Journal of Agricultural Development and Management
The Journal of Agricultural Management and Development (JAMD) (E-ISSN:3141-2297) is a multidisciplinary open access journal dedicated to advancing knowledge across the agricultural, management, environmental and sustainable development fields. It brings together research that addresses real-world problems, relying on sound scientific inquiry and clear methodological rigour. READ MORE
College of Agricultural Economics, Rural Sociology and Extension, Michael Okpara University of Agriculture, Umudike Abia State, Nigeria
Assessment of the Effects of Climate Change Mitigation Practices Among Arable Crop Farmers in Ideato North Local Government Area, Imo State, Nigeria
The study assessed the effects of climate change mitigation practices among arable crop farmers in Ideato North LGA, Imo State, Nigeria. The specific objectives of the study were to identify the socio-economic characteristics of the respondents; ascertain the adaptive and mitigating measures used by farmers; ascertain the perceived effect of climate change. Purposive and multi-staged random sampling techniques were used to select a sample size of 64 respondents who are involved in arable crop production and affected by climate change. Data were collected with a structured questionnaire, and analysed using descriptive and inferential statistics (tobith regression analysis). Results show that majority of the respondents were female, over 50% of the farmers were married, majority of the farmers acquired primary education. The result revealed that regular weeding X=4.57, use of water channels X=4.45, use of organic manure X=4.46 were the major adaptive measures used. In the perceived effects, the result revealed that destruction of wild life X=4.56, drying of streams early X=4.44 affected the farmers. The tobith regression estimate of the influence of socioeconomic characteristics of the knowledge of climate change, the chi-square value of 6.48.464 confirms the fitness and it is statistically significant at 1% level which affirms the significant relation of the dependent and independent variable. For socio-economic of climate change adaptive mitigation, the chi-square value of 807.945 confirms the fitness and significant at 1% level and the variables are positively related. The study therefore concludes that the famers were conversant with adaptive mitigation of the climate change and thereby has derived means to cope with the climate change. The study therefore recommend that efforts should be shown by governments, NGOs, individuals to acquaint and educate famers on how they will cope more on the climate change related issue.
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Productivity and Profitability of Garden Eggs Farming among Farmers in Isiala Ngwa South Local Government Area of Abia State, Nigeria
Garden eggs are significant source of income for many smallholder farmers and contribute substantially to food security. Improving the productivity level will increase the profitability as well as its sustainability as a high value crop. This study investigates the productivity and profitability of garden eggs (Solanum melongena) farming in Isiala Ngwa South Local Government Area, Abia State, Nigeria. A multistage sampling procedure were used to select 120 garden eggs farmers used for the study. Data were collected through the aid of well-structured questionnaire. Methods of data analysis employed include descriptive statistics, total factor productivity (TFP) index, net return analysis, and ordinary least squares (OLS) regression. The findings showed that most (66.7%) of the garden egg farmers were male, with an average age of 42.8 years. The majority (94.2) were married and had 6-12 years of farming experience, with a mean household size of 4.7 and average monthly income of ₦180,833. Additionally, most farmers were members of cooperatives and had regular access to extension services. Further findings showed an average TFP of 1.919, indicating that farmers generate ₦1.92 in output for every ₦1 invested in inputs. The net profit per hectare is ₦144,739, demonstrating the economic viability of garden egg farming in the area. OLS regression results identified cost of seed, cost of herbicides, education, farming experience at 1% respectively, monthly income (10%), and access to extension contact (5%) as significant determinants of profitability of garden eggs production. The study recommends improving farmers' access to cheap herbicides and strengthening extension services to improve productivity and profitability of the farming communities.
Involvement of Women in Cocoa Post-Harvest Activities in Umuahia Agricultural Zone, Abia State, Nigeria
This study investigated Involvement of Women in cocoa post-harvest activities in Umuahia Agricultural Zone, Abia State, Nigeria. A multi-staged sampling technique was employed in the sampling of 80 plantain processors that took part in the survey. A set of questionnaires was used to get responses from the women. Both descriptive and inferential statistics were used to analyze the data. Findings from the study showed that the mean age of the women was 44 years with a mean household size of 5 persons and mean years of experience in cocoa post-harvest activity was 9 years. Furthermore, the women are mainly involved in Marketing (100.00%), Gathering of pods (98.75%), Breaking of pods (97.5%), Drying (97.5%), Storage (95.00%) and fermentation of beans (91.25) with a grand mean of 2.88 indicating a high level of involvement in cocoa post-harvest activities. The Regression analysis indicated that significant relationship exists between the socio-economic characteristics of the women and their level of involvement in cocoa post-harvest activities. The study concluded that there’s high level of involvement of the women in cocoa postharvest activities in the study area and therefore recommended that Government and other donor agencies should assist the young women to access credit facilities from financial institutions to enable them expand their cocoa farming enterprise, earn more income and ensure food security for their households.
Financial Investment, Climate Variability and Fishery Enterprise Performance Nexus in Southern Nigeria
This study examined the nexus between financial investment, climate variability, and fishery enterprise performance in Southern Nigeria using the Two-Stage Least Squares (2SLS) approach. Primary data were collected from 105 fishery enterprise operators using a structured questionnaire. Descriptive statistics, cost and return analysis, and the Two-Stage Least Squares regression technique were used for data analysis. The results showed that temperature change (X ̅= 4.19), flood occurrence (X ̅= 4.07), rainfall variability (X ̅= 4.05), drought frequency (X ̅= 3.94), and storm/wind effects (X ̅= 3.81) were the major climate-related challenges affecting fishery enterprises. The average current capital investment among fish farmers was ₦730,476.69, indicating moderate financial capacity. Cost and return analysis revealed that fish farming is profitable but highly cost-intensive, with feed accounting for 72.63% of total production costs. The net farm income per production cycle was ₦425,636.44 with a productivity index of 1.11 and a return on investment of 0.149. The first stage of the 2SLS results showed that market access (p < 0.05), training (p < 0.10), farm size (p < 0.10), return on sales (p < 0.10), and input cost (p < 0.10) significantly influenced financial investment among fish farmers. In the second stage, rainfall variability (p < 0.01), drought frequency (p < 0.01), education level (p < 0.01), farm size (p < 0.01), and seasonal variability (p < 0.05) positively influenced fishery enterprise performance, while storm and wind effects had a negative and significant influence (p < 0.01). The study concludes that financial investment and climate variability significantly influence fishery enterprise performance in the study area. The study therefore recommends improved access to credit facilities, promotion of climate-smart aquaculture practices, and policies that support local production of fish feed and improved market access to enhance the resilience and sustainability of fishery enterprises in Southern Nigeria.
