SOIL CLASSIFICATION AND LAND SUITABILITY EVALUATION OF SOIL OF ZABARMARI FOR SUSTAINABLE RICE PRODUCTION

This study focuses on understanding the nature of soils in the Zabarmari floodplain of Maiduguri, Borno State, and how suitable they are for rice (Oryza sativa L.) production. The floodplain plays an important role in local rice farming, yet detailed information on its soil properties and limitations has been limited. To address this, three representative soil profiles were examined across the area. Soil samples were collected and analyzed to determine key physical and chemical properties such as texture, bulk density, water-holding capacity, pH, organic matter, nutrient status, and salinity.Using these characteristics, the soils were classified according to the USDA Soil Taxonomy and the World Reference Base (WRB). The soils were identified as Typic Paleustalfs (Haplic Luvisols), Typic Dystrudepts (Clayic Cambisols), and Typic Haplusterts (Haplic Vertisols). Land suitability for rice was evaluated using FAO-recommended qualitative and parametric methods. The findings show that the soils generally have good physical conditions for lowland rice cultivation, particularly due to their ability to retain water. However, low organic matter and nitrogen levels were identified as the main constraints to optimal rice production. Under current conditions, the soils are in the N1 class which is currently not suitable for rice, but their suitability can be improved with proper soil management practices such as fertilizer application and organic matter enhancement. The study provides useful information to support better soil management, sustainable rice farming, and informed land-use planning in the Zabarmari floodplain.