FAMAN Journal Volume 11 No 1 2010

Volume 11 No. 1, 2010

EFFECT OF GOVERNMENT SPENDING ON AGRICULTURAL GROSS DOMESTIC PRODUCT (GDP) IN NIGERIA

 

Omojimite,  B. U.

Delta State University, Abraka, Delta State, Nigeria Email: buomojimite@yahoo.com

 

ABSTRACT

This study examined the effects of public investment spending on agricultural GDP in Nigeria. The effects of macroeconomic policies, proxy by bank interest rates and bank credit to the agricultural sector was also investigated using data covering the period 1970-2005. The Granger-Engle cointegration methodology was adopted in estimating the specified models. The findings show that public expenditure (Recurrent and Capital) is growth-augmenting in the agricultural sector. The study also shows that macroeconomic policies did not impact on agricultural GDP during the period under study.  The study therefore recommends an increase in government spending in the agricultural sector and to liberalised access to funding in the agricultural sector.

 

Keywords: Government spending, Agriculture, GDP, Nigeria

 

ECONOMIC ANALYSIS OF YAM BEETLES INFESTATION IN OSHIMILI NORTH AREA OF DELTA STATE

 

O. E.  Inoni

Department of Agricultural Economics and Extension, Delta State University, Asaba Campus, Asaba, Delta State. Email:inoniemma2003@yahoo.com

 

ABSTRACT

Using survey data obtained from a cross-section of 120 small-scale yam farmers, the paper analysed the effects of yam beetles infestation in Oshimili North LGA of Delta State. The demographic profile of respondents showed that farmers in the area were within the active workforce with a mean age of 42 years, and about 41% of them either attempted or completed secondary school. Damage to yam beetles ranged from 27.69% to 39.72% with a mean beetle attack rate of 32.69% that caused a loss of tubers worth N1.09million in market value. High cost of pesticides and cost of equipment and labour were reported as major obstacles to the effective control of yam tuber beetles. Regression results indicated that planting date and cost of pesticides had negative and statistically significant effects (p<0.01) on value of yams lost to beetles, in conformity with a priori expectations.  The elasticity estimates showed that a 1 percentage delay in planting date will reduce yam loss due to beetles attack by 7%, while a proportionate increase in the quantity of pesticides used will reduce the quantity of yams lost to beetles by 5.4%. Therefore a combination of planting dates manipulation and a programme of pesticides application that will drastically control the attack of yam tuber beetles and enhance farmers’ income is recommended.

 

Keywords: Yam production, Yam tuber beetles, Market value

 

RESOURCE UTILIZATION EFFICIENCY OF BROILER ENTERPRISES IN MINNA MUNICIPAL

 

Tanko, L.¹, J.N.Mba¹ and Sanchi, D.I.²,

¹_. Department of Agricultural Economics and Extension. Technology, Federal University of Technology, P.M.B. 65, Minna, Niger State, Nigeria.

²_. Department of Agricultural Extension and Management, College of Agriculture, P.M.B. 1018, Zuru, Kebbi State, Nigeria. Email: unekmelikita@yahoo.co.uk,

 

ABSTRACT

This study estimated broiler production function based on primary data obtained from broiler enterprises around Minna municipality of Niger State in the Middle Belt of Nigeria in 2008. The data were analyzed using the ordinary least squares regression methods. Data were fitted to the linear, double log, semi log and exponential functional forms. The double log was chosen as the lead equation. The regression analysis showed that foundation stock, feed and other inputs have significant positive effects on the value of output. Allocative efficiency indices indicated that farmers were inefficient in allocating all the production inputs and recommended that the resources be allocated more efficiently to maximize returns.

 

Keywords: Resource efficiency, Broiler production, Nigeria

 

ACCESSIBILITY TO PRODUCTION INNOVATION AMONG SMALLHOLDER RUBBER FARMERS IN EDO AND DELTA STATES OF NIGERIA

 

Giroh, D. Y.¹, V. Wuranti², P. Ogwuche¹ and F.O. Igbinosa¹

¹.Farming Systems Research and Extension Department, Rubber Research Institute of Nigeria, PMB 1049, Benin City, Nigeria. Email: girohydengle@yahoo.com

^2. Rubber Research Institute of Nigeria, Experimental Station Manchok, Southern Kaduna, Nigeria

 

ABSTRACT

 The accessibility to production innovation among smallholder rubber farmers in Nigeria was studied by selecting 54 rubber farmers through a multi stage, purposive and simple random sampling techniques. Data collected were analyzed using descriptive and inferential statistics (Likert model). Results indicated that all of the farmers are literate and had one form of formal education or the other, 81.48% adopted intercropping of rubber with cassava, melon, and maize as the major crops. Farmers cultivated small to medium scale hectares with a mean of 3.69 hectare.  Rubber Research Institute of Nigeria (RRIN) is the major source of information and source of production innovation. Likert analysis also revealed that poor prices of rubber, inadequate credit facilities, labour scarcity and inadequate research and extension support are significant factors that affect acquisition of rubber innovation.  Recommendations to overcome the identified constraints were made.

