The soil organic carbon (SOC) data provided in Table 5 offers valuable insights into the soil health and fertility of various Local Government Areas (LGAs) in Niger State, Nigeria. SOC is a critical indicator of soil quality, influencing nutrient availability, water retention, and overall soil structure, all of which are essential for sustainable agriculture and livestock production. SOC plays a fundamental role in supporting crop production, improving pasture quality, and enhancing the growth of high-quality forage crops used in cattle fattening. Higher SOC levels generally indicate better soil health, which benefits both intensive feedlot systems and extensive grazing operations. As a result, understanding the SOC variations across different LGAs is crucial for making informed decisions about cattle breeding, fattening, and agricultural practices.

The SOC data reveals significant variability across different LGAs and soil depths (SOC_P1 to SOC_P5). Some LGAs, such as Magama, Mariga, and Mokwa, have relatively high SOC values, particularly at deeper soil levels, indicating fertile soils that are well suited for intensive agriculture and pasture systems. Conversely, areas like Rafi, Shiroro, and Borgu exhibit lower SOC values, suggesting poorer soil fertility that may require amendments or improved land management practices. Certain LGAs, including Mariga, Mokwa, and Mashegu, possess large land areas with moderate to high SOC levels, making them ideal for large-scale cattle breeding and fattening operations. Meanwhile, LGAs with low SOC but extensive land areas, such as Borgu, present opportunities for extensive pasture systems if proper soil management strategies—such as organic matter addition and rotational grazing—are implemented.

The implications of these SOC levels for cattle breeding and fattening are significant. LGAs with high SOC levels, such as Magama and Mokwa, are particularly well suited for feedlot systems, where cattle are confined and fed high-energy diets. These areas can support the cultivation of essential fodder crops like maize, sorghum, and alfalfa, which are crucial for efficient cattle fattening. Extensive pasture systems are better suited for LGAs with moderate SOC levels and large land areas, such as Borgu and Mariga, where natural grasses and legumes can provide sustainable grazing options. In these regions, rotational grazing practices can be employed to prevent overgrazing and soil degradation while improving long-term productivity. Additionally, integrating crop and livestock production can enhance soil health and agricultural sustainability. For instance, areas with lower SOC levels, like Rafi and Shiroro, could benefit from leguminous crops such as soybeans and groundnuts to enhance soil fertility through nitrogen fixation.

To maximize the agricultural potential of these LGAs, targeted soil management strategies should be implemented based on SOC levels. In areas with low SOC, the application of organic amendments such as compost and manure, along with the adoption of cover cropping, can significantly improve soil fertility. Rotational grazing systems should be encouraged in extensive pasture areas to prevent land degradation and maintain productivity. Integrating crop and livestock production can enhance sustainability by utilizing crop residues as cattle feed and manure as organic fertilizer. Furthermore, ongoing research and development should focus on identifying the most suitable fodder crops and pasture species for different SOC levels and LGAs. By leveraging these insights, Niger State can enhance its agricultural productivity, improve cattle breeding and fattening systems, and ensure long-term sustainability in livestock and crop production.