGM)—were evaluated. The experiment utilized 2m x 5m plots, with ginger planted at 20cm x 20cm spacing and pigeon pea at 20cm x 40cm spacing. Ginger was introduced 2 months after the planting of pigeon pea. Results indicated significant location effects on initial soil pH, organic carbon, and nitrogen levels, with Olokoro Farm showing the highest soil organic matter (26.2 g/kg). Agroforestry systems significantly improved soil health, with GPAS and GPSS increasing soil organic matter by 15% and 12%, respectively. Carbon sequestration ranged from 14.2 t/ha (SGU) to 25.1 t/ha (GPAS). The study specifically highlighted the efficacy of the ginger-pigeon pea alley system (GPAS) and mulching in promoting soil health and enhancing carbon sequestration. Furthermore, integrating ginger and pigeon pea into alley or scatter systems enhanced ecosystem services, reduced soil erosion, and improved biodiversity.

EFFECT OF UREA AND NPK 15:15:15 FERTIGATION ON PERFORMANCE OF LEAF YIELD OF FLUTED PUMPKIN (Telfairia occidentalis) IN UYO LOCAL GOVERNMENT AREA, NIGERIA

P. I Agba, D. O Abachor, A. E Etokeren — Fri, 27 Jun 2025 00:00:00 +0000

The purpose of this study was to determine the effect of urea and NPK 15:15:15 fertigation on the performance of leaf yield of fluted pumpkin (Telfairia occidentalis) in Uyo Local Government Area. This study adopted a Randomized Complete Block Design (RCBD). The experiment was conducted at the Agricultural Education Skills Acquisition Farm of the University of Uyo. The population consists of 144 fluted pumpkin seeds of Telfairia occidentalis Hook F. The sample size of 108 fluted pumpkin plants was selected for the study using a purposive sampling technique. The number of leaves of fluted pumpkin was counted while fresh leaf weight was measured using an Electronic Compact Scale. 540 grammes of urea and 540 grams of NPK 15:15:15 were dissolved in 108 liters of water each and applied through irrigation pipes, and the same was also measured and applied through the ring method. Data collected were analyzed using weighted mean for answering research questions and analysis of covariance (ANCOVA) for testing the null hypotheses at a 0.05 level of significance. Findings indicated that fluted pumpkin grown with urea and NPK 15:15:15 fertigation performed better in terms of number of leaves and fresh leaf weight than those grown by the ring method of fertilizer application. Also, there was a significant effect of urea, NPK 15:15:15 fertigation on the number of leaves and fresh leaf weight, with urea fertigation showing a highly significant difference. It was concluded that the application of urea and NPK 15:15:15 through fertigation significantly improved the yield parameters of fluted pumpkin. It was recommended that vegetable farmers should adopt urea and NPK 15:15:15 fertilizers applied through the fertigation method to optimize the yield of fluted pumpkin.

SOCIAL CAPITAL LINKAGE MECHANISM AND FUNDRAISING CAPABILITY OF COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT ASSOCIATIONS IN AKWA IBOM STATE, NIGERIA

I.A Akpabio, U.R Etuk, I.J Udousung, O.S Ekpo — Fri, 27 Jun 2025 00:00:00 +0000

This study evaluated the effect of social capital linkage mechanisms on the fundraising capability of Community Development Associations (CDAs) in Akwa Ibom State, Nigeria. The research specifically examined the profile of CDAs, their fundraising capability, and the socialcapital linkage mechanisms employed for fundraising. Data were collected from 211 respondents affiliated with 27 CDAs across nine Local Government Areas (LGAs) selected through a multi-stage sampling technique. The collated data were analyzed using descriptive and inferential statistical tools. Findings revealed that CDAs demonstrate strong technical capabilities in resource mobilization and fundraising, although they struggled with financial management, proposal writing, and online fundraising activities. It was also revealed that a robust sense of belonging and solidarity existed within membership of CDAs, which fostered successful resource mobilization. On another note, public support and external recommendations were revealed to significantly enhance donor engagement, while information sharing among members and trust-building with external partners contributed to effective fundraising. On a relatively less significant note, however, emotional support and skill development opportunities were moderately utilized, thus indicating areas for improvement. Pearson correlation analysis revealed a statistically significant and strong positive relationship (r = .729, p = .033) between fundraising capability and social capital linkage mechanisms among CDAs. The study recommended, among others, the need for structured programmes that integrate both internal capacity enhancement and external collaboration activities, as these would aid to maximize access to funds for CDA projects. This strategy shall include enhanced CDA membership training in the use of online platforms and donor collaboration.

