buygala:
Ewww

Every aboki with im kettle sha.
But I won't be caught dead licking that thing that looks like cat vomit

Wow, My friend asked me once, if Yorubas actually make ewedu with broom used in sweeping or cleaning toilet. I was surprised but then i pitied his ignorance.
Who uses broom to break up ewedu, this day and age. Blender to the rescue bro.
By the way, ewedu is Jute mallow/Jews mallow or Molochia/Molokhia and it's universally available.

Viscuz:


I say go koker my brother orile to be précise them dey go door to door dey collect tax for TV and radio. Asin television

That's how it is done in places you all like to quote as developed countries. Apart from that, my father used to pay Radio and television tax back in the eighties in the village but those states have gone to sleep in tax collection because Abuja is a benevolent blind giver.

I went to a place in the Midland yesterday, I parked at a designated car park but by the road side. It was few minutes to my appointment so I couldn't wait to pay for the slot. When I came back 45 minutes later, a letter was already pasted on my windscreen to pay £50 for using the slot without payment. Who will I beg that if had waited I to pay I could lose £1500 appointment. Meanwhile the original slot fee is £1.20 for one hour and extra £0.50 for subsequent hours after first one.
The saving grace is I can pay just £25 if I pay within 14 days of the served notice.
So you see, tax is everywhere. You pay or go to jail.

YoudeyVexme:

Imagine, I had to go for house hunting last week and we had to wait for the owner of the compound, he arrived a young man expecting me to greet him first. I just called the agent I wasn't interested.. somebody that can't drag age with my youngest brother.

Let's take this post as your cry for help,
These are some things that others did that got them to where they are.
1. In 2010, some took time to learn skills, both soft and hard skill set as it were, that was different from their course of study in the Uni. Some learnt how to code, some learn how to sell, some learnt how to build things, some learnt how to make people laugh, etc. Today they are better off for it.
2. In 2010, some went into Agriculture, some bought lands, leased land for plantations, food and tree crops, cocoa, palm tree, Teak, Mahogany, Gmelina trees. Hypothetically, someone with 1,000 Teak or Gmelina trees planted in 2010 will be reaping in Joy today.
3. In 2010, some started transport business, started with motorcycles and today owning haulage companies.
The question is, what have you been doing? How have you been doing it? What skills do you have?, Apart from making money, What passion do you have?
There was this particular quote on a chalk board in my secondary school's library, ' the heights by great men reached and kept were not attained by sudden flight, but they, while their companions slept were toiling upward in the night'. Wadsworth Longfellow.

YoudeyVexme:


Imagine, I had to go for house hunting last week and we had to wait for the owner of the compound, he arrived a young man expecting me to greet him first. I just called the agent I wasn't interested.. somebody that can't drag age with my youngest brother.

You have no right to hate on the success of others, you don't know the sacrifice they paid to get to where they are.
Moreover Success is relative, if you ask the young land lord, he may have a different definition of success.

Look at the world with a twin lens of potential and possibilities. Time and chance happens to all.
There is a tide in the affairs of men, which taken at the flood leads to fortune.......
Shalom.

Veggieseedies:


The importance is what you are seeing with your eyes.

Once the seed has gotten signal to germinate, germination sets in with sprouting fastracked

Follow the next thread as I'm going to update from soaking to harvest. Coming next week or on 17th May

Thanks, looking forward to it.

Veggieseedies:


Pasteurized water. Not too hot to cook.

No, not three days but some hours (6) preferable or overnight but plant the next day.
Soak in a a container that will contain the new size cos it will swell.

Cold water can but give it a warm environment as planted seeds love warm but wet environment during germination. That's why maize doesn't do well when the soil is cold, from late June/ early July

Thank you for sharing this info.

Veggieseedies:
MAIZE PLANTING

Before planting the maize seeds, I boiled water,

Do you mean you soaked the maize in water for 3 days. If so what is the importance, does it have to be hot water, can cold water do same. Many thanks.

Welcome on board, trust you are settling well.

Well done @OP for a well documented, evidence based farming. I enjoyed the thread and also picked up some farming tips.
Do you have same plan for this year?

Falana is right on this one. If GEJ had won the 2015 election, sworn in and the law came in 2018. If anyone had gone to the court to challenge his Presidency or impeach him, that will amount to retrospective application because the law was not there when he contested and won. The story is different now, there is an extant law, he can not take an active position that is ultra vires an existing law - My unprofessional opinion.

Hypothetically, I went to Fouani shop on Allen.

Me: Hello, I need a tv/monitor for my cctv.

Attendant; Yes we do have a lot that will interest you.
Brought papers to me for signature, It will cost you 4m.

Me; Ok what is the spec.

Attendant; It is LG Electronics.

Me; Thanks, but I need more information about it.

Attendant; All you need to know is that it is LG Electronics.

Me; Excuse me, if I am paying 4m for a tv, I need to know the spec, when and where it was produced. When it was shipped and so on.