Dynamics and Patterns of Financial Investment in Fishery Enterprises in Southern Nigeria
This study examined the dimension and pattern of financial investment in fishery enterprises in Southern Nigeria, focusing on ownership types, enterprise size, production systems, and sources of finance. Data were collected from 105 fishery enterprises through field surveys in 2025. Results showed that sole proprietorships (42.9%) and partnerships (41.0%) dominated the sector, while cooperatives (12.4%) and limited liability companies (3.8%) were less common. Aquaculture enterprises accounted for 60% of operations, capture fisheries 32.4%, and integrated systems 7.6%. Medium-scale enterprises (61.9%) employed 6–10 workers (62.9%) and typically operated two production cycles per year (62.9%). The mean initial capital investment was ₦795,238.60, the mean current capital was ₦730,476.69, the mean annual investment was ₦566,908.33, the mean loan amount accessed was ₦675,238.60, and the mean equity contribution was ₦368,571.93. Microfinance institutions (96.2%), personal savings (83.8%), cooperatives (69.5%), and family/friends (68.6%) were the most frequently used sources of finance, while government grants (7.6%) and NGOs (35.2%) were less utilized. The findings indicate that formalized, diversified, and larger enterprises attract higher investment, whereas small-scale operators rely heavily on informal and semi-formal financing. It is recommended that fishery entrepreneurs formalize their businesses, participate in cooperatives, diversify production systems, and adopt modern technologies, while government and development partners should improve access to credit, grants, and training to enhance investment, productivity, and sustainability in the sector.
Utilization of Improved Cassava Processing Technologies by Women Farmers in Igbo-Etiti Local Government Area, Enugu State, Nigeria
The study analyzed the utilization of improved cassava processing technologies by women farmers in Igbo-Etiti Local Government Area, Enugu State, Nigeria. A multi-stage and purposive sampling techniques were used to collect data for the study. A total of 80 respondents were used as sample size. Data were collected from primary source using structured questionnaire and analyzed using descriptive statistics, such as frequency distribution, percentages, mean and inferential statistics. Major findings showed a high level of access to the cassava processing technologies with a grand mean of 2.63 and a high level of utilization of the technologies by the women with a grand mean of 2.71. The regression result at P<0.05 with a F-ratio of 7.369** indicated a significant relationship between the level of access and level of utilization of the cassava processing technologies by the women farmers thereby rejecting the null hypothesis. The study concluded that, there was a high level of utilization of improved cassava processing technologies by women farmers in the study area and therefore recommends that the women should be encouraged to form Cooperative Societies to enable them pool their resources together and acquire the capital-intensive cassava processing machines, to boost their enterprise.
Post-Harvest Handling Decisions Among Smallholder Leafy Vegetable Farmers in Kuje Area Council, Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nigeria
Despite the nutritional and economic significance of leafy vegetables to smallholder livelihoods, empirical evidence gap exists on the specific post-harvest handling decisions made by leafy vegetable farmers in Nigeria and thus requires adequate attention. This study examined post-harvest handling decisions among smallholder leafy vegetable farmers in Kuje Area Council, Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nigeria. Using a multi-stage sampling procedure, primary data were obtained from 132 sampled farmers and analysed with descriptive statistics and a multinomial logit (MNL) regression model. Results indicated that majority (52.3%) of farmers reported immediate selling after harvest, followed by cold-room storage before selling (22.7%), packaging before selling (16.7%), and processing or value addition (8.3%). Parameters such as age (β = −0.036; −0.111), household size (β = −0.115), personal income (β = 3.58×10⁻⁷; 5.98×10⁻⁷), training in post-harvest techniques (β = 1.350; 2.288), access to credit (β = −0.210; −1.464), and participation in publicly funded agricultural projects (β = 1.592) were the key determinants of post-harvest decision choice of the sampled farmers. Likewise, factors such as farmer risk aversion (mean = 3.18), inadequate supporting infrastructure (mean = 3.06), and the absence of a coherent post-harvest policy framework (mean = 3.04) were the most binding constraints affecting post-harvest decision of the farmers. The study concludes that targeted extension training, improved access to credit, and community-level cold-chain investment for perishable vegetables are necessary to enhance post-harvest decision-making capacity of smallholder leafy vegetable farmers in Nigeria.
Socio-economic, Institutional and Technological Determinants of Adoption of Recommended Melon (Citrullus lanatus) Production Practice and their Effects on Farmers’ Productivity and Income in Nasarawa State, Nigeria
This study examined the determinants and effects of adoption of recommended melon production practices among farmers in Nasarawa State, Nigeria. Despite the economic importance of melon production in the state, productivity remains low due to limited adoption of improved technologies. A multi-stage sampling technique was employed to select 355 melon farmers from selected Local Government Areas. Primary data were collected using structured questionnaires and analyzed with descriptive statistics, multiple regression analysis, and the Z-test. The regression results revealed that the model was statistically significant at the 1% level, with R² of 0.62, indicating that 62% of the variation in the adoption technology were explained by the socio-economic, institutional, and technological variables included in the model. Farm size, education, sex, access to credit, extension contact, sources of information, and affordability positively and significantly influenced their adoption level, while perceived complexity negatively affected adoption decisions. A paired sample z-test was employed to compare yield and income before and after adoption. The results revealed statistically significant increases in both yield and income after adoption (p < 0.01). Mean yield increased from 1,820 kg/ha to 3,460 kg/ha, while income rose from ₦210,000 to ₦495,000 per hectare. The findings confirm that adoption of improved melon technologies significantly enhances productivity and farm income. The study concludes that adoption of improved melon production practices significantly enhances farm productivity and profitability. It recommends strengthening extension services, improving access to agricultural credit, enhancing farmer education, promoting affordable technologies, and implementing gender-inclusive agricultural policies to improve rural livelihoods.
Effect of Engagement in Selected Fruits Production on Rural Households’ Income in Abia State, Nigeria
This study assessed households’ engagement in fruits production for livelihoods in Abia State, Nigeria. Multi-stage random sampling techniques were employed to select two hundred and forty (240) households engaged in fruits production in the study area. Data were collected using structured questionnaires and analyzed using both descriptive and inferential statistics including mean, frequency, percentage and ordinary least square regression models. Findings revealed that the most commonly grown fruits included star apple (90.8%), African pear (89.6%), orange (87.5%), pawpaw (81.7%) and mango (81.7%). The mean scores from the engagement index showed a high level of engagement in fruit production, harvesting by rural households with a mean score of 3.2. The regression result showed that the coefficient of age, educational level, farming experience and sex significantly influenced engagement in fruit production at 1% level. The ANOVA results was significant at 1% level which suggest that there is a significant variation in the estimated monthly income earned from fruit production across the different groups of respondents. The study concluded that fruit farming substantially improved household income and is a viable livelihood strategy for households in Abia State. The study recommends promoting fruit production among rural households, particularly targeting educated and experienced farmers, can further strengthen rural economies and improve living standards in Abia State and similar agro-ecological zones in Nigeria.
