E-Extension Agricultural Technologies Utilization Among Arable Crop Farmers in Southwest Nigeria

Abstract

The advancement of Information and Communication Technologies (ICTs) has revolutionised agricultural extension services globally, offering innovative channels to enhance farmers' access to vital information. In Nigeria, e-extension agricultural technologies hold significant promise for improving productivity, sustainability, and food security, especially among arable crop farmers in Southwest Nigeria. This study assessed the utilisation patterns, adoption levels, and influencing factors of e-extension technologies among arable crop farmers in the region. A descriptive survey research design was adopted, targeting a sample of 500 farmers across three purposively selected states, Ondo, Ogun, and Oyo using a multistage sampling technique. Data were collected via structured questionnaires and analysed using descriptive statistics, Chi-square tests, correlation, and multiple regression analysis. Findings revealed a moderate to high level of awareness (weighted mean = 3.17) of mobile agricultural technologies, with platforms such as Hello Tractor, Facebook, mobile banking apps, and IITA Herbicide Calculator demonstrating higher utilisation rates. However, specialised tools like Google Trader and Farmcrowdy recorded low engagement. Adoption levels varied across technologies, with broader acceptance seen in multipurpose platforms compared to niche agricultural applications. Regression analysis identified gender, age, marital status, household size, and farmland acquisition as significant predictors of technology utilisation, while religion and ethnicity were insignificant. The study concludes that while e-extension technologies are gaining traction among arable crop farmers in Southwest Nigeria, barriers such as limited awareness of specialised applications and socio-demographic disparities persist. Targeted training and inclusive digital policies are recommended to enhance adoption and bridge existing gaps, thereby fostering more sustainable and productive agricultural practices.

Keywords: E-extension, agricultural technologies, arable crop farmers, technology adoption, Southwest Nigeria

Citation: Ale A.B. & Akingbade O. (2025). E-Extension Agricultural Technologies Utilization Among Arable Crop Farmers in Southwest Nigeria. Journal of Education, Science and Technology 2025, (1) 1.55-63.

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