(Kampala International University, College of Environmental Science and management, 2023-10) Ahmed, Aliyu Maje
This study determined the phenology, distribution, and uses of Azadirachta indica A. Juss in Taura Local Government Area, Jigawa State, Nigeria. The specific objectives were to: a) determine the phenology of Azadirachta indica in Taura Local Government Area; b) determine the distribution of Azadirachta indica in Taura Local Government Area; and c) determine the level of usage of Azadirachta indica among small scale farmers and administrators in Taura Local Government Area, Jigawa State Nigeria. The study used a descriptive survey and longitudinal (observational) design. Azadirachta indica phenology observation of leaf, flower, and fruits in dry and rainy seasons. The phonological activity in the Neem tree can be inferred that the vegetative and reproductive phenology occurred once a year based on the seasonal pattern of the area. Azadirachta indica distribution was established through GPS and GIS software. Normalized difference vegetation index (NDVI) was used to identify and plot the map of the increasing number of Neem trees in the area. The uses of Neem were categorized into three: direct use, ecological uses, and medicinal uses. The study found that Azadirachta indica outnumbered the native trees due to Neem tree characteristics that aid its environmental colonisation. State Government should make a policy to enhance the environmental conditions through tree planting, to improve soils, afforestation, agricultural activities, and climate change mitigation.