Extension, Innovation, and Knowledge Systems
Impact of Insecurity on the Agroenterprise Sector in North-Western Nigeria
This study assessed the impact of insecurity on the Agricultural Sector in North-Western Nigeria. The study looked at the following specific objectives: evaluate the trend of insecurity on the number of displaced Nigerians between 2014- 2023, determine the impact of insecurity on food prices in north western Nigeria, examine the levies imposed, levies paid, and its implications on food security and highlight the mitigation strategies to eliminate the impact of insecurity on agricultural activities in the study area. The study used secondary data from 2014 to 2023. The study showed that at the early stages of insecurity/insurgency in northwestern Nigeria, there was a higher rate (113%) of displaced Nigerians, while in later years, the rate decreased (1.4%) of displaced individuals. Moreso, the study showed that the activities of insurgents increased the prices of local food crops from 24% to 66%. The effect of these increases in Northwestern Nigeria hurts the prices of the same crop produced in neighboring communities in the Niger Republic. Furthermore, a total of 225 million was imposed on the farming communities, and a total sum of 139.5 million naira was paid, leaving a balance of 85.5 million naira. The implications of not paying the levies charged by the bandits by any individual or community are non-access to their farmland, either for farming/ harvesting activities, killing, raping, or looting of the farmers' produce. These levies are imposed on farmers based on the volume of harvest and the types of crops to be harvested. Furthermore, the different charges/levies on the food crops could have been due to the multiplicity of uses and international demand. The study therefore recommended improved governance, economic development, and security measures that support affected farmers and their agroenterprises on a sustainable scale. By tackling the root causes of insecurity and implementing effective solutions, Nigeria can ensure a more stable and prosperous agro-enterprise sector
Perceived Relevance and Benefits of ICTs in Extension Service Delivery Among Extension Agents in Abia State, Nigeria
This study analyzed the perceived relevance and benefits of Information and Communication Technologies among ADP extension agents in Abia State, Nigeria. Multi-stage random sampling technique was used to select 120 extension agents from whom data were collected using structured questionnaire. Data collected were analyzed using percentages, frequencies, mean scores from four-point Likert-scale ratings. Results showed that all the selected ICT facilities were perceived by extension agents as being relevant in extension service delivery, with exception of Facsimile ( = 1.56) and sound recorder ( = 1.79). Results further showed that ICTs were of immense benefit in extension service delivery ( = 2.60). It was recommended that Abia State government should adequately equip the State's extension outfit with relevant ICT facilities and introduce a policy of continuous training and re-training of extension agents on the use of modern ICTs for improved job performance and extension service delivery.
Analysis of Climate Change Adaptation Strategies Among Smallholder Arable Crop Farmers in Umuahia South L.G.A., Abia State, Nigeria
The study analyzed climate change adaptation strategies among smallholder arable crop farmers in Umuahia South L.G.A, Abia State. Specifically, it examined the socioeconomic characteristics of the farmers, identified their adaptation strategies, assessed their productivity levels, estimated the determinants of productivity, and identified constraints to arable crop production. A multistage sampling procedure was used to select 80 respondents, and data were analyzed using descriptive statistics, Total Factor Productivity (TFP), and multiple regression models. Results showed that respondents had mean age of 46 years, mostly male (60%) and greater percentage of them (57.5%) were married. About 27.50% of them had secondary education with mean household size of 4 persons. The farmers had small farm size ranging from 1–2 ha, and over 10 years of farming experience. Major adaptation strategies included use of improved crop varieties (mean = 3.12), changing planting dates (3.07), and mulching (3.02). About 75% of the farmers had low productivity (TFP between 0.1–0.5), with a mean TFP of 0.48. Productivity was positively influenced by farm size, education, income, experience, and cooperative membership in the multiple regression analysis. Key constraints to arable crop farming included high input cost (mean = 3.78), erratic weather (3.66), pest and disease outbreaks (3.61), and poor access to improved varieties (3.48), with a grand mean of 3.40. Due to high input costs and erratic weather that were observed as critical constraints, it is recommended that investment in climate-resilient practices and input price stabilization be implemented to enhance sustainable arable crop production.
Assessment of Drug Abuse Prevalence among Rural Youths in South-East Nigeria
The study empirically assessed the prevalence of drug abuse among rural youth in South East Nigeria. Specifically, it identified the types of drugs abused, determined the prevalence, examined perceived factors influencing drug use, The study was guided by the hypotheses which stated that there was no significant difference in the; prevalence of drug abuse among respondents across the States. Data were obtained from 360 rural youths randomly selected across Abia, Enugu, and Imo States (120 per State) using a multi-stage sampling procedure. Primary data were collected through a structured questionnaire and analyzed using descriptive statistics, mean scores, and Analysis of Variance (ANOVA), Results showed that the ranking for substances being abused was highest for synthetic marijuana (Colorado) (94.20%), followed by tramadol (87.80%), over-the-counter drugs (86.90%), methamphetamine (mkpurummiri) (85.80%), cannabis (85.60%), and alcohol (85.80%). The prevalence of drug abuse was moderately high to high (mean = 3.20–3.45), with widespread use among rural youth (mean = 3.45) and rising cases (mean = 3.51). Major contributing factors included peer pressure (
Agribusiness SME’s Investment: Effect of Investment and Output on Gross Domestic Product of Nigeria
The study analyzed the effect of agribusiness investment and output on Nigeria’s gross domestic product (1980-2022). Specifically, the study assessed the contribution of the agribusiness sector to Nigeria’s GDP, changes in agribusiness output and GDP and changes in agribusiness investment and GDP within the period under review. Secondary data from databases of reliable institutions like the CBN, FAO, World Bank, etc were employed. Data were analyzed using the OLS regression model. The result of the findings showed that the coefficient of agribusiness investment (5.540396) was significant at (1%), while that of agribusiness output was negatively signed (-2.079633) but also significant at (1%). The study concluded that agribusiness investment had a positive impact on the nation’s GDP. Based on findings, the study recommended that more investments be made in agribusiness and policies that would improve the efficiency and productivity of agribusiness output be implemented
Gender Differentials in Performance of Palm Oil Marketers in Abia State, Nigeria
The study examined the gender differentials in performance of palm oil marketers in Abia State, Nigeria. Specifically, the study described the socio-economic characteristics of the male and female palm oil marketer; determined the marketing performance with respect to net returns, marketing margin and marketing efficiency, estimated the determinants of marketing performance; analyzed the impact of gender on the performance and identified the problems faced by the palm oil marketers in the study area. A multistage random sampling techniques were used to select 80 palm oil marketers (comprising of 40 males and 40 females). Primary data was collected with the aid of structured questionnaire and analyzed using net returns analysis, marketing margin, marketing efficiency index, OLS regression and Z-test. The result indicates the mean ages were 48 and 51 years for both male and female respectively, majority of the respondents were married with mean household of 6. The average net return realized was N 156,052.70 and N 165,242.37 with marketing margin of N4350 and N4550 for male and female marketers. The marketers received N23.3k (male) and N22.70K (female) for every N1 invested into the business. The coefficient of age and quantity sold were positive while storage cost and distance to market were negative factors that influence the marketing performance of male oil palm marketers in the study area. Also the coefficient of education, market levies and marketing experience were positive while storage cost and distance to market were negative factors that influence the marketing performance of female oil palm marketers in the study area. The Z-test showed that gender has a significant effect on the performance. The major constraint were damage due to animal and theft, poor access road and lack of credit facilities. It was therefore recommended that variables such as age, education, quantity, experience, storage cost and levies should be taken into consideration while formulating policies on palm oil marketing market so as to further enhance the profitability of the business and also need for government to invest in human capital, educate/create awareness on the benefits of product marketing.
