Volume 35 (2026)

1

Research Article

Optimization of Rice Hull Bokashi Application Rates for Improving Soil Properties and Performance of Pepper (Capsicum spp) under Tropical Conditions in Owerri Nigeria

AHUKAEMERE C.M.^*, Amarachi Orji, Onwudike S U, Okoli N. H, Ekejiuba C I, Obasi S. N., Osujieke D.N., Nkwopara, U. N., Agim L C, Nnah M

Food insecurity, waste disposal, soil degradation and low agricultural productivity remain major challenges in Nigeria. This work was carried out to evaluate the characteristics of fermented Rice Hull-Bokashi (RH-B) and its effects on soil and pepper (Capsicum spp.) performance. The fermentation process lasted for 12 days, during which, temperature, pH, moisture, and bulk density were monitored. F...

Nov, 2026 pp. 93 - 100

2

Research Article

Spatial and Seasonal Variation in Irrigation-Water Quality and Soil Macronutrient Status in Selected Fadama Fields along River Chanchaga, Minna, Nigeria

RAYMOND EDERIGBE^*, Dada. P.O.O, Bada, B.S, Adewumi. J.K

Proper management of irrigation-water chemistry is important for maintaining soil quality and sustaining vegetable production in peri-urban fadama systems. This study evaluated spatial and seasonal variation in the physicochemical properties of irrigation water along an approximately 20-km corridor of River Chanchaga, Minna, Nigeria, and characterized the macronutrient status of associated cultiva...

Nov, 2026 pp. 153 - 161

3

Research Article

Potassium Adsorption Characteristics of Soils under Contrasting Land-Use Systems at the University of Benin, Benin City, Nigeria

EMOMU Adams^*, ADIGUN Opemipo Blessing, ORHUE Ehi Robert

ABSTRACT Potassium (K) retention in soils is often low and varies with soil and Land-use type due to its high mobility. This study evaluated K adsorption in soils from four land-use types at University of Benin Nigeria, given widespread application of K fertilizers to address K nutrient deficiencies. Auger Soil samples were collected from 0-30 cm soil depth, in three replicates from four land-use ...

Nov, 2026 pp. 134 - 140

4

Research Article

POTASSIUM ADSORPTION CHARACTERISTICS OF SOILS DERIVED FROM DIFFERENT PARENT MATERIALS IN SOUTHEASTERN NIGERIA.

Nwamuo Lovelyn Okechukwu^*, Ukpong Imelda Matthias, Silas Sekerema Ukpabio, Eji Ejor Tangban, Umoh Florence Otobong

ABSTRACT This study investigated potassium (K) adsorption characteristics of soils derived from five contrasting parent materials (alluvium, basement complex, coastal plain sand, sandstone, and shale) at three soil depths (0-20, 20-40, and 40-60 cm) in Southeastern Nigeria. Soil samples were collected from multiple locations across Abia, Imo, Anambra, Ebonyi, Enugu, and Cross-River States. Three a...

Nov, 2026 pp. 117 - 133

5

Research Article

Organic amendments, soil microbial diversity and extracellular enzyme activity: a critical review with emphasis on tropical and Nigerian soils

Aishat Ayobami Mustapha^*, Abdulrahman Bassam Lawan, Musa Anas Sulaiman

Organic amendments are central to restoring degraded agricultural soils, yet their effects on soil microbial communities and the enzymes that drive nutrient cycling are often summarized too simply. This critical review synthesizes evidence from global meta-analyses and from field studies in sub-Saharan Africa, with emphasis on Nigeria, on how compost, animal manures, crop residues, green manures a...

Nov, 2026 pp. 141 - 152

6

Research Article

Soil Productivity Index and Soil Constraints Across Ten Local Government Areas (LGAs) in Benue State, Nigeria.

