The International Journal of Organic Agriculture Research and Development

VIABILITY AND SUSTAINABILITY OF BROILER AGRIPRENEURSHIP AMONG SMALL-SCALE AGRIPRENEURS IN ABIA STATE, NIGERIA

E.O Nze. , E.C Egbulonu, I.D Onyeaghala, V Ajoum — Fri, 29 May 2026 00:00:00 +0000

This study analysed viability and sustainability of broiler agripreneurship among small-scale agripreneurs in Abia State, Nigeria. The specific objectives were to describe the socio-economic characteristics of small-scale broiler agripreneurs in Abia State, examine the cost components and revenue sources of the agripreneurship, determine its profitability, sustainability strategies adopted among others. Multistage sampling procedures were used in selecting 120 respondents across villages, communities and LGAs. Primary data only were used and data were analysed with descriptive and inferential statistical tools such as frequency counts, mean scores; farm budgeting analysis and univariate regression analysis. The mean age of the respondents was 39.8 years, 65% were married and mean years of experience was 9.8 years. Average flock size was 214 birds with a mean annual production of 4 cycles. Day-old chicks constituted the highest variable cost at ₦2,536,328, followed by feed cost at ₦1,420,000 and major source of revenue was the sale of broiler birds (₦8,601,000 annually). Gross margin was ₦4,193,272 and Profitability Index was 0.93. Proper vaccination schedule was the highest (91.7%) sustainable strategy, followed by good sanitation and biosecurity measures (88.3%) while inadequate finance, high feed cost, among others posed challenges to the agripreneurship. it was recommended that feed cost mitigation, extension services and local governments can facilitate feed formulation training and group purchasing to promote local feed formulation using cheaper, high-quality local ingredients.

Bioaccumulation potential of Pleurotus florida on Engine oil polluted soil using different substrates

A.G. Nwaogu, U.A Eze, M. C Nwoko — Fri, 29 May 2026 00:00:00 +0000

The accumulation of environmental pollutants in edible mushrooms has raised concerns regarding food safety and environmental sustainability. This study investigated the bioaccumulation of heavy metals and polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) in Pleurotus florida cultivated on different agricultural substrates grown on engine oil-polluted soil. The experiment was conducted in the laboratory of the Department of Public Health and Preventive Medicine, College of Veterinary Medicine, Michael Okpara University of Agriculture, Umudike, Abia State, Nigeria. Four substrates sawdust, sugarcane bagasse, rice straw, and Andropogon straw—were used for mushroom cultivation. The experimental design Completely Randomized Design (CRD) with four treatments replicated five times. Polluted soil collected from a mechanic workshop was incorporated at different levels (50 g, 100 g, 150 g, and 200 g) into 200 g of each pasteurized substrate and inoculated with spawn of Pleurotus florida. Growth parameters such as fresh weight, dry weight, no of fruiting bodies, stipe length, and cap diameter were recorded. Samples of the polluted soil and harvested mushrooms were analyzed to determine the concentrations of heavy metals and PAHs. The results revealed the presence of five heavy metals zinc (Zn), chromium (Cr), arsenic (As), cadmium (Cd), and copper (Cu) in the engine oil-polluted soil before cultivation. Significant (P ≤ 0.05) accumulation of Zn, Cr, As, and Cd was detected in the mushroom fruiting bodies harvested from Andropogon straw, sugarcane bagasse, rice straw, and the control treatment. However, there was no significant difference in copper accumulation across the substrates and control. Analysis of PAHs showed detectable accumulation in mushrooms grown on most substrates, with the highest concentration of phenanthrene recorded in mushrooms cultivated on sugarcane bagasse (1.91 ± 0.00) and the lowest concentration of fluorene observed in mushrooms grown on sawdust (0.17 ± 0.00). No PAH accumulation was detected in the control treatment. The findings demonstrate that Pleurotus florida can accumulate heavy metals and PAHs from contaminated substrates, highlighting its potential for environmental remediation. However, the study also emphasizes the importance of substrate selection in mushroom cultivation to reduce the risk of contaminant accumulation in edible fruiting bodies. Among the substrates tested, sawdust proved to be the most suitable and safer substrate for commercial mushroom production.

