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Background: After the first Avian Influenza H5N1 outbreak in Nigerian poultry in 2006, subsequent waves of outbreaks occurred, causing substantial losses. Despite effective control measures by 2008, a resurgence in 2015 led to further losses and required depopulation efforts. Aim: The aim of this study was to do pathology and molecular detection of influenza A subtype H9N2 virus in commercial poultry in Nigeria during 2024. Methods: In February 2024, a poultry farmer reported high mortality in his mixed commercial poultry flock in Ibadan, Nigeria, submitting carcasses to the University of Ibadan's V.T.H. and the FAO Regional Laboratory at National Veterinary Research Institute (NVRI), Vom. Results: Necropsy of nine Isa Brown layers and three Abor Acre broilers revealed cyanosis of comb and wattles, generalized petechial and ecchymotic hemorrhages including shank hemorrhages with sinusitis, pneumonia, and severe greenish fecal pasting also observed. At histopathology, denudation of the tracheal epithelia and parabronchial epithelial necrosis, obliteration, with airsac edema and emphysema were observed. At NVRI, qPCR detected an Influenza A H9N2 virus in several pooled organ samples of layers, and broilers and eliminating the avian infectious bronchitis and Newcastle disease viruses. Conclusion: This is the first report of an H9N2 outbreak in commercial poultry in Southern Nigeria. The high pathogenicity shown in commercial poultry in this outbreak and the risk of dispersal of infected live poultry in Nigeria as previously seen in H5N1 require stakeholders' intervention. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The paper examined the effect of climate variables on poultry production efficacy in Nigeria with emphasis on broilers and layers. Multi-stage sampling was used to select 401 poultry farmers who provided useful information with the aid of a questionnaire. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics, and logit regression model. Result shows that free range accounted for 22.7%, battery cage 11.2%, deep litter 54.6%, and semi-free range 11.5% were notable systems of poultry rearing in the state. Heat stress 75.1%, reduced egg 99.8% and meat production 88.5%, and reduction in quality of eggs 51.9% were some of the climate change effects on poultry production. Adaptation strategies of poultry farmers include; proper housing system 100%, proper feed formulation 99.8%, right stocking density 96.8% and adequate water and feed supply 82.8%. Age, education, off-farm activities, size of poultry pen and poultry farming experience were important adaptation determinants of poultry farmers to climate change. High price of feed 100%, lack of access to credit services 77.1%, disease outbreak and parasites 100% and high cost of poultry inputs 99.5% constrained poultry farming. The study concludes that climate variables affect poultry farming. Farmers were recommended to practice climate smart poultry production to mitigate adverse effects. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The rising cost of feed is a major challenge in Nigeria's poultry industry. It impacts production costs and threatens the industry's sustainability and food security. Implementing effective coping strategies for rising feed costs is crucial for poultry enterprises. This study examines poverty level, food insecurity status, and poultry farmers' coping strategies to high feed costs in South-West, Nigeria. A multistage sampling procedure was employed for this study. Three states (Lagos, Ogun, and Oyo) were purposively selected from the six states in the South-West of Nigeria. In the second stage, 575 poultry farmers from all Poultry Association of Nigeria zones were selected using a simple random sampling technique. Data on the production activities of poultry farms were collected from the farmers using a structured questionnaire. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics, mean per capita household expenditure, household food insecurity access scale, double log regression, multinomial logistic regression, and stochastic frontier production models at p< 0.05. The results of data analysis showed that 48% of the poultry farmers adopted mixed farming to cope with the rising feed cost while 24.7%, 16.1% and 6.2% adopted the use of finished feed, downsizing their flock size and at the verge of exiting the venture, respectively, while 5.2% did not change strategy. At a poverty line of 48,500/year, 70.7% of the poultry farmers were poor. The results also indicated that 25.8% of the poultry farmers were food secure, 1.6%, 27.2% and 45.4% were mildly, moderately and severely food insecure, respectively. The multinomial logit analysis results showed that sex (p<0.1), age (p<0.05), education (p<0.01), farm size (p<0.05), food security status (p<0.01), and access to credit (p<0.01) were factors for coping with rising feed costs in South-west Nigeria. The study concludes that the more educated the poultry farmers are the likely they will adopt the most suitable strategies to reduce the effect of rising feed costs. The study recommends that poultry farmers should engage in mixed farming which enables them to be in production. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Hepatitis E virus (HEV), the only hepatitis virus that replicates in humans and a wide range of animal hosts, is a significant public health enteric virus with a growing trend of infection globally. The public and environmental implications associated with HEV as a zoonotic transmitted virus remain to be fully elucidated. Thus, with the limited information on HEV in other species other than humans in Nigeria, this study aimed to detect by molecular methods HEV among some livestock in Lagos, Nigeria. Methodology: A cross-sectional study of 172 (42.0%) poultry birds aged between 5 and 18 months, and 238 (58.0%) swine aged between 2 and 18 months purposively selected from Ojo, Ikorodu and Agege Local Government Areas (LGAs) of Lagos State, Nigeria between November 2017 and July 2019 was conducted. A total of 410 non-repetitive stool samples collected were analysed by molecular technique for the detection of HEV RNA. Descriptive statistics were computed for all relevant data. The association between gender and age with HEV RNA positivity was tested using Chi-square. All significant associations were recorded at p≤0.05. Results: On the overall, 15 (3.7%) of the 410 stool samples were positive for HEV RNA with 5 (2.9%) and 10 (4.2%) of the 172 and 238 poultry birds and swine respectively. More female livestock (6.0%) had detectable HEV RNA than their male counterparts (1.0%) and the infection clustered majorly among age groups 1-6 months, and 7-12 months with a detection rate of 9.3%, 3.2% and 5.6%, 3.2% for both the swine and poultry birds respectively. Approximately 11.1% of the swine and 5.0% of the poultry birds' samples from Ikorodu LGA were positive for HEV RNA. Only 3.0% of the swine samples from Ojo LGA had detected HEV RNA. No sample from Agege LGA had detectable HEV RNA. Conclusion: The detection of HEV in both the swine and poultry birds in Lagos, Nigeria further confirms the endemicity of HEV and a cause for public health concern regarding the epidemiology of HEV in Nigeria. There is an urgent need for active and continuous surveillance to further detect and subtype the circulating HEV among livestock to prevent the advent of virulent strains that may be transmitted to handlers and the community at large. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: To develop a probiotic formulation for poultry feed, a few poultry gastrointestinal derived lactic acid bacteria (pGIT-d-LAB) were isolated from chicken intestinal specimens and in vitro experiment was performed to evaluate their efficacy as potential probiotic candidate. Methods: A total of 6 strains of LAB: Lactobacillus brevis (L. brevis), Lactobacillus acidophilus (L. acidophilus), Lactobacillus casei (L. casei), Pediococci spp, Lactobacillus fermentum (L. fermentum) and Lactobacillus plantarum (L. plantarum) were isolated and cultured for collection of Cell Free Supernatant (CFS). CFS collected was tested against pathogenic bacterial isolated from chicken feces as well as prevalent fungal pathogens, utilizing agar-well diffusion techniques. A preliminary investigation into the susceptibility of the pathogens to diverse antibiotics and antifungal drugs was conducted. Bacterial pathogens exhibiting resistance to a minimum of three classes of antibiotics were subsequently identified for pGIT-d-LAB CFS screening. Results: The observed results revealed that the CFS derived from the isolates exhibited varying degrees of growth inhibition against different pathogens. Among the tested pGIT-d-LAB isolates, L. acidophilus demonstrated the most prominent zone of inhibition, measuring 18 mm against Klebsiella pneumoniae ZTAC 1233. Notably, Citrobac-ter diversus ZTAC 1255 showed resistance to all tested pGIT-d-LAB. Quantification of the metabolites produced was performed, and peak production levels was determined. L. acidophilus produced the highest amount of lactic acid (1.789g/l), Pediococci spp. produced the highest amount of diacetyl and H2O2 (1.918g/l) (0.0025g/l) at 48 hr peak values respectively. Conclusion: The test isolates are potential probiotic candidates for controlling pathogens in poultry. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Sustainable development in livestock sub-sector requires investments but production risk is a major factor impeding investment in this sub-sector, especially in poultry where production risks are numerous. The study was therefore conducted to investigate effects of production risks variables on investment decision and amount of investment by poultry farmers in Southwest, Nigeria. This was achieved using a two-stage estimation approach. In the first stage, production function was estimated, which was used to compute the mean and production risk variables (yield variance and skewness). These moments were used as co-variates with the socioeconomic variables in the double hurdle model to estimate their effects on investment decision and amount of investment in poultry. Findings showed that predicted insufficient mean yield and yield variability were important negative determinants of investment decision in poultry while insufficient predicted mean yield and downside risks were important negative determinants of amount of investment. Predicted insufficient mean yield and yield variability reduces probability of investment in poultry while Predicted insufficient mean yield and downside risk reduced the amount of investment. Farmers should therefore put in place risk reducing and coping strategies while considering investment in poultry for the purpose of sustainable development in the sub-sector. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The study investigated the effect of cooperative on the income of smallholding poultry farmers in Ogun State, Nigeria. Poultry farmers typically produce to satisfy household food needs or make profit from selling farm produce. Descriptive analysis was used to describe the socio-economic characteristics of the poultry farmers. A two-stage random sampling technique was used to select the number of respondents. The first stage involved the selection of five (5) communities from the Local Government Area. The second stage was the selection of thirty (30) poultry farmers from each of the selected communities. A total of one hundred and fifty (150) poultry farmers were selected for the purpose of this study. Poultry farmers (77.6%) in the study area were found to be within the age bracket of 45 – 64 years. It was revealed therefore that majority of the poultry farmers (67.2%) are married with 5 – 6 members and 38.4% of the poultry farmers in the study area have no formal education. The finding also revealed that majority of the poultry farmers (78.4%) are having poultry farming as their main source of income. Also, it was unveiled that 9.6% of the poultry farmers are into civil service and 8.0% of the poultry farmers are into businesses and serve as their source of income. The results revealed therefore that the Total Variable Cost (TVC) incurred in poultry farming in the study area was estimated to be N163,440.00 which comprised the cost (2.31%). The Total Fixed Cost (TFC) was estimated to be N236,028.00. Evidence showed that household size is significant to household income at 1% level. It is therefore recommended that capacity training of poultry farmers to enable them to cope with the challenges of modern poultry farming and commercialization of small-scale layers poultry production should be carried out. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The array of digital technologies portends huge significance for up-scaling poultry enterprises for optimized efficiency and productivity. The study investigated poultry farmers' knowledge and the technicality of their practices concerning digital technologies. Members of the Poultry Farmers Association of Nigeria (PFAN) in Osun State capital, Osogbo were randomly sampled during their periodic meetings for data collection. Through the administration of well-structured questionnaires, data collected from a total of 136 farmers were employed for the study. The collected data were analyzed with descriptive and multivariate regression analyses. Many (78.7%) had poor knowledge of the use of 3D printers for machine repairs and only 12.5% had good knowledge of blockchain technology for product tracking in the supply chain. Most poultry enterprise operations were serviced manually by farmworkers while only 18.4% facilitated record-keeping with computers. Farmers' knowledge and practices in digital poultry management (R2 = 0.61, 0.59) were significantly influenced by the enterprise characteristics like labour strength (b = 1.97, b = 1.09). In conclusion, technological and digitalization lag remains in the poultry industry and this is espoused within the confines of the predominant small-scale enterprise features. Thus, research and development (R&D) should be policy-guided to enable poultry farmers' sensitization and empowerment with locally adapted and socio-economically appropriate digital technologies. This reveals the incapacitated diffusion of the widely available digital technologies to infiltrate grassroots poultry systems. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The study's main objective was to examine the profitability of poultry production and its constraints. Data were collected with the aid of a structured questionnaire which was evaluated using descriptive statistics, 4 Likert scale and regression analysis. The data analysis reveals that most poultry farmers were male with a mean farming experience of 8 years. Most respondents were married while the mean family size was 7 persons with a secondary educational level. The study revealed that sex (0.002), age (0.000), farming experience (0.000) and education (0.000) have significant positive effect on the poultry production profitability while household size (0.739) had an insignificant positive effect on the poultry production profitability. The study recommends that poultry farmers' inputs should be subsidized by Government to reduce the cost of inputs and give technical support to poultry farmers to enhance poultry business development thereby resulting in more profit. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The widening supply-demand gap of poultry products in Nigeria calls for urgent attention toward improving the production and productivity of poultry with a special interest in underutilized poultry species. This study was carried out to examine the level of production of underutilized poultry species and the factors influencing it in the Iwo ADP Zone of Osun State. A multistage sampling procedure was adopted to select 150 poultry farmers for the study. Data were obtained through physical interview of the farmers, then analysed using descriptive statistics and ordinary least square (OLS) regression. Results showed higher percentage of males in poultry production and mean age of the poultry farmers was 49.19±12.40 years with a mean length of experience in poultry keeping of 11.0±7.4 years and mean flock size of 68± 17. It was deduced from the study that majority (77.3%) of the poultry farmers had no or limited access to extension services. As determinants of the rearing of underutilized poultry species in the study area, results of multiple linear regressions showed the coefficients of the age of poultry farmers, and length of poultry farming experience was positive and statistically significant (P< 0.01). Household size was also positive and statistically significant (P< 0.05). Based on the findings, the study, therefore recommends the need for an enlightenment campaign and awareness on the importance of rearing underutilized poultry species and strengthening the livestock extension services for effective and result-oriented service delivery to the poultry farmers. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Rolling Stock (1002-7602) is the property of Rolling Stock Editorial Office and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

In 2021, amidst the COVID-19 pandemic and global food insecurity, the Nigerian poultry sector was exposed to the highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) virus and its economic challenges. Between 2021 and 2022, HPAI caused 467 outbreaks reported in 31 of the 37 administrative regions in Nigeria. In this study, we characterized the genomes of 97 influenza A viruses of the subtypes H5N1, H5N2, and H5N8, which were identified in different agro-ecological zones and farms during the 2021–2022 epidemic. The phylogenetic analysis of the HA genes showed a widespread distribution of the H5Nx clade 2.3.4.4b and similarity with the HPAI H5Nx viruses that have been detected in Europe since late 2020. The topology of the phylogenetic trees indicated the occurrence of several independent introductions of the virus into the country, followed by a regional evolution of the virus that was most probably linked to its persistent circulation in West African territories. Additional evidence of the evolutionary potential of the HPAI viruses circulating in this region is the identification in this study of a putative H5N1/H9N2 reassortant virus in a mixed-species commercial poultry farm. Our data confirm Nigeria as a crucial hotspot for HPAI virus introduction from the Eurasian territories and reveal a dynamic pattern of avian influenza virus evolution within the Nigerian poultry population. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The recent surge in poultry production has led to an increase in poultry waste production. Waste from poultry production often includes hatchery waste, dead birds, condemned carcasses, and manure. Manure is normally applied to agricultural soils as a source of fertilizer. Excessive production of waste from poultry farms and its improper disposal has led to air pollution and contamination of agricultural farmlands and eventually surface and water groundwater pollution and this has become a major public health concern to the society. Improper disposal of poultry waste affects poultry farmers, individuals residing close to the farms, and the environment. Published articles on poultry production and poultry waste management were retrieved from the search engine Google Scholar and were used to summarize the impact of poultry waste as a source of contamination and/or pollution to the environment with associated public health implications on animals and humans. Options for proper disposal and utilization of waste from poultry production are further discussed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