Hypothetically, as I mentioned earlier.

RIP to Dejo. Nollywood needs to embrace health insurance.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zppUhnaU6BQ

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ofr1HJJSjb4

Dwarf goats breed year round. Does can be bred at 7 to 8 months of age if they have reached ¾ of mature weight at first breeding. Some breeders prefer to wait until they are at least one year or older.

Many breeders breed their does three times in two years, giving the doe a six- month plus break. Dwarf does can have several kids at a time. Three or four are common, but sometimes they may have as many as five. Dwarfs are generally good mothers and able to take care of their babies should the owner leave them to raise the kids. Nigerian Dwarf milk is 6 to 10 percent higher in butterfat and higher in protein than milk from most dairy goat breeds. They can give three to four pounds of milk per day of which 6 to 10 percent is butterfat.

Bucks are able to be used for service as young as 3 months of age and easily by the time they are 7 or 8 months old. Dwarf bucks are vigorous breeders and have been used successfully for hand breeding or pasture breeding.

https://goats.extension.org/goat-breeds-nigerian-dwarf/

What’s the Difference Between a Nigerian Dwarf and a Pygmy Goat?

Although they have similar origins, Nigerian Dwarfs and African Pygmies are separate and distinct breeds, with recognized differences. Pygmies are bred to be “cobby” and heavy boned. Dwarfs are bred to have the length of body and more elegant structure that’s similar to their larger dairy goat counterparts. Pygmies are also primarily “agouti” patterned, with black, silver, and caramel being the most common colors.

Nigerian Dwarf Goat Coloring

Color is one of the factors that makes breeding Dwarfs so popular. You can never be sure what color the babies will be until they are born; even then you can’t be sure because many times their color may change. The main color families are black, chocolate, and gold with virtually every color combination imaginable being produced. Dwarfs can be dalmatian-spotted, pinto-patterned, tri-colored, or just classy shades of solid jet black, white, chocolate, or gold. Buckskin patterns are also popular, described by contrasting facial stripes, a “cape” around the shoulders with a coordinating dorsal stripe, and leg markings. Brown eyes are the most common; however, dwarfs with China blue eyes are becoming increasingly popular and available.

How Much Do They Cost?

The average cost for registered breeding stock is between $200 and $500 per head, with champion pedigrees, milk production recorded animals, and unusual coloring at premium prices. Pet quality stock often costs much less with wethers (neutered males) generally available for $50 to $100.

https://backyardgoats.iamcountryside.com/goat-breeds/all-about-nigerian-dwarf-goats/

Accommodations

Goats should be kept in clean pens free of dampness, drafts, and pests like flies and rodents. They also require adequate fencing due to their small size. Nigerian Dwarf goats should not be housed in airtight buildings; they need to have ventilation for optimum health. For one to just a few goats, many owners find that an oversized dog house or two does the job. Pens or houses should be kept clean with fresh hay or straw for bedding. Many owners find that providing a few “toys” for the goats provides them with hours of caprine entertainment. Tree stumps, rocks, or large cable spools are great for “king of the mountain” games and jumping. Just be sure to keep them away from the fence to avoid giving herd escape artists means to roam your neighborhood!

Breeding Nigerian Dwarf Goats

Dwarf goats breed year-round. Many owners breed their does three times in two years, giving the doe at least a 6-month break. Of course, this is a personal choice for each breeder. The gestation period for a doe is 145 to 153 days. For the most part, Nigerian Dwarfs are a hearty breed with few kidding problems. New babies average about 2 pounds at birth but grow quickly. Watch out for those little bucks! Bucklings can be fertile at as young as 7 weeks of age. Make sure you wean does and bucks separately to help you avoid unintentional breeding.

Does can be bred at 7-8 months of age if they have reached a mature size. Some breeders prefer to wait until they are at least one year or older. Dwarfs does can have several kids at a time, three and four being common with some quintuplet births occurring. Dwarfs are generally good mothers able to take care of their babies should you leave them to do the raising of the kids. They can also provide a surprising amount of milk for their size if you decide you are interested in goat milk or making goat cheese.

Bucks are able to be used for service as young as three months of age and easily by the time they are 7 or 8 months old. Dwarf bucks are vigorous breeders but are gentle enough to be used for hand breeding (contained) or pasture breeding where one buck is available for several does as they come into estrus. Both methods are used successfully.
Feeding Dwarf Goats

Most breeders feed a 12–18% protein goat feed or dairy ration. It must not contain urea as this is toxic to goats. Many breeders give less grain if good pasture and browse are available. Hay or pasture should always be provided in abundant supply. Fresh water in clean containers should also be available at all times.
Health Care

Dwarf goats, like all other breeds, need some basic care for good health and long life. Hooves should be trimmed regularly, about every four to eight weeks or more often if needed. A properly trimmed and shaped hoof should resemble those of a kid goat’s hoof. Vaccinations for tetanus and types C& centermost are the basic types given. Check with your local vet for other vaccinations recommended for your area. Some experienced breeders may immunize their own goats; new owners and breeders should take their goats to the local vet for vaccines. Worming should be done several times a year. Your vet can suggest any special supplements (such as selenium), additional immunizations, and a recommended wormer and worming schedule for your particular herd based on your area and known preventative health measures.