 

Keywords:  Accessibility, production innovation, smallholder farmers, rubber belt

 

TRADERS’ PERCEPTION OF THE STRUCTURE, CONDUCT AND PERFORMANCE OF THE LETTUCE MARKET IN IBADAN METROPOLIS

 

*Usman J. M.¹, Adeoye I. B²., Adebisi-Adelani O.², and Mafimisebi T. E³

1.  Federal College of Forestry, P.M.B. 5087, Ibadan, Nigeria. Email: usmanj05@yahoo.com

2. National Horticultural Research Institute of Nigeria, P.M.B. 5432, Ibadan, Nigeria

3. Department of Agricultural Economics and Extension, Federal University of Technology, Akure, Nigeria

 

ABSTRACT

The study ascertained the perception of lettuce traders towards the structure, conduct and performance of lettuce markets in Ibadan Metropolis. Primary data for the study was collected through a structured questionnaire. Total sampling of the questionnaire in the different study areas were carried out. Results shows that 80% of lettuce traders were male and between the ages of 20 – 25 years. 43.3% of the traders were single and 43.3% had secondary education, while 66.7% of the lettuce traders were retailers. The lettuce traders confirmed that they sell more during the months of October to December. The lettuce traders make an average income of N20, 000.00 and above per month and 86.7% of the traders buy lettuce directly from the farmers.  However, preservation problem is the main constraint of trading in lettuce. Budgetary analysis revealed that lettuce marketing in the study areas was efficient since the values of marketing efficiency were more than 1. Gini coefficient for lettuce traders obtained from the study was 0.562.  This implies that lettuce market is imperfectly competitive with the market structure inclining towards monopoly.  It is recommended that adequate storage facilities should be provided for the lettuce trading. It was also recommended that the lettuce traders should be educated about specific areas of marketing such as storage processing and grading and finally that the Oyo State Government should help improve the production, processing and marketing of lettuce in Ibadan metropolis.

 

Keywords: Market structure, conduct performance, Ibadan metropolis, imperfect market.

 

INFLUENCE OF WOMEN-IN-AGRICULTURE SUB-PROGRAMME ON THE UPTAKE OF POSTHARVEST TECHNOLOGIES BY WOMEN-FARMERS IN BENUE STATE, NIGERIA

 

Nor, M. L¹. Ajayi, A. R¹. And Adebayo, K².

1.      Department of Agricultural Extension, University of Nigeria Nsukka, Nigeria. Email: adefioye2003@yahoo.com

2.      Department of Agricultural Extension and Rural Development, University of Agriculture, Abeokuta, Nigeria.

 

Abstract

The study assessed the impact of post harvest innovations transferred by the Women-in-Agriculture (WIA) sub-programme of the Benue State Agricultural Development Programme. Data for the study were collected from 38 respondents through the use of structured interview schedule. Frequency distribution, percentage, mean and Chi – Square statistics were used in the analysis of the data. The findings revealed that there were strong linkages between the women–farmers and the various (national/international) development agencies. Different types of assistance (e.g. soft loans to start–off businesses and trades; donation of improved cassava planting materials, peelers, graters, pressers and fryers; fish kilns; water pumps; and donation of generators; etc.). There were significant associations between the level of knowledge((X² = 14.4; P ≤ 0.05; df = 3), estimated annual income(X² = 7.5; P ≤ 0.05; df = 4), accessibility to medical care(X² = 4.0; P ≤ 0.05; df = 3),ease of payment of children’s school fees(X² = 8.3; P ≤ 0.05; df = 3), rate of protein consumption per week(X² = 5.2; P ≤ 0.05; df = 3) and capability to hire farm labour (X² = 1.4; P ≤ 0.05; df = 2) by the women – farmers and their participation in the post harvest sub-programme of WIA. The major problems that militated against effective utilization of the disseminated post harvest innovations included lack of decision – making power by the women as a result of over dependence on their husbands (92.1%), improper handling of preservation chemicals (84.2%), high cost of agro – chemicals (73.7%), poor road network (73.7%), and non-fulfilment or late-fulfilment of pledges by government and non–governmental organizations as well as development agencies. It was recommended that the government should come up sustainable strategies to alleviate many of the observed problems.

 

Keywords: Post harvest technologies, Women-in–agriculture, Women-farmers, Agricultural development programme

 

EFFECTS OF LIGHT QUALITY, LIGHT DURATION AND AMOUNT OF MOISTURE ON THE GERMINATION AND SEEDLING GROWTH OF SAMCOT 8 COTTON (Gossypium hirsutum L.)

 

KUTAMA, A. S.¹; ABUBAKAR, S. N¹. and UMAR, M. L.²

1.      Department of Biological Sciences, Bayero University, Kano, Nigeria. E-mail: kutamasak@yahoo.com

2.      Department of Plant Science, Institute for Agricultural Research, Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria, Nigeria. E-mail: mahammadlawan@yahoo.com

 

ABSTRACT

Pot experiments were conducted to investigate the effects of light quality, light duration and varying amount of moisture on the germination and subsequent seedling growth of an improved cotton variety, SAMCOT 8. The experiments were arranged in a Completely Randomized Block Design with three replications. Results of the investigation have shown that germination and most growth parameters were significantly (P<0.05) different between the different treatments and control. Germination rate was higher in cotton seeds treated under extended light period and optimum amount of moisture throughout the study. This suggests that cotton requires optimum moisture and extended photoperiod, implying that the crop is a long-day plant. It is therefore pertinent that the crop may likely yield best under extended light period and optimum moisture pending further research on yield.

 

 Key words: SAMCOT 8 cotton, moisture, light, germination, seedling growth

 

SOCIO-ECONOMIC AND INSTITUTIONAL FACTORS DETERMINING IMPROVED SOYBEAN SEEDS TECHNOLOGY ADOPTION IN BORNO STATE, NIGERIA

 

Idrisa, Y.L, Ogunbameru, B.O. and Amaza P.S.