ADOPTION OF ORGANIC AGRICULTURE AND AGROECOLOGICAL PRACTICES AMONG SMALLHOLDER FARMERS IN NIGERIA: EVIDENCE ABIA STATE

B. A. Ahamefule, C. J. EZE, C.C AMADI — Fri, 29 May 2026 00:00:00 +0000

Organic agriculture and agroecology are increasingly recognized as sustainable approaches to improving agricultural productivity, environmental health, and long-term food system sustainability
among smallholder farmers in Nigeria. These practices emphasize the use of natural inputs, ecological
processes, and biodiversity conservation to enhance soil fertility and reduce dependence on synthetic
inputs, while also addressing broader environmental challenges. This study examines the adoption of organic farming practices among smallholder farmers in Abia State, Nigeria. A mixed-method approach was employed, combining primary data collected through structured questionnaires with secondary data sources. Descriptive statistics and the Heckman double hurdle model were used to analyses both the decision to adopt and the intensity of adoption. The results reveal moderate awareness but relatively low adoption of organic practices, particularly for more technical methods. Training, education, farming experience, household size, and age significantly influence adoption decisions, while training, education, age, and experience affect adoption intensity. Key constraints include limited access to credit, high input costs, technical challenges, and poor market information. The study concludes that strengthening institutional support and capacity building is essential to enhance the adoption of organic farming practices and promote sustainable agricultural systems.

Organic and Climate-Smart Adaptation Strategies among Sweet potato Seed Producers in Ebonyi State, Nigeria: Sustainable and Innovative Practices

A.C. Okoye, E.E. Ogbonnaya, J.O Umeh, B.N. Onunka, P. C. Amanza — Fri, 29 May 2026 00:00:00 +0000

Climate change poses significant threats to agricultural productivity in sub-Saharan Africa, Cparticularly among smallholder farmers dependent on rain-fed systems. This study examined the adoption of organic and Climate-Smart Agriculture (CSA) strategies among sweet potato seed producers in Ebonyi State, Nigeria, with the aim of assessing their awareness and effectiveness in enhancing resilience, and estimate factors influencing adoption. A multi-stage sampling technique was used to select 60 seed producers, and data were collected using structured questionnaires and focus group discussions. Analytical tools included descriptive statistics, Likert scale analysis, multinomial logit regression, and correlation analysis. The results revealed that awareness of CSA and organic practices was universal, adoption varied widely across practices. Improved varieties and basic pest management practices recorded high adoption rates, while capital-intensive and technically complex practices such as irrigation systems and advanced nursery technologies had low uptake. Correlation analysis showed a strong positive relationship between integrated pest management and soil health practices, and negative associations between improved varieties and some other strategies. The multinomial logit results indicated that gender, age, household size, education, extension contact, and income significantly influenced adoption decisions. Notably, extension contact and income positively affected adoption, while farming experience showed a negative relationship with some practices, suggesting resistance to change among more experienced farmers. The study recommends improved access to credit, strengthened extension services, and targeted capacity-building programs to promote integrated and sustainable adoption of CSA strategies among seed producers.

Gender-Responsive Utilization of Indigenous Knowledge for Climate Smart Organic Agriculture in Abia State, Nigeria

Ogechi Jubilant Umeh — Fri, 29 May 2026 00:00:00 +0000

This study examined gender-responsive utilization of indigenous knowledge (IK) for climate-smart organic agriculture among rural households in Abia State, Nigeria. Multi-stage sampling procedure was used to select 120 respondents, and data were collected using structured questionnaires and analyzed with descriptive and inferential statistics. The findings revealed that indigenous knowledge remains central to climate change adaptation, with widespread use of traditional weather forecasting, crop management practices, mixed cropping, and community-based early warning systems. However, significant gender differences exist in the utilization of IK. Male farmers dominated decision-making and access to resources, while female farmers, despite possessing valuable knowledge, faced constraints related to land access, limited resources, and reduced decision-making power. Socio-economic factors such as age, education, and farming experience also influenced IK utilization. Major constraints identified include poor documentation, low youth engagement, gender bias, and resistance to change. The study concludes that while IK is vital for sustainable and climate-resilient organic agriculture, its effective utilization is hindered by gender inequalities and systemic barriers. Policy implications include the need for gender-inclusive extension services, improved access to resources for women, documentation and integration of IK into agricultural policies, and youth-focused programs to sustain indigenous knowledge systems for long term resilience.