Blessing Agada^*, Saweda Lenis Liverpool- Tasie, Seiglinde Snapp, Obi Martins Eze

This study characterized soil productivity across ten Local Government Areas (LGAs) in Benue State, Nigeria, using 882 soil samples representing coordinate-defined soil profiles at three depth intervals (0–30, 30–60 and 60–90 cm). The cumulative productivity index (PI) values were summarized by profile and LGA. The cumulative PI had a mean of 0.138 and a median of 0.105; 105 of 314 profiles had PI...

Nov, 2026 pp. 109 - 116

7

Research Article

Assessment of Soil Quality in Soils of Contrasting Geological Formations in Anambra State, Nigeria

Ginika Mediatrix Ajoagu, Maduabuchi Ekeoma Ukabiala^*, Charles Livinus Anija Asadu, Peter Ikemefuna Ezeaku

Soil quality deterioration is one of the major limitations of agricultural production in Anambra State. This study assessed soil characteristics and quality across four geological formations: Ameki (AM), Alluvial Plain (AP), Ogwashi-Asaba (OA), and Imo Shale (IS). Soil samples were collected in triplicate from each geology at three depths (0-30, 30-60 and 60-90 cm), giving a total of 72 samples (3...

Nov, 2026 pp. 101 - 108

8

Research Article

Comparative Assessment of Qualitative Land Capability Classification and a Parametric Capability Index Along a Toposequence in Southwestern Nigeria

Bolaji Martins Fakorede^*, FASINA Abayomi Sunday

Land capability assessment provides a broad framework for identifying the degree and nature of land limitations that govern sustainable agricultural use. This study compared a qualitative USDA-type capability classification with a parametric capability index for six pedons distributed across upper-, middle-, and lower-slope positions along a toposequence in Erinmope-Ekiti, southwestern Nigeria. Tw...

Oct, 2026 pp. 76 - 86

9

Research Article

Pedological Characterization and Taxonomic Classification of Schist-Derived Soils in Erinmope-Ekiti, Southwestern Nigeria

Bolaji Martins Fakorede^*, Temitope Seun Babalola

Understanding soil variability along landscapes is essential for interpreting pedogenesis, improving soil classification, and supporting sustainable land management. This study characterized and classified schist-derived soils along a toposequence in Erinmope-Ekiti, southwestern Nigeria. Six representative pedons, comprising two at each slope position, were described and sampled by genetic horizon...

Oct, 2026 pp. 51 - 62

10

Research Article

Metal accumulation and excluder behaviour of five indigenous herbaceous species at the abandoned Enyigba Pb–Zn mine, southeastern Nigeria

Chukwuezi A.C., Ogbonna C.E., Onwuka K.E.^*, Otuu, F. C

Artisanal lead-zinc mining at the Enyigba Pb–Zn mine, Ebonyi State, has left tailings soils heavily contaminated with lead and cadmium (soil Pb 1114.5–1125.4 mg kg⁻¹; soil Cd 125.7–135.7 mg kg⁻¹, approximately 13-fold and 157-fold above WHO agricultural-soil limits), but the metal-accumulation behaviour of the herbaceous vegetation naturally colonising the site has not previously been characterise...

Oct, 2026 pp. 63 - 75

11

Research Article

ASSESSMENT OF SOIL CONTAMINATION WITH SOIL-TRANSMITTED HELMINTH EGGS AND LARVAE IN SELECTED SECONDARY SCHOOL COMPOUNDS IN CALABAR, CROSS RIVER STATE, NIGERIA

Theophilus Akpe^*

Soil transmitted helminth (STH) is a group of parasitic worms with an essential phase of their asexual life cycle in the soil. Their (STH) persistence period in the soil during which their infective stages are protected, preserved and transmitted through contaminated soil, poor sanitation and inadequate hygiene. Evaluation of soil transmitted helminth in Secondary Schools Compounds was carried out...