Department of Agricultural Economics and Extension Services, University of Maiduguri, Nigeria Email: idrisaysf@yahoo.com

 

ABSTRACT

This study examined the determinants of adoption of improved soybean seeds as production technology among farmers in southern Borno State. Data for the study were obtained from 360 respondents selected through multi-stage sampling procedure. The purposive and random sampling techniques were employed at the various stages of selection. Inferential statistical technique - the Tobit model was used to estimate the extent of adoption of improved soybean seeds by the respondents. Socio-economic characteristics such as farm size, household size and educational level of the respondents significantly (ρ≤ 0.05) influenced the extent of adoption of soybean seed as a production technology. The main institutional factor that significantly influenced the extent of adoption of improved soybean seed as a production technology in the study area is distance to source of improved soybean seed (ρ≤ 0.01). Other factors such as extension contact (ρ≤ 0.05) and access to credit by farmers (ρ≤ 0.05) were also important in influencing the extent of adoption of improved soybean seed by farmers in the study area. It was therefore recommended that: Government should expedite its enforcement of the Land-Use-Act and give enough land to persons that are willing to grow soybean; Improved agricultural technologies in form of improved soybean seed should be made available to farmers; Extension service should be strengthened so as to expose farmers to modern farming techniques and improved technologies through educational programmes; Extension service should also encourage rural people to use soybean as household food item as this will go a long way in popularizing soybean. Farmers should also be provided with high-yielding varieties of soybean.

 

Keywords: Siybeans, Seed technology, Adoption, Nigeria

 

ACCESS AND LOAN REPAYMENT IN THE DELTA STATE AGRICULTURAL LOAN SCHEME

 

Ike P.C.

Department of Agricultural Economics, Delta State University, Asaba Campus, Nigeria

Email: ikepeecee@yahoo.com

 

Abstract

This study investigated access and loan repayment among beneficiaries in the Delta State Agricultural Loan Scheme.  This was achieved by ascertaining the socioeconomic characteristics of the loan beneficiaries, the volume of loan demanded, disbursed and repaid, the effects of beneficiaries’ socioeconomic factors on the volume of loan acquired and the constraints in accessing the loan.  This was done by administering questionnaire to 120 loan beneficiaries randomly selected from Delta State.  The findings showed that the loan beneficiaries had average family size of six, average farm holdings of less than one hectare and very low educational background.  The loan disbursement was not adequate and was not accessible to genuine farmers while loan repayment was generally low.  Educational attainment, farm size, income and interest rate had significant effects on the volume of loan demanded.  The educational level, processing cost, delay in disbursement, political interference and change in the administration of loan disbursing authority were major constrains in the loan scheme.  It was recommended that there should be increased government allocation of funds to the scheme.  Efforts on the part of the government to improve the scheme should include provision of timely credit, sufficient staff motivation, provision of adequate logistics, reduction of bureaucracy and avoidance of political interference.

 

Keywords: Loan repayment, Loan access, Loan scheme, Nigeria

 

COSTS AND RETURNS TO ARTISANAL FISHING IN DELTA STATE, NIGERIA

 

Inoni, O. E.

Department of Agricultural Economics and Extension, Delta State University, Asaba Campus, Asaba. Delta State, Nigeria. Email: inoniemma2003@yahoo.com

 

ABSTRACT

The paper examined the profitability of small-scale fishing by determining the cost and returns in artisanal fishing in Delta State, Nigeria. The results showed that average fixed costs and average variable costs were N116, 005.14/fisher/year (US$906.29) and N181,877.56/fisher/year (US$1,420.92) respectively. Fishing crafts and gears accounted for 35.16% of total costs of production; while labour, fuel, and repair and maintenance made up 46.92% of total costs. While net margin/fisher/year was N111, 677.62 (US$872.48) for the study area, it was N140, 492.74(US$1,097.60) among motorised units and N84, 012.15 (US$656.34) for fishers in the non-motorised segment. Net margin-to-cost ratio was 34% in the motorised sector, 45% in the non-motorised segment, and 37% for the entire area studied. Return-on-sales were 25%, 31% and 27% respectively amongst motorised units, non-motorised units, and the entire area of study. Results of regression analyses showed that household demographic and economic variables such as household size, gender of fisher, labour, and non-fishing income significantly determined (p<0.05) fish catch in consonance with a priori expectations. While the elasticity of fish catch with respect to labour utilisation was strong and positive it was negative for non-fishing income.

 

Keywords: Small-scale fishing, Profitability ratios, Output elasticity, Nigeria

 

ROLE OF FINANCIAL INSTITUTIONS IN FINANCING ARABLE CROP PRODUCTION IN NIGER STATE, NIGERIA

 

Tanko, L.¹,   Sanchi, D.I.² and Derek, J.L.¹

1. Department of Agricultural Economics and Extension Technology, Federal University of Technology, P.M.B 65, Minna, Niger State. Nigeria

2.  Department of Agricultural Extension and Management, College of Agriculture, P.M.B. 1018, Zuru, Kebbi State, Nigeria.

 

ABSTRACT

The study examined the role of financial institutions in financing arable crop production in Bosso Local Government Area, Niger State, Nigeria with reference to the agricultural credit schemes of Nigeria Agricultural Co-operative and Rural Development Bank (NACRDB) and Union Bank of Nigeria (UBN) Plc, Minna branches respectively during the 2007 cropping season. Records of loan disbursement activities of the financial institutions were obtained for the period 2005 to 2007. Primary data on the output of selected arable crops were collected. The credit variable had a positive and significant effect on the total value of output at 1% level of significance with an estimated regression coefficient of 0.1743. It is recommended that policies directed at consolidating farmers’ holdings through the formation of farmers’ cooperatives to facilitate their access to agricultural credit so as to boost their earnings and improve their livelihoods be formulated.