An interactive semi-structured interview and sessions of participatory ranking exercises were conducted among three groups of poultry farmers from Gongoro, Jalam and Kutaru communities in Bauchi State, Nigeria. Following a general introduction, farmers were asked to list and rank by population the most common poultry species being raised in their respective communities. They also participated in listing and ranking the extent of gender involvement in raising the predominant poultry species identified in their respective communities. Village chicken was ranked as the predominant species reared in all three communities. Women were significantly more involved in some checklist activities in raising village chickens than men (Chi-square = 24.102; p-value <0.0001). The study highlights the possibility of using participatory approaches to identify the predominant poultry species farmers rear in their communities, to prioritize it in programs aimed at improving poultry health; to recognize and effectively utilize the roles played by men and women to promote village poultry farming. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study aimed to isolate bacteria flora in fresh semen of helmeted guinea cock (Numidia meleagris) and Nigeria local turkeys (Meleagris gallopavo) and determine the sensitivity of the semen microbes to antibiotics with further assessment of sperm quality characteristics in the freshly collected semen. Five matured guinea cocks weighing approximately 3 - 4kg and five matured turkey toms of 10 - 14kg body weights were selected for the study as sperm donors. Semen collection was done twice a week for five weeks using a modified abdominal massage method and ejaculates were pooled independently based on the animal group. The pooled ejaculates in each species were further divided into aliquot A for spermiogram analysis and aliquot B for microbes and antimicrobial sensitivity analysis using standard methods. Results showed that freshly collected semen from both donor birds were contaminated; although, presented good qualities when evaluated for sperm characteristics such as progressive motility (%), livability (%), morphologic abnormalities (%) and concentration (cell×109/ml). Isolated contaminants included Escherichia coli, Shigella spp, Staphylococcus aureus and Bacillus spp in fresh semen of the helmeted guinea cocks, similar in turkeys except for Shigella spp. The organisms were all sensitive to streptomycin, gentamycin and pefloxacin except the Staph aureus which showed resistance to pefloxacin and Bacillus spp which was resistant to gentamycin. It was then concluded, that whereas freshly collected semen of guinea cock and turkey toms were contaminated during collection, they still possessed good quality traits when evaluated for semen characteristics and antibiotics like streptomycin, pefloxacin or gentamycin are recommended for use during in-vitro processing and extension of semen from both poultry species. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study was conducted to determine the effects of some environmental factors on Growth and morphometric traits of Indigenous Normal Feathered Chickens at the Poultry production unit (PPU) of the Ministry of Animal and Fisheries, Potiskum, Yobe state. Sixty matured Normal Feathered Chickens (NFC) comprising 50 females and 10 males were used as parent stock to generate progenies. After quarantine, the foundation population were divided into ten breeding groups; each group containing six birds of five hens and one cock. The experiment lasted for 18 months. Performance data of body weight (BW), chest girth (CG), body length (BL), thigh length, (TL), shank length (SL), shank circumference (SL), wing length (WL) and keel length (KL) of 123 progenies generated were taken and analyzed using Statistical Analysis System (SAS, Version 9.1). The results showed that the values of growth traits increased with age. The overall means of body weights were 90.19, 291.56, 506.80, 687.00, 866.78 and 1069.99 g at 4, 8, 12, 16, 20 and 24 weeks of age, respectively. Effect of season was significant (P<0.05) at all ages. Dry cold had the best performance in the early stages (4 to 12 weeks of age) of growth while wet season had the best at later stages (16 to 24 weeks of age). Dry hot had the least performance at all stages of growth. Males had significantly (P<0.05) higher body weights and body measurements than females. Significantly (P<0.05) better growth performance was recorded in year one than two. The study concluded that improvement in growth and morphometric characteristics of indigenous normal feathered chickens in semi-arid environment through selection should consider adjusting for season, sex and year. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Infectious bursal disease (IBD) is a viral poultry disease known worldwide for impacting the economy and food security. The disease is endemic in Nigeria, with reported outbreaks in vaccinated poultry flocks. To gain insight into the dynamics of infectious bursal disease virus (IBDV) evolution in Nigeria, near-complete genomes of four IBDVs were evaluated. Amino acid sequences in the hypervariable region of the VP2 revealed conserved markers (222A, 242I, 256I, 294I and 299S) associated with very virulent (vv) IBDV, including the serine-rich heptapeptide motif (SWSASGS). Based on the newly proposed classification for segments A and B, the IBDVs clustered in the A3B5 group (where A3 are IBDVs with vvIBDV-like segment A, and where B5 are from non-vvIBDV-like segment B) form a monophyletic subcluster. Unique amino acid mutations with yet-to-be-determined biological functions have been observed in both segments. Amino acid sequences of the Nigerian IBDVs showed that they are reassortant viruses. Circulation of reassortant IBDVs may be responsible for the vaccination failures observed in the Nigerian poultry population. Close monitoring of changes in the IBDV genome is recommended to nip deleterious changes in the bud through the identification and introduction of the most appropriate vaccine candidates and advocacy/extension programs for properly implementing disease control. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Commensal Escherichia coli residing in the guts of humans and animals are reservoirs of multidrug resistance (MDR) genes, including quinolone resistance genes, in humans and poultry. This study aimed to characterize quinolones resistance in E. coli recovered from poultry workers, chickens, and poultry farm/market environments in Abuja, Nigeria. Methods: This was a cross-sectional study conducted between December 2018 and April 2019 comprising poultry workers, chickens and their poultry farm/market environments. This study characterized E. coli isolates from stool, faecal and environmental samples using antimicrobial susceptibility testing and whole-genome sequencing methods. Core-genome multilocus sequences-based phylogeny was used to determine the relatedness between quinolone-resistant E. coli isolates. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics. Results: Of 110 E. coli isolates, quinolone-resistant phenotypes were observed in 68.2% (n = 75) isolates. Whole-genome sequencing detected plasmid-mediated quinolone resistance (PMQR) genes in 63.6% (n = 70) isolates. The most prevalent PMQR gene detected in 56 of these 70 E. coli isolates was qnrS1, followed by qnrB19 in 14 isolates and aac(6')-lb-cr in two isolates. Fifteen ciprofloxacin and 19 nalidixic acid-resistant isolates respectively showed double mutations in the quinolone-resistance determining regions (QRDRs) of gyrA, with single or double mutations in parC, and a single mutation in parE. The most prevalent amino-acid substitutions observed were S83L + D87N in gyrA (46.5%, n = 20), S80I in parC (51.2%, n = 22) and S458A in parE (14%, n = 6). About 2.9% (2/70) of PMQR isolates were extended-spectrum beta-lactamase (ESBL) producers while 2.9% (2/70) had plasmid-mediated colistin resistance (PMCR) genes. Conclusions: PMQR genes were prevalent in E. coli isolates recovered from healthy humans, chickens and poultry farm/market environments. PMCR genes (mcr-1.1) occurred in PMQR-positive isolates recovered from manure and drinking water originating from poultry farm/market environments. It was found that the gene encoding ESBL coexisted with qnrS-positive isolates of human and avian origin. Horizontal transfer of PMQR genes among E. coli isolates in the human-poultry-environment interface has public health implications for the spread of antimicrobial resistance. Relevant government agencies should enforce regulations to restrict the use of critically important antimicrobials in poultry production. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study evaluated the prevalence, antimicrobial susceptibility, and virulence potential of enterococci in poultry and their environment in the area. Swab samples from chicken (370) cloacae and soil (46) were subjected to standard culture. Isolates identified biochemically were subjected to an antibiogram using 10 antimicrobial agents and their potential virulence determinants were assessed using standard procedures. Enterococcal species were isolated from 97.84% and 65.22% of the cloacal and soil samples, respectively. Resistance to the following antimicrobial agents was observed in the isolates: quinu prist quinupristin-dalfopristin (46.4%), erythromycin (51.2%), chloramphenicol (46.4%), vancomycin (20.2%), enrofloxacin (13.1%), linezo lid (8.3%), teicoplanin (7.2%), and levofloxacin (5.95%). Totally 31 resistance patterns were detected, and 27 showed multiple resistance patterns. Enterococcal strains from soil demonstrated higher antimicrobial resistance than chicken strains, except for levofloxacin and linezolid. None of the strains showed resistance to high-level gentamicin and streptomycin. Phenotypic expression of enterococcal virulence revealed the following: surface layer, 70%; gelatinase production, 60%; biofilm, 55%; β-hemoly sis, 32.5%; DNase production, 20%, and protease production, 37.5%. This study revealed that poultry and their environment had viru lent enterococci with multiple drug resistance. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Farmers across the world have been using antibiotics in poultry production for both therapeutic and nontherapeutic purposes since the mid 1900s. The literature on antibiotic diffusion and intensification is largely focused on developed countries in North America and Western Europe. There is some literature on Asia where the emphasis has shifted from antibiotic diffusion to concerns about antimicrobial resistance due to excessive use of antibiotics. Although there is evidence of farming intensification across sub‐Saharan Africa, few studies have looked at antibiotic use among livestock farmers. We fill this gap by studying antibiotic use over farm size and regions in Nigerian poultry farming. We find that antibiotic use for nontherapeutic purposes is rapidly expanding among small farms (already over 60% for those with 50–100 birds) and widespread among medium and large chicken farmers (75%–95%) across both richer and poorer regions of Nigeria. While large farmers are more likely to adopt antibiotics, their indiscriminate use is more evident among small farmers. Further, our results reveal that information dissemination through social networks and extension services could play a crucial role in the efficient use of antibiotics. This suggests a need to promote awareness regarding excessive use of antibiotics, particularly in the absence of regulation in Nigeria and other developing countries. [EconLit Citations: Q12, Q18, O12, C34]. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: Corporate organizations could enhance their economic and commercial values through knowledge acquisitions and exploitations. The purpose of this study is to analyze the economic and commercial performance effect of poultry management absorptive capacity in Nigeria. Design/methodology/approach: Structural equation modeling was used in the analysis of a random sample of 300 poultry managers and owners surveyed within the South-Eastern Nigeria. The scales that quantified the latent variables of the factors were tested for reliability and consistency using confirmatory factor analysis. Findings: The study found evidence that the difference between economically and commercially viable poultry businesses and failing ones depends on the level of absorptive capacity. Absorptive capacity advanced innovations that resulted in higher economic and commercial performance of poultry farm. Poultry firms' profitability, sales growth and market shares were positively increased by absorptive capacity dimensions of acquisition, assimilation, transformation and exploitation. Research limitations/implications: The study was carried out within a region in Nigeria and thus could be limited by generalization to the developed country. Originality/value: This study is the first to link four dimensions of absorptive capacity to the economic and commercial performance of poultry businesses in Nigeria. As such, it originally breaks new frontier of poultry farming from dynamic capabilities and absorptive capacity perspectives. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Indigenous ducks are important biodiversity resources and genetic reservoirs needed for mitigating future challenges of food insecurity even though they are highly prejudiced in some parts of Nigeria. They can compare favourably with chickens to produce meat and egg, can adapt to different climatic conditions since raising them does not require elaborate houses. These ducks are known for their high hatching rate that is higher than any other local poultry species and also have the potential to perform better under improved management systems. Average body weight of 2.7 and 1.6 kg have been reported for drakes and females respectively, egg weight of about 50-60 g have equally been reported. Each duck can lay between 60-80 eggs annually under scavenging conditions, while meat from duck is rich in unsaturated fatty acids which are advantageous for human health. Wide variations in phenotypic traits and also high genetic diversity exist among ducks. Thus the findings of this paper suggest that the genetic makeup of these ducks have not been altered through selective breeding therefore, their genetic improvement and conservation is highly essential towards achieving food security. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of African Journal of Reproductive Health is the property of Women's Health & Action Research Centre and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

The poultry sector is large and expanding in the global South, playing a central role in providing increased protein to a rapidly growing base of consumers. The sector includes small backyard farms, small commercial operations, and very large, complex enterprises. Although there is substantial literature on climate adaptation by crop farmers and large livestock farmers, such information is limited for poultry. This study focuses on the effects of higher temperatures on commercial poultry farms in southwest Nigeria and their adaptation strategies. We use a rich set of in-depth interviews to describe how poultry farmers are adapting to higher temperatures and their reasons for adopting particular practices. In general, interviewees are aware that temperatures have increased over time and that heat stress reduces poultry productivity in terms of weight gain and laying capacity. They are knowledgeable and are not passively enduring the adverse effects of higher temperatures as they have adopted a range of adaptation practices. This study identified three main adaptation strategies: (i) keeping drinking water cool, (ii) keeping the building cool and increasing ventilation, and (iii) giving birds medicines and supplements that help them cope with increased heat. Small farms tend to adopt simple and low-cost practices, and large farms tend to adopt more sophisticated and expensive approaches, in line with the nature of their respective operations. The paper's findings can help address gaps in strategies aiming to help this critically important sector of the food system be robust to future environmental change. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Salmonella infections continue to be of global concern to poultry health, productivity, and public health. About 44% of the poultry in Nigeria are indigenous and kept in close interaction with farmers who are mostly rural dwellers and have limited access to veterinary and extension services. Aim: The perceptions and practices of farmers of indigenous poultry toward Salmonella infections were assessed to obtain and document baseline data that can be used to create awareness among farmers about these infections and their attendant public health implications. Methods: A cross-sectional approach using a multistage sampling method was used in this survey. A total of 419 farmers keeping indigenous poultry were interviewed using a pre-tested electronic questionnaire in three randomly selected states within North-Central Nigeria. Data were analyzed using descriptive and regression analysis. Results: Out of the 419 respondents, 138 (32.9%), 141 (33.7%), and 140 (33.4%) were from Benue, Kwara, and Plateau States, respectively. Of the 419, 55.4% were females, 40.8% were above 40 years, and 35.8% have over 10 years of farming experience. The majority of the poultry are not housed (58.5%) and farmers predominantly rear chickens (51.8%). Also, 49.9% of the birds were 1-6 months with 41.5% of the flock sizes being 11-20. Respondents had a poor level of perception toward Salmonella infection as the majority did not know that Salmonella affects poultry (89.3%) and that Salmonella infections are zoonotic (94.5%). Significant (p = 0.000) associations existed between categorized perception score and age, educational status, family size, and farming experience of farmers. There were significant (p = 0.000) associations of categorized practice scores with gender, age, education status, family size, and farming experience of farmers. Conclusion: This study has revealed the poor perception of farmers on Salmonella infections and has highlighted their practices. There is a need to raise awareness about these infections to improve indigenous poultry health and productivity as well as public health. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The study assessed the effects of information and Communication Technology usage among poultry farmers in Jalingo local government area of Taraba State, Nigeria. The data was collected using well-structured questionnaires and inferential and descriptive statistics were used to analyze the data. Multi-stage random and purposive sampling techniques were used to select ninety (90) respondents using for the study. Socio-economic characteristics of the respondents showed that 84.4% were male and 15.5% were female and 40.5% of them were within their productive age while 53.6% were married and majority was literate. The study also revealed that the most accessible and used ICT facilities in the area included: radio, mobile phones and television. The access and use of ICTs in the study area was also high. Some of the constraints associated with usage of ICT facilities were identified in the study include high cost, inconveniences, lack of availability and reliability. The major sources of information for farmers in the study area were telephone calls, radios, televisions, words of mouth, text messages and training. The main factors affecting the use of ICT facilities by poultry farmers in the study area were Sex, age, educational status and source of income. Based on these findings, the study recommended that relevant policies aimed at improving agricultural productivity should ensure farmers have adequate access to ICT facilities. Extension workers should also help to improve farmer’s knowledge and skills of ICT facilities to enhance adoption of ICT facilities by farmers and thus improve productivity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Ectoparasitic fauna of 397 conveniently sampled domestic birds consisting of 213 chickens, 128 turkeys, 21 ducks, 19 guinea fowls, 8 pigeons and 8 geese were investigated in Maiduguri, Borno State. A total of one hundred and fifty-two 152 (38.29%) birds were infested with one ectoparasitic species or the other comprising of 115 (54.00%) chickens, 33 (25.78%) turkeys, 1 (5.26%) guinea fowl and 3 (37.50%) pigeons. No infestation was encountered among geese and ducks examined. The infestation rate differed significantly based on sex and age (p<0.05), but not the management system. Similarly, the occurrence varied significantly (p<0.05) based on locations of sampling (p<0.00001) and species of poultry examined (p<0.000049). Furthermore, 116 (29.21%) of the total birds examined had a single infestation with either louse, tick or mite species, while 36(9.06%) birds had mixed infestation with species from two or more of these ectoparasitic groups. Among the parasites encountered, lice present on 146 (36.77%) birds were the most prevalent, followed by mites 28(7.05%) and ticks 15(3.78%). Nine different species of ectoparasites belonging to the orders Mallophaga and Acarina were identified in the study. Menopon gallinae, Lipeurus caponis, Menacanthus stramineus, Goniodes gigas, Goniocotes gallinae and Columbicola columbae were the lice identified, while Cnemidocoptes mutans and Ornithonyssus bursa were the only species of mite identified. The poultry tick, Argas persicus was the only tick species found. Conclusively, the study revealed a high but variable burden of ectoparasitic infestation among poultry species examined, and that ectoparasites are common in minor poultry species as they do occur in chickens under different management systems in the study area. The need to investigate the diverse effects of ectoparasitism on the different poultry species is suggested here. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Newcastle disease (ND) is a disease of high economic importance to poultry farmers in Nigeria. Its impact on poultry include illness of poultry, reduction in egg production, immunosuppression, and death. This study was carried out to determine the prevalence of Newcastle disease in indigenous (local) chickens from 2 poultry abattoirs in the Ilorin metropolis. A total of 400 blood samples were aseptically collected in plain bottles from the jugular veins of local chickens at slaughter using exsanguination and transported to the laboratory in batches. Sera samples were harvested from the blood by centrifugation at 3000 rpm for 10 minutes, after which they were stored at -20o C before serological assay. The sera were subjected to Haemagglutination Inhibition (HI) test to check for the presence of Newcastle disease virus (NDV) antibody following a standard procedure with titer values for each sample recorded. The geometric mean of the HI antibody titer (GMT) and the percentages of detectable NDV HI antibody titer were calculated using descriptive statistics. Of the 400 serum samples examined, 53 (13.25%) were positive for ND antibodies, with titre value ≥ 1:16. The location from which the birds were selected had no significant relationship with the prevalence of ND antibodies as both Oja tuntun (11.9%), and Ipata market (14.6%) had a closely similar prevalence of antibodies (p > 0.05). The feather arrangement of birds did not also have any significant impact on the prevalence of antibodies (p > 0.05). However, in this study, we observed a higher prevalence of antibodies among hens (14.7%) than in cocks (12.5%) or growers (8.9%). The high prevalence of ND antibodies in indigenous chickens in the study area showed the endemicity of the disease in the study areas. With most of the chickens are not vaccinated amid non-compliance to vaccine administration for local chickens. There is a need for poultry farmers in the study location to be educated on the importance of vaccinating poultry birds against ND. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The study was motivated by the lack of poultry waste management policy in Nigeria to develop better initiatives for the development of green and alternative energy sources to mitigate climate change. Multiplicities of researches have neglected the research in this area despite the environmental health concerns and benefits associated with it. Methods: The study was conducted in 2019. Three states with a high concentration of poultry farmers in South East Nigeria were selected. A multi-stage sampling technique was used to select poultry farmers and policy actors for the study. Data sourced from primary sources were analyzed with descriptive statistics inferential statistics and a choice experiment model. Result: The result from the study showed that all the farmers depended on fossil fuel for processing and preservation while only 5.79 per cent depended on biogas energy sources. In addition, the study showed that the farmers' preference for pollution control was significantly determined by pollution fee (p<0.01), biogas subsidy (p<0.01), technical standard (p<0.01) and manure handling rate (p<0.01) and the manure market (p<0.01). The result of the interaction of the coefficient of variable showed that socio-economic characteristics were significantly determined by education (p<0.05) and environmental condition assessment (p<0.01). The study suggests the incorporation of biogas subsidy in the national subsidy framework to attract the deserved attention from farmers, private and public on the economic and health benefits of environmental protection. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

There is a growing risk of antibiotic resistance (AR) in smallholder poultry (SP). This study, therefore, aimed to investigate AR pattern of bacterial isolates from SP in the Guinea Savanna agro-ecological zone of Nigeria. A total of 120 fresh poultry droppings were aseptically collected, randomly, from two tropically adapted (FUNAAB Alpha and Noiler) and local chickens. The chickens were raised either using ethnoveterinary medicines (n = 60) or antibiotics (n = 60). Bacterial isolates were characterized and analyzed using standard protocols, and appropriate statistical tools. Compared to Pseudomonas spp. (2.5%) and Klebsiella spp. (5.8%), Salmonella spp. (57.5%) and Escherichia coli (34.2%) were the most prevalent (χ2 = 96.67; p < 0.001). Prevalence of bacterial species was significantly (p = 0.024; Odds Ratio = 2.552) influenced by antibiotics usage. All four species were multi-drug resistant. In total, 30% of the isolates had a multiple AR index ≥ 0.2. Bacterial isolates from FUNAAB Alpha (58.0%) and Noiler (44.0%) were highly resistant to quinolones, while isolates from the local chickens (22.6%) were most resistant to aminoglycosides. Bacterial species isolated from FUNAAB Alpha and local chickens exhibited the lowest and highest percentage of AR, respectively. Clustering of isolates with similar antibiogram revealed inter-species dependence with possibility for inter-species gene transfer. These findings provide a background to investigate the metagenomics of local and improved chickens for AR. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Many researchers have worked on management of waste for sustainable livestock farming. However, focusing on gender in relation to the potentials of the enormous waste has not received adequate attention. Thus, this study focused on gender assessment of poultry waste utilisation in order to explore its potentials for promoting gender equity in rural livelihood options. The paper describes the socio-economic characteristics of male and female poultry farmers, identifies the waste and their uses, examines farmers’ awareness of the uses, utilisation of poultry waste and explores its potentials across countries. A multi-stage sampling procedure was used to select smallscale poultry farmers from two Local Government Areas (LGAs) in Osun State based on the preponderance of poultry farms in the area. Snowball sampling technique was used to locate 120 poultry farmers and 20 key informants. Secondary data, interview schedule and guide were used for data collection. Data were subjected to descriptive and inferential statistics. Results revealed among others that more male were involved in poultry production with small holding flock size. Both male and female farmers had high awareness on the uses of poultry waste, yet utilisation was low. The results of Chisquare analysis showed that sex (χ2 = 49.27; df = 1), level of education (χ2 = 5.853; df = 2) and primary occupation (χ2 = 121.181; df = 5) were related to poultry waste utilisation while years of experience (r=0.654), flock size (r=0.372), farmers’ age (r=- 0.365) and income from poultry production (r=-0.237) were significantly related to poultry waste utilisation. Significant difference (F = 8.893; df = 1; p<0.05) exists between male and female levels of poultry waste utilisation. It was concluded that utilisation of poultry waste by male and female farmers was low despite its enormous potentials. Therefore, training intervention with gender consideration is imperative to enhance poultry waste utilization. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study ascertained access and usefulness of agricultural information among poultry farmers in Enugu State, Nigeria. A total of Ninety poultry farmers were selected using multistage sampling technique and data were collected through a structured interview schedule. Findings revealed that both male and female poultry farmers got information on poultry production from multiple sources. Internet was the most accessible platform for sourcing information on poultry production by farmers. Results also revealed that the outbreak of disease and prevention, management of vaccine failure and poultry feed were the most frequently sourced information. Furthermore, results indicated that male poultry farmers considered information from veterinary personnel (M = 4.2) as most useful, while female poultry farmers rated information from internet (M = 5.0) most useful than others. Some of the major constraints to access and usefulness of agricultural information by male poultry farmers were poor internet access (M = 0.813) and poor access/irregular extension visit (M = 0.812) while cost of acquiring communication facilities (M = 0.800), lack of awareness (M = 0.779) and inadequate fund (M = 0.594) were major constraints to access and usefulness of information by female poultry farmers. Thus, government, policy makers, NGOs and related organizations should train many extension agents to dissemination agricultural information since multiple sources of information can lead to contradiction, confusion and information distortion. Also, government should ensure that internet network is made available to farmers in different communities to enable them have access to information using internet services. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The poultry industry plays an important role in the economy of every nation with poultry products contributing immensely to the protein needs of man. Infectious diseases pose a major challenge to the success of the poultry industry globally, especially in Africa. Salmonellosis is a major disease encountered in livestock production and has continued to be a major source of concern especially with the increasing incidence of antimicrobial resistance. This study was conducted to determine the occurrence and antimicrobial resistant patterns of Salmonella isolates from poultry reared in Umuahia. Cloacal swabs collected from 100 birds were screened for Salmonellae. Antibiogram was carried out using the disk diffusion method. A prevalence rate of 10% was recorded. All isolates were sensitive to Ofloxacin. Resistance to Augmentin, Amoxicillin and Co-trimoxazole was observed. This study reveals the presence of multidrug resistant organisms that possibly maintain the problem of antimicrobial resistance in the populace. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The emergence of antimicrobial resistance (AMR) in both humans and animals is a growing health threat worldwide. Significant quantities of antibiotics are used in the livestock production sector, particularly in poultry farming to enhance growth and productivity. A cross-sectional study was conducted in three states of northwestern Nigeria to understand the level of knowledge, attitude, and practice of commercial poultry farmers on antimicrobial resistance. A total of 247 poultry farmers enrolled in the study comprising 100 (40.5 %) from Sokoto, 68 from Kebbi (27.5 %) and 79 (32.0 %) from Zamfara States. A significant number of the farmers have good knowledge of antimicrobial use (94.74 %), and the potential emergence of antimicrobial resistant bacteria due to irrational administration of antibiotics (83.0 %). Kruskal-Wallis test showed a significant difference in farmers' knowledge of AMR based on their educational qualification (p < 0.001) as farmers with bachelor's degree (BSc) being more knowledgeable than those with Ordinary National Diploma (OND) and those who only completed primary or secondary education. A statistically significant difference was also observed in the attitude of the participants based on State (p < 0.001) and educational qualification (p = 0.013). The study provided valuable insight into the understanding of antimicrobial resistance amongst commercial poultry farmers in the region. The findings necessitate the need for educational interventions and initiatives through enlightenment campaigns and deployment of extension workers to reach farmers with low level of education to further improve their attitudes and practice towards responsible use of antibiotics. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Among recurrent sanitary emergencies able to spread rapidly worldwide, avian influenza is one of the main constraints for animal health and food security. In West Africa, Nigeria has been experiencing repeated outbreaks of different strains of avian influenza virus (AIV) since 2006 and is also recognized as a hot spot in the region for the introduction of emerging strains by migratory wild birds. Here, we generated complete genomes of 20 highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) H5N8 viruses collected during active surveillance in Nigerian live bird markets (LBM) and from outbreaks reported in the country between 2016 and 2019. Phylogenetic analysis reveals that the Nigerian viruses cluster into four separate genetic groups within HPAI H5 clade 2.3.4.4b. The first group includes 2016–2017 Nigerian viruses with high genetic similarity to H5N8 viruses detected in Central African countries, while the second includes Nigerian viruses collected both in LBM and poultry farms (2018–2019), as well as in Cameroon, Egypt and Siberia. A natural reassortant strain identified in 2019 represents the third group: H5N8 viruses with the same gene constellation were identified in 2018 in South Africa. Finally, the fourth introduction represents the first detection in the African continent of the H5N6 subtype, which is related to European viruses. Bayesian phylogeographic analyses confirmed that the four introductions originated from different sources and provide evidence of the virus spread within Nigeria, as well as diffusion beyond its borders. The multiple epidemiological links between Nigeria, Central and Southern African countries highlight the need for harmonized and coordinated surveillance system to control AIV impact. Improved surveillance at the Wetlands, LBMs and early warning of outbreaks are crucial for prevention and control of AIV, which can be potentially zoonotic and be a threat to human health. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The adverse effects of parasitic gastrointestinal diseases on poultry production are enormous, especially where birds are kept under extensive or semi-intensive systems, but the diseases are rarely recognized as primary problems except during necropsy examinations. A two-year longitudinal cohort prospective study was conducted from October 2018 to September 2020 to determine the prevalence and diagnostic features of parasitic gastrointestinal diseases of poultry in the Veterinary Teaching Hospital, University of Jos, Plateau State, Nigeria. A total of 2,989 cases were diagnosed over the study period, out of which 749 (25.1%) were parasitic gastrointestinal diseases. Protozoan gastrointestinal diseases were more prevalent among cases of parasitic gastrointestinal diseases with a total of 610 (81.4%), while gastrointestinal helminths had 139 (18.6%) cases. The prevalence of helminthiasis was more in the months of August, September, December, January and February, while gastrointestinal protozoan diseases were more in the months of April, May, June, July, October and November. Helminths species commonly diagnosed were Ascaridia galli (8.3%); Heterakis gallinarum (4.7%); Capillaria spp (1.9%); Tetramere spp. (0.5%), Gongylonema spp. (0.1%), Strongyloides avium (0.1%), Raillietina spp (1.5%), Hymenolepis carioca (1.1%) and Davainea spp. (0.4%). The intestinal protozoan parasites of poultry predominantly diagnosed were Eimeria spp. (78.0%) but Histomonas meleagridis (2.7%), Trichomonas spp (0.7%) and Hexamita spp. (0.1%) were also seen. It is concluded that the prevalence of parasitic gastrointestinal diseases of poultry was high and could be some of the leading causes of low productivity and mortality in the study area even in commercial poultry farms under intensive production systems. It is recommended that attention should be given to good litter management where birds are reared on the floor to prevent the multiplication of the developmental stages of the gastrointestinal parasites in the environment, as well as the adoption of other control strategies against parasitic gastrointestinal diseases of poultry. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The indiscriminate use of antimicrobials in livestock production is of increasing concern due to the threat of antimicrobial resistance in both humans and animals. Much emphasis has been placed on intensively managed poultry production systems, which routinely use antimicrobials as against smallholder poultry production systems (SPPS). Therefore, this study investigated the use of antimicrobials among smallholder poultry farmers in Nigeria, and compared the prevalence of antimicrobial drug use against the practice of ethnoveterinary medicine (EVM). A cross-sectional study was conducted in five states (agroecologies) of Nigeria using structured questionnaires administered on a total of 350 farmers. The practice of EVM was prevalent among most of the farmers (39%). The western method (pharmaceuticals) was practiced by a large proportion of farmers (60%), either solely (25%) or in combination with EVM (35%). Antimicrobials were used primarily for treatment and prevention of diseases (78%). Semi-scavenging system of production had the highest proportion (49%) of farmers using antimicrobials, compared to semi-intensive (37%) and scavenging (14%) systems. Gender (χ2 = 9.30, p = 0.01), and location (χ2 = 216.86, p ≤ 0.001), influenced farmers' choice of methods for bird treatment. Education (odds ratio [OR] odds ratio [OR] 3.06, 95% CI 2.10–4.44), income (OR 1.99, 95% CI 1.10–3.59) and management system (OR 1.97, CI% 1.1–3.45) were most associated with antimicrobial use. Critically important antibiotics, with lower to higher risk of antimicrobial resistance, were used by farmers (40%). These findings showed the indiscriminate use of antimicrobials by farmers and the potential risk of antimicrobial resistance within the SPPS in Nigeria. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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The study examined the impact of micro-credit facilities on poultry production in Yewa Division, Ogun State, Nigeria. The study described the socio-economic characteristics of poultry farmers, identified the various micro-credit available to the farmers, analyzed the profitability level of the poultry business and the factors affecting amount of credit obtained. One hundred and twenty (120) respondents were randomly selected for the study. The methods of data analysis included descriptive statistics such as tables, mean and percentages. Budgeting technique, which yielded net farm income and regression models were used. The result from the study revealed that 50.8% of the poultry farmers were female who in terms of age, 95.8% of the respondents were aged 60 years and below while the study also revealed that 55.0% of the farmers were married as expected. The study also revealed 90.0% of the poultry farmers possessed some form of formal education, which is predominantly at the secondary and/or tertiary level. The result on profitability shows that poultry production in the study area is viable and profitable with an average net farm income of N63,519.57 and benefit cost ratio of 1.22% while return on investment was also 0.22% which implies that for every N10 invested in poultry farming there is an expected return on N22 to earn from the business. The determinants of credit obtained are age, family size, sex and interest on loan. For high production and profitability, it is recommended that effective agricultural policies and programmes should focus on how to improve farmers’ access to credit and low interest rates on loans obtained so as to increase net farm income of the poultry farmers. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study examined farmers' perceived effects of climate change on poultry production in Osun State, Nigeria. Multi-stage sampling procedure was used to select one hundred and fifty poultry farmers as sample for this study. Data were collected with the aid of structured interview schedule. Frequencies means and percentages, and ranking were used to analyze and describe the data. Adaptation Strategy Used Index (ASUI) was adopted to rank the most frequently used adaptation strategies to climate change. Analysis of variance (ANOVA) was used in hypothesis testing. Major perceived effects of climate change included; reduction in poultry farmers' income (Mean= 2.53) ranked 1st, increased water intake by birds (Mean =2.37) ranked 2nd, increased cost of production (Mean = 2.36) ranked 3rd, declined egg production (Mean= 2.27) ranked 4th and increased disease infection (Mean = 2.07) ranked 5th in the hot period. While increase in feed intake (Mean = 2.48) ranked 1st, reduced water intake (Mean = 2.38) ranked 2nd, increased body shivering by birds (Mean = 2.30) ranked 3rd and increased feed resources in cold periods (Mean = 2.28) ranked 4th. Based on ASUI, the most frequently used adaptation strategies were increased water supply, good sanitation, and use of feed supplement in hot period while increased feed supply, increased energy content feed topped in cold period. Low income and credit facilities, lack of information on climate change and lack of adaptable strain topped the constraints to the use of adaptation strategies. Poultry farmers should be well informed on the best practices to reduce the adverse effects of climate variations on poultry enterprise to ensure continual production in changing times. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Poultry production is a major component of the livestock sector in Nigeria and continues to expand rapidly; however, it is still constrained by low productivity. A farm survey was conducted to provide a baseline assessment of poultry production (products generated, farm costs, and revenue), pharmaceutical use, and related challenges faced by farmers on 44 commercial poultry farms in Oyo and Kano states of Nigeria. Live spent layers, eggs, and used beddings were the most frequently sold products for revenue. Antibiotic products were widely used, the most reported were Doxygen, Tylosin, and Conflox. Overall, 40% of farms used feed additives (including toxin binders, minerals, and vitamins) and 12% used coccidiostats. Access to pharmaceutical products was a key challenge and appeared to disproportionally affect farmers in the northern part (Kano) of Nigeria. Other challenges included perceived antibiotic ineffectiveness, high cost of drugs, and long distances to pharmaceutical suppliers. Challenges related to vaccine use were unavailability, distance to the supplier, and health issues interfering with the vaccination schedule. Study findings highlight the need for improved access to veterinary pharmaceuticals, particularly in the northern states. Further investigations into the causes of antibiotic ineffectiveness and strategies for distribution of high-quality, effective pharmaceuticals are also necessary. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Mycoplasma gallisepticum (MG) is a common poultry infection that causes chronic respiratory disease in chickens and turkeys, resulting in significant financial losses for poultry farmers and affecting the entire country. The primary goal of this study was to establish the seroprevalence of Mycoplasma gallisepticum in commercial layer birds in several local government in Ibadan namely; Afijio, Akinyele, Lagelu, Ido, Egbeda, Ona ara and Ibadan South west, between March and July, 2021. A total of 140 blood samples were obtained at random from commercial layer chickens (ISA brown) of various ages and flock sizes. The presence of antibodies against MG was detected using an indirect enzyme linked immunosorbent test (iELISA). Overall prevalence of 74.3% was recorded during this study with Deborah farm having the highest MG prevalence of 85%, Agboola, 80%, Brian, Betty and Cornerstone had 75%, Rehoboth had 70% and Abol farm had the lowest prevalence of 60%. The highest seroprevalence of MG antibody was 85% in 18- 21 weeks, followed by 80% in 22-25 weeks, and lowest with 60% in 8-11 weeks. In the farm chosen, there was no significant change in relative flock size at p < 0.05. Moreover, because the disease is transmitted vertically, these findings suggest that commercial layers in Ibadan should be frequently examined for MG infection and carrier birds should be culled. Efforts should be focused on educating poultry producers on how to effectively control MG in layer farms in Nigeria through proper management and the use of appropriate preventive or therapeutic methods. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Poultry manure (PM) has demonstrated its potential to enhance crop nutritional quality. Nevertheless, there remains a dearth of knowledge regarding its synergistic effects when combined with wood biochar (B) on the nutrient concentrations in sweet potato leaves (Ipomoea batatas L.) and the mineral content stored in sweet potato storage roots. Hence, a two-year field trial was undertaken during the 2019 and 2020 cropping seasons in southwestern Nigeria, spanning two locations (Owo-site A and Obasooto-site B), to jointly apply poultry manure and wood biochar as soil amendments aimed at enhancing the nutritional quality of sweet potato crop. Each year, the experiment involved different combinations of poultry manure at rates of 0, 5.0, and 10.0 t ha -1 and biochar at rates of 0, 10.0, 20.0, and 30.0 t ha -1 , organized in a 3 × 4 factorial layout. The results of the present study demonstrated that the individual application of poultry manure (PM), biochar (B), or their combination had a significant positive impact on the nutrient composition of sweet potato leaves and minerals stored in the sweet potato storage roots, with notable synergistic effects between poultry manure and biochar (PM × B) in enhancing these parameters. This highlights the potential of biochar to enhance the efficiency of poultry manure utilization and improve nutrient utilization from poultry manure. The highest application rate of poultry manure at 10.0 t ha -1 and biochar at 30.0 t ha -1 (PM10 + B30), resulted in the highest leaf nutrient concentrations and mineral composition compared to other treatments at both sites. Averaged over two years, the highest application rate of poultry manure at 10.0 t ha -1 and biochar at 30.0 t ha -1 (PM10 + B30) significantly increased sweet potato leaf nutrient concentrations: nitrogen by 88.2%, phosphorus by 416.7%, potassium by 123.8%, calcium by 927.3%, and magnesium by 333.3%, compared to those in the control (PM0 + B0). The same treatment increased the concentration of sweet potato root storage minerals: phosphorus by 152.5%, potassium by 77.4%, calcium by 205.5%, magnesium by 294.6%, iron by 268.4%, zinc by 228.6%, and sodium by 433.3%, compared to the control. The highest application rate of poultry manure at 10.0 t ha -1 and biochar at 30.0 t ha -1 yielded the highest economic profitability in terms of gross margin (44,034 US$ ha -1 ), net return (30,038 US$ ha -1 ) and return rate or value-to-cost ratio (VCR) (263). The results suggested that the application of poultry manure at 10 t ha -1 and biochar at 30 t ha -1 is economically profitable in the study areas and under similar agroecological zones and soil conditions., (© 2024. The Author(s).)