EFFECT OF CLIMATE SMART AGRICULTURAL PRACTICES ON POVERTY STATUS OF CASSAVA –BASED FARMERS IN AGUATA L.G.A.OF ANAMBRA STATE, NIGERIA

B.O Okpara, A.C Okafor , I.N Nnana — Fri, 29 May 2026 00:00:00 +0000

This research examined the effect of climate smart Agricultural practices on poverty status of cassava –based farmers in Aguata L.G.A. in Anambra State, Nigeria. Multistage sampling technique was employed for the study. Primary data was the focus for data collection. The result revealed that majority, approximately 61.25% of the cassava farmers, fall below the poverty line, Conversely, only 38.75% of the farmers were considered non-poor. The result also showed that food stuff used up about (29.65%) of the monthly expenditure on average, followed by education (21.54%), clothing and shelter (19.84%), health (14.58%). The study shows that the mean expenditure was N 3,144.43. The estimated poverty line which was based on 2/3 of MPCE per person. The result shows that the mean per capita expenditure was N 3,144.4 while poverty line per person was N 2,096.27. This implies that the farmers were living on N524.06 per person per day. This study therefore recommends integrating climate-smart agriculture into rural poverty alleviation strategies is essential. Given the strong link between CSAP adoption and improved livelihoods, national and local governments should embed these practices within broader development programs aimed at reducing rural poverty

ASSESSMENT OF THE WASTE MANAGEMENT PRACTICES AMONG PIG FARMERS IN ABOH MBAISE LOCAL GOVERNMENT AREA OF IMO STATE, NIGERIA

R.U Kanu, E.V Anyanwu, D.S Chijioke — Fri, 29 May 2026 00:00:00 +0000

The study provided empirical evidence on waste management practices among pig farmers in Aboh
Mbaise Imo State, Nigeria. The specific objectives were to describe the socio-economic characteristics of the respondents, identify various waste management practices used by the respondents, ascertain different sources of agricultural information available to the respondents, ascertain the extent of use of the practices by the respondents, ascertain the perceived effect of these practices in the production of pig and ascertain constraints that influences the use of the various waste management practices by the respondents. A multi stage sampling technique used in the selection of 120 respondents for the study. The data were collected with the use of structured questionnaire and analyzed using both descriptive and inferential statistics. The major results revealed that the major sources of information to the farmers were fellow farmers (100.0%), extension agents (99.2%), community groups (93.3%), waste disposal agencies (71.7%) and mass media (65.8%). A grand mean of 2.80 affirmed that the pig farmers to a high extent used waste management measures in disposing their waste products. A grand mean of 3.24 which affirms that waste management practices exerted strong effect on pig production in the study area. The result revealed with a grand mean of 3.27 that the respondents encountered several constraints in effectively managing their waste pig waste products. The multiple regression coefficients affirmed that years of education (1%), household (1%), flock size (1%) were the significant determinants of use of waste management practices. The simple linear regression coefficient revealed that the perceived effects of waste management practice was not statistically significant but negatively related waste management practices. The study concluded that pig farmers managed their wastes they used waste management measures in disposing their waste products such as utilized for crop and fish farming, composting, burying and burning to a high extent. Training and retraining programme was recommended to be very necessary for upgrading the capacity of pig farmers in waste management. Extension agencies are encouraged to train and retrain pig farmers on environmental and waste management practices.