 Keywords: Financial institutions, Arable crops, Nigeria

FAMAN Journal Volume 10 No 2 2009

FAMAN Journal Volume 10 No. 2, 2009

ASSESSMENT OF INVOLVEMENT OF WOMEN IN HOUSEHOLD FOOD SECURITY IN EKITI STATE, NIGERIA

 

Adesoji, S. A. and I. B. Oluwatayo

Department of Agricultural Economics and Extension Services, University of Ado-Ekiti, P.M.B. 5363, Ado-Ekiti, Nigeria: dapadesoji@yahoo.co.uk or iboluwatayounad@yahoo.com

 

ABSTRACT

The study focused on involvement of women in household food security in Ekiti State, Nigeria. Data were collected with an interview schedule. Two Local Government Areas (LGAs) were randomly selected from each of the three senatorial districts of the State and one rural community was selected from each of the local government selected. Twenty-five households were randomly selected from each of the rural communities. A total of 150 rural households were selected and interviewed. Results of the analysis showed that the mean age of respondents was 43 years. Though all the respondents were married, only 60 percent were living with their spouses. Seventy-five percent were educated and 54 percent had household size of 7 members. Majority were small-scale farmers with monthly income less than N5, 000. Over 57 percent reduces quantity of food given to their household as a means of coping with food insecurity. The study further revealed that 51 percent of the respondents were food-secure and that a significant difference in food security (F = 0.185) existed between female and male-headed households. Age, marital status, household size, size of farm, and income were significant determinants of household food security in Ekiti State.

 

Key words: Food security, Women, Welfare, Nigeria

 

TECHNICAL EFFICIENCY OF TRADITIONAL PALM OIL PROCESSING IN IMO STATE, NIGERIA

 

Kadurumba, C. ^1, C.I Ezeh ² and J. A. Mbanasor ³

1. Department of Agricultural Extension Management, Federal College of Agriculture Ishiagu Ebonyi State. Email: mezinokbe@yahoo.com.

2. Department of Agricultural Economics and Extension, Abia State University Umuahia Campus Umuahia, Abia State.  Email: chimaezeh@yahoo.com

3. College of Agribusiness and Financial management, Michael Okpara University of Agriculture Umudike, Abia State.

      

ABSTRACT

This study used the translog stochastic production function to measure the level of technical efficiency and its determinants in traditional palm oil processing in Imo State, Nigeria.  A multi-stage random sampling technique was adopted in collecting cross sectional data of 240 traditional palm oil processors from whom input-output data and their prices were obtained. The result of the translog analysis showed that the mean farm level technical efficiency was 86%.The maximum and minimum technical efficiency indices were 0.97 0.61 respectively, while the mean technical efficiency was 0.86. The study found that amount of oil palm fruit, loan borrowed, litres of petrol /diesel, water used were positive and significant at 10%, 1% and 5% respectively. The elasticity indicates that there is increasing returns to scale in the area studied.

 

Keywords: Technical efficiency, palm oil production, Nigeria.   

 

IMPACT OF RURAL ROADS AND MARKET INFRASTRUCTURE ON OUTPUT AND INCOME OF FARMING HOUSEHOLDS IN UGHELLI SOUTH, DELTA STATE

 

Inoni, O. E. 

Department of Agricultural Economics and Extension, Delta State University, Asaba Campus, Asaba., Delta State, Nigeria. Email:inoniemma2003@yahoo.com

 

ABSTRACT

This study examined the impact of roads and market facilities on output and farm income using data from 180 farming households. The results showed that road quality had a significant and positive influence on output and farm income as a 10% improvement in road quality caused a 1.3% and 1.7% increase in crop production and farm income respectively. Access to marketing information also had a positive effect on income and instigated the greatest response, as a 10 % increase in access to market information raised farm income by 4%. This implied that farmers with adequate and current market information took advantage of market conditions to earn higher prices and income. Distance to market and cost of transportation depressed farm income because they dampened the incentive to expand production, hence the negative impact of these variables on farm income. Since high cost of transportation, longer distance to markets and poor road quality depress farm output and reduce household income, a strategy to expand rural road network and establish marketing facilities in major agricultural production centres is advocated, in order to safeguard the livelihood of farmers and stem rural-urban drift. The local government authority and the State government should collaborate in this regard as a matter of policy.

 

Keywords:  rural roads, markets, agricultural output, farming households, farm income

 

CREDIT ACCESS, FARM SIZE AND COST INEFFICIENCY IN MAIZE PRODUCTION IN YEWA NORTH AREA, OGUN STATE, NIGERIA

 

^1*Awotide, D. O., ¹Ololagbose, O, ²Kehinde, A.L. and ¹Bamiro, O.M.

¹Department of Agricultural Economics, Olabisi Onabanjo University, Yewa Campus, Ayetoro, Ogun State, Nigeria

²Department of Agricultural Economics and Extension, Bowen University, Iwo, Osun State, Nigeria

 

ABSTRACT

This study empirically examined the relationship among access to credit, farm size and cost inefficiency in maize production in Ogun State, southwest Nigeria. It utilized data obtained from a cross-sectional survey of 115 farming households in 2008 cropping season. The data were analyzed using descriptive statistics, Stochastic Frontier and multiple regression models. The study revealed low level of credit usage. The study revealed a positive and significant relationship between allocative efficiency and farm size, and marital status of the respondents; negative and significant relationship between years of formal education and maize farming experience of the respondents. In addition, maize farm income was significantly determined by farm size, access to credit and marital status. Policy measures aimed at increasing access to credit facilities and increase maize farm holdings will go a long way in boosting and sustaining maize production in the study area. Finally, concerted should be made to encourage farmers to join savings and credit self-help group to facilitate easier access to credit which indirectly translate to increased farm size and reduction in cost inefficiency.

 

Keywords: access to credit, farm size, cost inefficiency, maize, Nigeria.