Key to doing business involves lowering transaction costs which incorporates both tangible and intangible costs. Investigations traditionally apply quantitative analysis. Consequently, intangible costs perceived to influence smallholder market participation decisions have been left unobserved. The study therefore investigates how and why transaction costs influence smallholder poultry market participation using explanatory sequential mixed‐methods design for the first time. Cragg's double‐hurdle model is used for the quantitative analysis. Findings show that probability of market participation is influenced by access to veterinary services (VET), access to alternative sources of farm cash, longer distance to market, and shorter distance to tarred roads. Extent of market participation is influenced by access to informal information sources and inaccessibility of non‐farm income. Qualitative analysis identified three themes "Accessibility," "Availability," and "Adequacy" of transaction costs in influencing the decision and level of market participation. The findings indicate the need for continuous rural infrastructure development in the areas of roads and transport. Furthermore, to ease access to market information, institutionalized market information services need to be prioritized. In addition, improved access to VET for farmers needs to be strengthened. Importantly, agricultural interventions should account for employment status to enhance extent of market participation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Cryptosporidium spp. is an intracellular zoonotic protozoan parasite that causes cryptosporidiosis, a diarrhoeal disease of humans and domestic animals. Transmission of Cryptosporidiosis to humans and other animals is by ingestion of oocysts of the parasite and as low as ten oocysts can cause clinical infections in otherwise healthy persons. The aim of this study is to investigate the prevalence of Cryptosporidiosis and compare the rate of infection between free range bird and poultry bird reared in Akure South LGA, Ondo State, Nigeria. Result: The overall prevalence of Cryptosporidium reported in this study was 11.9%. Free-range birds show a higher prevalence rate 13.2% of Cryptosporidium oocysts than 10.9% in poultry birds. Aule recorded the highest prevalence of Cryptosporidium oocysts infection (16.1%) followed by Ipinsa (12.2%), Onigari (10%), and FUTA (8.1%). The highest prevalence 15.9% was recorded in broilers, while turkey showed no infection (0%) by Cryptosporidium. Semi-intensive system of farming was showed to be more susceptible to Cryptosporidium oocysts infection at 13.3% followed by the 12.6%, 10.3% in deep litter and battery cage. The female birds recorded higher Cryptosporidium oocysts infection (12.2%) than the male (11.6%). Conclusion: The study established the presence of Cryptosporidium oocysts infection among studied birds in Akure South LG of Ondo State, Nigeria. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Social media has transformed communication and interaction of people globally, thereby impacting businesses positively. Its usage and effects on poultry farming have gained little or no attention. Thus, this study assessed the economic effect of social media on small scale poultry farmers in Nigeria. Specifically, this study identified the level of awareness of selected social media among poultry farmers, determined the level of usage of social media, assessed the profitability of poultry production and investigated the effect of social media on the profitability of poultry production. Data collected from 150 poultry farmers were analysed using descriptive statistics, gross margin and multiple regression. The results revealed that 90.7% of the farmers used social media in poultry management frequently; thus, were aware of social media. Farmers used social media to sell their products, acquire skills, obtain information on pest and disease control, and input supply. Meanwhile, the farmers faced some challenges such as poor and high cost of internet service, and poor power supply in using social media. Furthermore, poultry farming was profitable as the farmers had a gross margin of N101,875.13 ($247.60) with a profitability index of 0.96 and an operating ratio of 0.51. The use of social media increased the profitability of poultry farming business. Farming experience, education and access to credit also enhanced poultry profitability while cost of feeds and drugs reduced the profitability of poultry business. This study conclude that the use of social media plays a key role in poultry enterprise. Thus, the government has a key role to play in regulating and reducing the internet tariff plan charged by the network providers to enhance the use of ICTs in agriculture which will, in turn, enhanced profitability. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Salmonellosis is an important global foodborne disease caused by Salmonella enterica (S. enterica). Strains that are resistant to a variety of antibiotics were known to constitute major hazard to public health. The objectives of this study are to determine the serovar distributions, genomic antimicrobial resistance, prediction of genes conferring resistance to selected antibiotics, the multi-locus sequence typing (MLST), and plasmid replicon typing of “unassigned” S. enterica isolated from poultry. A total of 300 samples comprised of: post-mortem tissues (n = 150), cloacal swabs (n = 30), and poultry environment (n = 120) were aseptically collected and analyzed between January and June, 2017. Presumptive S. enterica isolates were characterized using conventional cultural methods, biochemical tests, and serotyping. The isolates were characterized, using Whole Genome Sequencing (WGS) Method. Five “unassigned” S. enterica serovars were recovered from four matrices (liver, n = 1; water, n = 1; cloacal swab, n = 2; poultry feed, n = 1). Prediction of point mutation in parC (T57S) was reported in two strains which confer resistance to nalidixic acid; in addition to this, prediction of fosA7 that confers resistance to fosfomycin was identified in one of these strains. Three isolates each encoded plasmid mediated quinolone resistance (PMQR) qnrB69 and bla-CMY-98 genes expected to confer decreased susceptibility to ciprofloxacin and resistance to ampicillin, amoxicillin-clavulanic acid, cefoxitin, and ceftriaxone, respectively. Three sequence types, ST-6111, 6114 and 7073 were detected. None of the isolates harbored plasmid replicon. This study highlights the importance of “unassigned” S. enterica serovars in the emergence and spread of S. enterica in poultry. There is a need for the establishment of national collaborative Salmonella program to further investigate the pathogenic and public health risk to humans, of “unassigned” S. enterica serovars in Nigeria. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Poultry salmonellosis caused by Salmonella enterica is one of the most important bacterial diseases posing serious challenges to poultry production and human health worldwide. This study investigated the occurrence, serotypes, multilocus sequence types (MLSTs), antimicrobial resistance, plasmids, and 12 selected virulence genes of non-typhoidal Salmonella from poultry layer farms using whole-genome sequencing (WGS) methods. Two hundred cloaca swab samples were aseptically collected from four commercial poultry farms (layers) and transferred in sterile universal bottles on ice to the laboratory for analysis. Presumptive Salmonella isolates were detected with selective media and conventional biochemical tests. Serovars were confirmed by serotyping using the slide agglutination and Seqsero methods. Seven samples were positive for Salmonella consisting of Salmonella Typhimurium (S. Typhimurium) (n = 4), S. Albany (n = 2), and S. Agama with an occurrence rate of 3.5 % (7/200). Overall, 3 isolates showed the parC mutation expected not to cause resistance. Similarly, one S. Typhimurium isolate carried plasmid replicons of IncFIB(S)/IncFII(S) type without antimicrobial resistance genes. Three sequence types (STs); 19 (S. Typhimurium), 5317 (S. Albany), and 467 (S. Agama) were obtained. Salmonella Agama harboured 12 virulence genes, while S. Typhimurium and S. Albany harboured 11 virulence genes each. This study highlights the importance of S. Typhimurium, S. Albany, and S. Agama as major pathogens associated with poultry farms in Ilorin, north-central Nigeria. It equally provided baseline information on the serovar distribution, STs, resistance and the virulence gene profiles of all the serovars. Therefore, chickens can serve as a potential source of Salmonella transmission to humans, and this constitutes a potential health risk to the human population. Hence, there is a need for a specific Salmonella control program to be instituted as part of a national food safety strategy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) is a global health threat affecting treatment outcome in animals and humans. A pre-requisite for development of AMR reduction strategies is knowledge of antimicrobial use patterns, and how these affect resistance development. The aim of this study was to determine antimicrobial usage (AMU) and whether such usage was associated with AMR in Salmonella from poultry farms in Northwest Nigeria. Results: Fifteen (37%) of antimicrobial products observed contained compounds that are of highest priority and critically important for human medicine. Broilers chicken consumed higher (28 ± 14 mg/kg active ingredients) amounts of antimicrobials compared to layers (13 ± 8 mg/kg) per week (p = 0.0009). Surprisingly, chickens raised under backyard system consumed higher amounts of antimicrobials (34 ± 7 mg/kg) than poultry in other systems (p = 0.02). High levels of resistance to tetracycline (58%), sulphonamides (65%), ciprofloxacin (46%) and gentamicin (42%) correlated with high farm level usage of these antimicrobials, and there was a strong correlation (r = 0.9) between farm usage and resistance of isolates to the same antimicrobials (p = 0.03). Conclusion: High AMU, including use of highest priority critically important antimicrobials was observed at poultry farms in Northwest Nigeria. AMU correlated with high levels of resistance. Communication of prudent use of antimicrobials to farmers and regulation to obtain reduction in AMU should be a priority. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The study investigated the cost and benefit structure of poultry egg production in Egba Division of Ogun State, Nigeria. A total of eighty (80) respondents were randomly selected and interviewed through structured questionnaires. The study looked at the socio-economic characteristics of poultry eggs farmers, the costs and returns of poultry egg enterprises, examined the socio-economic variables that influence output (crate of eggs) the study area. The method of data analysis included descriptive statistics such as frequency tables, mean and percentages. Budgeting technique which yielded gross margin and net farm income were used to determine the benefits of poultry egg production in the study area. The study revealed that in terms of age, it was revealed that majority (51.3%) of the respondents were aged between 41 and 50 years while the study also revealed that majority 85.0% of the poultry egg farmers were males. Majority (100.0%) of the household heads possess some form of formal education, which is predominantly at the secondary and/or tertiary level. Majority (96.3%) of the household heads were married as expected and a typical household in the study area is made up of 4 to 6 members. Majority (35.0%) of the households' heads have farming as their main occupation, and with 5 to 10 years poultry farming experience making up majority of the respondents (60.0%). The result on profitability shows that poultry egg production in the study area is viable and profitable and the analysis done on the socio-economic factors and poultry egg output revealed that capital position, marital status and educational level of the respondents are statistically significant in determining the level of output of the egg production in the study area. It is recommended that Government should improve on the credit guarantee schemes which they have made available to the public as the capital position of the farmer is a significant factor that determine their output. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]