Consumer Attitudes Towards Organic Supplement Intake and Its Role in Sustainability: A Case Study of Staff of FCAI, Ebonyi State

F. U Okoye, A. C. Okoye, A. C. Okoye — Fri, 29 May 2026 00:00:00 +0000

This study examined consumer attitudes toward organic supplement intake and its role in sustainability among staff of the Federal College of Agriculture, Ishiagu (FCAI), Ebonyi State, Nigeria. A simple random sampling technique was used to select 120 respondents from 12 departments. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics, Likert scale analysis, and probit regression. The results showed that the mean age of respondents was 45.17 years, with 68.3% male and 73.3% married. Although 100% of respondents were aware of organic supplements, only 63.3% have taken them in the past, and just 26.7% continue usage. The Likert analysis revealed positive attitudes toward organic supplements (grand mean = 3.42), with respondents agreeing that organic supplements are worth the cost (mean = 3.87) and preferable to conventional ones (mean = 3.77). Regarding perceived health benefits, respondents strongly agreed that organic supplements boost immunity (mean = 4.15, SD = 0.47) and improve overall health (mean = 4.08, SD = 0.56), with a grand mean of 3.94. The probit regression estimated positive predictors of organic supplement intake as; age (coefficient = 0.2621, p < 0.10), years of working experience (coefficient = 0.4333, p < 0.05), income (coefficient = 1.2750, p < 0.10), having a health issue (coefficient = 3.8572, p < 0.05), perceived health benefit (coefficient = 5.293, p < 0.05), availability (coefficient = 1.9218, p < 0.10), and trust (coefficient = 2.7456, p < 0.05). Conversely, cost of supplements (coefficient = -1.1086, p < 0.10) was a significant barrier. The study concludes that while awareness and positive attitudes exist, cost and limited availability hinder sustained consumption. Recommendations include subsidizing organic supplements, improving availability through certified vendors, and organizing health awareness seminars targeting younger staff.

AGROFORESTRY SYSTEMS AS ECOLOGICAL BUFFERS AGAINST PEST OUTBREAKS IN ORGANIC FARMING: A REVIEW

P.E Efurumibe — Fri, 29 May 2026 00:00:00 +0000

The intensification of agricultural landscapes has precipitated unprecedented challenges in pest management, particularly within organic farming systems where synthetic pesticide inputs are prohibited. Agroforestry systems integrated land-use practices incorporating trees with crops and/or livestock have emerged as promising ecological infrastructures for buffering pest outbreaks through multifaceted mechanisms. This review synthesizes contemporary evidence examining how agroforestry systems function as ecological buffers against pest outbreaks in organic farming contexts. The study analyze the mechanistic pathways through which agroforestry mediates pest pressure, including top-down regulation via natural enemy conservation, bottom-up effects through microclimate moderation and resource dilution, and the enhancement of functional biodiversity. While substantial evidence supports the pest suppressive capacity of agroforestry in perennial cropping systems, significant challenges constrain implementation, including tree-crop competition for resources, knowledge gaps among practitioners, economic barriers, and contextual variability in pest responses. This review proposes solutions addressing these challenges through strategic species selection, adaptive management protocols, policy incentives, and participatory research frameworks. The study concluded that agroforestry represents a viable nature-based solution for pest resilience in organic agriculture, though its efficacy depends on context-specific design principles and systemic support structures.

COMPARATIVE EVALUATION OF NUTRIENT COMPOSTION AND FALL ARMYWORM INFESTATION IN ORGANIC AND INORGANIC MAIZE PRODUCTION SYSTEMS IN NDUME, SOUTH EASTERN NIGERIA.