EFFECT OF INSECURITY ON LIVESTOCK PRODUCTION IN NORTH CENTRAL, NIGERIA

G.F OKWUOKENYE, G.E OKTHAN, H.Y MICHAEL, H.B INYANG — Fri, 27 Jun 2025 00:00:00 +0000

This study analyzed the effect of insecurity on livestock production in North Central. The area of study included Benue, Kwara, and Niger States, as well as the Federal Capital Territory. The study employed a sample size of 3285 drawn through a multi-stage sampling technique. Both descriptive and inferential statistics (Binary logistic regression and Binomial statistics) were used to analyze the data. Results showed that the average length of residence, age, household size, and farming experience were 12 years, 35 years, 5 persons, and 8 years, respectively. The total number of livestock was 141,610, with poultry making up the largest portion at 40,415. The livestock comprised adult and non-adult males and females. The farmers indicated that their farm output was rated as average and acknowledged that insecurity has adversely affected them as farmers, significantly lowering their production levels. Before the onset of insecurity and insurgency, the majority of farmers (52.30%) reported an annual increase of 10–14 livestock. However, this trend has shifted, with most farmers (60.06%) now experiencing a reduced annual increase of only 5–9 livestock. The study found that sex, age, education, household size, farming experience, and farmer income significantly affect livestock production outcomes. It is recommended that the government should enhance livestock production by providing farmers with better inputs, encouraging more farmers to enter the business, and thus increasing livestock production for the populace.

ANALYSIS OF ACCESS AND USE OF SOCIAL MEDIA FOR AGRICULTURAL INFORMATION AMONG POULTRY FARMERS IN ABIA STATE, NIGERIA

P. O Maduka, G Nwankwo — Fri, 27 Jun 2025 00:00:00 +0000

The study analyzed access and use of social media for agricultural information among poultry farmers in Abia State, Nigeria. The specific objectives were to: describe the socio-economic characteristics of the respondents; determine the level of utilization of social media for agricultural information; and determine the level of access to social media for agricultural information of the poultry farmers in the study area. Multi-stage random sampling techniques were used to select 126 poultry farmers. Data were collected with the aid of a structured questionnaire. Data were analyzed using simple descriptive and inferential statistics. The results revealed that the majority (65.10%) of the respondents were males and married (82.5%), with an average age of 45.1 years. The majority of the respondents (68.3%) attended post-secondary education. Facebook (????̅ = 3.46), and WhatsApp (????̅ = 3.40) were highly accessed for agricultural information, and utilized (????̅ = 3.29; 3.60). The result of the relationship between the selected socioeconomic characteristics of poultry farmers and use of social media for agricultural information showed that age (p-value = -4.998), farming experience (p-value = 1.924), educational level (p-value = 2.399) and Membership of cooperatives (p-value = 2.083) influenced the use of social media for agricultural information. The study recommended that the ADP’s campaigns should prioritize utilizing popular youth-centric platforms such as WhatsApp, Facebook, and YouTube to reach graduate agripreneurs and farmers of livestock programmes.

SUSTAINABILITY OF TECHNICAL VOCATIONAL EDUCATION AND TRAINING FUNDING FOR HUMAN CAPITAL DEVELOPMENT IN NIGERIA

E .O Ime, N. J Udoudo, E. A Ekong, U. G Udom — Fri, 27 Jun 2025 00:00:00 +0000

The paper discussed the need for a funding policy for Technical Vocational Education and Training (TVET) in Nigeria as a necessity for its sustainability and human capital development. It examined the concepts of TVET, funding, and funding policy, the historical perspective of TVET funding patterns in Nigeria, the challenges of TVET funding in Nigeria, and the need for a TVET funding policy. The authors are of the view that financing of education, especially regarding TVET, proved to be a very challenging and thorny issue in Nigeria. Inadequate funding of TVET institutions can negatively impact the schools’ contribution to human capital development. Inadequate funding manifests in insufficient training machines, tools, equipment, and consumable materials, as well as poor staffing. The authors concluded that adequate funding of TVET will facilitate its sustainability, which in turn will lead to the sustainable development of Nigeria. The authors recommended, among others, that a funding policy should be developed for TVET in Nigeria, where other sources of funding should be exploited in addition to the already existing ones.

