ABSTRACT
Considerable amount of grains arc lost annually in the country. The losses are attributed to lack of or poor storage facilities. In most part of Nigeria, farmers store their grains in traditional storage structures. However, about 30% - 40% of grains stored in these structures are often lost to insects, rodents, birds, micro-organisms, five and theft. Governments participation in grains storage has been declining in recent times compared to its policy on increasing food production. This action has led to the increased amount of grains lost annually. Reduction of these huge losses is an acknowledged means of increasing the available food supply. On this premise., the thesis concentrated on the study of the causes of grains deterioration and losses during storage. Other factors that influence storage practices and grains handling were also looked into. The effect of the storage environment on grains longevity were also studied. The design of the grains storage and distribution centre. Lokoja is aimed at reducing grams losses during storage and providing the conducive environment for long term storage of grains. The centre is provided with all the facilities that will enhance successful grains storage and distribution.