P. E Efurumibe, D. M. Esheye — Fri, 29 May 2026 00:00:00 +0000

This study evaluated the comparative effects of organically and inorganically maize production systems on maize nutrient composition, yield and level of fall armyworm infestation on the maize plant during the 2023 cropping season at the National Forestry Research Institute located at Ahiaeke Ndume, in Umuahia North, South Eastern Nigeria. Five treatments were evaluated which included: Control (Sole Maize), maize with Poultry manure + chemical pesticide, maize with Chemical fertilizer + chemical pesticide, maize with Chemical fertilizer only and maize with Poultry manure + Neem extract. These were arranged in a Randomized Complete Block Design with 3 replications. Data was collected on growth performance, yield parameters, percentage infestation, and proximate
and mineral composition of the maize grain after harvest. Data collected were analyzed using Analysis of Variance (ANOVA), and treatment means were separated using the Least Significant Difference (LSD) test at 5% probability level. Results from the study showed significant differences (p ≤ 0.05) among treatments for the parameters assessed. Sole maize (control) recorded the highest infestation level (36.66), higher leaf damage (2.08), and higher insect count (7.80), which reduced yield and grain quality while organic treatments that combined botanical extracts with poultry manure, had significantly lower infestation (12.08), lower leaf damage (0.44), and lower insect count (2.20) which increased the grain yield and quality. Although other integrated treatments perfomed better than the control, the organic treatment outperformed them all. Also the nutrient composition of the maize grain performed better in the plots with organic treatments compared with every other treatment while the control which has no treatment gave the least nutrient compostion. It was observed that generally the control plot which had no treatment had poor performance compared with other treated plots and this was followed by plots treated with only chemical fertilizer. Plots with chemical inputs showed moderate performance in yield and lower nutrient component compared with the plots with organic treatments. This study demonstrates that organic management practices, particularly the integration of poultry manure and plant extracts can enhance maize productivity, improve grain nutritional quality and effectively reduce fall armyworm infestation and therefore should be adopted in the management of the maize fall armyworm.

Harnessing Organic Phytogenic Feed Additives for Sustainable Rabbit Production: Effects of Syzygium aromaticum on Growth, Physiological and Biochemical Performance of Rabbit Bucks

N. L Okocha , A. B. Ahamefula , C Nwagbara — Fri, 29 May 2026 00:00:00 +0000

Organic livestock production plays a vital role in building resilient and sustainable food systems, particularly in developing countries where access to expensive synthetic inputs is limited. Rabbit farming represents a promising pathway for improving food security due to its high reproductive rate, efficient feed conversion, and the nutritional quality of rabbit meat. However, productivity in rabbit production systems remains constrained by poor reproductive performance, inadequate nutrition, and limited adoption of natural growth enhancers. This study evaluated the effects of Syzygium aromaticum (clove) as a phytogenic feed additive on the growth performance, morphometric traits, serum biochemistry, lipid profile, antioxidant status, and physiological parameters of 36 rabbit bucks. Four dietary treatments were formulated with graded levels of clove powder: T1 (control), T2 (5 g/kg), T3 (7.5 g/kg), and T4 (10 g/kg). Results showed significant improvements in growth performance, particularly in the T3 group, which recorded the highest final body weight (2093.88 g), weekly weight gain (71.46 g), and the lowest feed conversion ratio (1.34). Serum biochemical analysis indicated enhanced protein metabolism and improved liver function at moderate inclusion levels. Lipid profile results demonstrated decreased triglycerides, LDL, and VLDL levels, alongside increased HDL concentrations. Antioxidant markers revealed reduced malondialdehyde levels and increased activities of superoxide dismutase and catalase, indicating improved oxidative stability. Physiological parameters such as heart rate, respiratory rate, rectal temperature, and pulse rate remained largely stable across treatments. The findings indicate that moderate inclusion of Syzygium aromaticum (7.5g/kg) optimizes growth performance, metabolic efficiency, and antioxidant capacity in rabbit bucks. The use of plant-based feed additives aligns with the principles of organic agriculture by reducing reliance on synthetic inputs while enhancing sustainable livestock productivity.

Implications of Rural Exodus and Financial Remittances on Food Security in Bayelsa State, Nigeria

Ige Ediabia Edaba Michael, Richard Aroyehun Adeyinka — Fri, 29 May 2026 00:00:00 +0000

