Utilisation of Artificial Intelligence-based Technology for Agricultural Extension Services among Extension Professionals in Nigeria

Abstract

The study examined the current awareness and usage, determined the level of utilisation of AI-based digital technology for agricultural extension services, and identified the merit and demerit of using AI-based digital technology for agricultural extension services. Data were collected through an online structured questionnaire from 131 extension professionals across Nigeria. Percentage and mean were used to describe and summarise the data. The findings revealed that 79.4% of the respondents were aware that AI-based digital technology can be used for agricultural extension services, while 55.7% reported that they had used the technology at one time or the other. About 45% of the respondents disseminated innovations and 34% demonstrated innovations and technologies through the use of AI-based digital technology. Also, 77.9% perceived reaching the target audience everywhere and every time as the major merit of AI- based digital technology while 71.8% identified high-cost implications of digital enablers as its major demerit. There was a high level of awareness but a low level of utilization of AI-based digital technology for agricultural extension services among agricultural extension professionals. On-the-job capacity building should be organized for the current professionals to promote the use of AIbased digital technology for agricultural extension services in Nigeria.