Nigerian Dwarf Goat Registries and Shows

Dwarf goats are registered in 5 registries: four in the United States (NDGA, AGS, IDGR & ADGA) and one in Canada (CGS). Dwarf shows are growing in popularity and are becoming more readily available all over the country. Shows are fun, educational, and a great way to meet other breeders and owners. They are a place to sell your goats or obtain superior stock for breeding. Shows or event information can be obtained through registries, local goat clubs, and organizations, including NDGA.
What’s the Difference Between a Nigerian Dwarf and a Pygmy Goat?

Although they have similar origins, Nigerian Dwarfs and African Pygmies are separate and distinct breeds, with recognized differences. Pygmies are bred to be “cobby” and heavy boned. Dwarfs are bred to have the length of body and more elegant structure that’s similar to their larger dairy goat counterparts. Pygmies are also primarily “agouti” patterned, with black, silver, and caramel being the most common colors.

https://backyardgoats.iamcountryside.com/goat-breeds/all-about-nigerian-dwarf-goats/

All About Nigerian Dwarf Goats.

This Small Goat Breed is Lovable and Gentle, and Produces a Surprising Amount of Milk for Its Size.

The Nigerian Dwarf goat is a miniature goat of West African origin. Nigerian Dwarf goats are enjoying a rise in popularity due to their small size and colorful markings. Their small stature means they do not require as much space as larger dairy goat breeds, and their gentle and friendly personalities make them good companion pets. They are easy to handle; even small children can be at ease with these little goats. The U.S. Department of Agriculture has also approved the Nigerian Dwarf goat as a livestock dairy goat, which makes them eligible for youth 4H and FFA projects.

Nigerian Dwarf goats are easy to handle; even small children can be at ease with these little goats. The U.S. Department of Agriculture has also approved the Nigerian Dwarf goat as a livestock dairy goat, which makes them eligible for youth 4H and FFA projects.
The Nigerian Dwarf is a Miniature Dairy Goat

A healthy Nigerian Dwarf doe can produce a surprising amount of sweet milk for her small size – up to two quarts per day. The Nigerian Dwarf goat milk benefit is that it is higher in butterfat (6-10%) than most dairy goat breeds. However, many Nigerian Dwarf owners do not raise their goats for milk but for the pleasure and companionship, these little caprines bring to their lives.
Nigerian Dwarf Goat Conformation

A Nigerian Dwarf goat’s conformation is similar to that of the larger dairy goat breeds. The parts of the body are in balanced proportion. The nose is straight, although there may be a small break or stop at the level of the eyes. The ears are upright. The coat is soft with short to medium hair. Any color or combination of colors is acceptable, although the silver agouti pattern and color are a moderate fault (Pygmy goat-specific markings).

The ideal height of Nigerian Dwarf goats is 17″ to 19″ for does with does up to 21″ allowed in the breed standard. Ideal height for bucks is 19″ to 21″ with bucks up to 23″ allowed in the breed standard. Ideal weight is suggested to be about 75 lbs. Animals are disqualified from the show ring for being oversized for the breed standard and/or for other faults: having a curly coat, roman nose, pendulous ears, or evidence of myotonia (a breed characteristic of fainting goats).

Nigerian Dwarf Goat Temperament

Dwarf goats are gentle, lovable, and playful. Their calm, even temperament, and engaging personalities make them suitable companions for all, including children, the disabled, and the elderly. Even breeding bucks are handled easily. They make wonderful pets and great animal projects for young children in 4H or FFA. Breeders of other types of goats find their Dwarfs blend in with the rest of their herd and do not need special quarters; just adequate fencing to contain them because of their small size. Many Nigerian Dwarf goats share pastures peacefully with other livestock such as cattle, horses, llamas, and donkeys. In fact, they will often improve a pasture by removing brambles, undergrowth (including weeds), and ivy (even poison ivy) that other livestock won’t eat.


https://backyardgoats.iamcountryside.com/goat-breeds/all-about-nigerian-dwarf-goats/

BACKLINE:Backline strong, straight and horizontal.

FOREQUARTERS:Fine withers, blending firmly into shoulders, wide and deep in bucks with medium width and depth in does.

BODY(barrel):Triple dairy wedge with good spring of rib (which are backward sloping with clean flat bone) and proportional length to height.

HINDQUARTERS:Gradual fall (gentle downward slope) from hips to tail, good width between hips flaring out to thurls, rump level across thurls.

LEGS(hooves):Straight, strong, parallel with flat bone, with pasterns short and strong (nearly upright/vertical). Hooves sound and well-shaped with good heel depth.