SOCIO-ECONOMIC CHALLENGES IN WOMEN’S LEADERSHIP SELF-HELP GROUPS IN AHOADA EAST LOCAL GOVERNMENT AREA, RIVERS STATE, NIGERIA

O Chukuigwe, J. I Okringbo — Fri, 27 Jun 2025 00:00:00 +0000

The study investigated the socio-economic challenges faced by women in leadership positions within self-help groups (SHGs) in Ahoada East Local Government Area (LGA), Rivers State, Nigeria. The research examined the types of SHGs in which women are involved, assessed their level of participation in leadership activities, evaluated perceived socio-economic implications, identified challenges, and analyzed the relationship between socio-economic factors and women’s leadership involvement. A multistage sampling technique was employed to select 110 women leaders. Primary data were collected through structured questionnaires and analyzed using descriptive and inferential statistics, including linear regression. Findings revealed that prayer groups (90%), savings and credit cooperatives (84%), and women’s cultural organizations (78%) were among the most common SHGs. Women demonstrated a high level of involvement in leadership functions such as decision-making (4.30), strategic planning (4.15), and project management (4.05). The socio-economic implications of their leadership roles included improved family income (4.30), increased decision-making capacity (4.25), and contributions to economic growth (4.35). However, challenges such as limited access to credit (4.40), domestic responsibilities (4.35), and restricted educational opportunities (4.25) significantly hindered women’s active participation. Regression results showed that education, income, leadership experience, access to credit, and age positively influenced leadership involvement, while marital status and household size had negative effects. The study recommended implementing capacity-building programs, promoting family-supportive frameworks, and expanding educational and credit access for women. These interventions will enhance women's leadership in SHGs and, consequently, foster community development and women’s empowerment in Ahoada East LGA. women’s empowerment in Ahoada East LGA.

ENTREPRENEURIAL ORIENTATION AND LIVELIHOOD ACTIVITIES OF RURAL YOUTH IN AKWA IBOM STATE, NIGERIA

E.M Archibong, I.A Akpabio, U.R Etuk, E.E Umoh — Fri, 27 Jun 2025 00:00:00 +0000

The study examined the entrepreneurial orientation and livelihood activities of rural youth in Akwa Ibom State, Nigeria, with specific objectives to: assess their livelihood activities, determine their level of entrepreneurial orientation, and analyze the relationship between entrepreneurial orientation and livelihood activities. Data were collected from 185 respondents, chosen through a multi-stage sampling procedure. The collated data were analyzed with the aid of descriptive statistics and Pearson correlation. Findings revealed the main livelihood activities as predominantly small scale businesses and crop farming, with an average proportion (48.6%) recording moderate engagement levels. In terms of entrepreneurial orientation, most rural youth showed moderate levels (51.4%), with proactiveness and autonomy (x ̄ =2.7 each) recording above the critical value of 2.5, while risk-taking and competitive aggressiveness (x ̄ =2.4) were below the critical value. Pearson correlation showed a significant and positive relationship between entrepreneurial orientation and livelihood activities (r = 0.621, p < 0.01), indicating that higher entrepreneurial orientation corresponds with greater livelihood engagement. The study concluded that although rural youth in Akwa Ibom State were moderately involved in diverse livelihood activities and possessed moderate entrepreneurial orientation, there remains a need to strengthen these areas to improve their livelihood outcomes. Based on the findings, it was recommended that targeted entrepreneurial development programmes that would focus on risk-taking and competitive strategies should be implemented, as this would serve to enhance the engagement of rural youth in sustainable livelihood ventures.