Oct, 2026 pp. 87 - 92

12

Research Article DOI: 10.67042/njss.2026.7sutc19l

Residual Effects of Sawdust and Poultry Manure Biochars on Soil Chemical Properties and Vegetative Growth of Maize in Degraded Soils of Southwestern Nigeria

Ehigiator Nosakhare Gideon^*, Oyinlola Olamide

Soil fertility decline remains a major limitation to maize productivity in sub-Saharan Africa, where restricted access to fertilizers constrains efforts to close yield gaps. Sustainable soil management strategies that enhance residual nutrient availability are therefore critical for maintaining crop performance under low-input conditions. This study assessed the residual effects of sawdust biochar...

Oct, 2026 pp. 408 -419

13

Research Article DOI: 10.67042/njss.2026.5ua6ogv0

Soil Physical Properties under Organic and Conventional Farming Systems in a Humid Tropical Environment

Adekunle Temidayo ATTA^*, Raymond Alex EKEMUBE

Soil physical degradation remains a major constraint to sustainable agricultural productivity in humid tropical regions, where intensive conventional farming practices often accelerate soil compaction and structural decline. Organic farming has been proposed as an alternative management system capable of improving soil physical quality; however, empirical evidence under tropical field conditions r...

Sep, 2026 pp. 37 - 41

14

Research Article DOI: 10.67042/njss.2026.vy92h2dj

LAND SUITABILITY ASSESSMENT FOR RAINFED CASSAVA (Manihot esculenta Crantz) PRODUCTION IN FARM SETTLEMENT (PAPA ABEDE), OGBOMOSO, OYO STATE, NIGERIA

Olatomiwa Akinola^*

Reliable land suitability information strengthens site-specific management decisions for cassava (Manihot spp.), a crop of major economic and food-security importance in Nigeria, yet such site-level assessment has received little attention in the derived savanna zone around Ogbomoso. This study assessed the suitability of soils for rainfed cassava production in twelve soil observation points at Fa...

Sep, 2026 pp. 42 - 50

15

Research Article DOI: 10.67042/njss.2026.9aqqh8o0

MORPHOMETRIC CHARACTERIZATION AND AGRICULTURAL IMPLICATIONS OF GULLY EROSION IN GASHALA AREA, HONG LGA, ADAMAWA STATE, NIGERIA.

JOHN WAMARHYEL GUNDIRI^*, Waizah, Y., Ibrahim Adamu, Joshua Bitrus Ndirmbula

An impact assessment of gully erosion hazards on food security was carried out in ten (10) locations of arable lands in the Gashala environs in the year 2023. The study comprised measurements of the physical characteristics, which include texture, bulk density, porosity, length, depth and the width of each gully site. The gully volumes were also measured and classified according to Shahrivar and C...

Sep, 2026 pp. 156 - 180

16

Research Article DOI: 10.67042/njss.2026.l8m0mlve

Spatial Multi-Criteria Evaluation of Land Suitability for Rainfed Cowpea (Vigna unguiculata L. Walp.) Production in Kambriwa, Kaugama LGA of Jigawa State, Nigeria

Alkasim Abdulkadir^*, Magaji M. J, Abdulrahman B. L., Salihu Ahmad Pantami

Improving cowpea productivity in the semi-arid Sudan Savanna requires spatially explicit information on land resources to support agricultural planning and soil management. This study evaluated the suitability of land for rainfed cowpea (Vigna unguiculata (L.) Walp.) production in Kambriwa, Kaugama Local Government Area, Jigawa State, Nigeria, using a Geographic Information System (GIS)-based Mult...

Sep, 2026 pp. 12 - 24

17

Research Article DOI: 10.67042/njss.2026.5a3kxmow

Digital Soil Mapping of Soil Taxonomic Classes: Prospects and Challenges for Machine Learning Integration in Nigeria

Yasin Agono Awwal^*, Lemuel Musa Maniyunda, Sulaiman Lawan Ya'u, Muhammad Isma'il

Reliable spatially explicit soil information is important for land-use planning, agricultural management, and food-security planning in Nigeria. Digital soil mapping (DSM), which combines soil observations with environmental covariates through spatial prediction functions, provides an opportunity to complement and progressively update existing soil information. This review examines the prospects a...

