FACULTY OF AGRICULTURE

This study evaluated the tolerance of maize accessions Edo Statefrom South-South Nigeria to waterlogging stress, a major constraint to maize productivity. This study was conducted in a screen house at the Faculty of Agriculture, University of Benin, the experiment was in a Completely Randomized Design (CRD) with six Accessions from South -South replicated three times. The Accessions were obtained from Aduwawa, Agbede, Auchi, New Benin, and Useh were pre-treated, and waterlogging was induced at the five-leaf stage (5LS) for four weeks. Neem leaves were used as an organic insecticide, and fertilizer was applied to support growth. Data on plant height, leaf dimensions, number of leaves, tasseling, silking, pollen shedding, ear height, adventitious roots, and plant mortality were collected as from 2 weeks after planting . The results showed
significant plant death due to hypoxia, with few surviving genotypes like Useh,Aduwawa and New Benin but failed to produce grain, likely due to high screen house temperatures that could have disrupted pollination.The results also showed that accession from Useh
showed the highest growth characteristics on leaf breadth and leaf area, despite the waterlogging effect. Some Accessions also showed high value for healthy leaves under waterlogging, indicating that amongst all accessions used in the study, Accession Useh
has the potential ability to grow and thrive on waterlogged soil.

The primary purpose of this study was to assess the information needs of cocoa farmers in Edo and Ondo states. Specifically, the study was conducted to investigate the information needs assessment of cocoa farmers; ascertain the farmers’ preference for cocoa information sources; examine cocoa farmers information needs and farmers search behavior and examine cocoa farmers’ constraints to information accessibility in the study area. Multistage random sampling
procedure was used to select 432 respondents while a structured interview schedule was used to
solicit information from the respondents. The data were analyzed using descriptive statistics and inferential statistics (Binary logit regression, Pearson’s Product Moment Correlation (PPMC) and 2x2 matrix used to establish the priorities mean score). The result revealed that the mean age of cocoa farmers was 52 years while majorities (70.4%) of the farmers were male. Majorities (35.4%) of the farmers had formal education, higher membership of a group (93.5%) and were married (80.3%). Majority (74.3%)
of the cocoa farmers’ cultivated farm lands of less than 10 hectares with a mean farming
experience of 22 years. This study revealed that the most prominent sources of information was
input dealers/suppliers (  =2.86±0.40), while Television (  =2.76±0.56), extension posters
(  =2.80±0.50) and face to face advice by other farmers (  =2.87±0.45) were the most preferred
among the institutional bodies, mass media electronics, print media and traditional sources of
information respectively. The mean score for weed control (  =3.14) and pest and disease
control (  =3.14) which were ranked 2nd in cocoa production information needs were ranked 1st
and 4th in level of information search with the mean values of (  =2.24) and (  =2.03)
respectively. Hence, the farmers need training in their information search behaviour. From the Matrix presentation, it was observed that cocoa production information with the discrepancies scores of farm layout with a weighted mean score of 5.48, farm cultivation system with a weighted mean score of 4.82 and seed selection and planting materials which had a weighted mean score of 4.67 were the critical areas where cocoa farmers need training or education in cocoa production information needs. Binary Logistic Regression indicated that the Nagelkerke R square value of 0.15 and 0.29 for Edo and Ondo States respectively indicated that the determinants would collectively explain about 15.0% and 29.5% variation in cocoa production information needs of farmers, respectively in the study area. Also the binary logistic regression test indicated that extension agents (t= 1.61; p≤0.01); input dealers/suppliers (t= 2.89; p≤0.01); internet (t= - 1.65 p≤0.01), cable network (t= 2.56; p≤ 0.01); family members (t= 0.92;
p≤0.05) and face to face contact with other farmers (t =0.67; p≤0.01) were the most significant preferred sources of information on farmers production information needs. The finding of Pearson’s Product Moment Correlation indicated that positive and significant correlation exists between production information needs (r=0.271; p≤0.01) and postharvest information needs (r=0.303; p≤0.01) and farmers’ search behaviour for information.

