Research Articles

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Open Access
1D resistivity inversion technique in the mapping of igneous intrusives; A step to sustainable quarry development
(Elsevier, 2017-11-13) . Nwachukwu, Micheal A.; Nwosu, Leonard I.; Uzoije, Patric A.; Nwoko, Christian A.
The use of trial pits as a first step in quarry site development causes land degradation and results in more failure than success for potential quarry investors in some parts of the world. In this paper, resistivity, depth and distance values derived from 26 Vertical Electric Soundings (VES) and 2 profiling inversion sections were successfully used to evaluate a quarry site prior to development. The target rock Diabase (Dolerite) was observed and it had a resistivity range of 3.0 104 e7. 8 106 U-m, and was clearly distinguishable from associated rocks with its bright red color code on the AGI 1D inversion software. This target rock was overlain by quartzite, indurate shale and mudstone as overburden materials. The quartzite, with its off-red colour, has a resistivity range of 2.0 103 e2.9 105 U-m, while the indurate shale, with a yellowish-brown colour, showed resistivity values ranging from 6.1 102 e 2.8 105 U-m. Topsoil was clayey, with a resistivity range from 8 e 8.6 102u U-m and depths of 0.3e1.8 m, often weathered and replaced by associated rocks outcrops. The diabase rock, in the three prospective pits mapped, showed thicknesses of between 40 and 76 m across the site. The prospective pits were identified to accommodate an estimated 2,569,450 tonnes of diabase with an average quarry pit depth of 50 m. This figure was justified by physical observations made at a nearby quarry pit and from test holes. Communities were able to prepare a geophysical appraisal of the intrusive body in their domain for economic planning and sustainability of the natural resource.
Open Access
A comparative analysis of coconut, palm frond and palm stem fibres as erosion control materials on embankments
(U. P., 2009) Egwuonwu, C. C.; Uzorije, A. P.
The research focused on the use of fibres from coconut pud, palm stem and palm frond in erosion control on embankments. It compared single layer performance of the three fibres on three different slopes and a double layer performance of the coconut fibre. Two coconut fibre nets and a single net each for the palm stem and palm frond were used with a cell dimension of 2cm x 2cm and a boundary dimension of 360cm x 122cm. The fibres were in turn placed over a model of soil embankment in a soil bin. Rain was simulated for 30 minutes over the protected soil and the amount of soil loss deter mined. This soil loss was compared to the loss from the unprotected slope. The single and double layered coconut fibre were found to be more effective in reducing soil loss compared with the control experiment and fibres from palm frond and palm stem. For instance, for a slope of 3%, the soil loss from the single and double layered coconut fibres were 279.4g and 204.3, respectively, compared to 1051.6g, 322.80g and 310.60g for the unprotected soil, the palm stem fibre and palm frond fibre, respectively.
Open Access
A business ecosystem’s model for harnessing Nigeria’s ocean economy
(David Publishing, 2017) Onyemechi, Chinedum; Nwokedi, Theophilus Chinonyerem; Okeke, Okechukwu; Igboanusi, Chinemerem; Chikwendu, David
The reassessment of ocean economy contribution of nations has become a new strategy for frontier states adjacent to the coastal region for the improvement of their position in the efficiency frontier curve. The continuity of a coastal state to remain a leader in the production and efficiency frontier curve of modern day development will thus depend on their ability to sustainably develop their most strategic economic resource base such as the ocean economy. The major economic bases include sustainable fishing, offshore oil field developments, offshore biodiversity development and marine biotechnology, offshore mining of manganese nodules, offshore wind farm potentials, international shipping (marine transport) and adjoining corridor development, ship dry docking potentials, marine renewable energy as well as other potentials outlined in the definition of African Union strategy for the development of her blue economy. Adopting the regression analysis and analysis of variance analytical tools, the study found that about 90% association exist between the GDP (gross domestic product) of the West African state (Nigeria) and her GDP. It equally found that offshore oil and gas energy sector more significantly impact on the GDP of Nigeria than other ocean economy business clusters. Given the various contributing marine environment business cluster used in the work, the model depicting the influence of the ocean economy of Nigeria is: Y = 2295334779895 − 29473X1 + 3436995749 − 5927686X2 + e.
