nasarawa state aps 2010

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AGRICULTURAL PERFORMANCE SURVEY

OF

2010 WET SEASON

IN

NASARAWA STATE

SEPTEMBER, 2010

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EXECTUTVIE SUMMARY

The 2010 annual wet season evaluation survey for Nasarawa state was conducted from

22nd to 25th August by a team of 4 scientists drawn from the National Agricultural

Extension and Research Liaison Services (NAERLS), National Institute of Meteorology

(NIMET), Planning Policy Analysis and Statistics Development (PPASD) and National

Programme for Food Security (NPFS) FRA.

The objectives of the exercises were:

To assess the weather situation (rainfall) as it affects crop and livestock

production during the season.

To evaluate the performance of crops and livestock during the wet season;

To identify conditions affecting effective technology transfer within the season;

To identify constraints to agricultural production; and

To provide feedback on field situation and farmers problems to research

institutions and policy makers.

The participatory Rural Appraisal (PPR) methodology which incorporated the use of a

structured questionnaire, interviews, focused group discussions and farm visits were used

to source information. This is in addition to the questionnaire compiled by the ADP

Management on agricultural performance

Generally, the rains arrived at the normal time between March and April across the state.

Farmers also reported the occurrence of intermittent dry spells, particularly between May

and July, which led to replanting some of their crops such as rice, groundnut and melon

crops in the Central zone. Rainfall amounts were slightly higher than in the previous

year. As at the time of the survey in August 2010, the rainfall distribution and quantity

were considered adequate for good crop production especially as there is hope for more

rains up to the month of October.

There were no major reported incidences of pest and disease outbreak as at the time of

the study. Discussion with farmers indicates localized incidences of rodent attacks on

maize and cassava in the Central zones. Farmers also reported an increase in occurrence

of striga infestation on maize across the state.

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The forecast for 2010 production output and the percentage difference between 2009 and

2010 are estimated to slightly increase for most crops in the state.

Procurement and distribution of maize, rice, cowpea, and soybean seeds were undertaken

by the state ADP. Seed input supplies from the relevant government agencies arrived

late. Significant amounts of agrochemicals were reported to have been distributed by the

ADP but most of the farmers indicated that they purchased their agro-chemicals in the

open market.

Fertilizer procurement and distribution is a critical issue requiring urgent government

attention as the government supplies were not only grossly inadequate but often reaching

the farmers too late for the cropping season. It would appear that the current procurement

and distribution process has put farmers at a greater disadvantage. Most farmers had to

buy large quantities from the open market at prices that are about one and a half times

higher than from the official government chennels. It would appear that the current

procurement and distribution process have potential to improve fertilizer supply

particularly if the state ADP is allowed to play an active role. The ADP is supposed to be

involved in fertilizer distribution at the state and local government levels, but was not

deeply involved in the fertilizer allocation exercise.

There were no widespread occurrence of pests and diseases reported for livestock in the

state. There were however reported incidences of coccidiosis and New Castle diseases on

local poultry but there were controlled by both government officials and farmers. There

were also minor and localized reports of trypanosomiacis, helminthiasis, ecto and

endoparasitic attacks on animal across the state.

In general, conditions for rearing extensively managed animals (cattle, sheep, goats and

local poultry) were favourable during the year and therefore marginal increases in

population may be expected.

The state government has twenty-eight (28) functional tractors which are inadequate for

the state. The state however had 52 tractors contracted to the private sector under the

PPP arrangement while local governments had about 39 tractors.

Prices of some commodities between July 2009 and 2010 were compared. There was a

general decrease in the average prices of all commodities except cassava tubers; Irish

potato, melons, chicken, dry fish, pork and yam tubers.

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There was a slight increase in the costs of production of major crops between 2009 and

2010 except cost of maize production which increased by 74%, while generally there was

slight increase in the cost of farm operation such as fertilizer application, weeding and

harvesting.

The level of activities carried out by the ADP is commendable. The quantity and quality

of information presented to the performance evaluation team is a reflection of the level of

funding and support given to the ADP by the state government. Technologies being

promoted through MTP include varietal introduction of cassava, cocoyam and sweet

potato.

Badakoshi Agricultural Scheme

It is noteworthy and commendable that the state government had lunched the second

phase of the Badakoshi agricultural scheme which is supposed to make farming attractive

to many people in the state. This facilitates inputs, including low interest loan for

farmers.

In line with this the state government had formalized a trade agreement with an

international organization for exportation of yams tubers and some other food products

overseas, and yams are already being exported by the state. It is hoped the state

government will not relent its effort in this direction.