UDDER:Broad attachment high at rear and well forward in front (at least as far forward as the front of the hip bones) and no pocket, not pendulous or unduly divided, side well attached to inner thighs, strong medial ligament, soft textured and showing good capacity. Skin tan to black.

TEATS:Set in the centre and lowest point of each udder half, to be a reasonable size to enable hand milking or ease of cup placement.

TESTICLES:Two testicles in a well attached scrotum which is relatively even (in summer may have the appearance of being pendulous).

RUDIMENTARY TEATS:Two good size teats set slightly to the fore and side of the scrotum, milking bucks will have doe sized teats.

SIZE:Does – maximum 57cm (22.5″), minimum 43cm (17″). Bucks – max 60cm (23.5″), minimum 43cm (17″). Measurement to be taken after reaching 4 years of age.

COAT:Soft, hair is short to medium in length.

COLOUR:Any colour and pattern. Skin tan to black.

DIFFERING FROM IDEAL(found and recognised): Horned. Uneven tassels.

FAULTS:Roman nose. Roach or sway back. Dip behind the wither. Shallow body. Narrow chest. Steep rump. Flat rump (no gradual fall from hips to tail). Width decreasing from hips to thurls. Toe in or out. Cow or bow hocked. Dropped, weak or long pasterns. Postiness. Dew claws different sizes. Splayed feet. Fleshy, pendulous or unduly divided udder. Pocket in udder. Undefined medial ligament/flat sole. Pink skin. Teats: different sized teats, bulbous, extremely small/thick, sideways pointing. Bucks: unduly pendulous, divided testicles. Under recommended minimum height.

DISQUALIFICATIONS:Wry face. Double or supernumerary teats. Double orifices. Blind teats. Spurs/sprigs on teats. Pendulous ears, LaMancha ears. Undescended testicles in bucks, or one testicle only. Obviously undershot or overshot jaw (side profile). Over breed standard recommended maximum height or under the breed standard minimum height when measured at 4 years of age (or older) disqualifies animals from registration in Purebred Section.
https://dairygoats.org.au/dairy-goat-breeds/nigerian-dwarf/

Nigerian Dwarf
History

Small goats from West Africa (the West African Dwarf) and/or the Southern Sudan were the origins of the Nigerian Dwarf Dairy Goat. These little goats were used as a feed source for the large cats which were shipped to zoos in the USA. Those that survived became zoo attractions themselves, breeding and increasing their numbers until some were sold to private collectors/breeders. Eventually these animals developed into two distinct types one being cobby, the Pygmy, and the other a dairy styled goat, the Nigerian Dwarf. The Nigerian Dwarf breeders continued to refine and develop the breed to become miniatures in conformation of a standard height Dairy Goat.

The American Goat Society opened the Herd Book to Nigerian Dwarfs in 1984 and in 2002 they were accepted into the American Dairy Goat Association’s Herd Book. Upon importation the Dairy Goat Society of Australia in May 2016 recognised the Nigerian Dwarf breed by providing for them a standard and a register in their Herd Book.

The first genetic material imported into Australia was by Michael and Ulrike Garwood (First Fleet) who imported embryos and semen in early 2014 and Paul Hamilton (Semtech Animal Breeding Service) who imported semen in 2015. The Garwood’s first semen imports were of Dav-Lyn Appalossa, Highpoints Arnoth and Pecan Knoll Bob the Builder. Mr Hamilton imported Castle Rock Guy Noir, Lost Valley TB Cairo and Beaujest W Julian Gitchi.

The Nigerian Dwarf produces an average of 1.8 litres of milk at their peak with the maximum being 4 litres for exceptional does.

Their butterfat percentage ranges from, on average, 6%-10% with the protein content being correspondingly higher than that of standard height does. Cheese produced from their milk has a very smooth and silky texture making the Nigerian Dwarf a very popular dairy goat for artisan cheese makers.
Breed Standard

GENERAL APPEARANCE: Robust, dairy type with triple dairy wedge, feminine does, masculine bucks, well blended, no tendency to coarseness, well proportioned.

HEAD (skull, eyes, ears, mouth, nostrils):Medium length. Facial line – dished or straight. Ears medium sized and pricked. Well-developed muzzle. Polled or disbudded, eyes large and bright and set well apart, can be either brown/gold or blue with no preference given to either colour, no coarseness.

NECK:Blending smoothly into the shoulders with no coarseness, with or without tassels. Does, long and feminine. Bucks, masculine and strong.

https://dairygoats.org.au/dairy-goat-breeds/nigerian-dwarf/

American Goat Society (AGS)

The American Goat Society has been registering Nigerian Dwarf Dairy Goats since 1983.

