DETERMINING THE MOISTURE CONTENT OF THE SOIL USING (TME 419) VARIETY OF MANIHOT ESCULENTA UNDER (2014) THE FEDERAL GOVERNMENT TRANSFORMATION AGENDA@EVWODE OVIA NORTH EAST LGA, EDO STATE. NIGERIA.

Brai M.A1, Ehiomogue P2, Eriakha E.C.3

1Department of Sciences National Institute of Construction Technology (NICT), Uromi Edo State

2Department of Agricultural Engineering, Michael Okpara University, Umudike

3Department of Agricultural and Bio-Environmental Engineering, Auchi Polytechnic, Auchi.

Email: maxcellusng6@gmail.com,

ABSTRACT

The use of mechanized method of cassava cultivation tends to assist in reducing the cost of production and increase plant yield. ( Akande L.O. 2006) Therefore, the essence of this study is to increase the output of fresh cassava using  the recommended International Institute of Tropical Agriculture(IITA) TME419 and TMS98/0581 in sustaining the nation’s food security and being able to feed the cassava processing factories in the state. The study was carried out at Evbode in Ovia North East Local Government area of Edo State. Two hectares area of cassava arable land was cited and preliminary soil analysis was carried out using the soil sample and recorded to detect the fertility of the soil.


IMPLICATIONS OF MACRO-ECONOMIC VARIABLES FOR NATIONAL FOOD SECURITY IN NIGERIA

1*Osuji, E. E, 2Okwara, M. O., 3Eze, E. U., & 4Tim-Ashama, A.

1Department of Agricultural Economics, Michael Okpara University of Agriculture Umudike

2Department of Agricultural Economics, Federal University of Technology, Owerri, Imo State

3Department of Agricultural Technology, Federal Polytechnic Nekede Owerri, Imo State

4Department of Agricultural Science, Alvan Ikoku Federal College of Education Owerri, Imo State

Email: osujiemeka2@yahoo.com

ABSTRACT  

In recent time, the impact of macro-economic variables on agriculture has become an issue of concern in terms of securing adequate food supply for the populace. The study evaluated the implications of macro-economic variables for national food security in Nigeria. This study employed time series data sourced from the publications of Central Bank of Nigeria Annual Reports, Statistical Bulletins and the National Bureau of Statistics spanning from 1995 to 2015. The autoregressive distributed lag (ARDL) cointegration test with error correction model (ECM) was adopted to substantiate the implications of macro-economic variables for national food security in Nigeria. The results of the ADF test showed that Food security, Interest rate, Exchange rate, Net export and Government expenditures were non stationary at their respective level forms and became stationary at first difference. While Inflation and Money supply were found to be stationary at level form. ARDL bounds test for cointegration confirms the existence of long run relationship between the variables. The results of long run and short run relationships shows that INT, INF, GEXP and MS were both significant at 5% and 1% levels indicating that these variables had a significant impact on food security. The estimated error correction coefficient of -0.7996 is highly significant, has the correct sign, and implies a fairly high speed of adjustment to equilibrium after a shock. However, these findings recommend farmers to take good advantage of the linkages between macroeconomic variables and agricultural productivity, as this useful information can assist them to boost their land productivity, hence increased food security at all times. 

Keywords: Implications, Macro-economic Variables, Food Security, Error Correction Model, Nigeria


SOCIAL MARKETING AND ATTITUDINAL CHANGE FOR SUSTAINABLE NATIONAL DEVELOPMENT

1Bello, Babatunde Sikiru, 2Zubairu, Ibrahim Tswachi, 3Nwokenkwo, Ben Olubunmi & 4Abdulsalam, Abdulmutalib Adinoyi

 

1,3&4Department of Marketing, Federal Polytechnic Bida, Niger State, Nigeria

2Department of Business Administration & Management, Federal Polytechnic, Bida

Email: connekt2tunde@gmail.com

ABSTRACT

Can social marketing concepts and techniques be effectively applied to the promotion of social objectives such as campaign against smoking, safe driving, and brotherhood? The applicability of social marketing concepts to such social problems is among others, examined in this paper and the writers also show how social causes and attitudinal change can be advanced to successfully bring about sustainable national development. The paper is a theoretical research which draws up data from books (both online and from library), published journals and the writers’ experiences in addition to the relevant literature. The writers conclude that given the right attitude, the concept of social marketing can facilitate sustainable national development.