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ACRONYMS

ADP - Agricultural Development Programme

APS - Agricultural Performance Survey

ASC - Agro Service CentersBES - Block Extension Agent

EA - Extension Agent

FDA - Federal Department of AgricultureFDF - Federal Department of Fisheries

FNT - Forth Nightly Training

IAR - Institute for Agricultural ResearchIAR & T - Institute for Agricultural Research & Training

LCRI - Lake Chad Research InstituteLGA - Local Government Area

MANR - Ministry of Agriculture and Natural ResourcesMOP - Muriate of Potash

MTP - Management Training Plot

MTRMs - Monthly Technology Review MeetingsNA - Not Available

NAERLS - National Agricultural Extension and Research Liaison services

NASC - National Agricultural Seed CouncilNBS - National Bureau of Statistics

NCRI - National Cereal Research Institute

NFRA - National Food Reserve AgencyNPFS - National Programme on Food Security

NIFOR - National Institute for Oil Palm Research

NIMET - Nigerian Meteorological Agency

NRCRI - National Root Crop Research InstituteNSS - National Seed Service

OFAR - On Farm Adaptive Research

PPASD - Planning Policy Analysis and Statistics DepartmentPRSD - Planning Research and Statistics Department

RID - Rural Infrastructure Development

RTEP - Root and Tuber Expansion Programme

SPAT - Small Plot Adoption TechniquesSSP - Single Supper Phosphate

T & V - Training and Visit

ZEO - Zonal Extension Officer

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Table of Contents

Contents PagePreface . . . . . . . . .

Executive Summary . . . . . . . .

Acronyms . . . . . . . . .

Table of Contents . . . . . . . .

Introduction . . . . . . . . .

Methodology . . . . . . . . .

Results and Discussion . . . . . . .

Rainfall Situation . . . . . . . .

Farm Inputs . . . . . . . . .

Crops Pests and Diseases . . . . . . .

Crop Production Estimates . . . . . . .

Livestock . . . . . . . . .

Fisheries . . . . . . . . .

Agricultural Mechanization . . . . . . .

Grain Reserve . . . . . . . . .

Commodity Prices . . . . . . . .

ADP Activities . . . . . . . .

Training . . . . . . . . .

Problems of Extension Services . . . . . .

Problems Needing Research . . . . . . .

Non-Governmental Agricultural Organization in Extension Services .

Conclusion and Recommendations . . . . . .

Team Members . . . . . . . .

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RESULTS AND DISCUSSION

1. RAINFALL SITUATION

Generally, the rainfall arrived earlier in the Central zone than the other zones and than the

previous year. Farmers reported the occurrence of intermittent dry spells between May and July

which led to replanting of Maize and ground nut. Excessive heat was also reported and this

caused yam seed to rot. The rainfall pattern shows variation between localities. Rainfall was

reported in the state as early as January 2010 as shown on table 1 below. As at the end of

August 2010, the total rainfall was slightly higer than that of 2009.

Table 1: Mean Total rainfall distribution (mm) in Nasarawa State

Months/indicator 2009 2010 % Change (+-)

January - 8.6 +100February - - 0March - 27.8 +100April 188.1 78.8 -58.1May 226.5 320.7 +29June 349.6 278.3

-25.6

July 389.2 363-7.2

August 420.4 6408 +220.4

Sub-Total 1618.8 1718.1+100

September 291.8

October 481

November 66.8

December -

Year Total

2. FARM INPUTS

The Nasarawa state government through the ADP procured Maize, Rice, Sesame and hybrid

maize seeds (Table: 2a) which the ADP distributed to farmers at affordable prices. However, out of

the 28,500 tree Seedlings procured by the ADP (Citrus, Mango, Guava, Oil-palm, Coconut and

Pawpaw) only about 9,300 have been sold out to the farmers. The ADP also procured 166 liters of

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Insecticides, 2,335 liters of herbicides, sprayers, water pumps and other agrochemicals for

distribution to farmers.

Table2a: Use of farm inputs through Government (ADP, MANR, Framers Supply Company ETC)

Input(Specify)

Qty ProcuredMT

QtyDistributed

AdequacyYes/ No

AffordabilityYes/ No

Source

Seeds

Maize 6 5 Yes Yes Out-growers

Rice 2 2 Yes Yes Out-growers

Hybrid Maize 8 8 Yes Yes Premiereseeds

Sesame 0.9 0.9 Yes Yes Out-growers

Cuttings

Cassava

Pesticides

Insecticides 166 liters 32.25 Liters Yes No C-zard

Herbicides 2,335 Liters 1,582 Liters Yes No Candel, Saro

Agro-chemicals

1,621 liters 1,621 Liters Yes Yes NERICA

Boost Xtra 350 Liters 350 Liters Yes Yes NERICA

Seedlings

Citrus 10,000 2,000 No Yes NIHORT

Mango 5,000 1,000 No Yes NIHORTGuava 5,000 2,000 No Yes NIHORT

Oil palm 3,000 2,000 No Yes NIHORT

Coconut 500 300 No Yes NIHORT

Pawpaw 5,000 2,000 No Yes NIHORT

The Nasarawa State government procured and distributed 540MT of NPK and 6,840MT of Urea

(Table 2b) to the farmers at an average price of N1 800/bag. The quantity was inadequate and the

distribution was mainly through the ward level. However it was found in the open market at very

high price of N5,000/bag. Total fertilizer requirement of the State is put at 30,000MT if each farming

family must get 5 bags of each kind. The only fertilizer plant in the state, that is the Nasarawa State

Fertilizer blending plant with an install capacity of 40MT/hour is currently non-functional.

