HARNESSING ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE FOR AGRICULTURAL EXTENSION AND ECONOMIC SUSTAINABILITY IN DELTA STATE, NIGERIA

Abstract

This study investigated the potential of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in enhancing agricultural extension services and economic sustainability among farmers in Delta State, Nigeria. Using a cross-sectional survey design, data were collected from 384 farmers across three agricultural zones over a six-month period (March-August 2024). Results revealed that 68.2% of farmers had moderate awareness of AI technologies, while only 23.7% had high awareness levels. The study found significant positive relationships between AI adoption and farm productivity (r=0.742, p<0.001), with AI-adopting farmers recording 34.6% higher yields compared to non-adopters. Multiple regression analysis showed that education level (β=0.358, p<0.001), access to mobile technology (β=0.412, p<0.001), and extension contact (β=0.287, p<0.01) significantly predicted AI adoption. Economic analysis indicated that farmers utilizing AI-powered advisory services experienced a 28.4% increase in annual income, with return on investment of 2.43:1. However, challenges including poor internet connectivity (81.5%), high smartphone costs (73.8%), and inadequate training (69.3%) were identified as major barriers. The study concludes that while AI presents substantial opportunities for transforming agricultural extension in Delta State, strategic interventions in infrastructure development, capacity building, and policy support are imperative for sustainable adoption.

Keywords: Artificial Intelligence, Agricultural Extension, Economic Sustainability, Digital Agriculture, Delta State Nigeria