Keywords: Change; Attitude; Social Marketing; Sustainable; Development


EFFECTS OF THE AQUEOUS SEED EXTRACT OF HELIATHUS ANNUUS L ON SOME BIOCHEMICAL INDICES OF PROSTATE PATHOLOGIES IN ALLOXAN-INDUCED DIABETIC RATS

1Saleh, B.G, & 2 Carol C.D

1Department of Integrated Science, College of Education Gindiri, Plateau State, Nigeria

2 Department of Biochemistry University of Jos. Plateau State, Nigeria

Email: Carrll42@yahoo.com, bitrussaleh@gmail.com

ABSTRACT

The aim of this study was to investigate the effect of the aqueous seed extract of helianthus annuus on some indices of prostate pathologies and contribute as to the relationship between diabetes mellitus and prostate pathologies. Twenty (20) Adult male wista albino rats (Rattus norvegicus) ranging from 150 to 250g weight were used in the study. Experimental diabetes was induced by single interperitoneal injection of alloxan-monohydrate dissolved in normal saline solution at a dose of 150mg /kg body weight. The rats were randomly divided into experimental and control groups of five rats each. The experimental groups (C, D) were given 400mg/kg b.w single daily dose of the aqueous extract for fifteen (15) days. Diabetes mellitus was confirmed in the experimental rats by the significant increase (p<0.05) in serum glucose level. Treatment with the extract showed a significant time dependant decrease (p<0.05). There was a significant (p<0.05) decrease in the serum level of prostate specific antigen and testosterone in the diabetic rats. Treatment produced a significant (p<0.05) increase. For oestrogen the diabetic control group rats showed significant (p<0.05) increase compared to the normal control group rats. The diabetic treated group rats showed a significant (p<0.05) increase in serum oestradiol level when compared to the diabetic control group rats. The effect of treatment was not time dependent. In conclusion Helianthus annuus L (sunflower) seed extract may have a beneficial effect in reducing risk of prostate pathology among diabetics.


AN EMPIRICAL STUDY ON THE IMPACT OF ENTREPRENEURSHIP TRAINING ON SMALL BUSINESSES IN BIDA METROPOLIS

Ibrahim Abubakar Mikugi, Azubuike Aham Samuel, & Aliyu Mustapha Tsoida

Department of Business Administration and Management

The Federal Polytechnic, Bida, Niger State

Email: tatafoundation@hotmail.com

ABSTRACT

The systematic process for developing and empowering a high performance entrepreneurs can best be obtained by training. Training is a means of getting better result through agreed frame work of planned goals, standards, and competency requirement. The process of obtaining this development level can be done in short and long term bases depending on the nature of choice of trade or type of trade. Bida Town played host to a wide range of artisans, ranging from black smith works, furniture, fashion design, Hair dressing saloon etc. This paper examined the best practices among Bida entrepreneurs and their enterprise when they are well exposed at the instance of training for provision of excellent services, and results oriented achievements of greatness for self-economic empowerment. Sixty Five (65) Entrepreneurs of various enterprise levels were selected, by the use of accidental sampling technique to examine the level of their training exposure and its benefits. Fifty eight (58) Questionnaires were returned. Findings revealed that the impact of Entrepreneurship training of apprentice in small business contribute immensely to economic development and eventual technological transformation. The paper concludes that apprenticeship training is a compulsory tutelage for strategic positioning and management of a going concern such as furniture making, fashion and design, hair dressing saloon, knitting (wool work), brass/bronze (black smith) work, technicians (TV/Radionics) etc. Recommendations were given which include the need for   proactive policy measures for successful take-off of new enterprise. Government should step in, to provide attractive business policy to encourage entrepreneurs and new business start – up.