Determinants of Market Participation among Smallholder Cassava Farmers in Osisioma L.G.A of Abia State, Nigeria
The study examined the determinants of market participation among cassava marketers in Osisioma L.G.A of Abia State, Nigeria. Specifically, the study examined the socioeconomic characteristics of cassava farmers in the study area; assessed the level of participation in the market by the farmerss; examined the cost and return of cassava farmers in the study area; estimated the determinants of net income of cassava farmers in the study area; and identified the constraints involved in market participation of cassava farmers in the study area. A multistage sampling technique was used in selecting 60 respondents for the study. Data for the study were obtained using a well-constructed questionnaire. Data were analyzed with descriptive statistics, market participation index, and multiple regression models. Results showed that most respondents (31.67%) belonged to the 30-39 age group, with a mean age of 46 years old, implying that the farmers are middle-aged marketers. The majority of farmers (68.33%) were females, while only about 31.67% were single. The majority of the farmers (68.33) recorded a participation index range of 0.10-0.24, with a mean value of 0.23, implying they were subsistent marketers. The cassava farmers realized a monthly average total revenue of ₦175,665.65 and incurred an average total marketing cost of ₦153,464.65 while the net profit was ₦22,201.00, implying that cassava marketing in the study area is profitable. Level of market participation, educational level, household size, value of output, and cooperative membership were the positive and significant determinants of the net income while market charges had a negative and significant relationship with the net income of marketers. All farmers encountered constraints such as high transportation costs, price fluctuations, and elevated market charges within the study area. The study recommended that government and governmental organizations should sensitize and motivate cassava farmers to join cooperative societies for collective bargaining and to moderate the high market charges.
Adoption of Improved Cassava Production Technologies by Cassava-Based Farmers in Abia State, Nigeria
The main objective of the study is to examine the adoption of improved cassava production technologies by cassava-based farmers in Abia State, Nigeria. The specific objectives are to: identify the cassava production technologies available to farmers in Abia State; and determine the levels of adoption of improved cassava production technologies by cassava-based farmers in Abia State. Multistage random sampling technique was employed in the selection of locations and respondents for the study and a sample of ninety-six (96) rural farm households was selected for this study. The study made use of primary data, obtained with the use of pre-tested structured questionnaire which was administered to the chosen farm households. Objectives i was analyzed using descriptive statistics such as means, percentages, and frequencies. Objective (ii) was analyzed using mean score from adoption score index. Results show that cassava production technologies available to the cassava-based farmers in Abia State are sixteen, but they adopted only five. There is a low level of adoption of improved cassava production technologies in Abia State. Therefore, incentives should be made available to the cassava-based farmers by the government and other interested stakeholders, to encourage the farmers to adopt all the available cassava production technologies in the state. In addition to this, the capacity of Agricultural Extension Services in Abia State should be strengthened to reach out to all farmers in the State.
Effect of Flooding on Rice Production in Ebonyi State, Nigeria
This study assessed the effect of flooding on rice production in Ebonyi State, Nigeria and specifically ascertained the causes of flooding in the rice fields; the effect of flooding on the rice fields; the effect of flooding on rice yields in different production system; various strategies adopted in handling the effect of flooding; and identified the constraints associated with rice production in the study area. Multistage sampling procedure was used to select 120 rice farmers for the study. Data were collected using structured questionnaire, analysed using descriptive and inferential statistics and confirmed during focus group discussion (FGD). Results show that there are several causes of flooding in the study area. Some of which are heavy rainfall (<!-- [if gte msEquation 12]><m:oMath><m:acc><m:accPr><m:chr m:val="̅"/> <m:ctrlPr></m:ctrlPr> </m:accPr><m:e><m:r>x</m:r></m:e></m:acc></m:oMath><![endif]--> <!-- [if gte vml 1]><v:shapetype id="_x0000_t75" coordsize="21600,21600" o:spt="75" o:preferrelative="t" path="m@4@5l@4@11@9@11@9@5xe" filled="f" stroked="f"> <v:stroke joinstyle="miter"/> <v:formulas> <v:f eqn="if lineDrawn pixelLineWidth 0"/> <v:f eqn="sum @0 1 0"/> <v:f eqn="sum 0 0 @1"/> <v:f eqn="prod @2 1 2"/> <v:f eqn="prod @3 21600 pixelWidth"/> <v:f eqn="prod @3 21600 pixelHeight"/> <v:f eqn="sum @0 0 1"/> <v:f eqn="prod @6 1 2"/> <v:f eqn="prod @7 21600 pixelWidth"/> <v:f eqn="sum @8 21600 0"/> <v:f eqn="prod @7 21600 pixelHeight"/> <v:f eqn="sum @10 21600 0"/> </v:formulas> <v:path o:extrusionok="f" gradientshapeok="t" o:connecttype="rect"/> <o:lock v:ext="edit" aspectratio="t"/> </v:shapetype><v:shape id="_x0000_i1025" type="#_x0000_t75" style='width:5.25pt; height:10.5pt'> <v:imagedata src="file:///C:/Users/DELL/AppData/Local/Temp/msohtmlclip1/01/clip_image001.png" o:title="" chromakey="white"/> </v:shape><![endif]--> = 3.92), absence of proper and coordinated watershed management practices (<!