The Nigerian Dwarf is a miniature breed of dairy goat originating from West Africa and developed in the United States. The balanced proportions of the Nigerian Dwarf give it an appearance similar to the larger, Swiss breeds of dairy goats. Shorter height is the primary breed characteristic of the Nigerian Dwarf, with does measuring no more than 22 1/2" at the withers, and bucks measuring no more than 23 1/2" at the withers. They are known for their high-quality milk, often with exceptionally high butterfat content. Nigerian Dwarves are gregarious, friendly, hardy animals that thrive in almost any climate. The medium-length ears are erect and alert. The face is either straight or slightly dished. The coat is of medium length, and straight. The Nigerian Dwarf is the only dairy breed known to occasionally have blue eyes. Both brown & blue eyed animals are encountered, with no preference being given to either eye color. Any pattern, color, or combination of colors is acceptable.
https://www.andda.org/breed-standards

The original closing date for the herdbook was set on December 31, 1987. A change in the standard that year, however, would allow animals that previously were ineligible, and the date was extended to December 31, 1990. In 1990, with fewer than 400 Nigerian Dwarves registered, the AGS Board voted to extend the deadline until December 31, 1992, to allow for a sufficient genetic base of foundation stock. The certification process did end in 1992, and all animals registered through this point, whether by ancestry or committee approval, carry an "F" suffix to their registration number to indicate that they are considered a foundation animal. Unfortunately, accurate records were not kept as to exactly how many animals were admitted via certification, but by the end of 1992, a total of approximately 2000 Nigerian Dwarves had been registered with the American Goat Society.

There was still some concern that the breed needed a broader genetic base, and a progeny program was put into place until December 31, 1997. An unregistered animal would still be considered for registration if, when bred to several different AGS registered Nigerian Dwarves (3 for does, 4 for bucks), the animal and all surviving offspring met breed standard and received unanimous approval of the Nigerian Dwarf committee. Again, accurate records were not kept, but one committee member recalls very few of these coming through the committee. In keeping with AGS philosophy of closed, purebred herdbooks, since January 1, 1998, the only way to be registered as a purebred Nigerian Dwarf is to be the offspring of two registered purebred Nigerian Dwarves. While undoubtedly there have been animals of varied background admitted to the herdbook, essentially since 1992 we have had a closed herdbook All breeds begin somewhere, and what is more important than what we started with, is where we are going. Using the wide genetic base created through the open herdbook, breeders are now molding the breed into a superior milk-producing animal of unmistakable dairy goat type that also happens to be small. While the Nigerian Dwarf and the Pygmy share a common ancestry, they have become two, distinct breeds through the efforts of breeders of both of the breeds.

The popularity of the breed has continued to grow, in part because of AGS sanctioned shows being held across the country. The first show that offered a separate sanction for the breed was the 1985 AGS National Show held in Graham, Texas. Only two exhibitors of Nigerian Dwarves were present (Shaula Parker and Kathleen Claps), and the breed was' official, but there has been no looking back since.

Pine Cone Valley Black Satin, a doe that is listed as an original import, owned by Ms. Claps, had the distinction of being crowned the first AGS National Champion Nigerian Dwarf. While the popularity of shows skyrocketed after this, another AGS National Show wouldn't be held until 1996. Through the hard work of Nigerian Dwarf breeders, an AGS sanctioned National Show has been held every year since. Interestingly, the 4 does win the national after Black Satin all trace back to her many times.

From the first show in 1985 with a few animals, it is now not uncommon for a show of Nigerian Dwarves only to approach 200 animals. AGS sanctioned shows are being held in almost every part of the country, and Nigerian Dwarf breeders are traveling thousands of miles a year to promote the breed and their herds.

In 2002, the Nigerian Dwarf was also accepted into the American Dairy Goat Association herdbook. The first ADGA National with a Nigerian show will be held in 2010.

Looking back at the breeders that have made this all happen, we need to start with Mrs. Abrahamson. It was her vision that the breed is classified separately from what was known as the Pygmy. Due to her failing health, Mrs. Abrahamson was forced to sell her herd in 1981, and Robert Johnson, the owner of IDGR, purchased her herd. Her Bullfrog Alley herd can be found in many of today's Nigerian Dwarves, either directly, or more commonly through Mr. Johnson's Pine Cone Valley herd.

Of course, Mr. Wood, working primarily with the brown line, was quite influential, and Highland Woods animals are evident in many pedigrees. Mr. Wood worked closely with Mr. Wright of Wrights Acres, and those animals appear in many pedigrees as well. Ms. Freeman's Braco herd, primarily through the popularity of one buck, can be found in many pedigrees. Of these early breeders, unfortunately, many are no longer alive or no longer active. Ms. Freeman still breeds goats, but her herd is known more for its Pygmies.

Moving a bit forward, we find three other prominent herds that have heavily influenced the Nigerian Dwarf breed. Mrs. Sandra Mason, now of Medina, Ohio, but previously from Texas and then Washington, owns the Brush Creek herd. Much of her original herd traced to the San Antonio zoo that reportedly had direct imports. Mrs. Mason has been breeding Nigerian Dwarves since 1982, was an AGS Nigerian Dwarf committee chairperson and an ANDDA Director.

