Friday, June 28, 2013

climate change and chicken management


ARE CHANGES IN THE TREND OF CLIMATIC VARIABLES ATTRIBUTABLE TO INCREASING USE OF CHICKEN MANAGEMENT?

 


By Osuntade Olubukola and Adebayo Kolawole

Based on the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change projections, (IPCC, 2007) the humid tropical zone of southern Nigeria, which is already too hot and too wet, is expected to be characterised by increase in both temperature and precipitation, especially at the peak of the rainy season with the temperature increases of 0.2 degree to 0.3 degree per decade been observed in the various ecological zones of the country, particularly since 1960s. The projections also revealed that for the tropically humid zones of Nigeria, precipitation increases from about two to three per cent for each degree of global warming may be expected. By implication, it is expected that precipitation will probably increase by approximately five to 20 per cent in the very humid areas of the forest regions and the southern savannah areas. Agriculture is a major contributor to greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions both at the national and international levels principally from methane and nitrous oxide. It is becoming clear that meat and dairy products are the foods carrying the greatest environmental burden, accounting for approximately half of food-generated GHG emissions. However, global consumption of livestock products is growing. Demand for meat and milk is expected to double by 2050 (FAO, 2006).

A study carried out on the influence of selected intensive chicken management practices on climate change in the rainforest of Southwest Nigeria showed the patterns at which chicken management practices among other human activities contribute to the emissions of Greenhouse Gases which eventually leads to changes in climate. A purposive sampling technique was used to select extension officers and livestock researchers to elicit information in the various chicken management practices the farmers in the South Western Nigeria engage in.

A sample of chicken farmers practicing the selected chicken management routines for either subsistence or commercial purposes was also interviewed. Certain frequently used intensive chicken management practices were identified by the extension officers and researchers in the rainforest of southwest Nigeria and this was further corroborated by the farmers. Improper disposal of wastes generated from chicken management contributes to the emission of greenhouse gases (GHG) in Southwest Nigeria. The ambient air quality within and around chicken farms in the area was monitored using a combination of in-situ instrumental measurements and sampling with Gilian (GIL AIR) pump/impinger containing absorbing solution (at 4.0 LPM for 20 minutes) and subsequent analysis in the laboratory showed the different gases emitted on different farms at varying distances of 25m and 100m from the chicken farms. It was revealed that gases (CH4 and NH3) emitted at 0m from the farm is higher than the one at 25m from the chicken farm and that is also higher than the gases emitted at 100m away for both  CH4 and NH3. It was revealed that at different distances, there is an average reduction in the CH4 and NH3 on the chicken farms visited.

The reductions in these gases at varying distances were then tested for their significant difference with ANOVA which showed there were significant differences in the gases emitted. It was revealed that the differences in the air Suspended Particulate Matter in in the CH4 and NH3 content of the air. Most chicken farmers in Southwest Nigeria are indifferent about issues that relates to their human activities as it affect changes in the climate. This could be because they are not aware that chicken management practices contribute to climate change or they are not properly exposed to the hazards that they are contributing to in the environment. This should call for concern to the researchers to work more on the environmental friendly and less expensive practices that these farmers could use. It is also a call for the extension agents to ensure that some practices are properly done to alleviate the possible environmental problems generated by the recommended practices and they should also bridge the gap between research and the grassroots. It is not enough that the chicken farmers had a perception that there were negative influences of the selected chicken management practices on climate change but the analysis carried out by experts in the study confirmed that perception.

This implies that there are hazardous effects on the chicken farms than at the surroundings more than a 100m radius. Workers at the chicken farms are prone to environmental related diseases than those around. In essence, there should be a way to reduce these gases emitted. Though these gases do not stay dormant in the atmosphere but there are mediations by the nature that reduces the gases. If the poultry activity increases, there are tendencies in the  increases in the CH4 and NH3 content in the air; and if the source of the pollution stops, the pollution itself will stop. In most developing countries, there are no pronounced global warming effects compared with the developed countries where there human activities are overwhelmingly greater than the natural effects that mediate against these gases. Projections in Greenhouse gases could be possible based on the assumptions that, there are:

·         No mediations to reduce the gases accumulation in the air

·         Stock size remaining the same over the period of years

·         No availability of green vegetation to take up the content of the gases in the air

·         There is no washing away of the nitrate in the nitrogen cycle by rain

·         No new innovations to mediate the release of the gases

This therefore indicates that there are greenhouse gases emitted in the air that have the tendency to affect human health as activities in the poultry house progresses. Most of the farmers engaged in these chicken management practices cannot connect these two elements of changes in the climate. Different environmental friendly alternative practices were suggested by researchers but there were constraints which made the alternatives not acceptable and practised in the rainforest of Southwest Nigeria. It is therefore a thing of importance to note that, climate change can be attributed to human activities among which are chicken management practices; however most of the chicken farmers are not aware of the connection between chicken management practices and climate change.  This can be curtailed if the environmental friendly alternatives recommended by researchers are introduced through appropriate extension methods to substitute for the traditional ways of managing chicken in rainforest of Southwest Nigeria. There is a need to consciously raise awareness of climate change issues in the shot-run among early career researchers and in the long run a deliberate campaign in schools and universities to focus young minds into investigative enquiries on the climate and how best society should adapt as change occur that are most often irreversible. Most often, stakeholders in climate change issues are very concerned with the adaptation to climate change, while thinking about the farmers’ adaptation to climate changes; but there is an oversight in issues of human activities affecting the changes in the climate, there should therefore also be a proper awareness among the stakeholders in the need to adjust to environmental friendly practices in order to remove the drudgery associated with climate change and chicken management practices.