-- [if gte msEquation 12]><m:oMath><m:acc><m:accPr><m:chr m:val="̅"/> <m:ctrlPr></m:ctrlPr> </m:accPr><m:e><m:r>x</m:r></m:e></m:acc></m:oMath><![endif]--> <!-- [if gte vml 1]><v:shape id="_x0000_i1025" type="#_x0000_t75" style='width:5.25pt;height:10.5pt'> <v:imagedata src="file:///C:/Users/DELL/AppData/Local/Temp/msohtmlclip1/01/clip_image001.png" o:title="" chromakey="white"/> </v:shape><![endif]--> = 3.92), poor drainage (<!-- [if gte msEquation 12]><m:oMath><m:acc><m:accPr><m:chr m:val="̅"/> <m:ctrlPr></m:ctrlPr> </m:accPr><m:e><m:r>x</m:r></m:e></m:acc></m:oMath><![endif]--> <!-- [if gte vml 1]><v:shape id="_x0000_i1025" type="#_x0000_t75" style='width:5.25pt;height:10.5pt'> <v:imagedata src="file:///C:/Users/DELL/AppData/Local/Temp/msohtmlclip1/01/clip_image001.png" o:title="" chromakey="white"/> </v:shape><![endif]--> = 3.82), and climate change (<!-- [if gte msEquation 12]><m:oMath><m:acc><m:accPr><m:chr m:val="̅"/> <m:ctrlPr></m:ctrlPr> </m:accPr><m:e><m:r>x</m:r></m:e></m:acc></m:oMath><![endif]--> <!-- [if gte vml 1]><v:shape id="_x0000_i1025" type="#_x0000_t75" style='width:5.25pt;height:10.5pt'> <v:imagedata src="file:///C:/Users/DELL/AppData/Local/Temp/msohtmlclip1/01/clip_image001.png" o:title="" chromakey="white"/> </v:shape><![endif]--> = 3.55). The effects of flooding on rice fields include labour shortage (<!-- [if gte msEquation 12]><m:oMath><m:acc><m:accPr><m:chr m:val="̅"/> <m:ctrlPr></m:ctrlPr> </m:accPr><m:e><m:r>x</m:r></m:e></m:acc></m:oMath><![endif]--> <!-- [if gte vml 1]><v:shape id="_x0000_i1025" type="#_x0000_t75" style='width:5.25pt;height:10.5pt'> <v:imagedata src="file:///C:/Users/DELL/AppData/Local/Temp/msohtmlclip1/01/clip_image001.png" o:title="" chromakey="white"/> </v:shape><![endif]--> = 4.0), loss of rice seeds (<!-- [if gte msEquation 12]><m:oMath><m:acc><m:accPr><m:chr m:val="̅"/> <m:ctrlPr></m:ctrlPr> </m:accPr><m:e><m:r>x</m:r></m:e></m:acc></m:oMath><![endif]--> <!-- [if gte vml 1]><v:shape id="_x0000_i1025" type="#_x0000_t75" style='width:5.25pt;height:10.5pt'> <v:imagedata src="file:///C:/Users/DELL/AppData/Local/Temp/msohtmlclip1/01/clip_image001.png" o:title="" chromakey="white"/> </v:shape><![endif]--> = 3.6), loss of farm field (<!-- [if gte msEquation 12]><m:oMath><m:acc><m:accPr><m:chr m:val="̅"/> <m:ctrlPr></m:ctrlPr> </m:accPr><m:e><m:r>x</m:r></m:e></m:acc></m:oMath><![endif]--> <!-- [if gte vml 1]><v:shape id="_x0000_i1025" type="#_x0000_t75" style='width:5.25pt;height:10.5pt'> <v:imagedata src="file:///C:/Users/DELL/AppData/Local/Temp/msohtmlclip1/01/clip_image001.png" o:title="" chromakey="white"/> </v:shape><![endif]--> = 3.5), reduced growth rate of shoots (<!-- [if gte msEquation 12]><m:oMath><m:acc><m:accPr><m:chr m:val="̅"/> <m:ctrlPr></m:ctrlPr> </m:accPr><m:e><m:r>x</m:r></m:e></m:acc></m:oMath><![endif]--> <!-- [if gte vml 1]><v:shape id="_x0000_i1025" type="#_x0000_t75" style='width:5.25pt;height:10.5pt'> <v:imagedata src="file:///C:/Users/DELL/AppData/Local/Temp/msohtmlclip1/01/clip_image001.png" o:title="" chromakey="white"/> </v:shape><![endif]--> = 3.05), submerged whole rice fields (<!-- [if gte msEquation 12]><m:oMath><m:acc><m:accPr><m:chr m:val="̅"/> <m:ctrlPr></m:ctrlPr> </m:accPr><m:e><m:r>x</m:r></m:e></m:acc></m:oMath><![endif]--> <!-- [if gte vml 1]><v:shape id="_x0000_i1025" type="#_x0000_t75" style='width:5.25pt;height:10.5pt'> <v:imagedata src="file:///C:/Users/DELL/AppData/Local/Temp/msohtmlclip1/01/clip_image001.png" o:title="" chromakey="white"/> </v:shape><![endif]--> = 3.0). gradual decrease in germination rate (<!-- [if gte msEquation 12]><m:oMath><m:acc><m:accPr><m:chr m:val="̅"/> <m:ctrlPr></m:ctrlPr> </m:accPr><m:e><m:r>x</m:r></m:e></m:acc></m:oMath><![endif]--> <!-- [if gte vml 1]><v:shape id="_x0000_i1025" type="#_x0000_t75" style='width:5.25pt;height:10.5pt'> <v:imagedata src="file:///C:/Users/DELL/AppData/Local/Temp/msohtmlclip1/01/clip_image001.png" o:title="" chromakey="white"/> </v:shape><![endif]--> = 3.25) and non-emergence of seeds (<!-- [if gte msEquation 12]><m:oMath><m:acc><m:accPr><m:chr m:val="̅"/> <m:ctrlPr></m:ctrlPr> </m:accPr><m:e><m:r>x</m:r></m:e></m:acc></m:oMath><![endif]--> <!-- [if gte vml 1]><v:shape id="_x0000_i1025" type="#_x0000_t75" style='width:5.25pt;height:10.5pt'> <v:imagedata src="file:///C:/Users/DELL/AppData/Local/Temp/msohtmlclip1/01/clip_image001.png" o:title="" chromakey="white"/> </v:shape><![endif]--> = 3.25). Lowland, swamp and upland rice production systems suffer 67%, 57% and 51% loss of yield respectively. Strategies adopted to manage flooding include planting of early maturing rice varieties (92%), cleaning out drainages (82%), building irrigation channels (77%), construction of terrace slopes (59%) and building of flood barriers (57%). Constraints faced by the farmers include low productivity (98.3%), poor access road (98.3%) and climate variability (98.3%). The study concludes that flooding has negative effects on rice production in the study area. The study therefore recommends the adoption of irrigation farming so that farmers can take advantage of off-season production and avoid the flooding season. Farmers should ensure that water ways are clear to ensure free flow of water.