This study explores how rural exodus and financial development shape food security in Bayelsa State, Nigeria. Despite the region’s strong agricultural potential, food insecurity continues to affect many rural households. The growing exodus of people and limited access to financial services continues to restrict farmers’ ability to invest in improved inputs and technologies. To better understand these dynamics, the study adopts a quantitative approach. Data were collected from 275 farm households using a multistage sampling technique and structured questionnaires. The study employs Ordinary Least Squares (OLS) regression and inequality analysis using Lorenz curves and Gini coefficients. The results reveal that rural exodus has a negative but statistically insignificant effect on food security, while financial development shows a positive but weak influence. However, the interaction between rural exodus and financial development exhibits a negative and significant effect, indicating that financial systems do not adequately offset the adverse effects of labour migration on agricultural productivity. Furthermore, inequality analysis reveals moderate disparities in financial development (Gini = 0.327) and food security (Gini = 0.344), suggesting structural imbalances in resource distribution. In conclusion, the findings highlight the need for policies that strengthen rural financial systems and make agriculture more attractive, especially to young people. Expanding access to credit, promoting mechanized farming, and improving rural infrastructure are essential steps toward reducing migration pressures and achieving sustainable food security.

Effectiveness of Integrated Organic Weed Management in Fluted Pumpkin (Telfairia occidentalis Hook F.) Field

Fri, 29 May 2026 00:00:00 +0000

Organic weed management is an indispensable technique for effective, environmentally friendly and sustainable weed suppression in organic crop fields. A field experiment was conducted during the 2023 late cropping season at the University of Calabar Teaching and Research Farm, Calabar, to determine the effectiveness of integrated use of dead organic mulches [oil palm bunch refuse (OPBR), dry neem leaves (DNL)] and hand weeding frequency [hand weeding once (H ), hand weeding twice1 (H ), hand weeding thrice (H ), regular weeding/weed-free check (WFC) and no weeding/weedy2 3 check (WC)] on weed suppression and the performance of fluted pumpkin (Telfairia occidentalis Hook F.). The experiment was a Randomized Complete Block Design (RCBD), with three replications. The 10 treatments were: OPBR+DNL+ H , OPBR+ H , DNL+ H , OPBR+ H , DNL+ H ,3 3 3 2 2 OPBR+ H , DNL+ H , H , WFC and WC. Data were collected on weeds, vegetative characteristics1 1 3 and vine yield of fluted pumpkin and analyzed using the Analysis of Variance (ANOVA) method. The means were compared using the Duncan's New Multiple Range Test (DNMRT) at 5 % level of probability. The results indicated that generally, weeds were suppressed and crop performance improved by weed control treatments relative to no weeding. The WFC which had no weeds, produced the highest vine yield (16.84 t/ha), statistically (P < 0.05) similar to OPBR+DNL+ H (17.87 t/ha). No3 weeding throughout the cropping season (WC) resulted in higher cumulative weed dry matter of 61.85 % and 73.39 % compared with the integrated weed management treatments and three times hand weeding, respectively, and consequently, suppressed fluted pumpkin vine yield by 59.28 %. Conclusively, the results demonstrated that, OPBR+DNL+ H effectively controlled weeds and3 enhanced the growth and vine yield of fluted pumpkin more than the farmers’ practice of three times hand weeding and could be a viable alternative to regular hand weeding.

Storage Rot of Ginger Rhizomes (Zingiber officinale Roscoe) and their control with African Nutmeg (Monodora Myristica Gaerth) Seeds

F.T. Obani, Uwalaka, O, Iheukumere, J, Ataogu M .C. — Fri, 29 May 2026 00:00:00 +0000

Ginger grown for its edible rhizome commonly used as spice for food and drinks. It is also known for its medicinal values; however, protecting harvested rhizomes from deterioration is important to enhance storability. Ginger is attacked by fungi which cause destructive storage rot of harvested rhizomes. Effect of storage rots constitute hindrance to meeting current demands for ginger production. Therefore, effect of African nutmeg, (Monodora myristica) for control of fungi causing rot of ginger rhizomes was evaluated. Laboratory studies were carried out, infected ginger rhizomes were sourced from Umudike and Orie-ugba markets; taken to the laboratory for fungi isolation and identification using standard laboratory procedures. In vitro studies of effect of African nutmeg on four fungal species isolated from ginger rhizomes was evaluated. Data collected were analysed using descriptive statistics and ANOVA at α0.05. Fusarium solani, Fusarium oxysporium and Rhizopus oryzae were controlled in vitro and in vivo using crude African nutmeg extract. Fusarium solani, F. oxysporium, R. oryzae and A. flavuswere isolated. Incidence of F. solani was (50-84 %), followed by F. oxysporium (30-78 %), R. oryzae (11-30 %) and A. flavus (3-11 %). F. oxysporium, myelial growth was reduced between 3.33-6.05 %; in the first 4 days after inoculation and 21-30 % to 74.98 % from 5-6 days after inoculation. There is significant difference (P=0.05) in mycelial growth reduction between treated and the control from 5 days after inoculation on the African nutmeg amended PDA. Mycelial growth reductions for R. oryzae decreased with increase in days of incubation. Highest growth reduction (51.67%) was recorded on the first day, while the least (22.14%) was recorded on fourth day. Crude extract of M. myristica considerably reduced growths of fungi studied and could serve as a good safe alternative to chemical fungicides in ginger storage.