ASSESSING ADAPTIVE CAPACITY OF OIL PALM FARMERS FOR CLIMATE CHANGE- INDUCED SHOCK ADAPTATION IN ABIA STATE, NIGERIA

O. J Umeh — Fri, 27 Jun 2025 00:00:00 +0000

The study assessed the adaptive capacity of oil palm farmers in Abia State, Nigeria, to climate change-induced shocks. Using a multi-stage sampling approach, data were collected from 179 farmers through a structured questionnaire. Key focus areas included the occurrence of climate-related shocks, farmers’ adaptive capacity, knowledge of sustainable strategies, and challenges faced. Analysis using a Likert-type scale revealed that farmers frequently experienced erratic rainfall (3.77), extreme temperatures (3.50), pests and diseases (3.20), heatwaves (3.12), and droughts (3.00). High levels of adaptive capacity were noted, particularly in the use of traditional knowledge (3.59) and risk management strategies (3.34). Farmers also demonstrated strong knowledge of soil conservation techniques (4.00), soil fertility management (3.88), water management (3.58), and integrated pest management (3.50), indicating their preparedness to mitigate climate impacts. However, major constraints affecting adaptation efforts included land tenure issues (4.66), inadequate capital (4.75), and poor financial status (4.58). Correlation analysis showed a significant positive relationship (r = 0.3743, p < 0.05) between adaptive capacity and farmers' knowledge of mitigation strategies, suggesting that better- informed farmers are more capable of managing climate risks. The study concludes by advocating for improved access to climate information, continuous training (especially for women), stronger collaboration among stakeholders, and policies that enhance access to land and other production resources. These measures are essential for boosting the sustainability, productivity, and resilience of oil palm farming in the face of climate change.

EFFECT OF RECOMMENDED PRODUCTIVITY-ENHANCING TECHNOLOGIES ON THE YIELD OF SELECTED CROPS OF FARMERS IN CROSS RIVERS STATE, NIGERIA

G. C Nwankwo, O. O Ekumankama, U Apu — Fri, 27 Jun 2025 00:00:00 +0000

The study determined the effect of recommended productivity-enhancing technologies of the Commercial Agriculture Development Project on the yield of selected crops of participant farmers in Cross River State, Nigeria. The study used 360 farmers. Data were collected through a structured questionnaire and analysed using descriptive statistics, such as frequency count, percentage, and mean. The findings of the result on socio-economic characteristics analysis revealed that 74.2% of the beneficiaries were males, with a mean age of 48 years, 44.4% attended secondary school, while 38.1% completed tertiary education. The mean household size was seven (7) persons with an average farm size of 7.52 hectares. The beneficiaries had a mean farming experience of 20.76 years. Results showed that after the project, farmers increased farm yields with mean yields of 580.38kg for cocoa, 32,495.08kg for palm oil, and 2,125.36kg for rice. The test of hypothesis indicated a significant positive relationship between adoption and yield. The study concluded that the rate of adoption of the recommended productivity-enhancing technologies of the CADP project significantly improved the agricultural productivity of participant farmers. The study recommended that the project be replicated in other states. Additionally, farmers are encouraged to join cooperatives to gain full access to agricultural productivity-enhancing technologies for a sustainable increase in farm yield.

MEDIA, DIGITAL COMMUNICATION TECHNOLOGIES AND GOVERNANCE IN SOUTH- SOUTH, NIGERIA: AN OVERVIEW

S. G Jammy, E. E Oke — Fri, 27 Jun 2025 00:00:00 +0000

This study evaluated the use of digital communication technologies by the mass media in monitoring governance in Nigeria. The objectives of the research were to confirm whether the media employed digital communication technologies in monitoring governance in Nigeria, determine the extent to which the media deployed these technologies in this pursuit, and identify the challenges the media encountered in utilizing them. The study adopted a quantitative approach and utilized the Technological Determinism Theory (TDT). The population consisted of registered members of the Nigerian Union of Journalists in Delta, Edo, and Bayelsa States. Results showed that the media minimally employed digital communication technologies for monitoring governance in Nigeria. Furthermore, it was discovered that the media implemented these technologies to a low extent in this context. Additional findings revealed that the media faced significant challenges in effectively utilizing digital communication technologies. The study concluded that the effective use of digital communication technologies by the mass media can enhance their ability to monitor governance in Nigeria. However, the identified issues, such as inadequate digital infrastructure, limited digital literacy among journalists, regulatory complexities, and financial constraints, must be addressed before this potential can be fully realized. It is recommended that the government invest more in digital infrastructure, implement digital literacy programs for media professionals, and streamline regulatory processes to facilitate the effective use of digital communication technologies in the media.