Also beginning in 1982 was Mrs. Shaula Parker of Willow Park, Texas. Breeding under the herd name of Willows or Willow Creek, Mrs. Parker's animals can be found in pedigrees throughout the country. Additionally, Mrs. Parker was the breeder of the 1996 National Best of Breed doe. Mrs. Parker and Mrs. Mason formed a very close relationship, and animals from each herd could be found in the other. Also, these two ladies co-edited the first breed publication, Footnotes*.

The last herd to be mentioned is that of Ms. Kathleen Claps, of Dripping Springs, Texas. Her Goodwood animals have stamped a very distinctive type across the breed. The achievement of Goodwood animals is nothing less than remarkable. The first Master Champions bear the Goodwood name, the 1997 National Best of Breed doe was a Goodwood doe, the first animals on the test were owned by Goodwood. Ms. Claps was also the founder of one of the original breed organizations for the breed, and following the decision to stop publishing Footnotes*, Ms. Claps began the breed magazine, Ruminations, and was its editor for many years. These three ladies have done more than most of us will ever know in the formation of the breed to what it has become today.

https://www.andda.org/breed-standards

Breed History of the Nigerian Dwarf Dairy Goat

Like many breeds of domesticated livestock, the complete history of the Nigerian Dwarf is incomplete. Through the years and stages of development, records were not always kept, or if they were, they are sketchy at best. Developing the history of the breed is much like putting a jigsaw puzzle together that is missing many of its pieces. To reach the present-day Nigerian Dwarf, one has to use a combination of documented facts, speculation, deductive reasoning, and a little imagination. In the 1980's the Nigerian Dwarf was considered "rare" by the American Livestock Breeds Conservancy. In 2013 the breed was removed from its listing and is now thriving.

What is known is that throughout tropical Western Africa, there is a type of goat referred to as the West African Dwarf (WAD). These goats are used as a food source, both meat, and milk, for the local population. Due to economic hardships, keeping "pets" was not an option. It appears that little thought is used in breeding and it is truly a survival of the fittest phenomenon taking place. In the writings about Albert Schweitzer and his work at his hospital in Lambrene in the country now known as Gabone, the local goat is oftentimes referred to, and in fact, is credited with supplying the milk for the hospital. The imported breeds typically known as dairy breeds weren't able to withstand the Tse-Tse fly and therefore were not productive. The WAD goats continued to survive and thrive. Throughout books on Dr. Schweitzer, pictures of goats similar in type to what is referred to as Nigerian Dwarves in the U.S. can be found.​

Exactly how the WAD goats came to American soil is one of the missing pieces in the puzzle. One theory is that as the big cats were shipped to zoos, goats were loaded on to the vessels as a food source for the cats while in transit. The goats that weren't consumed went on to the zoos. As early as 1918, Joseph Crepin reported in the second edition of la Chevre that WAD goats had been imported to the United States. Additionally, there were several documented importations from the 1930s to the 1960s.

The beginning of the breed in this country lies in zoos. The first miniature goats to appear in this country were part of zoo exhibits, and occasionally research institutions. As the population began to grow, it became necessary to reduce the number of animals and individuals had their first opportunity to own these unique goats. Originally, all small goats of WAD origin were indiscriminately referred to as pygmies. In the beginning, pygmy was used more to describe the size of a goat rather than a specific breed, much like Swiss is oftentimes used to refer to the various erect eared breeds hailing from Europe.

As time went on, breeders began to notice differences in type within what had become the Pygmy breed. It became apparent that there were two distinct types: the shorter-legged, heavier bodied, round bone animals more typical of what is known today as a Pygmy, and the more refined, angular animal that has become today's Nigerian Dwarf. As breeders began to communicate, they discovered there were others in the United States and Canada that had similar observances. Mrs. Bonnie Abrahamson of North Ogden, Utah, while working in a zoo in California was one of the first to notice the distinctive difference.

Mrs. Abrahamson brought several black and white animals that she referred to as Nigerian Dwarves to an AGS Pygmy certification committee. Despite their more refined type and dairy appearance, these animals were accepted into the AGS Pygmy herdbook. At about the same time, Mr. Heabert Woods of Alexandria, Indiana, had animals similar in type to Mrs. Abrahamsons, but brown in color, refused entry into the National Pygmy Goat Associations herdbooks because of their color.

These two breeders petitioned the International Dairy Goat Registry (IDGR) to open a herdbook for Nigerian Dwarves. IDGR opened a separate herdbook for the breed, complete with a standard emphasizing dairy characteristics, and on July 24, 1981, Mr. Robert Johnson's Bullfrog Alleys Johnny Jump-Up #2, a buck bred by Mrs. Abrahamson, became the first Nigerian Dwarf registered by any registry. By January 1987, there were 384 animals registered in the herdbooks of IDGR as Nigerian Dwarves, with 93 of those registered the previous year alone. In part, largely because IDGR does not sanction shows, the popularity of the registry has waned over the years.