 

EFFECTS OF PRICE AND NON-PRICE FACTORS ON THE USE OF CREDIT IN FARMING COMMUNITIES OF ANAMBRA STATE, NIGERIA

 

Okpukpara, Benjamin Chiedozie

Centre for Entrepreneurship and Development Research, University of Nigeria, Nsukka, Nigeria. Email: benedozie@yahoo.com

 

ABSTRACT

This study examined the effects of price and non-price factors on credit use in farm communities in Nigeria, with particular reference to Anambra State. It explored the marginal response of satisfying the credit needs of rural farmers (who produce about 80% of food consumed in this country), despite the introduction of various schemes and policies. Though there are studies on determinant of credit, these studies gave little information on major factors influencing the credit use by rural farmers. To achieve the broad objective of this study, a random sample of 200 farmers were made. Primary and secondary data were generated for the study. The study showed that household size, gender, sources, income level and access to credit were the major determinants of credit use. However, source of loan and access to credit are most important factor in rural credit delivery, while interest rates appear to have little or no influence on amount of loan borrowed from financial institutions. The study thus recommended, among other things, that rural credit policies should place minor emphasis on interest rate and emphasize more on institutional factors such as access, source, household size non-farm income and gender in their policies.

 

Key words:  Credit need, price, non-price factors, farm communities, Nigeria.

 

VALUE OF TREE CROPS CONSERVATION AMONG FOOD CROPS FARMERS IN SOUTHEAST NIGERIA

 

Apata T. G

Joseph Ayo Babalola University, Ikeji Arakeji, Osun State, Nigeria Email: dayoapata@yahoo.com

 

ABSTRACT

This paper examines value of tree crops conservation strategy among food crop farmers. Cross-section data were used to investigate 500 respondents’ selected from southern states, Nigeria using multi-stage sampling technique. Tree diversity threshold shows that 17.6% of food crop farmers’ conserved trees among food crops with 100% having land ownership status. Findings show that a higher Benefit-Cost Ratio (BCR) and Rate of Returns on Investment (RORI) of 0.52 and 52.34% respectively were higher among tree crops conserver food crop farmers. Result further shows participation in tree crops conservation was significantly determined by farmer’s level of education, land ownership, access to extension and tree diversity index. Result tends to suggests that the level of literacy and farmer’s level of education and knowledge might have influenced their desire to plant trees. However, for older farmers, long gestation period of trees may not be so attractive. The study revealed that tree crops conservation in arable farm fields is very viable. The rate of return to investment is high and there is the benefit of improved food crop growth ascribed to soil fertility improvement through litter fall and nitrogen fixation. Given these benefits, concerted efforts should be encouraged by extension services to enhance productivity and sustainability of tree crops in arable farm fields.

 

Keywords: Soil Fertility, Tree diversity index, Benefit-Cost Ratio, Conservation strategy

 

ASSESSMENT OF FARMERS’ FEEDBACK ON COCOA PRODUCTION TECHNOLOGIES IN ONDO STATE, NIGERIA

 

¹Apata, O.M and ²T.G. Apata

^1. Department, University Of Ado-Ekiti, Ekiti State. Email: simboapata@yahoo.com\

^2. Department of Agricultural Economics and Extension Joseph Ayo Babalola University, Ikeji Arakeji, Osun State, Nigeria. Email: dayoapata@yahoo.com

ABSTRACT

This study assessed the feedback mechanism of cocoa farmers on the cocoa production technologies introduced to them. Purposive sampling procedure was used to select 160 respondents, questionnaire was use to collect data for the study. The result showed that most of the farmers (80.0%) are aware of the technologies. Most of them (Between 75.6% and 92.5%) use technologies but the frequency of usage revealed that between 12% and 40% of them use the technologies regularly. So also only few of them give feedback to either extension agents or the researchers regularly. Of all the socio-economic characteristics considered, only educational status had significant relationship (61.750, p< 0.050) with the feedback from the farmers. 

 

Keywords: Feedback, cocoa production, Nigeria

 

CONSTRAINTS AND TRAINING NEEDS OF PALM OIL EXTRACTORS IN AFIJIO AREA OF OYO STATE NIGERIA

 

¹Akangbe, J. A, ¹Adesiji, G. B, ²Fakayode, S. B and ¹Aderibigbe, Y. O.

¹Department of Agricultural Extension and Rural Development, P.M.B 1515, University of

Ilorin, Ilorin, Nigeria Email: drgbolaadesiji@yahoo.com

²Department of Agricultural Economics and Farm Management, P.M.B 1515, University of Ilorin, Ilorin, Nigeria

 

ABSTRACT

This study investigated constraints and training needs of oil palm fruit processors: ‘palm oil extractors’ in Afijio Local Government Area of Oyo State, Nigeria. A two stage sampling technique was used to select one hundred and sixty (160) households involved in palm oil extraction activities across the study area. Data were collected using interview schedule and were analysed using both descriptive and training need analyses. Findings revealed that palm oil extractors were aged women who have had little or no formal education and they have been involved in palm oil extraction activities for about 35 years. The study also revealed that almost all the major palm oil extraction activities were carried out using unhygienic traditional methods. Training needs assessment indicated that sterilization, stripping, mixing, skimming and clarification activities in palm oil extraction, with mean scores of 7.54, 8.17, 9.36, 8.46 and 8.72 respectively are all tasks that extractors require training for. Constraints to palm oil extraction activities reported were those of non-contact with extension, poor and inadequate transportation system, water scarcity, crude and poor palm oil extraction technology, as well as inadequate labour supply. The study therefore calls for the design of extension and training programmes for oil palm extractors, provision of boreholes at palm oil extraction vicinities, and the mobilization of extractors to form cooperatives, so as to capacitate them financially to acquire modern extraction machines

 

Key words: Oil palm, Cooperatives, extension training, Nigeria

 

TECHNICAL EFFICIENCY OF MECHANIZED ARABLE CROP FARMING IN OSUN STATE, NIGERIA

¹Kehinde A. L. and ²Awotide D. O.