Farmers accessibility to credit in Nasarawa State has improved through the state government

BADAKOSHI scheme where a total of 1,700 farmers benefited for the year 2010 farming season.

Table 2b. Farm inputs: fertilizers

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Type Qty Procuredby Govt.

QtyDistributed

Fertilizer requirement of farmers in the state

No of Farmfamilies

NPK 540 MT 540MT 2,160 NPK 540 MT

Urea 6840 MT 6,840 MT 27,360 Urea 6840 MT

SSP SSPTotal 7,380 7,380 29,520 10 30,000 MT

3 Crop pests and diseaseStriga infestation on maize and Sorghum was widely reported in all the zones of the state,

about 40% of Maize plant and 35% of sorghum was affected. Ion toxicity on Rice was reported

in the Western and Central zones of the state, the severity was described as light affecting

about 20% of the crop. Light cases of bacteria blight on Cassava were reported in the

Southern zone (Table 3). Control measure was taken against the striga by the application of

ACROS 97 Tzee. For the ion toxicity in Rice resistant variety like Witta 4 was used. The

introduction of TMS variety of Cassava was used as a control measure for the bacteria blight.

Table 3. Pest diseases and natural hazards on crops

Crop/ type ofdisease

Location Severity (light,moderate andheavy)

Estimated loss inyield due to thedisease

Control measure(s) undertaken

Maize / Striga Cuts across thestate

Generallymoderate

40% ACROS 97 Tzee

Millet / Smut

Sorghum / Striga Across the state Moderate 35%

Riceion Toxicity

Western andCentral zones

Light 10% Use of Witta 4tolerant variety

Rodents

Cassava/bacteria blight

Southern zone Light 20% Introduction ofTMS varieties

Yam

Cocoa

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Citrus

4 CROP PRODUCTION ESTIMATES 2009 AND FORECAST FOR 2010

Area Cultivated and Crop Production Estimates For 2010

The data for the computation of the area cultivated and crop production were provided by the

Nasarawa State Agricultural Development Programme for the year 2009. This was based on the

2009 cropped Area Yield survey (CAYS) result. The forecast for the land area cultivated and the

production estimate for the year 2010 were made by the team and the State ADP. The area

cultivated and the total production estimate for each crop in 2010 were divided by the cropped area

and production data in 2009 to find the percentage change between 2010 and 2009. However the

estimated land area cultivated for 2010 was generated by taking the validated data for the

Nasarawa State area cultivated in 2009 that was made available by the National Food Reserve

Agency (NFRA) and multiplied by the percentage change as shown in the Table. In the same vain

the estimated production figure for each of the crops were determined by taking the validated

production estimate for 2009 from NFRA and multiplying by the percentage change between 2010and 2009 to arrive at the forecast for 2010 as shown in Table 4

The specific details for each crop based on the field survey of August 2010 are enunciated below.

MelonThis Crop is the most widely grown crop in Nasarawa State currently with an estimated production

area of .11million but this is 4% less than the previous year. The expected production forecast for

melon crop this year is 0.09 million MT

SORGUMSorgum is one the crops that is highly grown in Nasarawa State with an estimated production area

of .1million hectares and has an estimated increase of about 1% from the previous year. The

expected production forecast for 2010 is 0.15million MT with an increase of about 2% when

compared with 2009

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YAMYam is a staple food in Nasarawa State and it is one of the most widely grown crops in Nasarawa

State. The estimated production area is about 0.098 million hectares and this has an estimated

increase of about 3%.when compared with the previous year 2009.The expected production

forecast for 2010 is about 2.1million MT.

Table 4: Estimated cultivated areas (ha), outputs and yield (tons) of major crops in __State in 2009and forecast for 2010 (For top ten most important crops in the state)

CropsEstimatedHectares (000ha)

%Change

Production(000MT)

%Change

2009 2010 2009 2010 T

Yam 95.41 98.27 3 2057.11 2098.25 2Cassava 70.93 72.35 2 1034.58 1065.63 2

Cocoyam 94.34 97.17 3 53.57 54.64 2S. Potato 12.09 15.72 3 132.73 135.38 2Maize 76.36 78.65 3 157.65 162.38 3Rice 77.35 78.90 2 137.66 139.04 1Cowpea 94.34 97.17 3 53.57 54.64 2Millet 25.04 25.29 1 37.24 44.67 2Okra 19.45 18.95 -3 108.64 106.55 -2Sorgum 98.78 99.77 1 149.47 152.46 2Groundnut 62.79 64.05 2 97.46 98.43 1Melon 110.1

8105.28

-4

88.94 87.96 -1

Beniseed 57.24 59.53 4 48.58 50.04 3

OTHER CROPSField observation and submission from the ADP indicate increases in both land area cropped and

production output with the exception of crops like melon and okro that showed a decline in both

areas cropped and production. This could be explained due to the fact that these were affected by

the dry spells because the crops involved are early crops.