The early Nigerian Dwarves were seen most often in three distinct color lines, all of the similar types, even though many of the early breeders attempted to keep each color line separate from the others. A majority of these early animals were brown, black or gold, all with or without random white markings. Possibly because of the limited number of representatives of the breed, breeders did begin to mix the color lines fairly early on, although references to specific color lines could still be found as late as 1988.

In 1984, the American Goat Society (AGS) opened a herdbook for Nigerian Dwarves, and by September of the following year, 82 animals, representing breeders from 8 states and Canada had been registered. The first AGS registered Nigerian Dwarf distinction goes to Wrights Pansy, AGS # D-1f, owned by Francis Wright of Indiana. Mr. Woods was instrumental in getting a separate herdbook for the breed with AGS and was made the chairman of the Nigerian Dwarf committee. Mr. Wright and Pat Freeman of Dutton, Ontario completed the original Nigerian Dwarf committee for AGS.

To form the foundation of the breed, applications were submitted to the committee, along with a clear photograph of the animal and a measurement of the animal at the withers. If the committee unanimously agreed that the animal, which had to be at least one year of age, met the breed standard, the animal was then eligible to be registered as a purebred Nigerian Dwarf. Animals that were accepted for registration using this process are oftentimes referred to as a committee animal. Some of the animals submitted, such as Mrs. Abrahamson's, were previously registered as Pygmies. It also would include animals with unknown backgrounds that showed true Nigerian Dwarf characteristics, and as time went on, animals that were of registered ancestry but which did not have the paperwork kept up. Many times, it was easier to submit the animal for certification than to retrace paperwork for several generations.

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Capra hircus

The Nigerian dwarf is a miniature goat from West Africa. It has been domesticated as a dairy goat and can be found throughout the world. Goats are herbivores.

Nigerian goat behavior and facts

Goats are browsers, eating tips of woody shrubs and trees. They often improve a pasture by removing blackberry, weedy undergrowth and ivy (even poison ivy and poison oak) that other livestock won't eat.
A doe can produce up to two quarts per day of milk that is higher in butterfat (6 to 10 percent) and protein than milk from most dairy goat breeds.
Nigerian dwarf goats are raised for milk production but also as pets. They are gregarious, friendly and hardy and can thrive in almost any climate. Their gentle, calm and playful nature makes them good companion pets for children and disabled and elderly people.
Their small size means they do not require as much space or feed as larger dairy goat breeds.
Color is one factor that makes these goats popular: black, gold, chocolate, Dalmatian-spotted, pint-patterned and other combinations are possible.

From birth to death

Breed: year round
Gestation: 145 to 153 days
Kids: 3 to 4, each 2 pounds at birth
Sexual maturity: 3 months for males; 7 to 8 months for females
Lifespan: 15 years

Vital statistics

Females: 22.5 inches at the withers; males: 23.5 inches at the withers
Ideal weight: 75 pounds

Status

Nigerian goats are considered rare by the American Livestock Breeds Conservancy. The U.S. Department of Agriculture has approved the Nigerian dwarf goat as a livestock dairy goat, which makes the breed eligible for youth 4H and FFA projects.
Nigerian goats, the Oregon Zoo and you

The zoo's goats live at the Family Farm.

https://www.oregonzoo.org/discover/animals/nigerian-dwarf-goat

The Nigerian Dwarf is small but well-proportioned; its conformation resembles that of larger dairy goats.[4]: 399  It may be horned or naturally hornless.[2] The coat is fine and fairly short, and may be of any color, or multicolored;[2] common colors are gold, chocolate and black, frequently with white markings. The facial profile may be concave or straight; the ears are upright.[4]: 399  The average weight is approximately 35 kg (75 lb), while maximum height is about 60 cm (24 in) for males and slightly less for females;[4]: 399  stock bred for dairy performance may be rather larger than show or companion animals.[2]

It is a precocious breed – young stock may be bred from an early age: males from about three months, females from seven or eight months.[7] The gestation period is in the range 145–153 days;[7] the twinning rate is high, and triplet and quadruplet births are not uncommon.[4]: 399 [2] Life expectancy is from 8–12 years.[7]
he Nigerian Dwarf was originally bred for show and as a companion animal. It was later also bred for dairy use.[2] Average milk yield of dairy stock is 340 kg (750 lb) per year;[8]: 284  a yield of 993 kg (2190 lb) in a lactation of 305 days was recorded in 2018.[9]: 3  Lactation usually lasts for about ten months.[2] The milk is high in butterfat and protein, averaging 6.5% and 3.9% respectively,[8]: 284  and is suitable for making cheese and butter.[2]

