Volume 35 (2026)

1

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

2

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

3

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

4

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

5

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

6

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

7

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

Gisilanbe Solomon Adamu^*, 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

8

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

9

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

10

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, Gisilanbe Solomon Adamu, 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

11

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 ...

May, 2026 pp. 142 - 155

12

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., NNAJI, G. U., 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

13

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 Helen 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

14

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

15

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

16

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

17

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

18

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

19

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

20

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

21

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

22

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

23

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, C...

Mar, 2026 pp. 59 - 72

24

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

25

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