 

Thursday, April 25, 2013

JSD Vol 10 No 1 March 2013 Special Edition


Journal of Sustainable Development Vol. 10. No.1, March, 2013 p. 2-8

ASSESSMENT OF BIOSECURITY MEASURES OF COMMERCIAL POULTRY FARMS IN ADO-ODO/OTA LOCAL GOVERNMENT AREA

BELLO, K. O1; FASINU, C. O2; ONI, O. O. AND ERUVBETINE, D2.

1.         Institute of Food Security, Environmental Resources and Agricultural Research; Federal University of Agriculture, Abeokuta, Nigeria Email: kazeembello19@gmail.com

2.         College of Animal Science and Livestock Production; Federal University of Agriculture, Abeokuta, Nigeria

3.         College of Veterinary Medicine, Federal University of Agriculture, Abeokuta, Nigeria

 ABSTRACT

Biosecurity measures of commercial poultry farms in Ado-Odo local government area, Ogun State, Nigeria was appraised to determine the level of practice using well structured questionnaire. Data were gathered on distance between farms and potential disease transmission threat of commercial poultry farms, level of hygiene of the farms, flock health care and management practices of commercial poultry farms in the study area and analyzed using descriptive statistics in percentage. Result revealed that 70.62% of commercial farms maintained a good distance between their farms and potential disease threats. Only 72.81% of farms in the study area practiced good hygiene while 27.19% did not. The result also revealed that 81.08% of farmers practice good flock health care and 74.9% of the farmers practiced good poultry management on their farms while 25.1% did not have good poultry management practice. The study concluded that biosecurity measures practised in the study area at the various levels of practice were reasonable and this was reflected in high level of positve (yes) findings relative to the low level of negative (no) findings in the study. However, farmers were enjoined to improve on the farm biosecurity because the closer the farm biosecurity to 100% the better.

 

Journal of Sustainable Development Vol. 10. No.1, March, 2013 p. 9-14

ASSESSMENT OF LIVELIHOOD ACTIVITIES AMONG RIVERINE COMMUNITIES OF ONDO STATE, NIGERIA

ALFRED, S.D.Y., AKINKUNMI T. AND AKINGBESOTE, E.I.

Department of Agricultural Extension and Communication Technology, Federal University of Technology, Akure, Nigeria Email: yomialfred2003@yahoo.com

 ABSTRACT
The various livelihood activities among the people of riverine communities in Ondo State, Nigeria were investigated in four communities in each of the two selected Local Government Areas (LGAs) (Ilaje and Ese – Odo) out of eighteen existing LGAs in Ondo State. The study, among other objectives, examined the socio economic characteristics of respondents, identified the various livelihood activities engaged in by respondents, identified the various constraints the dwellers encountered and also, determined the people’s general perception towards involvement in livelihood activities. One hundred and twenty (120) respondents were randomly selected and interviewed using structured questionnaire. The results showed that majority (63.3%) of respondents, who engaged in one form of livelihood activity or the other in the study areas, were male while 36.7% were female and were within the age range of less than 30years to above 60years with the mean age of 47years. The respondent’s livelihood activities cut across fishing and non-fishing activities. Fishing and other income generating activities was the top most livelihood activities engaged in by respondents, as 63.0% were engaged in fish marketing, 54.2% in fish processing and 33.3% in fish catching while 12.5% engaged in net making. Furthermore, 10.0% of the respondents were into canoe carving, boat repairs and canoe/boat transportation while 43.3% were found in other activities such as trading in fuel woods, charcoal and kerosene. Fishing and fishing related activities were regarded as high income earners, while non-fishing activities were low income earners, as average of N83, 625 (US$522) and #3,429.17 (US$2143) were earned monthly by individuals in the two different livelihood activities respectively. In addition, majority of the respondents was found to have positive perception (2.99) towards involvement in livelihood activities.

 

Journal of Sustainable Development Vol. 10. No.1, March, 2013 p. 15-22

ECONOMIC VIABILITY OF SWEETPOTATO PRODUCTION AND MARKETING IN NIGERIA

ANYAEGBUNAM, H.N.1 AND NTO, P.O.2

1.         National Root Crops Research Institute Umudike, PMB 7006 Umuahia, Abia State, Nigeria. Email:helenkol8@yahoo.com

2.         College of Management Sciences, Michael Okpara University of Agriculture Umudike, Abia State Nigeria

 ABSRACT

This study was carried out to investigate the economic viability of sweetpotato production, marketing and the efficiency of the marketing system. The production was carried out at the National Root crops research Institute, Umudike, Nigeria. Multistage randomized sampling technique was used in selecting, respondents and states (Akwa Ibom, Anambra, Ebonyi, Enugu) for the marketing activity.120 wholesalers and 240 retailers were selected. Structured questionnaire was used in collecting information from respondents. Data were analyzed using net-return analyses, Chi square, Duncan multiple range tests and descriptive statistics. The findings revealed that sweetpotato production is lucrative by giving a net return of N124, 698.80 per hectare and 80% per naira. The marketing operation was also found to be profitable on both wholesalers’ and retailers’ sectors. margins realized were N14,632,N24,100, N24,600 and N28,603 on the wholesalers sector while N3,256, N5,728, N5,775 and N10,000 were realized on the retailers sector. The results showed that both operations are viable. Efficiency results showed that none of the states/sectors had efficiency of 100%.The efficiencies range (20-80%).There were significant differences in marketing efficiencies in the markets across the states studied. Some of the constraints identified include lack of credit and infrastructural facilities. It is therefore recommended that credit and infrastructural facilities such as good storage and processing machines, good road and transport networks should be provided to the marketers to reduce sweetpotato spoilage, enhance storage and diversification of uses. This will improve income, livelihood of farmers and marketers and also the marketing efficiency.
 