Growing Health and Livelihoods through Biointensive Life Gardens: The Thrive for Good Model in Nigeria and West Africa

Yisa Yisa, Thrive for Good International — Fri, 29 May 2026 00:00:00 +0000

Most Nigerian families, including farming households, depend heavily on starchy staple crops like maize, cassava, and rice. These foods fill the stomach but do not provide the nutrition the body needs to stay healthy. This paper examines how Thrive for Good’s Life Garden model can help address hidden hunger and poverty in Nigeria and across West Africa. It draws on Thrive for Good’s experience in over 23 countries, including its 2025 West Africa expansion across Nigeria, Ghana, and Sierra Leone, and on the real-life experience of the Mosrence Group in New Bussa, Niger State, trained by a certified Thrive for Good trainer in May and June 2025. Following training, the Mosrence Group established a Life Garden with 80 double-dug beds and planted 18 crop varieties. Members began eating fresh organic vegetables regularly and generated early income from produce sales. One member reported that he and his wife had not needed malaria or typhoid treatment in eight months after growing their own food. These outcomes align with Thrive for Good’s documented programme results: an average 75 percent reduction in malaria cases and up to 80 percent reduction in household healthcare costs. This paper argues that the Life Garden model, delivered through locally trained Growing Health Champions working within existing community organisations, is a practical and urgent response to hidden hunger in Nigeria and across West Africa. Recommendations for wider adoption are included.

EFFECTS OF STORAGE DURATION ON THE QUALITY AND GROWTH DYNAMICS OF SWEETPOTATO (Ipomoea batatas (L.) Lam.) PLANTING MATERIAL IN THE HUMID AGROECOLOGY OF SOUTHEASTERN NIGERIA.

E. E NNOROM, B.A.C AGUGO — Fri, 29 May 2026 00:00:00 +0000

Sweetpotato (Ipomoea batatas (L.) Lam.) productivity in humid agroecologies is largely dependent on the quality of vine cuttings used as planting materials. This study evaluated the influence of storage duration of sweetpotato vines on sprout count, plant vigour, and growth dynamics at the National Root Crops Research Institute, Umudike, Nigeria, during the 2024 and 2025 cropping seasons. The experimental site was characterized by low soil fertility, with total nitrogen ranging from 0.109% to 0.19%, organic carbon from 1.08% to 1.107%, and organic matter from 1.86% to 1.904%. Available phosphorus increased from 15.6 to 23.10 mg/kg, while soil pH declined from 5.86 to 4.60, indicating increasing soil acidity that may influence nutrient availability. The cropping seasons were marked by adequate rainfall (1,388.6 mm) and favorable temperature conditions, with mean maximum temperatures ranging from 30.24°C to 31.96°C and minimum temperatures from 21.94°C to 23.01°C. The experiment was laid out in a randomized complete block design with a split-plot arrangement consisting of five storage durations (0, 2, 4, 6, and 8 days) and two varieties (Umuspo-3 and TIS 87/0087), replicated three times. Results showed that shorter storage durations (0 to 2 days) significantly enhanced sprout count and early plant vigour compared to prolonged storage (6 to 8 days). Sprout count declined progressively with increased storage duration, with the lowest values recorded at 8 days. Plant vigour followed a similar trend, although partial recovery was observed at later growth stages. Growth parameter such as number of branches was not significantly affected by storage duration, indicating a compensatory growth response. Sweetpotato virus disease incidence remained low and was not significantly influenced by storage duration. The study concludes that prolonged storage beyond 4 days reduces planting material viability and early crop establishment. Therefore, planting within 0 to 2 days after vine harvest is recommended for optimal sweetpotato production under humid agroecological conditions.