Open Access
A comparative analysis of productivity and fare variations of Nigerian Airlines
(U. P., 2017) Ejem, E. A.; Ekeugo, D. N.; Dike, C. U.; Chukwu, O.; Igboanusi, C. C.; Erumaka, O.
This paper examined productivity variations occurring among different airlines In the study, quantitative techniques such as The pair-wise t-test was utilized in the analysis of the available seat kilometrage (ASK) performed by the various airlines within the study period. The study shows that, there were significant relationships between aircraft utilization, passengers operation and airline productivity, at 0.05 level. The relationship between fare and productivity was statistically insignificant at 0.05 level. There were also productivity variations occurring between different airlines selected for the study. We recommend that efforts should be made to quicken the time spent on the ground by aircrafts of various airlines operating in Nigeria, as less time spent by aircraft on the ground enhances aircraft utilization, which will in the main, boast productivity.
Open Access
A proposed simpilfied technique for accurate calculation of flared gas volume: Case study of an oil and gas processing plant in Niger Delta
(Society of Scientific Research, 2015) Igwilo, Kevin; Abonyi, Chukwunonoso; Umeh, Ebuka
A simplified technique for an accurate calculation of flared gas volume has been established. Although the regulatory agencies in the oil and gas industry has placed some financial and cost measures to minimize the amount of standard cubic feet of gas flared per day by operating companies yet some operators and contractors could not keep an accurate measurement on the actual amount of gas flare from their production facilities. These shortcomings are partially caused due to lack of technologies, equipment malfunctions, equipment inefficiencies, human resource deficiencies. However, gas flaring is by no means a simple measurement process on its own. This is primarily due to the large variations in conditions often found in a flare stack. Measurement difficulties could also arise through the flare type based on changes in the flow profile and Reynolds number caused by variation in the physical properties of the gases and errors due to installation effects. From the aforementioned points, it is clear that the accurate measurement of the flared gas is a rigorous and complex process with several challenges to be considered. This paper presents a technique for measuring flared gas volume based on PVs (pressure valves) present in process plants. A similar approach has been applied in South Pars gas development projects in Iran; utilizing the design information in PVs datasheet as well as actual plant data for opening percentage values which have been utilized from plant Distributed Control System (DCS ) and PIMS ( Plant Integrated Management System) via excel and visual basic.5 However, in this study, a new/robust software program that has the ability of extracting data from the plant DCS and PIMS server has been developed using Java, correlation used by this software was generated using Hysys for a particular process plant model in Niger-Delta and the correlation was regressed using excel. An iteration time-step of 1440 minutes has been chosen for greater accuracy. Features of this program include flexibility, less run-time error, user friendly, less memory space and real-time. Assumptions made during these calculations were stated clearly in this paper. Key inputs to this program are valve percentage openings per minute. Key outputs are average percentage opening per day and amount of flared per day in million standard cubic feet (MMscf).
Open Access
A review of hydraulic work-over unit (HWU) application for well repairs in Nigeria
(U. P., 2014) Ohia, N.; Anayadiegwu, C.; Igwilo, K.
As part of efforts to encourage indigenous/local content in the area of work-over, re-completion and abandonment in Nigeria, Work over campaigns using a self elevating work-over platform (SEWOP) and a hydraulic work-over (HWU) unit was introduced in the year 2001. These projects provided an opportunity for Nigerian indigenous contractors to work closely with multinational companies with a view to develop expertise. Upon this platform was the services of the HWU introduced to the Nigerian oil & gas industry (for work-over, re-completion, well testing and abandonment) introduced to the Nigerian oil & gas industry. The initial objective of these campaigns was to equip older wells in the land and swamp locations with Surface Control Sub-surface Safety Valves (SCSSV) and top packers, in accordance with company’s well integrity management policy. This policy also required that some of these wells be abandoned to ensure the safety of the environment. It also presented an opportunity to carry out other well repairs and to install gas lift mandrels as the case may be. The projects’ priority factor (if compared with other income generating projects within the system) was low, especially for the abandonments. Hence, recognizing that funds are limited, the services of the HWU provided versatility and cost effectiveness .Between August 2001 and March 2006, a total of about fifty three wells were successfully worked on across the Niger Delta region in land, swamp and offshore locations. These series of operations were not without challenges considering the peculiar nature of the Niger Delta terrain in terms of operation and service delivery. Within the period mentioned above, a “learning curve” was developed for hydraulic workover that can be useful to operators in the oil and gas industry. In this paper, efforts have been made to describe this “curve” for the purposes of improving business results. This paper will also review significant cost saving achievements and challenges that were encountered during the entire period under review.