Journal of Sustainable Development Vol. 10. No.1, March, 2013 p. 23-30

SUSTAINABILITY OF RURAL WOMEN GROUPS IN OGUN STATE, NIGERIA

 AYINDE, A. F. O1, AWOTUNDE, J. M.1, OMOTAYO, A. M.2 AND FABUSORO, E.1

1 Federal University of Agriculture, Abeokuta, Nigeria Email: funkeayinde@yahoo.com; ayindeafo@funaab.edu.ng

2 Federal University of Oye-Ekiti, Nigeria


ABSTRACT

The study assessed the level of sustainability of Agricultural Development Programme (OGADEP) women farmer groups in the rural parts of Ogun State. Using multi-stage sampling technique, 180 members were selected from 36 groups. Data collected were analysed using frequency and percentage tables as well as sustainability index. The study revealed that majority of the groups sampled engaged in agricultural activities. The mean number of members of the women group was 29 people, 52% of whom had no formal education, with mean age of 49 years. The mean duration of existence of the group was 8 years with mean total asset base of N787,779.17 per annum. Proportion of actual relative to the expected contribution of group members was 76.57% while the average actual attendance relative to the expected one was 85.25%. Majority (80.56%) of the group members had access to soft loans. The derived sustainability index (women group sustainability index (wgs) of 0.678) revealed that the rural women groups were moderately sustainable. The study recommended among others that factors that undermine their sustainability (group strength and optimal group size) should be addressed by intensifying efforts aimed at improving rural economic base.

 

Journal of Sustainable Development Vol. 10. No.1, March, 2013 p. 31-39

MICROCREDIT SOURCES AND LIVELIHOOD OUTCOMES OF SMALL SCALE RICE FARMERS IN THE HOHOE MUNICIPALITY, VOLTA REGION, GHANA

 AMOAH, I. A., BOATENG, S. D. AND ANAGLO, J. N.

Department of Agricultural Extension, University of Ghana, Legon Email: joanaglo@yahoo.com

 ABSTRACT

Microcredit has been identified as a means of giving loans to small scale farmers to help them undertake sustainable production. The study sought to investigate how services and products offered by different microfinance service providers influence the livelihoods of small scale rice farmers in the Akpafu area of the Hohoe Municipality of the Volta Region of Ghana. Simple random sampling technique was employed to select 140 small scale rice farmers. Individual interviews and focus group discussions were used for data collection. Three sources of credit namely: formal, informal and semi-formal were studied. Results indicated that the three major sources of credit had different modes of delivery, different forms of credit, and different terms of repayment and also had differences in the times of delivery of products and services. In terms of how sources of credit influenced the livelihood outcomes of the farmers, it was realized that the three credit sources generally had significant influence on the livelihood outcomes such as food security, farmer’s savings and ability to pay bills.

 
Journal of Sustainable Development Vol. 10. No.1, March, 2013 p. 40-47

ASSESSMENT OF DEVELOPMENT PROJECTS BY RURAL DWELLERS IN ATAKUMOSA EAST LOCAL GOVERNMENT AREA OF OSUN STATE, NIGERIA

 

AROMOLARAN A. K., LAWAL-ADEBOWALE, O. A. AND OLAOSEBIKAN O.

Department of Agricultural Extension and Rural Development, Federal University of Agriculture, PMB 2240 Abeokuta,  Nigeria. Email: garomolaran@yahoo.com, deoaks@ymail.com

ABSTRACT

The study was conducted to assess development projects carried out in selected rural communities in Osun State. Interview guide was used to elicit information from 120 rural people that were randomly selected. Data collected were analysed using descriptive and inferential statistics. It was observed that majority of the respondents were male (59.2%). Most (93.5%) of the respondents were above 25years of age, 93.3% of them were married. Most 82.5% of the respondents had post-primary education. About 35% of the respondents engaged in farming and 64.2% in non-farm occupation. This study reveals that most of the implemented and completed implemented projects in the communities were government-initiated. More than 90% of the development projects were completed and these include renovation and construction of schools, roads and health centres, electric power supply and agro-inputs distribution. The perceived effects of the development projects by the rural dwellers were access to formal education, health care services, ease of mobility of humans and goods, and enhanced farm productivity. The chi-square test of the study hypothesis showed a significant relationship between the respondents’ socioeconomic characteristics – education (χ2=20.31, df = 12); marital status (χ2=14.83, df = 3); occupation (χ2=23.59, df = 6) and their perceived effects of the development projects on their rural lives. It was thus concluded that, with developmental projects in place, quality of life of rural dwellers can be readily improved. It is therefore recommended that efforts should be made to ensure that development projects are initiated and completed for the benefit of the rural dwellers.

 

Journal of Sustainable Development Vol. 10. No.1, March, 2013 p. 48-55

WILLINGNESS TO PAY FOR HEALTH CARE SEVICES BY RURAL HOUSEHOLDS IN AKINYELE LOCAL GOVERNMENT AREA OF OYO STATE, NIGERIA

 OLUWAFEMI Z. O.1 AND OLUWAGBOHUMI A.2

1.         Department of Agricultural Technology, Oyo State College of Agriculture, Igbo-Ora, Nigeria Email: femi504@europe.com

2.         Department of Agricultural Economics, University of Ibadan, Nigeria

 ABSTRACT

This study was carried out to examine the willingness to pay for health care services among rural households. The origin of data used was of primary source. Structured questionnaires that contained socio-economic and the health status information were administered randomly among the rural households in the area. Both descriptive and inferential statistics were employed to perform the analysis. The result indicated that income of the respondents in the study area is relatively low and this could be attributed to the observed low level of economic activity in the area. The determinants of willingness to pay for health care service as a function of age, No of wife, earning per month, expenditure on health and frequency sickness and cost of treatment.in the study area. It is recommended that more effort should be geared towards improvement on the economic activities of the people living in the area. The multiplier effects of improved economics activities would improve their health status, income and generally, their overall standard of living

 

Journal of Sustainable Development Vol. 10. No.1, March, 2013 p. 56-60

TECHNICAL EFFICIENCY OF SUSTAINABLE CASSAVA FARMING IN KOGI STATE, NIGERIA

 ADEMILUYI, I.O., ADEPOJU, S.O., AND OKEKE-AGULU, K.