Sep, 2026 pp. 1 - 11

18

Research Article DOI: 10.67042/njss.2026.fs915xui

Assessment of the Variations of some Weather Parameters within the five Regions of The Gambia

Michael Olojugba^*, Jerreh Camara

The study and forecast of climatic phenomena have progressed over time, but the immense knowledge and information gathered has aided in comprehending and anticipating weather changes and their effects on crop production. The objective was to evaluate weather parameters in the five regions of The Gambia from 2015 to 2024, outline the factors that influence their variations, and assess their impact ...

Sep, 2026 pp. 25 - 36

19

Research Article DOI: 10.67042/njss.2026.p7rcd064

Effect of exchangeable calcium and magnesium as essential for soil chemistry and plant nutrition in organic manures- treated soils for sustainable agriculture.

HABEEBAH SAKA^*, Azeez Jamiu Oladipupo, Alabi Khadijat Oyebisi

Calcium and magnesium are important secondary nutrients that contribute to soil fertility, nutrient balance, and sustainable crop production. This study evaluated the mineralization of soil exchangeable Ca2+ and Mg2+. The study was conducted at the Teaching and Research Farm of the Federal University of Agriculture, Abeokuta. The experiment was a randomized complete block design with three replica...

Aug, 2026 pp. 462 - 481

20

Research Article DOI: 10.67042/njss.2026.koqwecjs

Performance Evaluation of Soil Moisture Retainer on Soil Conditioning and Growth and Yield of Tomato and Sweet Corn

Sani Idris^*, L. J. Bamaiyi, Aliyu Abdulkadir

This trial tested the effectiveness of Soil Moisture Retainer (SMR) product on improvement of soil conditions and tomato and sweet corn performances alongside different irrigation levels in order to identify the promising rates and levels. The experiment was conducted in two phases involving Padma tomato variety and Sugar-75 sweet corn variety. Using the recommendations of the product, trials were...

Jul, 2026 pp. 435 - 461

21

Research Article DOI: 10.67042/njss.2026.5vxooi2l

Assessment of Soil degradation in response to Land use change in the Federal University of Agriculture Abeokuta, Nigeria.

Adebayo Ibrahim Ajibola^*, Tobore Anthony Olamiji, Oyeyemi Omotola

Soil degradation is a worldwide concern that poses significant threats to the physical, chemical and biological conditions of soil leading to food insecurity and instability of ecosystems. Therefore, assessing and monitoring soil degradation especially in the teeming developing population countries such as Nigeria calls for urgent attention. Hence, in this study, randomized method was used in the ...

Jul, 2026 pp. 383 - 389

22

Research Article DOI: 10.67042/njss.2026.b57n59aj

HEAVY METAL TOLERANCE AND HYDROCARBON-DEGRADING POTENTIAL OF INDIGENOUS SOIL BACTERIA ISOLATED FROM OIL SPILL SITES IN BERE COMMUNITY RIVERS STATE, NIGERIA

Ikwuakonam Okoro^*, Laura N. Chigozie-Nwogu

Contamination from oil spills in Nigeria's Niger Delta has led to widespread co-contamination of soils with petroleum hydrocarbons and heavy metals, creating significant environmental and ecological problems. This research aimed to test the hydrocarbon-degrading capacity and heavy metal tolerance of indigenous soil heterotrophic bacteria isolated from oil-polluted sites in the Bere community in th...

Jul, 2026 pp. 390 - 407

23

Research Article DOI: 10.67042/njss.2026.cy0ogx4a

Characterization, Classification and Suitability Assessment of Nigeria Soils: A Review

Olasoji Hannah Olufemi^*, Ojetade, J. O., Muda, S. A., Amusan, A. A

Effective soil management and conservation may be impossible without accurate soil characterization, classification and interpretation in relation to particular crop requirements. Proper management of soils is therefore indispensable because of its linkage to environmental protection, hunger eradication/food security, economic growth and poverty reduction among others. Research efforts on soil cha...