Open Access
A safety culture improvement model for West Africa’s offshore sector
(Science Publishing Group, 2016-12-29) Onyemechi, Chinedum; Sule, Abiodun; Nnadi, Kenneth. U.; Igboanusi, Chinemerem
Abstract: The work analyzed safety paradigms presently being applied in the solution of West Africa’s security and safety problems and proffered solutions based on improved safety culture principles. In the study the safety orientation attributes of offshore vessel operators in West Africa were measured with a view to improving safety in offshore support vessels, Floating, Production, Storage and Operations (FPSO) vessels operating in the region. The contributions of safety orientation to the greening of the blue economy were also analyzed. Also analyzed in the work were accident rates in the sub region in recent times. The work suggested methods for improving operating safety climate in West Africa’s maritime domain. The contributions of continuous learning as well as other safety paradigms were analyzed with a view to reducing accident rates inthe sector.
Open Access
A tobit analysis of propensity to discontinue adoption of yam minisett technology among farmers in Anambra State, Nigeria
(Conscientia Beam, 2017-06-29) Anaeto, F. C.; Okereke- Ejiogu, N.; Uke, P. C.; Korie, O. C.; Ohajianya, D. O.
This study analyzed farmers’ propensity to discontinue adoption of yam minisett technology in Anambra State, Nigeria. Data were collected in 2015 with validated questionnaire from 134 proportionately and randomly selected yam farmers. Data collected were analyzed using the Tobit model. Results of the estimation showed that significant variables leading to discontinuance of adopted yam minisett technology were extension visit, participation in extension related workshops, feedback provision, input availability, and perception of yield. Foremost among these factors were extension visits and participated in extension related workshops which therefore should be sustained after farmers have adopted a technology.
Open Access
Activated orange meso-carp carbon (AOMC); an acceptable remediation techniques for crude oil pollution effect
(Maxwell Scientific Organization, 2012-01-01) Atulegwu, Patrick Uzoije; Uzoigwe, Luke O.; Kamalu , C. I. O.
Orange mesocarp with its potentials application to remove spilled crude oil was used to prepare an activated adsorbent. Therefore, adsorption of crude oil onto the activated orange meso-carp (AOMC) was investigated. Batch experiment was adopted for the equilibrium studies and the studies were conducted for various operational parameters such as varying crude oil concentration and temperature values. The crude oil samples of A, B, C, D and E, with concentrations 6045, 4393, 8508, 11583, and 5220, respectively and temperature values varied between 10-50ºC were used for the experiment. The adsorption equilibrium was established at 40 min of adsorption time. Partition coefficients, kd (L/kg) for various samples reacted inversely with temperature and were in the ranges of 0.37-0.69, 0.65-1.11, 1.28-2.04, 1.17-1.39 and 1.23-4.53 for samples A, B, C, D and E, respectively. percentage of crude oil samples on the AOMC decreased with low crude oil hydrocarbons and the trend was shown as follows D>C >A>E>B. Percentage ranges for samples A, B, C,D and E were given to be 86.8-88%, 60.5-72.4, 52.5-55.2, 47.9-55.4 and 45.3-49.2%, respectively. Sorption of the crude oil samples to AOMC was found to be spontaneous, exothermic, and physio-sorption controlled with G values being in the ranges of -71.49 to -21.29, -18.25 to -5.43, -30.24 to -21.11, -28.55 to -11.33 and -50.74 to -50.12 KJ/mol for samples A ,B , C , D and E, respectively. Enthalpy(H) and Entropy changes(S) were also found to be -10.28, -12.24, -8.92, -6.9, -50.28 J/mol/K and -2.92, -0.32, -0.50, -0.44, -0.01 for samples A, B, C, D and E, respectively. Activated orange meso-carp provides a veritable environmentally remediation technique for crude oil spillage.
Open Access
Addressing corruption practices in agricultural sector to make agriculture demand-driven in Nigeria
(Spring Journals, 2016-11) Godson-Ibeji, C. C.; . Ogueri, E. I.; Chikaire, J. U.