1Department of Agricultural Extension and Farm Management .Federal College of Forestry

Jos, Plateau State, Nigeria E-mail: bukkyinkus@yahoo.com

 ABSTRACT

This study investigated technical efficiency of sustainable cassava farming in Yagba-West Local Government Area of Kogi State, Nigeria. The main objective is to determine technical efficiency of cassava farmers. A multistage random sampling technique was employed to select 110 cassava farmers and data were obtained using a well-structured questionnaire. Stochastic frontier production function model was used for the analysis of the data. The result of the maximum likelihood estimate of the stochastic frontier production function shows that farm size (5%), labour (1%), cassava stem-cutting (1%s), fertilizer (10%) and agrochemical (1%) contributed significantly to output of cassava farmers. Stochastic frontier estimate shows the values of gamma (0.97) and sigma square (0.02). Result reveals a mean efficiency index of 0.95 implying that output from cassava production could be increased by 4.2percent using available technology. Non-Physical factors that served as determinants of technical inefficiency were age, education, farming experience, extension contact access to credit and household-size which were all found to be significant. These findings suggest the need for further investment in agricultural research and development particularly in sustaining nutrition security and poverty reduction.

 

Journal of Sustainable Development Vol. 10. No.1, March, 2013 p. 61-66

FARMERS’ PATICIPATION IN THE NATIONAL RICE DEVELOPMENT STRATEGY (NRDS) IN NIGER STATE, NIGERIA

 ADAMU C. O. AND ABDULSALAM-SAGHIR, P. B.

 Department of Agricultural Extension and Rural Development, Federal University of Agriculture.  Abeokuta, Ogun State, Nigeria Email: comlare2004@yahoo.com

 
ABSTRACT

The National Rice Development Strategy is an intervention of the Federal Government of Nigeria to increase local rice production. This study assessed rice farmers’ awareness of the programme, their accessibility to its services and their participation in its agenda. Challenges being faced by officials of the programme were also ascertained. The study was carried out in Niger State with respondents selected through the use of both simple random and purposive sampling techniques. Primary data were collected using interview guides and questionnaire. Descriptive analysis of data using frequencies, percentages and mean was done. Chi-square analysis was used to test the relationships between selected socio-economic characteristics of rice farmers and their awareness or participation in the NRDS programme. 67.5% of the rice farmers were aware of the programme, although most (70.0%) rice farmers in the study area were not employing the services of the programme. It was found that major among constraints faced by the officials of the programme were inadequate funding and transportation. Significant relationship was established between the rice farmers’ level of education, farm size, years of farming experience and their awareness of the programme (p<0.05). Provision of improved production and processing facilities should be the major thrust of this programme, if the intervention bid of the government is to be effective.

 
Journal of Sustainable Development Vol. 10. No.1, March, 2013 p. 67-72

CLIMATE CHANGE ADAPTATION AND FISH PROCESSING PRACTICES IN SEMI-ARID AND HUMID ZONES OF NIGERIA

ADEOGUN M.O. 1 AND O.A ADEOGUN2

1.         Federal College of Fishery, Victoria Island, Lagos, Nigeria E-mail mercy_ope@yahoo.com 

2.         Nigerian Institute of Marine and Oceanographic Research, Victoria Island, Lagos, Nigeria

 ABSTRACT

This study identifies Indigenous Fish Processing Practices (IFPPs) use to reduce post-harvest losses. Focus group discussions, key informants and structured interview schedule from a sample of Eighty one (81) fish processors. Descriptive statistics and Logit model analysis were used to analyse the data. The result show the factors that encouraged IFPPs use to include; compatible equipment, profitability and peoples’ culture. Result of the Logit model revealed that in Humid zone, age (t=-4.628), sex (t=-2.322), education (t=-4.222), size of house hold (t=4.025), frequency of information (t=-3.925), consumers preference (t=-6.099), custom of processing (t=-4.379), volume of fish processed (t=2.463), cosmopoliteness (t=3.200), information sources (-3.354), frequencies of information (-2.675)  were prominent factors influencing IFPPs use. In Semi-Arid zone, age (t=-0.199), sex (t=-0.842), education (1.156), size of household (0.161), did not influence IFPPs use. Some of the practices identified in the Semi-Humid zone are fish smoked coiled, cut into chunk, flat whole, sundry partially burnt, sundry on raised net, burnt fish and fried fish while fish smoked coiled, flat whole and smoked after partial sundry are common in Arid zone. These practices have enabled them to adapt with their local environments even at minimal costs. Recommends development programmes on IFPPs in similar climatic conditions.

 

Journal of Sustainable Development Vol. 10. No.1, March, 2013 p. 73-81

CONTRIBUTIONS OF NEGLECTED AND UNDERUTILISED CROP SPECIES (NUS) TO SUSTAINABLE RURAL LIVELIHOOD IN OGUN STATE, NIGERIA

 
SODIYA, C.  I.