Jul, 2026 pp. 420 - 434

24

Research Article DOI: 10.67042/njss.2026.7730j471

Profile Distribution of Forms of Iron and Aluminium Oxides in Wetland Soils Formed Over Recent Alluvium

Olufemi Adewale Osinuga^*, Janet Oluwafunmilayo Sulaimon, Anuoluwapo Ayomide Ojo, Lateefat Abisola Taoreed, Victory Tega Kagbare, Ezekiel Abiodun Samuel, Bolarinwa Ayoola Senjobi

Iron (Fe) and aluminium (Al) forms are important properties for understanding soil-forming processes and serve as helpful markers in identifying the horizon where secondary oxides accumulate. This study evaluated the physical, chemical, and extractable forms of Fe and Al in Eriti wetlands, Ogun State, Nigeria. The wetlands were mapped, and three soil pedons were dug and sampled across genetic hori...

Jul, 2026 pp. 335 - 353

25

Research Article DOI: 10.67042/njss.2026.jufjli0x

Pedogenesis, Weathering Intensity, and Soil Development in the Northern Guinea Savanna of Zagga District, Northwestern Nigeria

Ibrahim Babagana Buji^*, Murtala Bawa Sharu, Noma, S. S, Abubakar G. A, Eniolorunda N. B, Talha I. Z, Hayatu N. G

Understanding pedogenetic processes and weathering dynamics is fundamental to characterizing soil development and guiding sustainable land management in tropical savannas. This study evaluated the pedogenic processes, weathering status, and stage of soil development in Zagga District. Field investigations of eight representative soil profiles were conducted and their morphological description, fol...

Jun, 2026 pp. 308 - 334

26

Research Article DOI: 10.67042/njss.2026.n5mhkxud

Use of a GIS-Based AHP and Parametric Square Root Method for Land Suitability Assessment of Groundnut (Arachis hypogea L.) on Gurumpawo Toposequence

Solomon Adamu Gisilanbe^*, Abdulrashid Shobayo Babatunde, Sulaiman Yau Lawan, Muhammad ISMAIL, Lemuel Musa Maniyunda, Jamila Aliyu, Hussain Abba Ahmad, Ummi Salma ZUBAIRU

This study assessed the cultivation potential of groundnut (Arachis hypogaea L.) along Gurumpawo toposequence, Ganye, Adamawa State, using the parametric square root method (SRM) and the Analytic Hierarchy Process (AHP). Sustainable groundnut production in the area is threatened by declining soil fertility and topographic variability, while site-specific suitability information for precision land ...

Jun, 2026 pp. 354 - 382

27

Research Article DOI: 10.67042/njss.2026.6hpi2j3q

Soil Physical and Chemical Spatial Patterns under Land Use Intensification in a Nigerian Protected Area

Adesina Abudlkabir Wahab^*, Kabir Kayode Adebayo, Toyeeb Abayomi Abioye, Yusuf Folorunso Abdulkareem

Population growth, food demand, and low farm income drive landuse intensification and encroachment into protected areas. Landuse intensification within protected landscapes alters soil physical and chemical properties with implications for ecosystem stability. This study quantified soil variability across four land-use types (LUTs): long-term reserved forest (>10 years; RAG), recently reclaimed re...

Jun, 2026 pp. 276 - 293

28

Research Article DOI: 10.67042/njss.2026.hgzeomup

Comparative evaluation of chitosan-based biopolymer and conventional phosphorus extractants on phosphorus availability, soil pH dynamics, and maize agronomic performance in amended soils

Ganiyu Olawale Bankole^*, Adeoba Courage Aghorunse, Festus Adelana, Racheal Ayo Buzugbe, Sheriff Adewuyi, Jamiu Oladipupo Azeez

Phosphorus (P) availability in tropical soils is commonly restricted by strong fixation processes, mainly through adsorption onto iron and aluminum oxides and precipitation with calcium compounds, which significantly reduce its mobility and plant utilization. This study evaluated the effectiveness of chitosan-based biosorbents (nZvFe-CLCB) relative to conventional extractants (Bray-1 and Olsen) in...