POULTRY MANURE RATES INFLUENCED NUTRITIONAL COMPOSITION OF CARROT (Daucus carota L.) IN UMUDIKE RAINFOREST ZONE.

E. A AGBO — Fri, 29 May 2026 00:00:00 +0000

A laboratory experiment was carried out to determine proximate, vitamins and mineral concentration of carrot grown under different rates of poultry manure in umudike southeastern Nigeria. Samples were sourced from field research comprising of four rates (control, 10, 20 and 30 t/ha) of poultry manure in the department of crop and horticultural sciences, umudike during October 2024 cropping season. The determination was done in triplicates using standard methods (AOAC, 2003) in a completely randomized design format. The result showed that all the proximate parameters determined were significantly (P<0.05) influenced with the exception of carbohydrate. Control plot had the higher Ash content of 1.28 % and Crude fat of 0.35 % contents compared to others. However, -1 the plot that received 30 tha of poultry manure had the higher Crude fibre of 2.71 % and Dry matter -1 content of 21.71 g than other treatments. The 10 tha poultry manure gave the higher Crude protein content than other soil amendments. The plot that received 10t/ha of poultry manure gave the higher-1 mean value 0.25 (mg/100 g) of vitamin B1 while 20 tha of poultry manure gave the least 0.17 (mg/100g). The control treatment gave the higher mean value 0.32 (mg/100g), 19.52 (mg/100g) and 0.95 (mg/100g) of vitamin B2, vitamin C and vitamin E, respectively, while the least came from-1 application of 30 tha of poultry manure. The result of the minerals assayed differed significantly (P<0.05). The control plot had higher concentration of Calcium of 32.48 (mg/100g), Sodium 45.30 (mg/100g) and Magnesium 19.74 (mg/100g), however, potassium content was higher in the plot that-1 received 30t/ha of poultry manure.30 tha of poultry manure.

THE EVALUATION OF TIME OF APPLICATION OF ORGANIC LIQUID- FERTILIZER ON PERFORMANCE OF TUMERIC IN UMUDIKE.

B.C Chukwu, N.O Njoku , O Chioma, Ekebuisi Moses Chukwu — Fri, 29 May 2026 00:00:00 +0000

A study was conducted at the experimental farm of the National Root Crops Research Institute (NRCRI), to evaluation of time of application of organic liquid fertilizer on performance of Tumeric in Umudike. Two improved turmeric varieties developed by NRCRI were used in the experiment. The treatments included applications at 4, 8, and 12 weeks after planting (WAP), with a control (no fertilizer) for each variety. The experiment was laid out in a randomized complete block design (RCBD) in three (3) replications. Data were collected on plant height, plant girth, leaf area, number of leaves, leaf area and rhizome yield. The statistical analysis was conducted using R software version 4.3.1. A two-way analysis of variance (ANOVA) was performed using the function within a linear model framework, following a Randomized Complete Block Design (RCBD) to assess the effects of fertilizer timing and variety on all measured growth andyield parameters. Pearson's correlation coefficients between plant traits were calculated. The results show strong and statistically significant differences among the varieties for plant height, as indicated by the low CV (1.5%) and a small LSD value of 1.5, confirming high precision in measurement. Variety L4 recorded the tallest plants (52.9 cm), followed closely by L12 (46.9 cm) and X4 (42.4 cm). The results for plant height show that treatments produced statistically meaningful differences at the LSD of 12.7. From the correlation analysis (P<0.05), plant height and a highly significant correlation with leave area (r= 0.78**), plant girth (0.55**) and number of leaves (0.52**). Also the relationship between plant height and mother rhizome was also significant (0.48*) but not as high as leave area, plant girth and number of leaves. A significant relationship was also established between plant girth with mother rhizome (0.54*), secondary rhizome (0.48**) and primary rhizome (0.62*).