However the general assessment of crop performance based on the field visits, discussions with

farmers local and state government officials indicates a good harvest due to current favourable

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conditions and awareness on input. This increase is dependent on the current favourable rain

extending to September or even October 2010.

MAJOR PLANTATIONSThe team did not cover plantations in Nasarawa State however the record submitted by State

showed a plantation owned by the State government that has a total holding of 1,800 hectares

covered by Eucalyptus, Tectona grandis and Gmelina arborea established 1979/1982 (Table 4b)

Table 4b: Major Plantations in Nasarawa State

Crop Ha Ownership

Government Remark

Eucalyptus Established in

Tectona grandis 1979-1982Gmelina or arberea Total 1,800ha Total 1,800

5 LIVESTOCK AND FISHERIES

LIVESTOCKThe State is identified with high production of livestock. This could be attributable to the suitable

and conducive weather for grazing and the provision of vaccines and other inputs by the State

government as shown in table 5a. There was no report of any disease in cattle this year, however

the report showed that sheep/goat suffered from PPR across the state and were treated with

vaccines. The poultry farmers passed through an untold hardship in the hands of pests and

diseases. The following were significantly noticeable among the poultry farmers across the state,

the Newcastle, Gomboro, Coccidiosis, F chorela, F Typhod and Ecto and Endo parasites. (Table

5b)

Table 5a. Livestock production inputs 2009 and 2010

Type of input Qty procured Qty Distributed Remarks

2009 2010 2009 2010

Broiler chick 1,000 1,500 1,000 1,800

Broiler starter 50,000kg 50,000kg 50,000kg 50,000kg

Broiler finisher 60,000kg 60,000kg 60,000kg 60,000kgVaccinepoultry

500vial 500vial 500vial 500vial

Broilersfinisher

60,000kg 60,000kg 60,000kg 60,000kg

Vaccines(Bolt)

500 vial 500 vial 500 vial 500 vial

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Recommend 800 liters 800 liters 800 liters 800 liters

Table 5b. Livestock pests and diseasesLivestock/ type ofdisease

Location ofincidence

totalstock ofanimal

Severity (light,moderate andheavy)

No ofAnimalAffected

% Novaccinatedtreated

No culleddue toinfection

Remark

Cattle

Sheep andGoats

PPR Across theState

Varied Varied Varied 500 Varried No reas mfarmers illiterates

POULTRYNewcastle Across thestate

Varied Varied Varied 2m Varied

Gamboro Across thestate


F cholera Across thestate


F.typhod Across thestate

Varied Varied varied 2m Varied

Coccidiosis Across thestate

Varied Varied Varied 1.5m Varied

Ectoparasites Across thestate Varied Varied varied 1.5m Varied

Endoparasites Across thestate

Varied Varied Varied 1.7m Varied

Layers

Pullets

Broilers

Chicks

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LIVESTOCK POPULATION AND COMMERCIAL FARMS

Nasarawa State has large population of cattle of over 2.5 million, sheep/goat over 4million and the

poultry accounts for about 3 million (table 5c). Commercial farm holdings exist in cattle, sheep/goatand poultry with a total number of 25 for cattle, 60 for sheep/goat and 30 for poultry. The average

holdings were not recorded.

Table 5c: Livestock population and commercial farms in the state

LivestockTotalpopulation

Population ofcommercialstock

No of commercialfarms andaverage holdings

No of animalsdead

Remarks

No of farms average herd of

flock sizeCattle 2.5m 2.0m 25 50 Awareness

Dairy Creation by

Sheep 3.5m 3.0m 30 100 Extension

Goats 450,000 4,0m 30 100 Services

Poultry 3.0m 3m 30 200

Improved

Backyard

CATTLE

The cost of fattening bull is becoming extremely very high. However it is commendable to note thatthe Nasarawa state government has mapped out a grazing area/route for the Nomadic cattle

rearers. What is worrisome is that the farmers still encroach on the grazing areas due to the high

fertility caused by the manure fertilizer produced by the cattle.

SHEEP and GOAT: The cost of fattening is becoming extremely very high

POULTRY: Farmers still do not pay attention to use of vaccination and management practices

PIGS: The cost of feed is very high as most farmers feed their pigs with staple food.Table 6d. Fisheries inputs 2009 and 2010

Type of input Qty Procured Qty distributed Remarks

2009 2010 2009 2010

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N.A N.A. N.A. N.A. N.A.

Table 6b. Fisheries pests and disease

Type of fish Pest ordisease

Location ofincidence

Severity Estimatedlosses (%)

Remarks

N.A. N.A. N.A. N.A. N.A.