Agriculture is one aspect of Nigeria’s economy that should not be neglected or even marginalised. Not only that agriculture is the major source of food for people and livestock, it also provides earnings to farmers and raw materials for industries as well as providing over sixty-five percent employment to the teeming population of Nigerians. In spite of all these advantages over other professions such as law, medicine, engineering and others, yet, people in Nigeria still express phobia for agriculture as an enterprise. Corruption in agricultural sector is an impediment which, when fought and eliminated will make agriculture demand-driven in Nigeria. This paper therefore takes a cursory look at some aspects of corrupt practices in agricultural sector and their attendants’ effects on agricultural productions. It concludes among other suggestions that to fight and eliminate corruption in agricultural sector and achieve the implementations of the Nigerian agricultural transformation agenda (ATA) as well as make agriculture demand-driven in Nigeria, those actors who perpetuate the nefarious acts of corruption in the sector should be reprimanded by the law and made to face the penalties.
Open Access
Adsorption and corrosion-inhibiting effect of dacryodis edulis extract on low-carbon-steel corrosion in acidic media
(Elsevier Inc, 2010-09-01) Oguzie, E. E.; Enenebeaku, C. K.; Akalezi, C. O.; Okoro, S. C.; Ayuk, A. A.; Ejike, E. N.
The inhibition of low-carbon-steel corrosion in 1 M HCl and 0.5 M H2SO4 by extracts of Dacryodis edulis (DE) was investigated using gravimetric and electrochemical techniques. DE extract was found to inhibit the uniform and localized corrosion of carbon steel in the acidic media, affecting both the cathodic and anodic partial reactions. The corrosion process was inhibited by adsorption of the extracted organic mat ter onto the steel surface in a concentration-dependent manner and involved both protonated and molec ular species. Molecular dynamics simulations were performed to illustrate the process of adsorption of some specific components of the extract
Open Access
Adsorption and corrosion-inhibiting effect of dacryodis edulis extract on low-carbon-steel corrosion in acidic media
(Elsevier Inc., 2010) Oguzie, E. E.; Enenebeaku, C. K.; Akalezi, C. O.; Okoro, S. C.; Ayuk, A. A.; Ejike, E. N.
The inhibition of low-carbon-steel corrosion in 1 M HCl and 0.5 M H2SO4 by extracts of Dacryodis edulis(DE) was investigated using gravimetric and electrochemical techniques. DE extract was found to inhibit the uniform and localized corrosion of carbon steel in the acidic media, affecting both the cathodic and anodic partial reactions. The corrosion process was inhibited by adsorption of the extracted organic mat ter onto the steel surface in a concentration-dependent manner and involved both protonated and molec ular species. Molecular dynamics simulations were performed to illustrate the process of adsorption of some specific components of the extract.
Open Access
Adsorption kinetics and Mechanisms of cypermethrin and dichlorovos on heterogeneous activated carbon porous media
(Federal University of Technology, Owerri, 2015-11-18) Atulegwu, Patrick Uzoije; Kamalu, Clinfford O.; Uzuakpundu, Basil
Adsorption kinetics and mechanism of Cypermethrin (CY) and Dichlorovos (DI) on activated car bons of oil bean seed shell (OBSS), unripe plantain peel (UPP) and castor bean seed shell (CBSS) systems have been studied. The equilibrium adsorption isotherms were modelled by Freunlich, Langmuir and Langmuir-Freunlich (LF) models. Adsorption isotherms of various systems were best described by Langmuir-Freunlich (LF). Mixed 1,2 order equation (MOE), integrated kinetic Langmuir (IKL), pseudo second order equation (PSOE), fractal-like mixed 1,2 order equation (F-MOE), and Boyd and Webbers models were compared and adopted in the analysis of the kinetic data. The models represented different uptake reduction rate of CY and DI by various adsorption systems. F-MOE, IKL and MOE models were in agreement with CY/OBSS, CY/UPP and CY/CBSS sys tem data respectively, hence the conforming models, whereas IKL, MOE and PSOE were the con forming models for DI/OBSS, DI/UPP and DI/CBSS adsorption data systems, respectively. The two diffusion models (Boyd and Webbers) applied confirmed film diffusion pattern as prevailing transportation pathway for CY and DI onto the adsorbents.