1Department of Agricultural Economics and Extension, Bowen University P.M.B 284, Iwo, Osun State, Nigeria..Email: tjgreenk@yahoo.com

²Department of Agricultural Economics, Olabisi Onabanjo University, Yewa Campus, Ayetoro, Ogun State, Nigeria Email: w_awotide@yahoo.com

ABSTRACT

The study investigated factors responsible for adoption of mechanized farming and technical efficiency level of adopters and non-adopters of mechanized farming in Osun State. A multistage sampling technique was used to randomly select 270 farmers in the study area. The Tobit regression and stochastic frontier production function were used to analyze information obtained from respondents. Results revealed that tractor use was positively influenced by household size, access to extension services and grain output equivalent while education, land area cultivated, stoniness negatively influenced the probability of adopting mechanized farming. Furthermore, the technical efficiency estimate of adopter and non-adopters of mechanized farming showed no difference in their level of technical efficiency that was 80 percent on average. The level of observed inefficiency was increased by slope, stoniness and household size while age reduced technical inefficiency. It is recommended that government should consolidate the present gains arising from extension services. Also, environmental factors such as slope (topography) and stoniness, which constituted major disincentives, could be overcome if government and farmers can identify and open up newer areas of farmland for occupation by farmers.

 

Keywords: arable crops, farm mechanization, adoption, technical efficiency, Tobit regression.

DETERMINANTS OF PARTICIPATION IN FOREST WORK BY MEMBERS OF FARM HOUSEHOLDS IN OKPARA FOREST RESERVE, OYO STATE

 

Shittu A M.  and K. A. Sangobanwo

Department of Agricultural Economics, Faculty of Agricultural Management and Rural Development

College of Agricultural Sciences, Olabisi Onabanjo University, Yewa Campus, Ayetoro, Ogun State, Nigeria. Email: amshittu@yahoo.com

 ABSTRACT

This study examines determinants of participation in forest work by members of farm households in communities around Okpara Forest Reserve, Oyo State as well as its contributions to farm household income. The study was based on primary data obtained in a cross section survey of 60 randomly selected households drawn from 10 randomly selected communities in the study area. Personally administered questionnaire / interview schedule was used to elicit information on the socio-economic characteristics of the households, economic activities undertaken by the households’ members in the farm, forest and non-farm sector during the 2004/2005 production season, associated income, etc. Descriptive and Tobit regression analyses reveal that: (1) As much as 63% of adult working members of the sampled households participated in forest related activities, principally as a supplementary source of income and not as their main occupation.  (2) Forest exploration accounted for 18.58 % of the adult work hour and 4.64% farm household cash income in the study area. (3) The main socio-economic factors that have significant influence on the level of involvement of household members in forest related activities include age, gender, main occupation of worker, level of available social infrastructure, cost of travelling from the resident community to the main forest area and wage rate in non-forest activities.

Keywords: Participation, Forest work, Farm households, Nigeria

FAMAN Journal Volume 10 No 1 2009

FAMAN Journal Volume 10 No. 1, 2009

CREDIT AVAILABILITY, UTILIZATION AND REPAYMENT AMONG SMALLHOLDER WOMEN CROP FARMERS IN ENUGU STATE, NIGERIA

Ike, P.C.

Department of Agricultural Economics and Extension, Delta State University, Asaba Campus, Asaba, Nigeria Email: ikepeecee@yahoo.com

 

ABSTRACT

 This study assessed the availability and use of credit from Microfinance NGOs by small holder women crop farmers in Enugu state, Nigeria. Cross sectional data were obtained from 260 randomly selected loan beneficiaries. The data were analysed using frequency counts, percentages, t-test and multiple regressions. Results showed a statistically significant gap (p ≤ 0.01) between the amount applied for and that received. The study also found that only about 56% of the loans were invested directly in farm activities. Factors that significantly affected the rate of credit allocation (p ≤ 0.05) to farm sector include age, education, farm size, household size, length of loan delay and visitation by NGO credit officers. In the same vein age, education, household size, dependants, farm size and size of loan all influenced repayment of loan by beneficiaries. The paper recommends an increased flow of capital to NGO microfinance institutions. In addition benefiting farmers should be given basic training on efficient management of loans in order to curtail high rate of loan diversion.                            

 

Key words: Microcredit, Smallholders, Women farmers, Average budget share (ABS)

 

 

ADOPTION OF IMPROVED MAIZE PRODUCTION TECHNOLOGIES IN YEWA NORTH, OGUN STATE, NIGERIA

 

Otunaiya A. O¹. and S. O. Akinleye²

1. Olabisi Onabanjo University, P.M.B. 012, Yewa Campus, Ayetoro, Ogun State, Nigeria
2. Departtment of Economics, Universit of Lagos, Akoka, Lagos, Nigeria

 

ABSTRACT

Adoption of maize production technologies has received much attention in recent years because of increase in demand for maize. The analyses in this paper focus on the adoption of improved maize varieties and fertilizer use in maize production, using a data collected from 120 maize farming households in Yewa North Local Government. The Tobit model estimate showed that increase in education, access to extension agents and planting of the improved maize variety VA2 (Yellow maize) were significant factors affecting the amount of land a farmer was likely to allocate to improved maize. The probit model estimate showed that education, number of tools owned by farmer, extension contact, cultivation of improved maize variety VAI and farm labour were the determinants of fertilizer use in maize production.  