Indicate problems encountered with pest and disease control in fisheries

There is no reported pest and disease of economic significance in the state

Fisheries Production

It is remarkable and worthy to note that the Fishery sub sector is getting attention in the State

unlike the previous years. It is to be further noted that the awareness in Aquaculture in the state is

becoming high and that the state produced about 82mt of Fish though Aquaculture and 7,500mt

through Artisanal method in 2010 (Table 6c)

Table 6c: Fish Production in 2009 compared with 2010

Production 2009 Production 2010 Remarks

Artisanal 8,000MT 7,500MT There is great

Aquaculture 70MT 82MT Awareness in fishFarming in the State

6. AGRICULTURAL MECHANIZATION

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Government Tractor Availability In 2010

A total of 29 functional tractors (MF,STEYR,MAHWDRA,NEW HOLLAND AND EICHER) were

available in 2010 for agricultural activities (Table 7a). The area cultivated by the functional tractors

was 29 hectares as was reported by the state. However the farmers interacted with in the fieldreported that they did not see the tractors in the reporting year 2010.

Table 7a. Government tractor availability, 2009 compared to 2010

Type oftractor and

Functional Non functional Qtydistributed

Hectarage

cultivated

Total

capaciy 2009 2010 2009 2010 2009 2010

MF 75 HP 4 4 - - 4

STEYR 64HP

- 14 - - 14

MAHWDRA55 HP 5 5 - - - 5

NEWHOLLAND75 HP

3 3 1 - - 4

EICHER 55HP

2 2 1 1 3

Total 30

PRIVATE TRACTOR AVAILABILITY IN 2010The private tractor services had 112 functional tractors available for use in the reporting period.

This number is more than double compared with the 52 they had last year table 7b. The farmers

did not use them either that the prices were prohibitive or that the awareness was not there.

Table 7b. Private tractor availability, 2009 compared to 2010

Type oftractor and

Functional Non functional Qtydistributed

EstimatedTotalnumber

Hectaragecultivated

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capacity 2009 2010 2009 2010 2010 2009 2010

Malinda 60HP

30 _ _ 30

MF 435 75HP

7 60 67

NewHolland 55HP

13 _ _ 13

Tafe 60 Hp 2 _ _ 2

Total 52 60 - - 112

RATE OF TRACTOR HIRING SERVICESThe unit cost of hiring a government owned tractor for ploughing fadama, ploughing upland,

harrowing upland, ridging, haulage per day haulage per bag was N2000/ha (Table 7c.). There was

no available data for hiring services for the private tractors.

Table 7c. Rate of tractor hiring services

Farm Operation Government rate (N/ha) Private rate (N/ha)

2009 2010 2009 2010

PloughingFadama

2000/ha 2000/ha No Fixed Rate No Fixed Rate

PloughingUpland

2000/ha 2000/ha

Harrowingupland

2000/ha 2000/ha

Ridging 2000/ha 2000/ha

Haulage perday

2000/ha 2000/ha

Haulage perbag)

2000/ha 2000/ha

Spraying

4 Problems encountered with tractor hiring services in 2010

(i) No available funds for servicing/ maintenance of tractors

(ii) No genuine spare parts(iii) No adequate/ qualified maintenance personnel

(iv) No adequate/ qualified tractor operators

ANMAL TRACTION

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The state has no report about animal traction; however it was stated that the farmers have not

adapted the technology apparently because of the nature of their soil.

8. FARM MANAGEMENT

8a. Land Preparation

Land clearing, ploughing and ridging in 2010 recorded zero increases over the costs in 2009 (Table

8a) while costs of other operations rose between 20 25%. Similarly, cost of land ploughing per

day and cost of fertilizer application per day remained the same as those of 2009 (N800 and

N200/day respectively) while the cost of other operations per day rose between 4 25% (table 8a).

Table 8a: Labour cost of farm operations in 2009 and 2010

Farm Operation Per ha % Per Day/

Man hour2009 2010 2009 2010

Land preparation

Land clearing 5,000 5,000 0.0 500 700 40.0

Land ploughing 10,000 10,000 0.0 800 800 0.0

Land ridging 6,000 6,000 0.0 500 600 20.0

Planting 2,000 2,500 25.0 200 250 25.0

Fertilizer application 2,000 2,500 25.0 200 200 0.0

Weeding 5,000 6,000 20.0 500 600 20.0

Crop Spraying 2,500 3,000 20.0 1,250 1,500 4.0

Harvesting (list crop) 5,000 6,000 20.0 500 - -

Others (list them)

Factors influencing availability of labour in 2010

This depended on the type of job to be done and the ability of the employers to negotiate the

amount to be paid.

Farm equipment not available locally that could reduce dependence on labour

These were harvesting and processing machinery.

ESTIMATED COST OF PRODUCTION FOR TEN MAJOR CROPS IN 2009 AND 2010The cost of production in 2010 were relatively high compared to 2009, the highest being maize

which has a percentage of 74.96% increasing from N56,900, to N99,550 per hectare. This was

followed by sorghum which has a percentage increase of 23.82% increasing from N48,200 to

N59,680. Cost of production of rice recorded the least with a percentage increase of 2.35% and

increased from N119,000 to N121,800 in the period under review (Table 8b).