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Nigerian_Dwarf_goat

Let me welcome myself back to the thread having survived 2 bans within 72 hours. So a little introduction here. I am Quaint Soknown, a nurse of great repute. I love farming in all its ramifications. I started the thread to spread information on what we have always known as ours but could not put a name to it.
I grew up in the village, so I know West African dwarf goats and pigmy goats but I never knew there is a Nigerian dwarf goat. I have a friend here in the UK, her Grandma has a farm, she was telling me about the animals on the farm which include some Nigerian dwarf goat. I was surprised about the name so I did a little search on the internet.
This breed has been all over the world, it has breeding information, standards, and association in the US, Canada, Uk, and Australia. I wanted to document this breed on Nairaland, giving as much information as I could lay my hands on. Hope you will enjoy the thread and possibly learn a few things.
Lastly, farmers within Nigeria should start thinking about documenting their experiences, liaise with universities and research institutions on improving the different types of animals within the country. Also forming associations to inform breeding standards across the board.
Now let me continue before Antispam bots ban me again.

Shell’s Turritella vessel sets the record for the world’s deepest FPSO, reaching to impressive depths of 2,900 metres. Located in Stone’s Field in the US Gulf of Mexico, this FPSO copes with extreme weather conditions in an area known for severe storms and hurricanes. Purpose-built for Stone’s Field, the vessel boasts the world’s largest disconnectable buoy, allowing it to quickly sail away in the event of hurricanes and later re-connect to resume operation. In yet another record breaker, it the first vessel to combine a disconnectable buoy with steel ‘lazy wave’ risers – an innovation which absorbs the impact of large waves, steadying the vessel and enhancing production performance at extreme depths.

https://www.brunel.net/en-au/blog/oil-and-gas/record-breaking-fpsos

Grandfather of all FPSOs, the Arco Ardjuna vessel was built in 1973 and is yet to retire, making it the longest serving FPSO in the world. Operated by Pertamina, the 48-year-old vessel is moored at the Ardjuna Oil Field in the Java Sea, approximately 95km from Jakarta. At the time of its construction, the 53,734 tonne FPSO was one of the largest vessels in the world.

https://www.brunel.net/en-au/blog/oil-and-gas/record-breaking-fpsos

Floating Production Storage and Offloading (FPSO) vessels certainly have the wow factor: their sheer size, processing power and capability of operating for decades without pause make them impressive facilities - and invaluable to the oil and gas industry. We take a look at the largest, oldest and deepest FPSO vessels in the world.

FPSOs have become the primary operating systems for many offshore oil and gas producing regions across the globe. These ship-shaped vessels are quite the structural engineering feat: designed to suit a variety of environmental conditions and water depths, they are capable of staying on location for continuous operations upwards of 20 years. FPSOs collect fluids from subsea reservoirs through risers (rigid or flexible pipes). These fluids are then separated into crude oil, natural gas, water and impurities within production facilities onboard. Crude oil is stored in internal tanks before being offloaded onto shuttle tankers for distribution. Currently, there are approximately 183 operating FPSOs: here we take a look at the largest, the oldest and the deepest in the world.

Weighing in at 220,000 tonnes with a storage capacity of 2.3 million barrels, the Egina FPSO is the largest in the world, by capacity. Operated by TotalEnergies, the $3 billion vessel is 330 metres long, 61 metres wide and 34 metres tall, and is currently moored at the Egina oil field, 200km off the coast of Nigeria. Connected to 44 subsea wells, this immense facility can produce up to 208,000 barrels of oil per day and is responsible for almost 10% of Nigeria’s total oil production.

https://www.brunel.net/en-au/blog/oil-and-gas/record-breaking-fpsos

So the major difference between a FPSO and FSO is that one can produce, store, and off load crude while the other can only store and off load. The two of them are floaring on the water, bouyed into positions by strong anchors.

Some platforms can process oil and gas but can not store, so these ones are the production platforms, that need FSO to complete cycle of storing and offloading. At the extreme end of this spectrum are FDPSO - Floating drilling production storage and offloading vessels.

In the liquefied gas sector, there are FSRU - Floating storage and regasification unit.

The first oil FPSO was built in 1977 on the Shell Castellon field, located in the Spanish Mediterranean.[7] Today, over 270 vessels are deployed worldwide as oil FPSOs.[8]

On July 29, 2009, Shell and Samsung announced an agreement to build up to 10 LNG FPSOs,[9] at the same Samsung Yard. Flex LNG appeared to construct smaller units.[10]

One of the world's largest FPSO is the Kizomba A, with a storage capacity of 2.2 million barrels (350,000 m3). Built at a cost of over US$ 800 million by Hyundai Heavy Industries in Ulsan, Korea, it is operated by Esso Exploration Angola (ExxonMobil). Located in 1200 meters (3,940 ft) of water at Deep water block 200 statute miles (320 km) offshore from Angola, Central Africa in the Atlantic Ocean, it weighs 81,000 tonnes and is 285 meters long, 63 meters wide, and 32 meters high (935 ft by 207 ft by 105 ft).[22]

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Floating_production_storage_and_offloading