Microbial contamination is a major factor affecting the shelf life and safety of bread. This study was carried out to analyze the bacterial and fungal growth in bread fortified with different levels of Scomber scombrus (0%, 10%, 20% and 30%) over a three-day period immediately after processing. The bread was prepared with varying levels of Scomber scombrus and the treatments (A, B, C and D) were assigned based on the percentage of of the fish concentrate. The bread samples were stored under controlled conditions for three days, small portions of each bread samples were taken at different time points (Day 0, Day 3) and the samples were placed in sterile containers to prevent external contamination. Bacterial counts (CFU/g) on Day 0 ranged from 4.10 × 10² (Treatment A) to 1.20 × 10³ (Treatment D), while by Day 3, these values increased significantly, with Treatment D reaching 2.40 × 10³ CFU/g. Similarly, fungal counts (CFU/g) on Day 0 ranged from 1.70 × 10² (Treatment A) to 3.40 × 10² (Treatment D), increasing by Day 3 to a maximum of 4.20 × 10² CFU/g in Treatment D. Statistical analysis (P < 0.05) showed significant differences across treatments, indicating variations in microbial growth rates. The results suggest that proper storage methods and preservation techniques, such as refrigeration, airtight packaging, and antifungal agents, are crucial for maintaining bread quality and safety. Future research should explore the impact of different preservatives and environmental conditions on microbial proliferation in bakery products.

The levels of serum biochemical indices have a direct association with the status and performance of animals at every given stage of its life. The current study was carried out in the University of teaching and research farm, Benin City to evaluate the relationship between some breed of rabbit, some biochemical parameters and weight of kits. The experimental animals were Dutch and Zealand white rabbits. The design used for the experiment was Completely Randomized Design. Biochemical parameters measured where body weight of kits ALP, ALT and AST levels. The data collected were subjected to one way statistical analysis of variance. The results showed that ALP, ALT and AST levels were significantly affected (P<0.05) by breeds of rabbits. Dutch does had higher values for ALP (20U/L), ALT (17U/L) and AST (12.5U/L) compared to NewZealand does which recorded lowest for ALP (15U/L), ALT (5U/L) and AST (6U/L). All measured biochemical parameters of Dutch and NewZealand does had no significant effect (P>0.05) on body weight of kits. Body weight of NewZealand kits were numerically but not statistically higher than Dutch kits. The results showed that NewZealand kits recorded highest for body weight at week 6 (551.67), week 7 (576.67), week 8 (604.00), week 9 (631.67) and week 10 (641.67) compared to Dutch kits which recorded lowest for body weight at 6th (506.67), 7th 548.00), 8th (575.00), 9th (595.83 + 30.25) and 10th week (635.33) respectively. It was obtain from this study that the breed of an animal can significantly affect the levels of some biochemical parameters such as ALP, ALT and AST. Recommended as a result of this study is that NewZealand rabbits should be the genotype of choice for broiler rabbit production and the nee for more needed attention to be paid to the biochemical indices in animals

he study seeks to examine the multi-locational trail of fifteen genotype of shrunken-2 super sweet maize in benin city. The experiment was conducted at experimental farm with the premises of university of benin teaching hospital. Benin city, nigeria fifteen super sweet corn (maize) genetype “UISSH 1, UISSH 2, UISSH 3. UISSH4, UISSH 5, UISSH 6, UISSH 7, UISSH 8, UISSH 9, UISSH 10, UISSH 11, UISSH 12, UISSH 13, UISSH 14 and UISSH 15 varieties were evaluated in this experiment. The experiment was laid out in a randomized complete block design with three replications. The data collected was analyzed using Genstat version 12. Characters measured included Seedling emergence all 11 days, days to 50% tasseling, day to 50% silking, days to 50% pollen shedding. Ear height, plant height, number of, days to maturity, Number of cob, cob weight, husk cover, ear aspect and fresh ear yield. The effects of genotype (G) were found to be highly significant (p<0:01) days to 50% tasseling, days to 50% pollen shedding, Ear geight. The result of experiments showed that there was significant difference due to genotype effect in plant height, days to 50% tasselilng, days to 50% pollen shedding, ear height, plant height and days to maturity. Genotype also affects days to Cob number, cob weight and fresh ear yield. The genotypes, UISSH3 was identified as one of the most promising for production Benin city although this variety can be improved for early emergence and better