Jun, 2026 pp. 219 - 238

29

Research Article DOI: 10.67042/njss.2026.en5g3nqd

Characterization and Classification of Selected Soils Formed on a Planar Surface in Wukari, Nigeria

Yasin Agono Awwal^*, Sadiq Fatihu Kabir, Solomon Adamu Gisilanbe, David Janet Emye

This study investigates the properties and variability of selected pedons in Wukari, Nigeria, focusing on their characterization and classification. Field soil profile description and laboratory analyses were conducted to assess morphological, physical, and chemical properties. Soil samples were collected from identified horizons and analyzed for selected properties. Genetic classification was per...

May, 2026 pp. 239 - 256

30

Research Article DOI: 10.67042/njss.2026.45h6g95h

Soil Fertility Management among Cucumber (Cucumis Sativus L.) Farmers in Ibadan, South-West Nigeria

Utibeabasi Brownson^*, OLOGUNDUDU, O. M., OMONIYI J, AdeOluwa O. O

Poor soil fertility reduces the yield, market value, and sustainable production of cucumber. This study examined soil fertility practices among cucumber farmers in Ibadan. A purposive sampling method was used to select 10% of cucumber farmers from six blocks, namely Akinyele, Lagelu, Egbeda, OnaAra, Oluyole, and Iddo in Ibadan-Ibarapa agricultural zone, Oyo State. A structured questionnaire was ad...

May, 2026 pp. 142 - 155

31

Research Article DOI: 10.67042/njss.2026.azj0vlth

Microplastic Contamination Alters Soil Hydraulic Properties and Inhibits Maize Growth: A Factorial Assessment Across Contrasting Soil Textures.

EJI EJOR TANGBAN^*, OGUIKE, P. C., Godwin Nnaji, BENJAMIN, J. I.

Microplastic pollution in agricultural soils constitutes an emerging threat to food security, yet the interactive influence of soil texture and contamination intensity on crop productivity remains inadequately characterized. A 3 × 4 factorial pot experiment was conducted under controlled conditions at Bendeghe Ekiem, Cross River State, Nigeria, to evaluate the combined effects of high-density poly...

May, 2026 pp. 257 - 275

32

Research Article DOI: 10.67042/njss.2026.qvpk6mz7

Comparative Mineralogical Analysis of Epigeal and Arboreal Termite Nests using Modern Analytical Techniques

Olushola Sunday Ayanda, Sharhabil Musa Yahaya^*, Omolola Aremu, Aminu Abdullahi, Mohammed Adewumi Abdulrasak, Sa’adatu Eri Mohammed, Naseer Inuwa Durumin Iya, Augusta O. Mmuoegbulam, Abdulsalam I. Galadima, Micheal Abiodun Oluyide, Folahan A Adekola, Simphiwe M Nelana, Michael J Klink

Termites are generally known to be destructive to woody materials and are of benefit to agricultural sector as they improve the fertility of soil and recycle organic matter. Termite nests such as arboreal, epigeal, hypogeal amongst others are being built by termites and have received great attention due to its diverse complex architectural structures and its utilization by researchers for diverse ...

May, 2026 pp. 294 - 307

33

Research Article DOI: 10.67042/njss.2026.9vd0xwaq

The vertical mobility of nitrogen with poultry and sheep manures amendment on degraded Ultisols in Owerri, Southeastern Nigeria

HABEEBAH SAKA^*, Bethel Ugochukwu Uzoho, Solomon Oladimeji Olagunju, Musiliat Mopelola Onaolapo

A randomized complete block design experiment was conducted for two years, two locations per year and three months per location with three replications. The rates of dried, milled pure poultry and sheep manures incorporated per location at the onset of the research were 0, 30 and 60 % N. Initial soils and manures were analyzed for macro nutrients. Soil samples collected weekly, bi-weekly and month...