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Table 8b. Estimated production cost of ten major crops in 2009 and 2010

Crop Cost per ha % Change

2009 2010

Maize 56,900 99,550 74.96

Rice 119,000 121,800 2.35

Yam 569,900 619,800 8.76Sorghum 48,200 59,680 23.82

Cassava 67,700 78,560 16.04

Sweet potato 82,100 95,250 16.02

Groundnut 58,700 71,600 21.98

Beniseed 49,500 55,780 12.67

Melon 44,200 52,200 18.10

Cocoyam 56.200 65,760 17.01

9 Grain Reserve Policy

The state has a grain reserve policy of buying buffer stock to address the food scarcity problem

and stabilizing prices in the market at the period of scarcity. However this has not been

implemented in the state for the past two years.

The capacity of the three silos owned by the state government are altogether 3000Mt that is

1000MT each (Table 9a). The grain reserves are located at Lafia, Akwanga and Keffi .The State

received 800MT of sorghum and 200Mt of millet from the Federal government in 2009 (Table 9c)

but has not received any grain in 2010.The state on her own has not purchased any buffer stock

since the past two years.

Table 9a: Install capacity and quantity of grains stored in 2009 and 2010 by the State

Location ofReserve

Installedcapacity (MT)

Ownership(FGN or State)

Quantity of GrainsStored

Remarks

2009 2010 2008/09 2009/2010 The state

Lafia 1000Mt State Nil Nil Has not

Akwanga 1000Mt State Nil Nil Purchased

Keffi 1000Mt State Nil Nil Buffer stocksince the past

two years.Total 3000MT

Table 9b. Quantity of grains stored and distributed by the State in 2009 and 2010

Type of Grain Qty Stored Qty DistributedState

Selling Price(N/ MT)

2008/09 2009/10 2009 2010 2009 2010

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Table 9c: Grains received from Federal Government in 2009 and 2010

Type of grain Qty Received ( MT)

2009 2010

Sorghum 800Mt Nil

Millet 200Mt Nil

Ways the grain reserve strategy can be made more effective

a) Construction of silosb) Purchase of enough grainsc) Early release and distribution of grains to alleviate hunger (between June and July)d) The government could encourage farmers to produce grains for purchase for this

scheme by assuring them of minimum guaranteed price (mgp)

10. Commodity pricesTable 10 shows the urban market prices of food commodities for 2009and 2010 for January and

July. For the month of January dry fish recorded the highest price of N1,015.23 in 2009 and

N1445.36 in 2010 having a percentage price change of 42.36% The food commodity that has the

lowest price in January 2009 and 2010 was yam tuber with a percentage change of -9.31% and

next to it is cassava which goes to prove that Nasarawa is a tuber state.

In the month of July cassava tuber has the lowest price with N15.42 in 2009 and N29.57 in 2010

and this was followed closely by yam at N53.92 and 73.93 N73.76 in 2009 and 2010 respectively.

This represents a percentage of 27.07% and 91.76% on cassava and yam respectively. In the

month of January highest positive change in price was recorded for Irish potato at 104.84% and

76.78% in 2009 and 2010 respectively.

It is worthy to note that there were negative price changes in the following crops yam tuber

9.31,cassava 18.48soybean 13.49,sweetpotato ----13.54, goat meat 3.98, mutton 52.65,

egg(crate) 26.31% and fresh fish15.40%. In July 2010 the following commodities recorded

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negative price changes-millet, maize, milled, rice, yam flour, cassava (gari) cassava (flour),cowpea,

sweet potato, mutton and fresh fish. From the ongoing it is important that government should assist

the farmers to have good prices relative to the prices in other urban areas of the country for them

to be in farming business. Moreover inputs should be made available in good time and farmers

should be encouraged to form cooperatives to approach their issue collectively and have stronger

bargaining power.

Table 10: Urban Market prices of major commodities in 2009 and 2010

Commodities January Prices July Prices

Jan 09 Jan 10 % Change July 09 July 10 %Change2. Millet 79.30 94.41 19.05 71.57 70.56 --1.41

