A Review of the Digitalization of Agriculture in Nigeria

Abstract

It has become difficult to articulate the impacts, needs and challenges of digitalization of agriculture due to the extensive nature of publications relating to the digitalization of the agricultural sector. This review evaluated the effect of digitalization of agriculture on improved food production and standard of living, identified the training needs of extension staff and clientele for digitalization of agriculture, and highlighted the challenges of digitalization of agriculture. From an initial search of 208 articles, only 87 articles met the inclusion criteria using the PRISMA guidelines. Most articles were published between 2016 and 2020; more studies were carried out in the South Western region of the country. Digitalization of agriculture has reduced the role of middlemen, provided opportunities for farmers to expand their markets, and improved the linkage between extension and research centers, and productivity and livelihood of small-scale farmers. Training needs for effective digitalization of agriculture were in skills, use of relevant digital services, digital privacy and security risks. Challenges of digitalization of agriculture were lack of technical skill, poor infrastructure and high cost of purchase and maintenance. The government should focus on initiating agricultural technology transfer programs and provide the necessary rural infrastructure to support the sector's digitalisation.