 

SOCIO-ECONOMIC, ENVIRONMENTAL AND HEALTH CONSEQUENCES OF RURAL-URBAN MIGRATION IN LAGOS, NIGERIA

 

Opeolu, B. O.¹, Adebayo, K², Badru, F. A.³ and Okuneye, P. A.⁴

1. Department of Chemistry, Faculty of Applied Sciences, Cape Peninsula University of Technology, Cape Town, South Africa. E-mail: opeolubt@yahoo.com
2. Natural Resources Institute, University of Greenwich, United Kingdom
3. Department of Sociology, University of Lagos, Lagos,  Nigeria
4. University of Agriculture, Abeokuta, Nigeria.

 

ABSTRACT

Data obtained from 350 migrants selected from high, middle and low income sectors of Lagos, Nigeria show that over 80% of the migrants come from 11 States of the Federation. The migrants felt that their socio-economic characteristics have changed since moving to Lagos, but have observed increasingly poorly kept dumpsites in their areas of abode in Lagos due to increases in-migration. They perceived typhoid, depression, hypertension and headache as the most prevalent diseases that they cope with in Lagos compared to their places of orientation. Yet, most of them wish to remain in Lagos and in fact bring more people from their places of origin to Lagos. The study concluded that in order to address the environmental and health problems faced in cities with high inflow of migrants, efforts to improve the socio-economic situations of rural areas and transit towns should receive greater attention.

 

EFFECTS OF COOPERATIVE EDUCATION ON COOPERATIVE SOCIETIES MANAGEMENT IN ABEOKUTA SOUTH, OGUN STATE, NIGERIA

 

Akerele E. O., Oludimu O. L and Aihonsu J.O.Y

College of Agricultural Sciences, Olabisi Onabanjo University, Yewa Campus, Ayetoro

Email:  ezeakerele@yahoo.com

                                  

ABSTRACT

The importance of co-operative education in the proper management and profitability of co-operative societies cannot be over-emphasized. The main objective of this study was to examine the effects of co-operative education on co-operative management in Abeokuta South Local Government Area, Ogun State. To achieve this objective, both primary and secondary data were used.  A two-stage sampling technique was used. The first stage involves randomly sampling of 5 town/villages and in the second stage, 20 co-operators were randomly selected from the selected town/villages making the total numbers of 98 co-operators. Questionnaire was used for obtaining data from members of the co-operative societies on their socio-economic characteristics, determinants of co-operative membership education, effects of co-operative education on the cooperative societies’ profitability and managerial competence of members. Data were analyzed using frequency, chi-square, correlation and regression. Result indicates that, the socio-economic variables were found to be important factors that influence the level of co-operative education. The result showed that most of the respondents are female that ranges between 21-40 years. Co-operative loan, monthly subscription, and age of members significantly affect co-operative society’s profitability. This implies that the more educated the members of the co-operative society about the principles of co-operative, the more profitable the co-operative becomes. Based on the findings, it is, therefore, recommended that the members of the co-operative societies should be orientated about the importance of co-operative education. Also, the management of each co-operative society should make use of the 15% proportion of the dividend that is meant for co-operative education.

 

Keyword: Cooperative Education, Membership Education, Managerial Competence, Profitability Index

 

MONETIZATION OF ENVIRONMENTAL SERVICE FUNCTIONS OF FOREST TREES IN A DEVELOPING ECONOMY

 

Adekunle¹ M. F. and Sanni ² I. O.

 

1. Department of Forestry and Wildlife Management, University of Agriculture, Abeokuta, Nigeria
2. Dept of Land resources mgt and Environmental Protection, Mekelle University

Mekelle, Ethiopia

 

ABSTRACT

The problems of undermining the environmental services of the forest arose from inadequate information and data on the monetary values of its service functions. This necessitated this study which attempted to ascribe monetary values to the environmental service functions of forest trees in a university campus. The respondents were the small-scale business enterprise (SSBE) owners in main campus of University of Agriculture Abeokuta. The payment card system contingent valuation (cvm) was adopted to elicit willing to pay (WTP) values from the respondents. The results showed that all the respondents were willing to pay various sums of money ranging from N5 to N1000 with N200 as the modal value having recorded the highest percentage of response. The mean monthly WTP was N134.17 which summed up to a monthly aggregate value of N11806.96. The multiple regression equation indicated that some variables such as age of business, income and educational status of the respondents significantly contributed to the monetary values of forest trees service functions in the study area. The conclusion was reached that stake holders in a university environment valued the services of the forest to the extent that they are willing to contribute part of their incomes to ensure the continue existence of trees in the environment. Some suggestions were made toward the sustainable management of forests in order to stem the tide of current threatening global warming.

 

US$1 = N129

 

Keywords: cvm, environment, forests, SSBE, global warming

ECONOMIC ASSESSMENT OF THE PERFORMANCE OF OGUGU COMMUNITY BANK IN KOGI STATE, NIGERIA

 

Onoja*, A. O., Onu*, M.E. and Ahmed**, E. J.