3. Maize 65.86 69.03 4.81 65.62 64.66 --1.46

4. Milled rice 117.43 112.59 4.12 164.84 121.62 --26.21

5. Yams (Tubers0 41.51 37.68 --9.31 53.92 73.93 27.07

6. Yam (flour) 55.37 68.30 31.12 77.50 73.76 --4.8

7. Cassava (tuber) 47.67 38.86 --18.48 15.42 29.57 91.76

8. Cassava (Gari) 74.43 97.43 30.90 96.56 94.51 --2.12

9. Cassava (Flour) 45.24 56.54 24.98 68.24 56.16 --17.70

10. Cowpea 87.73 102.32 16.63 112.60 124.66 --10.05

11. Melon. 200.71 214.12 6.68 151.35 282.39 86.58

13. Soybean 77.63 67.15 --13.49 85.88 100.00 16.4414. S/potatoes 59.87 51.76 --13.54 87.42 51.15 --41.49

15. Irish potatoes 48.98 100.33 104.84 60.00 106.07 76.78

17. Goat meat 450.08 432.18 --3.98 500.75 575.41 14.91

18. Pork 308.67 356.18 15.06 399.38 509.28 27.52

19. Mutton 498.32 235.97 --52.65 437.50 369.67 -15.50

20. Chicken 660.42 265.10 --59.85 654.17 860.00 31.46

21. eggs (crate) 424.68 330.97 --26.31 434.41 -- --

22. Fresh fish 356.10 301.25 --15.40 316.49 315.02 --0.46

24. Dry fish 1,015.23 1445.36 42.36 19059.2 1364.79 30.55

11. AGRICULTURAL DEVELOPMENT PROJECT ACTIVITIES

Funding of the Agricultural Development Projects is still a critical among the ADPs in the country

however it is commendable to note that Nasarawa state government is of the very few that tries to

meet its financial obligations by contributing a reasonable percentage (Table 11a). Nevertheless it

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is desired that they pay up the outstanding counterpart fund in National program on food security

as to be able to complete the on-going and attract future projects.

Table 11a. Funding Status

Source of funds 2009 2010Target Actual % Target Actual %

State Govt.

FGN

IFAD

Salaries/allowances 150,985,000 150,985,000 100.0 79,565,000 79,565,000 100.0

Sustainability 24,000,000 24,000,000 100.0 12,000,000 12,000,000 100.0

Overhead 2,200,000 1,400,000 63.6 1,500,000 1,500,000 100.0

RUFIN(counterpart) -- -- - 12,000,000 12,000,000 100.0

NPFS(counterpart) -- -- - 74,800,000 54,800,000 73.3

STAFFING SITUATION

this is equally commendable that the Nasarawa state agricultural development project met her

target in almost all the targets set except for subject matter specialist which a shortfall of only one

staff from the target (table 11b).

Table 11b. Staffing Situation (Technical) in 2009 and 2010

Category 2009 2010

Target Actual % Target Actual %

Directors 2 2 100.0 2 2

Deputy Directors -- 2 -- 2

Assistant Directors -- -- -- --

Zonal Managers 3 3 100.0 3 3 100.0Subject Matter Specialists 24 23 95.8 24 23 95.8

Block ExtensionSupervisors

26 26 100.0 26 26 100.0

Block Extension Agents 26 26 100.0 26 26 100.0

Extension Agents/Facilitators

156 156 100.0 156 156 100.0

Enumerators 45 45 100.0 45 45 100.0

Fadama Facilitators 52 52 100.0 52 52 100.0

EXTENSION ACTIVITIES

The Extension activities in the state is highly virile except of cause that more effort is desired inincreasing the ratio of extension staff to farmers (Table 11c).

Table 11c. Extension Activities

PerformanceIndicators

2009 2010

Target Achieved % Target Achieved %

No of farm families 180,433 180,433 100.0 180,433 180,433 100.0

No of farmers groups 20 28 140.0 39 20 51.3

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formed

No of Visits tofarmers

26,304 21,990 83.6 26,304 17,536 66.7

No of Zones 3 3 100.0 3 3 100.0

No of MTRMs

/TQRMs conducted

12 12 100.0 12 12 100.0

No of FNTsConducted

26 26 100.0 26 16 61.5

No of OFAR trialsconducted

60 57 95.0 60 48 80.0

No of farmers trained 716 716 100.0 716 716 100.0

No of farmers fieldschools

27 27 100.0 27 27 100.0

Extension/farmerratio

1:800 1:1156 69.2 1:800 1:1156 69.2

FADAMA ACTIVITIES

The Nasarawa state government should put more effort in meeting up with the FADAMA activities

as this will create an all year round activities in the farming system. There was no record on target

and achievement for 2010 in hectares cultivated. No information on channels constructed, number

of wash bores (Table 11d). More farmers should be encouraged to use the FADAMA to engage the

youths not to rely on only rain fed agriculture.

Table 11d. Fadama Activities

Activities 2009 2010

Target Achieved % Target Achieved %

Hectare of fadama cultivated byfarmers

-- 48.75 -- --

Channels constructed -- -- -- --

No of Wash bores -- -- -- --

No of tube wells -- -- -- --

No of fadama Users Associations 20 28 140.0 24 15 62.5

No of Water pumps distributed 36 15 41.6 21 21 100

No of Village mechanics trained -- -- - -- --

11e List of Technologies currently under OFAR1 Comparative evaluation of groundnut varieties

2 Economic use of minimum tillage practices on maize

3 Sweet potatoes varietals evaluation

4 Storage effectiveness using non chemical bags (forcereds)

5 Use of organic/inorganic fertilizer on yam ( complementary use)

6 Effectiveness of different levels of maize ofal in poultry diet

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7 Comparison of clarias and heterobranchus fish Spp