May, 2026 pp. 200 - 218

34

Research Article DOI: 10.67042/njss.2026.4ne3df7k

Occurrence of multi-class pesticide residues in soils of selected farmlands and farmer’s household surroundings in the southwestern part of Oyo State, Nigeria

Shade Akinsete^*, Ibiwumi K. Saliu

The indiscriminate use of pesticides for crop production in Nigeria has led to contamination of the environment. Specifically, soil contamination from pesticide residues, including banned compounds raises serious public and environmental health concerns. However, very little is known about the occurrence of pesticides in Nigerian soils. Therefore, this study investigated the occurrence and concent...

May, 2026 pp. 73 - 87

35

Research Article DOI: 10.67042/njss.2026.zbzklrca

Enhancing Soil Quality and Sustainable Agriculture: A Review of Black Plum (Syzygium cumini) for Soil Amendment and Productivity

AKANBI Olorunfemi Sunday Ojo^*, Isaac Kayode Oyewusi, Adegbala, A. A, Nduka B. A., Ipinmoroti, R.R.,

Jamun (Syzygium cumini), widely known as black plum, is a highly adaptable fruit-bearing tree with exceptional nutritional, medicinal, and ecological advantages. Despite its resilience in tropical and semi-arid regions, especially in areas like Northern Nigeria, its integration into formal agricultural systems remains minimal. This review synthesizes current findings on the plant’s agronomic trait...

May, 2026 pp. 181 - 188

36

Research Article DOI: 10.67042/njss.2026.hmo1ib1r

Assessment of Soil Organic Matter Determination Techniques in Tropical Soils: Correlation Among Four Methods as Indicators of Plant Growth Potential

Toyin Blessing Odelana^*, Adedoyin Adepoju, Oladele Abdulahi Oguntade, Babajide Saheed Kosemani, Adebanke Ayooluwa Olubode, Jamiu Oladipupo Azeez

Soil organic matter (SOM) is a key indicator of soil fertility, yet variability among analytical methods limits its reliable interpretation, particularly in tropical soils. This study evaluated four SOM determination methods—Walkley–Black (WB), loss on ignition (LOI), colorimetric (COL), and hydrogen peroxide (HP)—and examined their relationships with maize growth under contrasting parent material...

May, 2026 pp. 113 - 141

37

Research Article DOI: 10.67042/njss.2026.tmq56tur

BIOACCUMULATION OF HEAVY METALS IN SOILS, Talinum triangulare and Celosia argentea LEAVES GROWN AROUND TEMBOGA RIVERBANK, BENIN CITY NIGERIA

EMOMU Adams^*, OGBE Victor Etunim

Heavy metal levels in soils may result in heavy metal entry into the food chain, the study aimed at accessing concentration of heavy metals (Cd, Ni, Pb) in soils, Talinium triangulare and C. argentea leaf grown along Temboga Riverbank. Surface (0-15 cm) soil, T. triangulare and C. argentea leaf samples were collected randomly from Temboga Riverbank (RB), 60 meters from RB (60MRB) and 120 meters fr...

May, 2026 pp. 105 - 112

38

Research Article DOI: 10.67042/njss.2026.lqw50lj0

Laboratory Assessment of Basalt Dust Incubation on the Physical Properties of Contrasting Soils in Nigeria

IBRAHIM RASHEED^*, Akinbile Oluwakunmi Christopher, Ewulo Babatunde Sunday, Ayodele Olumuyiwa Owolabi, Audu Luqman Muhammed

The effects of different application rates, particle sizes, and incubation periods of basalt dust on the selected physical properties of contrasting soils incubated for 90-day was evaluated in this study. A factorial arrangement with a 4×2×4 completely randomized design (CRD) with three replications was adopted. Air-dried and sieved soil samples collected from Auchi and Agbede town were treated ea...