Department of Agricultural Extension and Rural Development, Federal University of Agriculture, Abeokuta, Nigeria Email: comfortibironke@yahoo.com

 
ABSTRACT

The study examined the contributions of neglected and underutilized crops to sustainable livelihoods of rural households in Ogun State, South -Western Nigeria. Purposive sampling was done using the snowball technique to select one hundred and twenty respondents involved in the production, marketing and utilization of NUS as a major livelihood option. Data was collected using structured interview schedule and analysed using descriptive and inferential statistics. Gross Margin model was used to estimate the profitability of the NUS. The results showed that 80.83% of the respondents were female and 86.67% of them were married with mean age of 41 years and household size of 4-7 persons. The income level of the respondents was found to range between N12, 000 – N30, 000. Gross margin analysis revealed a profit margin of 8,520.61  Major constraints experienced by respondents include, climatic change (100%), non-availability of  processing equipments (99.10%), limited extension service support (98.10%), pest and diseases (97.70%), lack of storage facilities (95.40%), poor market information (82.90%) and transportation problems (75.00%). Pearson Product Moment Correlation analysis indicated that socio-economic characteristics such as age (r=0.175*, p<0.05), household size (r = 0.248***, p<0.05), were positively significant to the income of respondents. The constraints experienced by respondents was significant and showed a negative relationship to income (r=-1.88, p<0.05). The study concluded that socio-economic characteristics, production factors and constraints experienced by respondents influenced the profitability of NUS. It was recommended that more researches should be carried out by crop and agro forestry scientists on the domestication of NUS and extension service providers should further create awareness on the existing capability of NUS as a source of rural employment and sustainable livelihood option for rural households.

 

Journal of Sustainable Development Vol. 10. No.1, March, 2013 p. 82-90

UTILIZATION OF LOCALLY PRODUCED DESICCATED COCONUT IN PLAIN AND MILK CHOCOLATE

 

SAKA1, E. A. NYARKO H. D.2, ASANTE, F. 3 AND TORTOE, C.1

1 Council for Scientific and Industrial Research - Food Research Institute, Accra, Ghana Email: emmanuelsaka@yahoo.co.uk

2 University of Cape Coast, University Post Box Cape Coast, Ghana

3 Cocoa Processing Company Limited (CPC) PMB Tema Accra Ghana,

 

ABSTRACT

Value addition to locally produced coconuts is an alternative livelihoods support to coconut famers and generates new markets for Ghana’s coconuts. Fresh matured un-bruised de-husked West African Tall coconuts were grated, hot-water blanched for sixty seconds and oven-dried (80oC-90oC) for ten hours. The samples were then milled and conditioned in a refrigerator for seven days.  Coconut centers were made out of the samples and dipped into milk and dark chocolate masses for coating. A 7 point hedonic scale sensory evaluation analysis was carried out with 33 untrained panelists. ANOVA results on the sensory data showed higher preference for the desiccated milk chocolate (DCMC), (P<0.05). Proximate values for desiccated plain chocolate (DCPC) and DCMC respectively were: fibre (2.40+0.00% and 3.10 + 0.00%), protein (6.40+0.00% and 9.50+0.00%), fat (39.35+0.73% and 42.88+2.34%), ash (1.37+0.12% and 2.04+0.76%), moisture (2.96+0.08% and 3.61+0.25%) and sugar (26.94+0.02% 25.93+0.15%).  Microbiological values for the DCPC and DCMC respectively were: Total Viable Counts (50 and 260 CFU/ml), Mould/Yeast (0 and 720 CFU/ml), Coliforms (0 CFU/ml) perhaps due to contamination. The study proved that coconut can be incorporated into locally manufactured chocolates, especially milk chocolates.

 

Journal of Sustainable Development Vol. 10. No.1, March, 2013 p. 91-100

IMPACT OF SOCIO-ECONOMIC CHARACTERISTICS OF RURAL WOMEN ON POVERTY ALLEVIATION STRATEGIES IN KOGI STATE, NIGERIA

 

MUNDI, N. E. AND TENEBE, V.A.

School of Science and Technology, National Open University of Nigeria, Lagos


 

ABSTRACT

A study was conducted to investigate the impact of socio-economic characteristics of rural women on poverty alleviation strategies in Kogi State, Nigeria. Stratified random sampling technique was used for the selection of the respondents for this research work. The twenty-one (21) Local Government Areas (LGAs) in the state were stratified into three, that is, those in the Eastern, Central and Western Zones. From these, two LGAs were randomly selected from each Zone. In all, six LGAs were randomly selected from the three Zones of Kogi State. These include Bassa and Ankpa LGAs from Eastern, Okene and Adavi LGAs from the Central and Lokoja and Kogi LGAs from the Western Zones respectively. A total of (N=360) rural women were selected to participate in the study. The study revealed that from the socio-economic characteristics of rural women, majority of the respondents were between the ages of 36 and 55 years with a total of (73.9%) while less than one (0.8) percent were above 60 years. Majority of the respondents (50.8%) had no formal education while (16.4%) had adult education. Majority of them (74.4%) were married while the remaining (25.6%) of the respondents were single, widowed or divorced. Few of the respondents, (15.8%) had 2-4 children while majority (a total of 83.7%) had more than the maximum number of children as recommended by the Federal Government of Nigeria which is four. The result further showed that the hypothesis was rejected because the chi-square (X2) tests indicated that there were significant associations between socio-economic characteristics of the respondents age (X2 = 636.04), highest educational level (X2=153.29), marital status (X2 = 63.80), husband’s number of wives (X2 = 27.22), head of house hold (X2=78.27), religion (X2=153.29), place of origin (X2=46.88), and position among wives (X2=45.80) and their use of poverty alleviation strategies at 0.05 significant level. It was recommended that there is need to increase the level of awareness of rural populace to the importance of education as majority of the rural women were not educated. This will make the rural women to use the various opportunities that may open to them in getting out of poverty.