8 Different preservation methods of fresh vegetables

9 Nerica Rice Varietals Evaluation ( Upland)

Major problems of OFAR in 2009 and 2010

Inadequate and timely release of funds

Inadequate field staff

11f List technologies currently being extended to farmers through MTP

Yam miniset Technology

Maize SG 2000 Approach

Cassava Varietal trials

Major problems of MTP in 2010-- Late release of fertilizer

-- Scarcity and high cost of fertilizer in the open market despite Government subsidy

11g Problems associated with farm Radio/ TV Broadcasts

-- Competitiveness in Air Time

-- High Cost of Airtime

11h Agricultural Shows/Field Days

a. Agricultural Shows conducted in 2010 - nil

b. Field Days conducted in 2010 - Nil

c. Problems associated with agricultural shows - Wrong timing (October)

d. Problems associated with field days

i. Mobilizing farmers for the activities

ii. Funding

iii. Other logistics involved

12. TRAINING12a. Training needs for year 2010 and 2011

S/No Training Subject Matter Category ofpersonnel in

need of training

Number of personnel

2010 2011

1 Extension Communicationsfor subject matter

SMS 18 18

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specialists( SMS)

2 Field data collection andrecord keeping for villageExtension agents

VEA40

80

13 Problem of extension services-- Shortage of mobility, inadequate staff and low motivation in terms of

allowances

14 Problems needing research(a) Crops

* Control measure for striga on maize/ sorghum and millet

* Control of iron toxity in rice

* Controlof early yam senescence

(b) Livestock Non conventional feed stuff research on poultry, Ruminants and Non Ruminants

(c) Fisheries Mortality of fish at the age of hatching is high, packaging and marketing of table fish(d) Agro-Forestry/Agro Processing

Control of mango mealy bug disease(f) Extension

Translating technology into local languages (Hausa)15 List of major problems of the ADP in order of priority

- Untimely and inadequate funds for projects

- Inadequate staffing in key areas

- inadequate office accommodation

16 Research recommendation with which farmers have problems

Control of leaves senescence in yam

17 Any general comments/problems during the current cropping season?

Dry spell, flood and late release and inadequate government fertilizers to farmers

List problems for priority research

18 NGOs in agricultural extensionTable 18a. NGO in Extension in the State

Name of Organization address and E-mail Type of activities andstates covered

Location covered

YMCA Ikposogye Agric extensionTraining

Obi Area

Project Agape 7 agape DriveMillionaire Qtrs Lafia

Empowering andExtension Services

Lafia

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Nasarawa Stata

GTZ Community andcooperateves Lafia

Empowering/Trainingof farmers group

Lafia

FARMNET No 1 AL Makura StreetP O Box 702 Lafia

Farmnet Nig

Empowering Farmersgroup and individuals

with informationtechnology andmanagement services

Nasarawa State

Nature of Relationship of NGO with ADP

(b) Is there any linkage between the ADP and these (NGOs) Organization? If yes give details

Collaborating in farmers training, organizing farmers into groups, organization of field days and

linkages to credit sources.

19 Performance of crop in the fieldZone/LGA

VisitedMajor

crop/Mixturesobserved

Condition ofcrop

Pests anddisease

observed

Remaarks

Obi MaizeYamCassava

+++++++++

None

Perform well

Keana CassavaYamRiceSorghum

++++++++++++

None

Perform well

Wamba MaizeYamCassavaSorghum

++++++++++++

Striga

Perform well

Kokona YamCassavaRiceSorghumMaizeMillet

++++++++++++++++++

None

Millet

Perform well

* = Condition of crops, livestock and fisheries+ = Stunned Growth or Poorly Established; ++ = Fair; +++ = Good; ++++ = Outstanding

Conclusions and recommendations

Conclusion

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The rains commenced in good time between April and May. Although there were some dry spells,

only few crops were replanted. These did not lead to replanting of crops. Most of the farmers

obtained their inputs from the open market. Incidences of striga on maize and millet smut was

reported in some parts of the state. In spite of all these a good harvest is expected for most of the

crop raised in the state.

Recommendations

1 Timely distribution and subsidization of Agricultural input such as fertilizer, Herbicides etc

2 Establishment of rural financial institutions to enable small scale farmers access to loans at

concessionary interest rate

3 Provision of rural Infrastructures such as road, water and health facilities to make life easy

at the rural areas and stem rural-urban drift.

4 Youth Empowerment for enhanced Agricultural productivity.

5 There is critical need for the state to collaborate with NIMET and other relevant Agencies

to provide better quality rainfall forecast in the state. This will greatly assist the State in

recommending appropriate farming practices and crops to the farmers. The State should

partner with NIMET to develop an annual agricultural calendar as it is done in some other

states of the Federation.

6 The increasing incidences of striga infestation on cereals should be addressed by the

Researchers and other relevant organizations.

Report written by:

Prof Adegbehin J O NAERLS (Team leader)Dr James A Adamu NIMETMr. Umezurike Onyekaozuru Department of Planning Policy Analysis and Statistics FMA&RDMiss. Nkechinyere Ike NFRA

nasarawa state aps 2010

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