Assessment of the Training Needs on Climate Smart Agriculture by SIWES Students in Michael Okpara University of Agriculture, Umudike, Abia State
This paper seeks to assess the climate smart technology training needs of SIWES students of Michael Okpara University of Agriculture Umudike, Abia state. The specific objectives described the socio-economic characteristics of the SIWES students in MOUAU Abia state; ascertained SIWES students training needs on climate smart agriculture in MOUAU Abia state and identified the constraints to training activities in climate smart agriculture by SIWES students in MOUAU Abia state. The hypothesis testing was that there is no significant relationship between the socio-economic characteristics of SIWES students and their training needs. A random and purposive sampling methods was used to sample 120 SIWES students from whom data was collected using a structured questionnaire. Data was analysed and interpreted using descriptive and inferential statistics. Findings from this study revealed that the majority of the students (51%) were males between the age of 21-30 years (96.67%), were single (90.83%) and were from CASAP college (39.17%). Further results showed that the majority of the students needed training on the use of drought resistant crops (x̄=4.48) and Limited collaboration between the university and external agricultural organizations was a major constraint to having effective training on CSA. The hypothesis testing showed that at P < 0.05, age (2.968) was significant and positively associated with the training needs of SIWES students. The study concludes that SIWES students in MOUAU need more training in CSA and recommends collaborations between the university and external agricultural organizations to improve the quality of training received by the SIWES students.
Copyright (c) 2026 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Food security remains a pressing challenge in Nigeria, exacerbated by climate change, socio-political instability, and inadequate financing mechanisms. Agribusiness and entrepreneurship play crucial roles in addressing food security challenges, but access to finance remains a major constraint. This paper reviews innovative financing mechanisms available to agribusiness entrepreneurs in Nigeria, including microfinance; impact investing, agricultural value chain financing, fin tech solutions, and government interventions. The study also highlights policy recommendations for improving financial access to enhance food security. A thorough literature review is conducted to provide insights into the intersection of agribusiness, entrepreneurship, and financial innovation. The findings suggest that financial constraints significantly hinder agribusiness growth, and overcoming these barriers is key to sustainable food security in Nigeria.
Economics of Tomato Production on Ogbuoji Farm in Edda Local Government Area of Ebonyi State
The study analyzed the economics of tomato production on Ogbuoji farm, in Edda local government area of Ebonyi state. The specific objectives were to describe the socio-economic characteristic of tomato farmers, estimate the resource use efficiency in tomato production, identify the constraint associated with tomato production and analyze the profitability of tomato production on Ogbuoji farm. Random sampling was employed to sample 48 respondents who constituted the sample size. Data were collected primarily using structured questionnaire and analyzed with the aid of descriptive, stochastic frontier production function and cost-benefit ratio. The results showed that young farmers were single, educated, experienced and fairly large-scale farmers. Price of labour (1%), price of seeds (5%), price of irrigation (5%), price of capital (1%), price of fertilizer (10%), price of stock (10%) and farm size (1%) were the major predictors of production but Seed and labour resources was effectively utilized. Pest and diseases greatly constrained the farmers in the production of tomatoes in the study area. The study therefore recommended that all the resource variables must be considered when designing a technological package for tomato production and should be further exploited to improve productivity level of the farmers in the study area.
Can Climate Change Adaptation Strategies Enhance Poverty Status?
This study explores whether climate change adaptation strategies (CCAS) can enhance poverty status among male and female small ruminant farmers in Abia State, Nigeria. A multi-stage sampling procedure was used to collect data from 80 (40 males and 40 females) small ruminant livestock farmers using questionnaire and interviews. Descriptive statistics was used to describe the socio-economic characteristics of the respondents, climate change adaptation strategies adopted and livestock production constraints in the face of the changing climate. Results showed that female farmers had a higher mean age (46.45 years) and household size (6.75) compared to males (43.43 years; 5.40, HH). Both groups had an average of seven years of livestock farming experience. Farmers adopted various CCAS, including matching livestock stocking rate with pasture production, altering pasture rotation, modification of grazing time, and integration within livestock/crop systems to mitigate climate change. The MPCHE was N9, 233 for male and N6,101 for females, with 70% of female farmers classified as poor compared to 47.5% of males. The study showed that CCAS reduced poverty vulnerability (3.05 and 3.22), influence human security (2.85 and 3.02), and increased poverty variability (2.87 and 3.15) for both groups. Major constraints include high cost of labour, inadequate capital, price fluctuation of input materials, unavailability of veterinary services, and poor access to credit. Also, significant negative relationship was found between CCAS and poverty status. The study recommends the implementation of gender-sensitive agricultural support programs to enhance farm income and encourage wider adoption of climate adaptation strategies.
Financial Inflows and Agricultural Value Addition in Nigeria:
Agriculture is central to Nigeria's economy, yet its transformative potential is constrained by low value addition, with most produce exported or consumed raw. Financial inflows, particularly agricultural credit and foreign direct investment (FDI), are presumed to catalyze agro-processing, but empirical evidence on their effectiveness remains contested. Objective: This study investigates the impact of agricultural credit (AGR-CRED) and foreign direct investment (FDI) on agricultural value addition (VA-AGR) in Nigeria from 1991 to 2023. Using time-series data from FAOSTAT, the study employs an Autoregressive Distributed Lag (ARDL) bounds testing approach to examine the long-run and short-run relationships. Preliminary tests for stationarity (ADF, KPSS) and model diagnostics (autocorrelation, heteroskedasticity) were conducted to ensure robust inference. The ARDL model confirms a long-run cointegrating relationship among the variables. Findings reveal a paradox: agricultural credit has a statistically significant negative effect on value addition in the long run, suggesting systemic inefficiencies in credit utilization. Conversely, FDI has a positive and significant impact, indicating its potential when channeled effectively into agro-processing. The study concludes that the volume of agricultural credit is less critical than the efficiency of its utilization. Policy should prioritize redirecting FDI towards processing infrastructure and establishing agro-industrial clusters to create a more conducive ecosystem for value addition.