JSD Vol 9 Nos 1 and 2 September 2012


Journal of Sustainable Development Vol. 9. Nos. 1/2, September, 2012 p. 2-9
STRUCTURAL CHARACTERISTICS OF FROZEN FISH MARKET IN OGUN STATE, NIGERIA
 
AYORINDE, B.J.O.
 
Department of Agricultural Production and Management Science, Tai Solarin University of Education, P.M.B. 2118, Ijagun, Ijebu-Ode, Ogun State. Email: olumii4uu@gmail.com
 
ABSTRACT
Fish represents 14% animal protein and about 5% of human protein intake. It is not produced in commercial quantity in Ogun State. The Nigerian fish market is dominated by frozen fish. About 90% of the frozen landed is consumed without further processing while the remaining 10% is processed by smoking and/or drying before distribution through an extensive marketing system. This study is therefore necessary to determine the level of sellers concentration and examine factors which promote sellers concentration in frozen fish wholesale and retail markets in Ogun State. One hundred and four wholesalers and 200 retailers of frozen fish were selected using a three-stage random sampling procedure in four marketing zones (Abeokuta, Ijebu-Ode, Ikenne and Ilaro) according to Ogun State Agricultural Development Programme zoning. Questionnaires were administered to elicit information on marketers concentration and monthly profits. The monthly price series (2007-2009) obtained from the rural and urban markets within the zones was used for the price behaviour analysis and market integration. Data obtained were analyzed using Gini coefficient, the Lorenz curve and co-efficient of concentration. The most common fish types in the markets studied are Scomber japonicus, Ethmalosa fimbriata and Gadus morhua. The level of concentration is slightly higher in the wholesale than in the retail sector with Gini coefficients of 0.60 for wholesalers and 0.56 for retailers in all the zones. There is some degree of concentration in the wholesale and retail markets. The retail outlet constitutes the main marketing network distribution of frozen fish. It is possible to improve the degree and effectiveness of competition in the frozen fish markets.
 
Journal of Sustainable Development Vol. 9. Nos. 1/2, September, 2012 p. 10-17
TECHNICAL EFFICIENCY OF BROILER PRODUCTION IN UMUAHIA, ABIA STATE, NIGERIA
 
AMANZE J.O1, EZEH C.I2 AND CHUKWDI. J2
1.         World Agro Forestry centre (International Centre for Research in Agro Forestry, Benin, Edo State, Nigeria Email: joeamanze@yahoo.com
2.         Department of Agricultural Economics and Extension Abia State University Uturu, Umuahia Campus Abia State, Nigeria. Email: chimaeze@yahoo.com
 
ABSTRACT
 
This study measured the technical efficiency and its determinants in poultry broiler production in Umuahia Capital Territory of Abia State, Nigeria, using the stochastic frontier production function. Purposive and multi-stage random sampling techniques were used to select 60 poultry broiler farmers from which the input-output data were collected using a pre-tested and structured questionnaire. The result showed that the estimated farm level technical efficiency ranged from 08% and 97% with a mean of 75%. The socio-economic determinants of technical efficiency were extension contact, household size, age and educational level.
 
 
Journal of Sustainable Development Vol. 9. Nos. 1/2, September, 2012 p. 18-25
SOCIOECONOMIC FACTORS AS PREDICTORS OF ENTREPRENEURIAL BEHAVIOUR
 
ISIORHOVOJA, R.A., OGISI, O.D.  AND INONI, O.E.
Department of Agricultural Economics and Extension, Delta State University, Asaba Campus
Asaba, Delta State, Nigeria
 
ABSTRACT
 
This paper assessed the effect of socioeconomic factors on the likelihood of respondent being a poultry farm entrepreneur. The 275 poultry farms registered with the Livestock department of Delta State Ministry of Agriculture, Delta State, Nigeria, was the population studied. Data on socio-economic characteristics of poultry farmers and their relationship with the farms were collected with the aid of questionnaire. Data obtained were analyzed using descriptive statistics and binary logistic regression. The results revealed that the ages of respondents ranged from 18 to 68 years with a mean of 43.91 years and a standard deviation of 9.29; the age group 38 - 47 years had the highest frequency of poultry entrepreneurs (39.60%). Majority of poultry operators (42.18%) had either a diploma or certificate of education. Other findings were that age, gender, number of years of study and nature of parents’occupation were socio-economic factors which significantly affect the likelihood of the respondent being a poultry farm  entrepreneur. The authors recommend that entrepreneurial development programmes should take cognizance of these factors in their design.
 
Journal of Sustainable Development Vol. 9. Nos. 1/2, September, 2012 p. 26-34
PARTICIPATION IN HOMESTEAD CATFISH PRODUCTION IN THE CENTRAL AGRICULTURAL ZONE OF DELTA STATE
 
INONI, O. E.
Department of Agricultural Economics and Extension, Delta State University, Abraka, Delta State, Nigeria Email: inoniemma2003@yahoo.com
 
ABSTRACT
 
The study examined the effects of socio-economic factors on participation in homestead catfish production, in the Central Agricultural zone of Delta State. Data for the study were obtained from a cross-section of 137 farmers engaged in fish farming, with the aid of questionnaire.  Both descriptive and probit analysis was employed to analyse the data. The results indicated that majority of homestead catfish farmers were men (68.6%) while 70.1% of operators were married. About 93% of participants had some form of formal education, and the average pond size was 9.99m2. The results of the probit analysis showed that age, adults per household, marital status, years of education, pond size, disposable income and location of pond had positive effects, and were significant determinants of participation in homestead catfish production. The probit model had a good fit with a highly significant likelihood ratio (LR) test (P <0.00), a McFadden R2 of 0.52, with 83.2% of cases correctly predicted. Given the low level of animal protein consumption and the rising fish import bill in Nigeria, there is the need to explore every means to boost domestic fish production, to conserve foreign exchange and to ensure self-sufficiency in fish production. And a policy of homestead catfish production may just be a right step in the right direction.
 