The proliferation of Urban Agriculture in sub-Saharan Africa is occurring due to the surging population, which has led to a demand for alternative crop cultivation methods. Consequently, there is a necessity to cultivate yams in containers as a means to enhance food security. Hence, a study was carried out to evaluate the effect of different combinations of garden soil and poultry manure potting media on the growth and yield of four cultivars of yam (Dioscorea spp.). The study was carried out in containers (cement bags) in a field plot in Benin City, Nigeria. The treatments included: (i) garden soil alone (1:0), (ii) one part garden soil and one part poultry manure (1:1), (iii) two parts garden soil and one part poultry manure (2:1), while four cultivars of yam including white yam (Ada Onitsha and Fakasa), water yam
and yellow yam were used. The experiment was a 3 × 4 factorial laid out as a Completely Randomized Design with three replicates. At nine weeks after planting, data was collected and recorded. At four months after planting harvest was done for only one cultivar (ada onitsha). The data collected was subjected to Analysis of Variance (ANOVA) to test the significance of the treatment means using Genstat Statistical Package. The results indicated that there were no significant differences observed in the growth characteristics of the different potting media. However, significant cultivar differences were observed in number of vines, leaf area, number of leaves, stem girth, and petiole length. The potting media treatments showed significant differences in tuber length, tuber girth, and tuber yield per bag with 2:1 garden soil and poultry manure producing the highest tuber yield per bag(1.47kg) while (1:1) and (1:0) produced (0.50kg) and (0.47kg) respectively. Therefore, the combination of garden soil and poultry manure with a ratio of 2:1 would be suitable for cultivating yam in containers.

Women play a crucial role in agriculture in Nigeria, contributing significantly to food production and the economy, which is often undervalued. The main objective of this study is to assess the participation of women farmers in cassava farming and extension services, The specific objectives include;
1. To describe the socioeconomic characteristics of women cassava farmers. 2. To identify the farming activities performed by women cassava farmers. 3. To identify the respondent's awareness and access to extension services. 4. To analyse the perception of the benefits of extension services on farming activities. 5. To identify the challenges faced by women cassava farmers. A multistage sampling was carried out with a random selection of female farmers from four communities in the Ovia North East Local Government Area, Edo state, Nigeria. Data were analysed using frequency, mean, median, mode, standard deviation, percentage and tables, and the hypothesis was tested using multiple regression. Results showed that the greater proportion 35.8% of female farmers were within 40- 49 years old, 75.8% were married, 85.8% are literate, 42.5% of persons had a household size of 2-4, 58.3% of persons primary occupation was farming, 62.5% of persons participated in cassava production, 54.2% persons had a farming experience of 1-5 years, 45.8% persons had a farm size of less than one hectare, 35.8% of persons had an annual income of 200,000-500,000 naira, 90.8 % of persons used farm labour, 52.5% persons never had contact with an extension agent and 58% of farmers used family labour. Farmers participated in Land clearing ( �ത = 3.72), Planting (�ത = 3.53), Weeding (�ത = 3.99), Harvesting (�ത = 3.98), Processing (�ത = 3.75), Transportation (Mean=3.55), Processing to garri (�ത = 3.48) and Storage (�ത = 3.57). Majority of farmers were aware and had access to profitable market (�ത = 3.46), loans, farm credit and other financial aids (�ത = 3.50) and ownership of land for farm use ( �ത = 3.08). The farmers found the following services beneficial, access to profitable market (�ത = 3.26), access to loans and financial aid (�ത = 3.11), access to information on government policies (�ത = 3.88) and access to ownership of land for farm use (�ത = 3.71). The farmers faced the following challenges mobility restrictions and transportation difficulties (�ത = 3.86), high cost of input and storage facilities (�ത = 3.18), insufficient finance (�ത = 3.33), inadequate infrastructure (�ത = 3.68), expensive and inadequate farm labour (Mean=3.98), insecurity (�ത = 3.55) and pest and disease attack ( �ത = 3.97). I recommend that targeted extension programs should be developed, that address the specific needs and challenges faced by women farmers, including training on modern agricultural techniques and financial literacy