Keywords: Entrepreneurship, Apprentice, Training, Programme, Entrepreneurs


THE EFFECTIVENESS OF NON-FINANCIAL PERFORMANCE MEASURES ON MANAGERIAL PERFORMANCES IN AGRO ALLIED INDUSTRIES IN NIGERIA

Tony Ikechukwu Nwanji1, Adedoyin Isola Lawal2, Sainey Faye3 & Jeremiah Shalom4

1,2&4Department of Accounting and Finance, College of Business and Social Sciences, Landmark University, Nigeria,

3Department of Accounting and Finance, Buckinghamshire New University Buckingham, UK

Email: nwanji.tony@lmu.edu.ng, lawal.adedoyin@lmu.edu.ng, sainey.faye@bucks.ac.uk, onyecatchrazor@yahoo.com

ABSTRACT

In this study, we assessed the effectiveness of nonfinancial performance measures on managerial performances in Agro-allied Industries in Nigeria. The study employed survey questionnaire based on Likert scale system to collect data from stakeholder groups of the companies’ understudy. The data were analysed using mixed methods of qualitative and quantitative analysis to answer the research questions onhow does nonfinancial performance measurement positively affect them an agerial performance of Agro-allied Industries? Moreover, whether customers’ satisfaction and employee participation positively affect the company performance? The findings from the results of the analysis indicate that there is a meaningful relationship between non-financial performance measures and managerial performance of Agro-allied Industries. Findings are in line with the literature that role clarity significantly mediates the relationship between non-financial measures and managerial performance. We found that non-financial performance enables the organisation to meet the needs and the interest of its wider stakeholders. The assessment of non-financial performance contributes to overall corporate performance.  Amajor recommendation from the study is that Agro-Allied Industries in Nigeria should adopt effective measures of organisational performance using non-financial performances measures to support financial performance measures which will provide the effective managerial performance to contribute overall organisational performance.


THE IMPACT OF CAPITAL STRUCTURE ON FINANCIAL PERFORMANCE OF NIGERIAN LISTED FOOD PRODUCT COMPANIES

Nma Alhaji Baba, Ndagi Mohammed, & Sadiq Abubakar Mustafa

Department of Accountancy

The Federal Polytechnic, Bida, Niger State, Nigeria.

Email: Nalhajibaba@Yahoo.Com

ABSTRACT

This study is purposely carried out to examine the impact of capital structure on financial performance of Nigerian listed food product companies. Annual financial report of five (5) companies listed on the Nigeria stuck exchange under the food product categories were used within the study period of seven (7) years from 2006-2012. Least square regression analysis was applied on Return on Asset (ROA) and Return on Equity (ROE) as performance indicators while Long-term Debt to Capital (LTDC), Total Debt to Capital (TDC), Total Debt to Equity (TDE) are used as capital structure proxies and AGE as control variable. The study reveal that there is a negative and insignificant relationship between LTDC, TDC, TDE and ROA while the relationship between LTDC, TDC, TDE and ROE is positive but also insignificant. More so, from the result positive and significant relationship exist between AGE and the two performance variables (ROA and ROE). The study concludes that capital structure is not a major determinant of firm performance and recommends that organization managers should focus more attention on firm age when making capital structure decision that will improve firm’s financial performance.

Keywords: Capital Structure, Financial Performance


Table of Contents

Quality Evaluation of Rat Species Sold in Makurdi Metropolis

Ikya, J. K., Jimin, C. M., Amove, J.                                                                                             1-14

Preliminary Evaluation of Yield and Yield Parameters in Some Cowpea Cultivars for Adaptability to Lafia Climatic Condition in Nigeria.

Hauwa Ahmad Kana                                                                                                               15-21

Economic Contribution of African Locust Bean Seeds (Parkiabiglobosa) to the Livelihood of Rural Inhabitants of Southern Taraba State, Nigeria

David Irande                                                                                                                            22-43

Growth and Yield of Okra Under Sprinkler Irrigation System in Owo, South-Western Nigeria

Mogaji K O. & Oloruntade A. J.                                                                                               44-61

Productivity Analysis and Returns of Different Classes of Land Size Holdings in Imo State, Nigeria

Osuji, E. E, Okwara, M. O.,  Eze, E. U., And Onyebinama, I. C.                                                  61-74

Effects of Different Natural Extenders on Sperm Count, Motility and Fertility of

Clarias Gariepinus (Burchell, 1822) for Enhancement of Fingerling Production

Onyia, L.U., Diyaware, M.Y., Etah, S.O. & Ochokwu, I.J.                                                            75-80


EFFECTS OF DIFFERENT NATURAL EXTENDERS ON SPERM COUNT, MOTILITY AND FERTILITY OF Clarias gariepinus (Burchell, 1822) FOR ENHANCEMENT OF FINGERLING PRODUCTION

*Onyia, L.U1., Diyaware, M.Y2., Etah, S.O.1& Ochokwu, I.J3.