Journal of Sustainable Development Vol. 9. Nos. 1/2, September, 2012 p. 35-46
CULTURAL IMPERIALISM IN TELEVISION PROGRAMMING AND NATIONAL DEVELOPMENT
 
UTI, A. C.
Department of Mass Communication and Media Technology, Lead City University, Ibadan, Nigeria Email: uticharles@yahoo.com
 


ABSTRACT
 


This paper examines cultural imperialism as it affects television broadcasting in Nigeria and its effect on national development. To achieve the set task, it adopts a historical approach to trace the evolvement of imperialistic tendencies in the Nigerian broadcast environment to the evolution of television in Nigeria. It contends that apart from putting the Nigerian broadcaster in a dilemma of some sort, the various forms of the phenomenon do not help in any significant way to integrate the rural populace into the mainstream of socio-cultural and socio-economic growth and development of Nigeria and thus the prognosis of the situation is precarious for the Nigerian television media. It further argues that as a phenomenon, cultural imperialism will continue to recur in the foreseeable future because an enabling ambience needed for its displacement by local television broadcasting is yet faltering. Therefore, it suggests that a deliberate and concerted effort should be made to change the situation. Such efforts should include better funding, investment in the development of home-grown media technologies, investment in high manpower development, innovative programmes and more specialized programming with indigenous flavours by both the public and private television outfits operating in the Nigerian broadcast clime.

 

Journal of Sustainable Development Vol. 9. Nos. 1/2, September, 2012 p. 47-52

ECONOMIC ANALYSIS OF SMALL SCALE TURKEY PRODUCTION IN TORO LOCAL GOVERNMENT AREA, BAUCHI STATE, NIGERIA

 

BAKOJI, I.1 HARUNA.U.2 NASIRU, M.2 DAHIRU.S.I.3

1.         Nigeria Prisons Service, Toro Satellite Prison, Nabordo, Bauchi State Command

Email: isahbakoji@yahoo.com,bakojiisah@gmail.com

2.         Abubakar Tafawa Balewa University, Bauchi

3.         .Bunkure Local Government, Kano state.

 

ABSTRACT

 

The study was carried out to determine the profitability analysis of small scale turkey production in Toro Local Government area, Bauchi State, Nigeria.   A sample of 50 small scale turkey farmers was randomly selected from the study area. Five districts were purposely selected due to their interest in turkey production the villages are: Nabordo, Zigau, Jajuwal, Jema’a and Rishi. Data collected were analyzed using descriptive statistics, gross margin and regression analysis. The majority of the turkey farmers (56%) were female, (86%) of the respondents had one form of education or the other. Considerable number of the turkey farmers had 6-20 years of rearing experience. On average turkey farmer obtained about N6500/bird at maturity with operating ratio of 0.45and 2.20 returns per naira invested respectively. Coefficient of turkey weight, feeds and drugs was found to be positive and significant at p<0.1. Feed cost accounted for about 21.38% of the total cost of production. Turkey production in the study area was found to be not even viable but also profitable. Major constraints of the turkey farmers includes high cost of poults, high cost of feeds, high mortality rates, ectoparasites and low productive potentials amongst others. The finding recommended that effort should be intensified by animal breeders to produce turkey birds that are disease resistant and highly prolific that can lay eggs throughout the season. Farmers are also advice to form cooperatives to take advantage of economies of scale.

Journal of Sustainable Development Vol. 9. Nos. 1/2, September, 2012 p. 53-61

MEDIA VIOLENCE AMONG YOUTHS AND NATIONAL DEVELOPMENT

 

UTI, A. C.

Department of Mass Communication and Media Technology, Lead City University, Ibadan, Nigeria Email: uticharles@yahoo.com

 

ABSTRACT

 

The issue of discourse is “Media Violence among Youths and National Development”, what influence media projections has on the youth? How do the youth take in media messages? Whether or not exposure to media violence causes increased levels of aggression and violence in young people that negate national development is the perennial question of this paper. Some experts argue that fifty years of evidence show "that exposure to media violence causes children to behave more aggressively and affects them as adults’ years later." Others maintain that "the scientific evidence simply does not show that watching violence either produces violence and aggression in people, or desensitizes them to it." Media violence is notoriously hard to define and measure. Some experts who track violence in media programming, define violence as the act (or threat) of injuring or killing someone, independent of the method used or the surrounding context. These and more this paper intends to treat. This paper also brings to the fore necessary scenarios that paint a vivid picture of the situation which enhanced the analysis of this paper.

 

Journal of Sustainable Development Vol. 9. Nos. 1/2, September, 2012 p. 62-70

DETERMINANTS OF CATTLE MARKETING IN SELECTED AREAS OF KANO STATE, NIGERIA

 

NASIRU M., SANI R.M. AND HARUNA U.

Abubakar Tafawa Balewa University, P.M.B. 0248, Bauchi, Nigeria. Email: uharuna77@gmail.com

 

ABSTRACT

 

Cattle marketing is an important agricultural activity engaged by the traders in northern Nigeria. The study examines the factors influencing marketing of cattle in some selected areas of Kano state. Cross sectional data were collected between 2004 and 2005 using structured questionnaire which was administered to 60 respondents. Data were analyzed using descriptive and inferential statistics. Results revealed that the mean age of the respondents was 42 years. Non-formal education dominates among the respondents (55%). Their mean years of experience in the cattle trade was 25.07.Also, their mean household size was 11 persons. The mean size of holding for the cattle traders was 7. Feed, medication, labour, transportation and other marketing charges had a highly significant effect (P<0.001) on cattle marketing in the study area. The most important constraint in cattle marketing was the interference of non- commission agents. To improve the situation, adequate  feeding, medication and labour should be given utmost priority by the traders of cattle in the study area in addition to the  formation of viable associations and legislation to help minimize the issue of delayed payment and the deleterious effect of the non-commission agents.