* Department of Agricultural Economics and Extension, University of Port-Harcourt

Email: tonyojonimi@gmail.com

**Department of Agricultural Economics and Extension, Kogi State University, Anyigba

 

ABSTRACT

This study attempted to assess the economic performance of a reputable community bank involved in agricultural lending in Kogi State, Ogugu Community Bank Limited, prior to its transformation to Microfinance Bank. A total of 80 respondents who claimed to be farmers were randomly drawn from the list of the bank’s customers over the years spanning from 2005 to 2006. Econometric and statistical tools used to achieve the three objectives of the research included descriptive statistics and multiple regression using three functional forms, linear, semi-log and double log forms (semi-log was finally applied based on its R² and F-ratio). A single null hypothesis was tested to guide the study. The results of the analyses indicated that 73.75% of the farmers collected between N100,001 to N250,000 within the period in review from the bank, 18.75% got between N50,000 and N100,000 while 7.5% of them received less than N50,000. Five variables, volume of loan, farm size, farmer’s age, level of education and family size showed positive signs with farm income. Surprisingly, even though the sixth one, non-farm income, was significant, its effect was negative on farm income. Farm size and duration of formal education were expectedly significant. On the whole the all the variables of the model had 49% effect on farmer’s income. The mean rate of loan repayment was very low (36%). Three recommendations were made based on the findings including the need for Microfinance Banks and other financial institutions to increase their funding of agriculture especially through cooperatives; use of NAIC to insure MFBs agricultural loans and stepping up agricultural extension activities in the state to facilitate financial management skills of farmers in the area.

 

Key Words: Agricultural Lending, Farm Income, Community Bank and Microfinance Bank

 

ECONOMIC ASSESSMENT OF FADAMA MAIZE PRODUCTION IN KWARA STATE, NIGERIA

 

Fakayode, S. B., Omotesho, O. A., Olorunsanya, E., Babatunde, R. O. and Obafemi, A. A.

Department of Agricultural Economics and Farm Management, University of Ilorin, Ilorin

Email: segun_fakayode@yahoo.com

 

ABSTRACT

This study assesses fadama maize production systems in Kwara State, Nigeria. For the study 120 fadama maize farm households were interviewed via the use of the interview schedule. The gross margin analysis and the regression econometric tool were used to analyse the study data. The study result reveals that fadama maize farmers in the study area have small farmland holdings which were rented on very short–term basis to them. Based on the gross margin analysis, the most profitable fadama maize crop mixture was the maize/yam. Regression results indicated that farm size, labour, fertilizer, and farmer’s access to credit significantly influence the crop output from fadama maize farms. The amount of irrigation water was not a significant factor influencing farmer’s output. However the Resource Use Efficiency ratio (RUE) revealed irrigation water, farm size and labour used to cultivate fadama maize farms were over-utilized. The study therefore recommends that efforts should be geared by the government and other stake-holders towards providing fadama lands to farmers on soft conditions as regards land leasing agreements and the enlightenment of farmers on fadama irrigation.

 

Keywords: Maize, Fadama, Resource-use efficiency, Nigeria

EFFECTS OF MICRO–CREDIT ON FOOD CROP PRODUCTION IN ABEOKUTA NORTH, OGUN STATE, NIGERIA

Akerele, E. O., Idowu A. O., and Otunaiya A. O.

Department of Agribusiness and Farm Management, College of Agricultural Sciences, Olabisi Onabanjo University, Yewa Campus, Ayetoro. Email:  ezeakerele@yahoo.com

 

ABSTRACT

Unavailability of credit and vicious circle of poverty prevalent in rural area makes it difficult for small scale farmers to adopt new technologies and improve their socio-economic status. Government’s efforts to channel credit to farmers are always frustrated by the tripartite problems of low patronage, credit diversion and low recovery rate. This research was carried out to assess the effects of Micro-credit on Foodcrop Production and to identify the sources of credit facilities being used for agricultural purposes by farmers. The data were collected through structured questionnaires administered to farmers in Abeokuta North Local Government Area of Ogun State. The data collected were analyzed using descriptive and quantitative analyses. The study drew a sample of hundred small holder farmers. Random sampling technique was adopted in selecting the areas and household members that were interviewed. The study showed that majority of the respondent (89.0%) acquire their loan through gift from friends and personal savings which means that access to loan micro-credit scheme is not easily available for the respondents in the study area. Regression analysis revealed that age, level education, farm size, farm practice employed and farm land acquisition were found to be an important factors that influence variation in amount repaid, while increase in household size and loan default negatively affect the amount of credit repaid. Hence, it was recommended that credit should be made available to farmers in sufficient quantities and at the right time for farming purposes.

 

Keywords: Credit Use; Loan Default; Micro-Credit; Repayment Level and Food crop

 

ECONOMIC ANALYSIS OF RAFFIA PALM (Raphia hookeri) PRODUCTION IN OBIO/AKPOR AREA OF RIVERS STATE, NIGERIA

 

Unaeze, H. C., Onu, M.E. and Agumagu, A. C.

Department of Agricultural Economics and Extension, Faculty of Agriculture, University of Port Harcourt, Port Harcourt, Rivers State, Nigeria

 

ABSTRACT

This study was carried out to investigate the economic analysis of raffia palm products on the   livelihood of rural dwellers in Obio/Akpor LGA. A purposive sampling technique was used in the selection of 75 respondents. The data obtained were analyzed using percentages and net income analysis. It was found that, majority of the respondents who were engaged in raffia palm business are of middle age bracket (31 – 40) (29.3%) and also of men folk (80%). The women, who engaged in this business (20%), sell and assist in carrying the tapped palm wine out of the bush. Also those gainfully employed in the raffia palm business, sell mainly the palm wine (35%). It was found that in spite of the positive effect of raffia palm business, its sourcing impose dangers to those directly involved in the business (drudgery, scarcity of raffia palm, snake bites, inadequate preservative measures, problems of climbing and falling etc.). The introduction of improved palm seedlings with shorter height and good preservative measures should be encouraged extensively. There is therefore need for government and private organization to invest in this raffia palm business, so that rural livelihood in Obio/Akpor Local Government Area of Rivers State, Nigeria will be improved.