PLANTAIN ENVIRONMENT

Plantain and their environment , plantain production in Africa is estimated at more than 50% of worldwide production (FAO, 1990). The majority (82%) of plantain in Africa are produced in the area stretching from lowlands of Guinea and Liberia to the central basin of the Democratic Republic of Congo. West and Centre Africa contribute 61 and 21% respectively (FAO, 1986)

Nigeria is one of the largest plantain producing countries in the world (FAO). Despite its prominence, Nigeria does not feature among plantain exporting nations because it produces more for local consumption than for export.

However, these figures do not show regional reliance, which is often very important for highly perishable crops that are usually consumed in or near areas of production. The consumption of plantain has risen tremendously in Nigeria in recent years because of the rapidly increasing urbanization and the great demand for easy and convenient foods by the non-farming urban populations. Beside being the staple for many people in more human regions, plantain is delicacy and favored snack for people in other ecologies.