Apr, 2026 pp. 1 - 16

39

Research Article DOI: 10.67042/njss.2026.d0mrov1a

DETAILED PEDOLOGICAL CHARACTERIZATION OF DALORI SOILS, UNIVERSITY OF MAIDUGURI FARMLAND, SUDAN SAVANNA, NIGERIA

Ibrahim Babagana Buji^*, Turajo A., Talha I. Z

This study was conducted in 2023 at the University of Maiduguri farmland, Dalori, Konduga Local Government Area, Borno State, Northeastern Nigeria (latitudes 11°46.758′–11°47.116′ N, longitudes 13°12.744′–13°13.188′ E) to characterize the soils of the area. Morphological and physico-chemical properties of twenty-seven (27) soil samples were analyzed from identified genetic horizons of six (6) pedo...

Apr, 2026 pp. 88 - 104

40

Research Article DOI: 10.67042/njss.2026.99k6gy9t

Land Assessment for Cocoa Cultivation in Opeji Village, Odeda Local Government Area, Ogun State

Olasoji Hannah Olufemi^*, Ogunlade M O, Asowata A F, Olasoji D J

The need to increase cocoa production due to its relevance to Nigeria’s economy in the last few years necessitated this study. The study was carried out to assess the soils suitability and fertility evaluation for cocoa production. 1 soil profile was established and described; and bulked samples taken at a depth of 0-20cm and 20-40cm depth. Collected soil samples were analyzed and results showed t...

Apr, 2026 pp. 189 - 199

41

Research Article DOI: 10.67042/njss.2026.0cgpi5p3

Poultry manure rate affects growth, yield and pest infestation of Cucumber (Cucumis sativus L.)

Olubukola Odeyemi^*, Makinde E A, Filani C O, Makinde A I, Akindoyin G E

Cultivation of cucumber (Cucumis sativus L.) is on the increase in Obafemi-Owode Local Government Area of Ogun State in response to increasing demands. However, nutrient deficiency and insect pests are major constraints to cultivation. This study determined the poultry manure (PM) rate required for optimum growth, fruit yield and reduced pest infestation on cucumber from field trials carried out i...

Apr, 2026 pp. 28 - 45

42

Research Article DOI: 10.67042/njss.2026.hhjtguph

Synergistic effects of poultry manure and 2,4-epibrassinolide on soil properties and performance of groundnut in the rainforest of Nigeria

Victoria Otie^*

The growth and yield response of groundnut (Arachis hypogaea L.) to fertilizer and other crop management inputs on Nigerian soils derived from coastal plain sands has been little studied. This greenhouse evaluation was aimed to determine the impact of chicken manure (CM) and 2,4-epibrassinolide (BR) on the growth and yield of groundnut. Four levels of CM: 0, 5, 10 and 15 tons/ha denoted as CM0, CM...

Mar, 2026 pp. 59 - 72

43

Research Article DOI: 10.67042/njss.2026.dw8i5g1e

Impact of Littered Sachet Water Plastics on Soil Infiltration Capacity in Agricultural Lands of Gwagwalada, Nigeria

Hadiza Hadiza Abubakar Ahmad^*

The ubiquitous consumption and indiscriminate disposal of sachet water plastics across Nigeria have exacerbated environmental degradation, particularly affecting soil health in agricultural landscapes. Recent studies reveal that polyethylene-based microplastics, which dominate sachet water waste, can significantly alter soil structure, reduce porosity, and limit microbial diversity, thereby degrad...

Mar, 2026 pp. 46 - 58

44

Research Article DOI: 10.67042/njss.2026.7nod11h1

Comparative Assessment of Indigenous and Exotic Tree Species for Phytoremediation of Heavy Metal-Contaminated Soils in Southwest Nigeria.

Olayiwola Victor^*

The growth and overall health of a tree can be negatively impacted by various contaminants, and the specific concentration at which these effects occur can differ from one tree species to another, as well as between different contaminants. This study aimed to explore the phytoremediation potential of Tectona grandis, Gmelina arborea, Shorea roxburghii, Terminalia ivorensis, and Terminalia superba ...

Mar, 2026 pp. 17 - 27