This study examined the value chain addition of Parkia biglobosa (African locust bean) in Benin City, Edo State, Nigeria, with emphasis on its processing, packaging, transportation, profitability, and contribution to livelihoods. A total of 120 respondents, comprising traders and processors, were randomly and purposively selected from eight major markets across two Local Government Areas (Oredo and Egor), namely Ekiosa, Oba, Agbado, New Benin, Uwelu, Uselu, Oliha, and Ogida. Primary data were obtained through structured questionnaires and interviews, while secondary data were sourced from relevant literature. Data analysis employed descriptive statistics, gross margin analysis, and simple cost and return methods. Findings revealed that 97.5% of respondents were female, with the majority (75%) having at least secondary education and over 13 years of experience in the trade. The most preferred product was the fermented locust bean (iru), processed using traditional methods. Gross margin analysis indicated that processed products were significantly more profitable than raw seeds, yielding a net return of ₦3,004.11 per kg compared to ₦786.79 per kg from raw seeds. This translates to a profit margin of 52.3% for processed products and 47.7% for raw seeds, underscoring the economic advantage of value addition. However, the study identified major challenges such as inadequate transportation (mean = 3.22), high market levies (3.51), poor access to ready markets (3.11), and limited awareness of value-added opportunities (3.41). Despite these constraints, Parkia biglobosa remains a vital source of livelihood and nutrition, particularly due to its rich vitamin A content, which supports eye health and general wellbeing. The study concludes that improving processing efficiency, adopting modern packaging techniques, and strengthening distribution channels will significantly enhance the profitability and competitiveness of Parkia biglobosa. It recommends entrepreneurial investment in branding, cooperative marketing, and value-added innovations such as powdered iru or ready-to-use condiments, which will boost income generation and promote the wider use of this indigenous, health-enhancing product.

Foodborne diseases, especially among school children who often consume ready-to-eat (RTE) foods, pose a significant Health risk. This study was carried out to assess the microbial load of fish roll snacks sold in eight randomly selected primary schools within Oredo Local Government Area, Benin City, Nigeria. Fish roll samples were collected and analyzed using standard microbiological techniques to determine bacterial and fungal contamination levels. The bacterial counts ranged from 5.9 × 10² CFU/g (Sample 5) to 7.6 × 10³ CFU/g (Sample 6), while fungal counts varied from 2.9 × 10² CFU/g (Sample 6) to 1.0 × 10³ CFU/g (Sample 2). Some of the bacterial species identified were Bacillus sp. (4.32%), Streptococcus sp. (9.43%), Pseudomonas sp. (5.66%), and Enterobacter aerogenes 5.66%), while some fungal species such as Aspergillus oryzae (9.43%), Saccharomyces sp. (9.43%), Penicillium sp. (11.32%), and Mucor piriformis (9.43%) were also detected. Sample 6, from Adesua Primary School (public sector), had the highest bacterial count (7.6 × 10³ CFU/g), while Sample 5 from Ogboe Primary School (public sector) had the lowest bacterial count (5.9 × 10² CFU/g). Sample 2 from Phelim Primary School (private sector) recorded the highest fungal count (1.0 × 10³ CFU/g), while Sample 6 from Adesua Primary School had the lowest fungal count (2.9 × 10² CFU/g). The high microbial load observed suggests contamination due to poor hygiene practices, improper food handling, and inadequate storage conditions. However, all values were within the recommended limit of 5 × 10⁵ CFU/g set by the FAO.

The proliferation of Urban Agriculture in sub-Saharan Africa is occurring due to the surging population, which has led to a demand for alternative crop cultivation methods. Consequently, there is a necessity to cultivate yams in containers as a means to enhance food security. Hence, a study was carried out to evaluate the effect of different combinations of garden soil and poultry manure potting media on the growth and yield of four cultivars of yam
(Dioscorea spp.). The study was carried out in containers (cement bags) in a field plot in Benin City, Nigeria. The treatments included: (i) garden soil alone (1:0), (ii) one part garden
soil and one part poultry manure (1:1), (iii) two parts garden soil and one part poultry manure (2:1), while four cultivars of yam including white yam (Ada Onitsha and Fakasa), water yam
and yellow yam were used. The experiment was a 3 × 4 factorial laid out as a Completely Randomized Design with three replicates. At nine weeks after planting, data was collected and recorded. At four months after planting harvest was done for only one cultivar (ada onitsha). The data collected was subjected to Analysis of Variance (ANOVA) to test the significance of the treatment means using Genstat Statistical Package. The results indicated that there were no significant differences observed in the growth characteristics of the different potting media. However, significant cultivar differences were observed in number of vines, leaf area, number of leaves, stem girth, and petiole length. The potting media treatments showed significant differences in tuber length, tuber girth, and tuber yield per bag with 2:1 garden soil and poultry manure producing the highest tuber yield per bag(1.47kg) while (1:1) and (1:0) produced (0.50kg) and (0.47kg) respectively. Therefore, the combination of garden soil and poultry manure with a ratio of 2:1 would be suitable for cultivating yam in containers