Food Systems, Value Chains, and Sustainability
Determinants of Profitability among Rural Poultry Entrepreneurs in Imo State, Nigeria
The study examined the determinants of profitability among rural poultry entrepreneurs in Imo State, Nigeria. Using a regression analysis approach, the study identified key factors influencing profitability, including farming experience, credit access, cooperative membership, market distance, bird prices, extension services, and farm size. The results showed that farming experience, credit access, price of birds, and farm size positively affected profit of the rural poultry farmers, and were significant at 1%, while Cooperative membership and extension services also affected the entrepreneurial’ profit positively but significant at 5% and 10% respectively. Conversely, distance to the market negatively affects profit, highlighting transportation costs as a critical barrier. The study also identified major constraints, including high transportation costs (88.33%), high feed costs (85%), and labor expenses (58.33%), which significantly hindered productivity. The findings emphasized the need for improved infrastructure, targeted financial interventions, and enhanced veterinary and extension services. The study therefore recommends increased investment in rural road networks to reduce transportation costs, the development of poultry-specific credit schemes with flexible repayment structures, and the expansion of veterinary and extension services to improve disease management and productivity. Addressing these challenges through policy interventions and strategic investments will enhance the sustainability and profitability of rural poultry enterprises, contributing to economic growth and improved livelihoods in rural communities.
Expository Analysis of Utilization of Improved (Taro) Cocoyam Production Technologies among Farmers in Abia State, Nigeria
Cocoyam is one of the major subsistent crops that plays an important role in the lives of many Nigerians as a food security crop and it has become an important component of rural development because of cocoyam rebirth programme embraced upon by NRCRI. This study examined utilization of improved cocoyam production technologies among farmers in Abia State, Nigeria. Specifically, the study ascertained cocoyam technologies that had been transferred to farmers; identified source (s) of information on cocoyam production technologies to farmers; assessed the level of utilization of cocoyam production technologies by farmers in the study area; and ascertained the socio-economic factors that significantly influence utilization of improved technologies on cocoyam production in Abia State, Nigeria. Multi-stage random sampling technique was used to select 90 taro (cocoyam) farmer. Objectives were achieved using simple descriptive statistics and O L S multiple regression the model. The results shows that the main technology transfer were 25g set of cocoyam (80%), Time of planting (May -June) (68.89%), Crop mixture (Arable Cropping) (64.44%), use of manure (56.67%) and weed control (56.67%). NRCRI (70%), Market place (65.56%), Health center (52.22%) and radio (52.22%) were the dominant sources of information for taro (cocoyam) farming technology in the area. Result on level of utilization of cocoyam farming technologies revealed that 25g set of taro (cocoyam) (<!-- [if gte msEquation 12]><m:oMath><m:acc><m:accPr><m:chr m:val="̅"/><m:ctrlPr></m:ctrlPr></m:accPr><m:e><m:r><m:rPr><m:scr m:val="roman"/><m:sty m:val="p"/></m:rPr>X</m:r></m:e></m:acc></m:oMath><![endif]--> <span style="font-size: 11.0pt; line-height: 107%; font-family: 'Calibri',sans-serif; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-bidi-font-family: 'Times New Roman'; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-bidi; position: relative; top: 2.5pt; mso-text-raise: -2.5pt; mso-font-kerning: 0pt; mso-ligatures: none; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-fareast-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-language: AR-SA;"><!-- [if gte vml 1]><v:shapetype id="_x0000_t75" coordsize="21600,21600" o:spt="75" o:preferrelative="t" path="m@4@5l@4@11@9@11@9@5xe" filled="f" stroked="f"> <v:stroke joinstyle="miter"/> <v:formulas> <v:f eqn="if lineDrawn pixelLineWidth 0"/> <v:f eqn="sum @0 1 0"/> <v:f eqn="sum 0 0 @1"/> <v:f eqn="prod @2 1 2"/> <v:f eqn="prod @3 21600 pixelWidth"/> <v:f eqn="prod @3 21600 pixelHeight"/> <v:f eqn="sum @0 0 1"/> <v:f eqn="prod @6 1 2"/> <v:f eqn="prod @7 21600 pixelWidth"/> <v:f eqn="sum @8 21600 0"/> <v:f eqn="prod @7 21600 pixelHeight"/> <v:f eqn="sum @10 21600 0"/> </v:formulas> <v:path o:extrusionok="f" gradientshapeok="t" o:connecttype="rect"/> <o:lock v:ext="edit" aspectratio="t"/> </v:shapetype><v:shape id="_x0000_i1025" type="#_x0000_t75" style='width:5.25pt; height:11.25pt'> <v:imagedata src="file:///C:/Users/DELL/AppData/Local/Temp/msohtmlclip1/01/clip_image001.png" o:title="" chromakey="white"/> </v:shape><![endif]--> = 2.878), use of mulching materials has mean of (<!-- [if gte msEquation 12]><m:oMath><m:acc><m:accPr><m:chr m:val="̅"/><m:ctrlPr></m:ctrlPr></m:accPr><m:e><m:r>X</m:r></m:e></m:acc></m:oMath><![endif]--> <span style="font-size: 11.0pt; line-height: 107%; font-family: 'Calibri',sans-serif; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-bidi-font-family: 'Times New Roman'; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-bidi; position: relative; top: 2.5pt; mso-text-raise: -2.5pt; mso-font-kerning: 0pt; mso-ligatures: none; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-fareast-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-language: AR-SA;"><!-- [if gte vml 1]><v:shape id="_x0000_i1025" type="#_x0000_t75" style='width:6pt;height:11.25pt'> <v:imagedata src="file:///C:/Users/DELL/AppData/Local/Temp/msohtmlclip1/01/clip_image003.png" o:title="" chromakey="white"/> </v:shape><![endif]--> = 2.822); Time of planting (May -June) (<!-- [if gte msEquation 12]><m:oMath><m:acc><m:accPr><m:chr m:val="̅"/><m:ctrlPr></m:ctrlPr></m:accPr><m:e><m:r>X</m:r></m:e></m:acc></m:oMath><![endif]--> <span style="font-size: 11.0pt; line-height: 107%; font-family: 'Calibri',sans-serif; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-bidi-font-family: 'Times New Roman'; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-bidi; position: relative; top: 2.5pt; mso-text-raise: -2.5pt; mso-font-kerning: 0pt; mso-ligatures: none; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-fareast-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-language: AR-SA;"><!-- [if gte vml 1]><v:shape id="_x0000_i1025" type="#_x0000_t75" style='width:6pt;height:11.25pt'> <v:imagedata src="file:///C:/Users/DELL/AppData/Local/Temp/msohtmlclip1/01/clip_image003.png" o:title="" chromakey="white"/> </v:shape><![endif]--> = 2.8) and spacing adopted (100cm × 50cm) ” (<!-- [if gte msEquation 12]><m:oMath><m:acc><m:accPr><m:chr m:val="̅"/><m:ctrlPr></m:ctrlPr></m:accPr><m:e><m:r><m:rPr><m:scr m:val="roman"/><m:sty m:val="p"/></m:rPr>X</m:r></m:e></m:acc></m:oMath><![endif]--> <span style="font-size: 11.0pt; line-height: 107%; font-family: 'Calibri',sans-serif; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-bidi-font-family: 'Times New Roman'; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-bidi; position: relative; top: 2.5pt; mso-text-raise: -2.5pt; mso-font-kerning: 0pt; mso-ligatures: none; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-fareast-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-language: AR-SA;"><!-- [if gte vml 1]><v:shape id="_x0000_i1025" type="#_x0000_t75" style='width:5.25pt;height:11.25pt'> <v:imagedata src="file:///C:/Users/DELL/AppData/Local/Temp/msohtmlclip1/01/clip_image001.png" o:title="" chromakey="white"/> </v:shape><![endif]--> =2.6) have high level of level of utilization of cocoyam storage techniques by farmers in the study area. OLS estimate on socio-economic factors influencing utilization of improved cocoyam technology Shows that positive relationship exists between education attainment, farmer experience, household size and labour while there is an inverse relationship between Farm sizes of the farmers. The study therefore recommended that an awareness creation in the use of the various technologies by extension would be a necessary step towards increased cultivation and production of cocoyam.