 

Journal of Sustainable Development Vol. 9. Nos. 1/2, September, 2012 p. 71-79

DISTORTIONS IN THE REAL ECONOMY: IMPLICATIONS FOR SUSTAINABLE NATIONAL DEVELOPMENT

 

KAREEM, R.O1, RAHEEM, K.A2, AYINDE, I.A1, AKINTARO, J.A1, AND BASHIR, N.O2

1.         Department of Economics and Actuarial Sciences, College of Social and Management Sciences, Crescent University, Abeokuta, Ogun State, Nigeria Email: rskventures@yahoo.com

2.         Academic Planning Unit, Crescent University, Abeokuta

 

ABSTRACT

 

It is a known fact that Nigerian is endowed with natural and human resources to build a sustainable economic growth and development. More so, despite Nigeria’s involvement in various bilateral, multi-lateral and economic integration with the rest of the world, the task of sustainability in economic development is still a mirage. It is pertinent to say therefore that this might not be unconnected to the various ‘distortions’ (the bending, twisting, or forcing of macro-economic variables out of its usual way) in the polity which has hitherto exerts a negative influence on the real sector of the economy. This study adopts a time series data on a number of macro-economic variables to examine the distortions in the real sector of the economy between 1973 and 2008 and the implications for sustainable developments. Though, the results show an increase in the trend of the selected macro-economic variables except inflation rate which fluctuates. Similarly, the results of the Ordinary Least Square (OLS) revealed that exchange rate and interest rate are the significant policy variables that contributed to economic growth. However, on the contrary, the economy has not changed structurally to juxtapose the increase in the macro-economic variables considered in the study. The study opined that, lack of policy implementation by successive governments might have been responsible for the problem of attaining sustainable economic growth with attendant implication for sustainable economic development. The study therefore recommended that government should ensure proper implementation of policies and programmes as well as enhancing foreign direct investment through moderate exchange and interest rates coupled with development of infrastructural facilities in the country (electricity, roads, water etc). These among others are’ sine-qua none’ in achieving sustainable economic growth with attendant effect on economic  development as a veritable key to Nigeria becoming one of the top 20 economies of the world by the year 2020. 

Journal of Sustainable Development Vol. 9. Nos. 1/2, September, 2012 p. 80-85

THE ROLE OF TECHNOLOGY IN AGRICULTURAL DEVELOPMENT

 

UMAR, M. B.1, AND HARUNA, U2

1.         Jigawa State College of Agriculture,P.M.B.013, Hadejia, Nigeria

2.         Agric. Economics And Extension Programme,Abubakar Tafawa Balewa University, P.M.B. 0248, Bauchi, Nigeria

                          

ABSTRACT

 

This paper discusses the role of technology in agricultural development by looking at typology of technology, technology transfer, maize and wheat production technology advocated by SG20000 Nigeria project. It viewed agricultural technology as the application of technologies for the promotion and development of agriculture aimed at improving food production and income, and well-being of farmers. It concluded that both maize and wheat technical packages yield 5 tons/ha above national averages of 1.4 and 1.7 tons/ha.

 

Journal of Sustainable Development Vol. 9. Nos. 1/2, September, 2012 p. 86-92

MARKET EFFICIENCY OF FROZEN FISH MARKETS: APPLICATION OF CO-INTEGRATION TESTS

 

AYORINDE, B.J.O. 1 AND OLUKUNLE, O2

1.         Department of Agricultural Production and Management Science, Tai Solarin University of Education, P.M.B. 2118, Ijagun, Ijebu-Ode, Ogun State. Email: olumii4uu@gmail.com

2.         Department of Wildlife and Fisheries Management, University of Ibadan, Ibadan

 

ABSTRACT

 
The inability of the domestic fish production sector of Nigeria to meet domestic demand for fish has led to a dependence on fish imports. The value of fish and fish products imported into Nigeria annually is worth about N12 billion. An efficient fish market will establish prices that are related over-space by transportation costs and over-time by storage costs. This study is aimed at determining the efficiency of the marketing system for frozen fish in Ogun State, Nigeria applying Cointegration Tests. One hundred and four wholesalers and 200 retailers of frozen fish were selected using a three-stage random sampling procedure in four marketing zones (Abeokuta, Ijebu-Ode, Ikenne and Ilaro) according to Ogun State Agricultural Development Programme zoning. Questionnaires were administered on marketers to elicit information, to determine whether the markets were integrated or not and to establish the existence of long-run equilibrium relationship between the price variables. The monthly price series (2007-2009) obtained from the rural and urban markets within the zones was used for the price behaviour analysis and market integration. Data obtained were analyzed using co-integration tests. The unit root test for stationarity of the time series showed that 50.0% of the price series were stationary of order I(0) and the rest, of order I(1) (P<0.05). The long-run test indicates seven co-integrating equations at 5% level of significance. The rate of adjustment to the long-run equilibrium as indicated by the Error Correction Model is 79.0%, showing high rate of adjustment. Eleven market links exhibited uni-directional Granger-causality. The monthly profit of the wholesale market is higher than that of the retail market. The inter- and intra-rural and urban markets integration is far from being optimum. The urban markets drive prices. It is possible to improve the degree and effectiveness of competition in the frozen fish markets.