Willingness to adopt precision agriculture: An analysis of Gombe and Bauchi States of Nigeria

Abstract

Adoption of Precision Agriculture (PA) technologies has apparent benefits for agricultural production management, cost savings, and  environmental sustainability. However, these technologies are also extremely complicated and influenced by various social and economic  forces, which impact their adoption rate, particularly in developing nations. Demographic and agricultural characteristics also  play an important role in determining willingness to adopt PA. This study is a survey aimed at establishing the willingness indices of farmers and other relevant personnel to embrace precision farming technologies in Gombe and Bauchi states of Nigeria. The survey  included individuals of varied ages; but an average age of 28.5 years for Gombe and 36.5 years for Bauchi, educational levels, and  employment statuses, as well as agricultural and operational features. The willingness to adopt PA is high in both states, with 92% in  Gombe and 96% in Bauchi. The findings suggest that, while high costs and a lack of technical know-how had a negative impact on  readiness to adopt PA in both states, the level of complexity was rated higher by the older generation in Bauchi state, which had a  comparatively high mean farmer age. The size of the farm and the number of employees had no direct influence on the adoption of PA  technology. Other criteria, such as age and number of years of operation, indicate overlap between the various stages of internet and  digital technology adoption, mechanization, and PA. The high willingness rating indicates that farmers are willing to adopt PA  technologies if made accessible. It is therefore advised that legislative tools, training programs, and necessary access to financing  facilities be employed to make these technologies available and cheap for farmers.