Open Access
Adsorption of cupper (II) ion on heterogeneous surfaces of selected low-cost precursors; an application of isotherm, thermodynamic and kinetic models
(U. P., 2015-01) Uzoije , Atulegwu .Patrick; Okolie, Justus I.; Njoku, P. C.; Enwereuzo., Uzo
Cupper ions occur naturally in the environment and also prevalent in the waste from metal smelting industries through which it gets to the environment. Excessive intake of cupper results to adverse health effects on plant, animals and humans. The present study therefore studied the Adsorption of Cupper (II) ion on three activated bio-adsorbents; Unripe plantain peel, pineapple peel and commercial activated carbon. The activated carbons were characterized for surface morphology and functional groups for removal of Cupper (II) ion from aqueous solution. Batch process was adopted to study the time, temperature effect and isotherm equilibrium of Cupper (II) ion on. Adsorption of Cupper (II) ion on the three adsorbents got to equilibrium at between 80-100 minutes. Adsorption capacity of the three adsorbent was in this order at all temperature values; Unripe plantain peel greater than pineapple peel and greater than commercial activated carbon. Adsorption of Cupper ion increased with temperature, adsorption got to its plateau at 45oC and began to decrease. Langumuir-freunlich and Dubini-Radushkevichmodels were applied to analyze the Isotherm data. Langumuir-freunlich described the data better than Dubini-Radushkevich. Also, Pseudo-first order, pseudo-second-order, and intra-particle diffusion models were applied to test the kinetic data, pseudo-second-order fitted the data better than pseudo-first order. Pore-pore particle diffusion was observed to be the controlling step. Endothermic and non- spontaneous processes characterized Cupper ion adsorption on the three adsorbents .
Open Access
Adsorptive removal of methylene blue from aqueous solution using agricultural waste: Equilibrium, kinetic and thermodynamic studies
(U. P., 2015) Enenebeaku, K. Conrad; Okorocha, J. Nnaemeka; Akalezi, O. Chris
The potential of raw corn cobs (RCC) powder, for the removal of methylene blue (MB) dye from aqueous solution was investigated. The adsorbent was characterized by FTIR and SEM analysis. Batch adsorption studies were conducted and various parameters such as contact time, adsorbent dosage, initial dye concentration, pH and temperature were studied to observe their effects in the dye adsorption process. The optimum conditions for the adsorption of MB onto the adsorbent (RCC) was found to be: contact time (30mins), pH (10.0) and temperature (343K) for an initial MB dye concentration of 100mg/l and adsorbent dose 1.0g. The experimental equilibrium adsorption data fitted best and well to the Freundlich and Halsey isotherm models. The maximum adsorption capacity was found to be 18.28mg/g. The kinetic data conformed to the pseudo-second-order kinetic model, suggesting that the rate limiting step may be chemisorptions. Adsorption mechanism was investigated with intra-particle diffusion model and it indicated that intra-particle diffusion was not the rate determining step. Thermodynamic quantities such as Gibbs free energy (∆G0), enthalpy (∆H0) andentropy (∆S0) were evaluated. The negative values of ∆G0 and the positive value of ∆H0 obtained indicated the spontaneous and endothermic nature of the adsorption process while the positive ∆S0 value obtained indicated increased randomness during the adsorption process.
Open Access
Agricultural land use in peri-urban communities in Nigeria: A review
(Tapas Institute of Scientific Research and development, 2007-04) Ajaero, J. O.; Matthews-Njoku, E. C.; Ehirim, N. C.
This paper reviewed the emerging problems of agricultural land use in Nigeria outlying communities. The outlying communities are known to be major sources of agricultural products to nearby urban areas. However, agricultural activities are under the threat of being abandoned due to the transfer of arable land other uses apart from agriculture. This was found to be due to the increased economic value (price) of land, which makes land a source of immediate income to escape chronic poverty. The emerging scenario is the replacement of traditional communal landholding by individual arrangement in the outlying agrarian rural communities to facilitate permanent alienation so that individuals can dispose of their farm lands to other uses. This would have the effects of forcing a significant population engaged in agriculture to the unemployment market, the emergence of landless farmers and compound problem of resource accessibility by disadvantaged groups like women farmers. It has also led to the increase in land rates for agricultural purposes and unabated decrease in farm size among farmers. The paper suggests that farming layouts should be mapped out and given equal attention as accorded to industrial and residential areas by urban development authorities. It concludes that extension service activities should be directed toward the dissemination of innovations like vegetable and small ruminant production, which does not require large expanse of land and compatible with land situations in these areas.