1Department of Fisheries, Modibbo Adama University of Technology, Yola.

2 Department of Fisheries, University of Maiduguri; Maiduguri.

3Department of Fisheries and Aquacultural Technology, Federal University, Dutsinma.

Email: luconyiagmail.com.

ABSTRACT

The study assessed the effects of natural sperm extenders on the sperm count, motility and fertility of African mudfish (Clarias gariepinus) for artificial induced breeding and cryopreservation purposes. Three natural extenders were tested i.e. Coconut water, sugarcane water and soybean solutions were used. While the saline solution was used as a control. Semen samples (milt) were pooled from mature broodstock males weighing 600±100g and pre-extension qualities were evaluated for the fresh sperm.  Extenders of sugarcane, coconut, soybean and saline water which was used as control were prepared and diluted with sperm to give a sperm extension ratio of 1:20 (1ml of sperm: 20ml of the extender) and 5ml of the prepared solutions were measured in different storage bottles and placed on crushed ice at about 40C which were used to fertilize ready isolated eggs at 0, 3 and 6 hour intervals of exposure at 40C to assess the fertility. In general, the fertilization rates decreased with increasing duration. With respect to natural extenders, the saline solution showed the highest fertility of 71%, followed by soybean milk (69%) while coconut water recorded the least fertility. There significant difference(p<0.05) in the percentage fertility of milt among the sperm extenders. The motility of the extended sperms was viewed under microscope at x400 magnification and calculated. Soybean milk showed the highest motility rate of 65% and sperm count 0.690±0.050×108 after 6 hours exposure as compared with other natural extenders. However, sperm count, motility and fertility decreased progressively as the period of storage increased.

Keywords: Coconut Water, Sugarcane Water, Soybean Milk, Spermatozoa, Fertilization, Motility, Clarias gariepinus


DIFFERENT CLASSES OF LAND SIZE HOLDINGS IN IMO STATE, NIGERIA 

1*Osuji, E.E, 2Okwara, M.O., 2Anyanwu, U.G. & 1Onyebinama, I.C.

1Department of Agricultural Economics, Michael Okpara University of Agriculture Umudike, Nigeria

 2Department of Agricultural Economics, Federal University of Technology Owerri, Imo State

Email: osujiemeka2@yahoo.com

ABSTRACT

This study evaluated the farm productivity and returns from different classes of land size holdings in Imo State, Nigeria. Multi-stage random sampling technique was used to select 75 farmers for the study. Information was elicited from the sampled respondents through a structured questionnaire and interview schedule. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics, partial productivity index of land, and net returns model. The socio-economic features of the farmers reveal a mean age of 58 years, 12 years educational attainment, 5 persons per household, 15 years farming experience, and a mean farm size of 1.07ha. The total returns from these zones showed that Owerri zone recorded the highest total returns of N290,878.2/ha with a land productivity of N49,258/ha which is higher when compared to other zones. Orlu zone had a total return of N227,227.4/ha with a land productivity of N45,454.6/ha and while Okigwe zone showed least returns of N197,553.1/ha with a land productivity of N39,510.63/ha. This implies that farmers in Owerri zone efficiently utilize the resources available to them which resulted to higher outputs and productivity relative to other two zones. The result further indicated that Owerri zone had the highest net returns of N73,628 followed by Orlu, N65,140 while Okigwe zone had the least returns of N52,390. Hence farmers in the area are encouraged to adopt good land management techniques, thus this improves farm output and farm productivity and also raises farm income.

Keywords: FarmProductivity; Analysis; Net-Returns; Land Size Holdings; Imo State


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