Theses and Desertations

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Browsing Theses and Desertations by Author "ABDULLAHI, TUNDE ABDULMALIK"

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    ECONOMIC ANALYSIS AND MEDICINAL USES OF DATE PALM FRUIT (Phoenix dactylifera. L) IN FEDERAL CAPITAL TERRITORY ABUJA NIGERIA
    (2025-01-25) ABDULLAHI, TUNDE ABDULMALIK
    ABSTRACT Despite the date palm’s historical significance and nutritional value, its market values and potential remain underexploredin Nigeria due to varying circumstances that necessitate this study. Therefore, this study investigated date palm fruit's economic potential and medicinal importance(Phoenix dactylifera L.) in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Abuja, Nigeria. A mixedmethod approach was employed, integrating quantitative and qualitative data from 117 marketers. This study gathered information on socio economic, nutritional and medicinal uses on date pam fruit from 31 wholesalers, 36 retailers, and 40 hawkers across Abuja six area councils using questionnaire. Socio-economic profiles, sales volumes, pricing trends, and market challenges were analysed using Cost and Return Analysis and regression models. The proximate analysis method was used to determine the nutrient content. The demographic profile indicated that 80.6% of marketers were male, with 78% having formal education, 42% completed secondary education, and 26% attended tertiary institutions. The average household size was six persons, with 63.3% of respondents indicating their primary occupation as date palm trading. The mineral content analysis showed that date palm fruits are highly nutritious, providing 277 Kcal/100g, 6.7g fiber, and essential minerals as potassium (696 mg/100g), magnesium (54 mg/100g), and calcium (64 mg/100g) highlighting their importance for public health and nutrition. Economically, date palm marketing demonstrated varying profitability. Wholesalers in Kwali reported the highest Return Per Capital Invested (RPCI) at 31.51%, with a profit margin of 23.96%, followed by retailers with an RPCI of 18.72%. In contrast, hawkers in Abaji recorded the lowest RPCI at 2.89% and a minimal profit margin of 2.78%. Peak sales occurred during Ramadan period, with demand increasing by over 50%, while lean periods reduced revenue, contributing to post-harvest losses exceeding 20% of total supply. Key challenges were limited access to capital (100% of marketers), pest infestations (85%), and inadequate storage facilities (63.75%), which exacerbated spoilage rates and financial losses. Poor road infrastructure increased transportation costs by up to 15%, further constraining profitability. Regression analysis showed a significant relationship (p < 0.05) between seasonal trends, market type, and sales volumes, underscoring the need for interventions tailored to market dynamics. This study showed that, the date palm fruit trade is male dominated, with traders relying on practical experience and traditional knowledge due to low levels of formal education. Seasonality significantly influences market dynamics, with peak sales during Ramadan and the dry season, while profitability is shaped by scale, demand fluctuations, capital constraints, and storage challenges. Nutritionally, date palm fruits are rich in carbohydrates and essential minerals but should be complemented with other foods due to their low protein content and lack of Vitamin C. Furthermore, this study establishes the medicinal value of dates, particularly in managing health conditions related to mineral deficiencies. This study further concludes that, Despite the small-scale nature of most trading operations, particularly among hawkers, the industry remains profitable, especially during peak sales periods.