Copyright (c) 2026 Author(s) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Evaluation of Farmers' Proficiency in Utilizing Organic Products to Combat Cucumber Mosaic Virus Disease in Okra in Abia State, Nigeria
Strengthening the extension services and providing timely and context-specific information through innovation platforms can contribute to building resilience in regenerative agriculture and nature-based agri-production systems. Thus, the study evaluated farmers' proficiency in utilizing organic products to combat cucumber mosaic virus disease in okra in Abia State, Nigeria" Specifically, the study ascertained farmers awareness and intensity of incidence of CMV, identified organic extracts and products used by farmers in the control of CMV, examined level and determinants of farmer’s proficiency and constraints limiting farmers use of organic products on the control of CMV in okra. Multi-stage sampling procedure was employed in the selection of 150 respondents from two out of three Agricultural zones in Abia State Nigeria. Structured questionnaire was used to obtain relevant data for the study which was analyzed using simple descriptive statistics such as frequency counts, percentages, means as well as Z-test and OLS regression model. Results show that Majority (71%) of the farmers demonstrated basic understanding of organic products and their potential for disease control. Certain organic products (plants (<!-- [if gte vml 1]><v:shapetype id="_x0000_t75" coordsize="21600,21600" o:spt="75" o:preferrelative="t" path="m@4@5l@4@11@9@11@9@5xe" filled="f" stroked="f"> <v:stroke joinstyle="miter"/> <v:formulas> <v:f eqn="if lineDrawn pixelLineWidth 0"/> <v:f eqn="sum @0 1 0"/> <v:f eqn="sum 0 0 @1"/> <v:f eqn="prod @2 1 2"/> <v:f eqn="prod @3 21600 pixelWidth"/> <v:f eqn="prod @3 21600 pixelHeight"/> <v:f eqn="sum @0 0 1"/> <v:f eqn="prod @6 1 2"/> <v:f eqn="prod @7 21600 pixelWidth"/> <v:f eqn="sum @8 21600 0"/> <v:f eqn="prod @7 21600 pixelHeight"/> <v:f eqn="sum @10 21600 0"/> </v:formulas> <v:path o:extrusionok="f" gradientshapeok="t" o:connecttype="rect"/> <o:lock v:ext="edit" aspectratio="t"/> </v:shapetype><v:shape id="_x0000_i1030" type="#_x0000_t75" style='width:8.25pt; height:12pt;visibility:visible;mso-wrap-style:square'> <v:imagedata src="file:///C:/Users/DELL/AppData/Local/Temp/msohtmlclip1/01/clip_image001.png" o:title=""/> </v:shape><![endif]--> = 3.4) and non-plant (<!-- [if gte vml 1]><v:shape id="image1.png" o:spid="_x0000_i1029" type="#_x0000_t75" style='width:8.25pt;height:12pt; visibility:visible;mso-wrap-style:square'> <v:imagedata src="file:///C:/Users/DELL/AppData/Local/Temp/msohtmlclip1/01/clip_image001.png" o:title=""/> </v:shape><![endif]--> = 3.0) extracts) were found to be more popular and widely used among farmers due to their effectiveness and availability. High level of proficiency in the use of Azadirachta indica (neem) (<!-- [if gte vml 1]><v:shape id="_x0000_i1028" type="#_x0000_t75" style='width:8.25pt;height:12pt; visibility:visible;mso-wrap-style:square'> <v:imagedata src="file:///C:/Users/DELL/AppData/Local/Temp/msohtmlclip1/01/clip_image001.png" o:title=""/> </v:shape><![endif]--> = 3.60) than Zingiber officinale (ginger) (<!-- [if gte vml 1]><v:shape id="_x0000_i1027" type="#_x0000_t75" style='width:8.25pt;height:12pt; visibility:visible;mso-wrap-style:square'> <v:imagedata src="file:///C:/Users/DELL/AppData/Local/Temp/msohtmlclip1/01/clip_image001.png" o:title=""/> </v:shape><![endif]--> = 3.05), Allium sativum (garlic), (<!-- [if gte vml 1]><v:shape id="_x0000_i1026" type="#_x0000_t75" style='width:8.25pt;height:12pt;visibility:visible; mso-wrap-style:square'> <v:imagedata src="file:///C:/Users/DELL/AppData/Local/Temp/msohtmlclip1/01/clip_image001.png" o:title=""/> </v:shape><![endif]--> = 2.69) and Jathropha leave extract (<!-- [if gte vml 1]><v:shape id="image2.png" o:spid="_x0000_i1025" type="#_x0000_t75" style='width:8.25pt; height:12pt;visibility:visible;mso-wrap-style:square'> <v:imagedata src="file:///C:/Users/DELL/AppData/Local/Temp/msohtmlclip1/01/clip_image001.png" o:title=""/> </v:shape><![endif]--> = 2.55) respectively were recorded. Coefficients for educational qualification (10%), extension contact (1%), participated in trainings (1%) are significant variables directly influencing the level of proficiency. The study therefore calls for empowering the farmers through access to informal education, trainings and contact with extension services to substantially increase access to information on organic farming practices, and/or pest and disease control as best control strategy ultimately leading to improved yields and livelihoods in the agricultural sector.
Food Security & Climate Change: Nigeria’s Contemporary Socio-Political & Technological Environment
This is the proceedings of the Maiden International Conference of the College of Agricultural Economics, Rural Sociology and Extension (CAERSE), Michael Okpara University of Agriculture, Umudike (MOUAU), Abia State, Nigeria.
Copyright (c) 2025 Authors https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0