Open Access
Agricultural production and climate change: Need for proper extension policy formulation in Nigeria
(U. P., 2012) Anaeto, F. C.; Asiabaka, C. C.; Onweagha, A. E.; Ohajianya, D. O.; Nnadi, J. O.; Ajaero, J. O.; Ukpongson, M. U.; Ugwoke, F. O.
Changes in climate are expected to have significant impacts on farm yields and product quality as a result of changes in temperature, moisture, air and soil. This paper reviews the effects of climate change on agricultural production and the need for extension policy formulation. The paper further dwelt on the need for sound agricultural policy but observed that much cannot be achieved in that direction without efficient and effective extension system. It recommends a well articulated and comprehensive agricultural extension policy which will address properly the issue of climate change and its mitigations/adaptation.
Open Access
Agricultural production and climate change: Need for proper extension policy formulation in Nigeria
(U. P., 2012-08) Anaeto, F. C.; Asiabaka, C. C.; Onweagba, A. E.; Ohajianya, D. O.; Nnadi, F. N.; Ifeanyi-Obi, C. C.; Ajaero, J. O.; Ukpongson, M. U.; Ugwoke, F. O.
Changes in climate are expected to have significant impacts on farm yields and product quality as a result of changes in temperature, moisture, air and soil. This paper reviews the effects of climate change on agricultural production and the need for extension policy formulation. The paper further dwelt on the need for sound agricultural policy but observed that much cannot be achieved in that direction without efficient and effective extension system. It recommends a well articulated and comprehensive agricultural extension policy which will address properly the issue of climate change and its mitigations/adaptation.
Open Access
Ammonia variations in Owerri metropolis and ecological impact
(Conscientia Beam, 2020-04-15) Nnadozie, C. F.; Nkwoada, A. U.; Akagha, C. I.
Ammonia emissions inventory is rarely reported in Nigeria and when at high levels is toxic to animals including humans. It is instructive to evaluate the levels of ammonia in metropolitan area as a priority to promote a clearer understanding of its distribution and interaction. The study investigated the levels of ammonia in different parts of Owerri Metropolis and its ecological impact. Ambient atmospheric NH3 concentrations have been measured for Owerri metropolis, away from point sources, for a period of three consecutive months in 2018 calendar year. Measured lowest mean NH3 concentrations have been in August at 0.04633 mg/L, which exceeded the critical loads and occupation exposure limits. There has been no significant change in the spatial variation in NH3 concentrations between the months albeit different locations varied significantly. The ecosystems where lichens and bryophytes are key species within the studied area may be under threat from loss of biodiversity while levels of human exposure to NH3 are completely unacceptable and require reducing and controlling measures. Hence, excess ammonia will induce elevated nitrification and denitrification driving higher greenhouse gas emissions
Open Access
An application of probit analysis to factors affecting small fertilizer in Ohaji/Egbema area of Imo State, Nigeria
(U. P., 2017-03-31) Anaeto, F. C.; Ohajianya, D. O.; Mathew-Njoku, E. C.; Ani, A. O.; Korie, O. C.; Osuagwa, C. O.; Uzor, U. C.; Adolph-Nnebene, E.
This study analyzed factors affecting smallholder farmers’ decisions to use fertilizer in Ohaji/Egbema area of Imo State, Nigeria. Primary data were obtained between April and June 2015 with structured questionnaire from 202 randomly selected smallholder farmers. Data obtained were analyzed using descriptive statistics and probit model. Factors affecting smallholder farmers’ decisions to use fertilizers were farm size, education level, extension contact, net farm income, farming experience, cost of fertilizer, and perceived soil fertility status. Mc-Fadden’s Pseudo-R2 value of 0.6879 indicates that the independent variables included in the probit model explain 69% significant proportion of the variations in smallholder farmers’ decisions to use fertilizer. The pobit model predicted 82% of the factors affecting fertilizer use by smallholder farmers. The role of extension service in improved technology use cannot be over emphasized. The distribution of fertilizers to farmers through the GSM services should be restored since it proved an effective mechanism to reach smallholder farmers in input supply and distribution