Journal of Agricultural Extension (Dec 2016)
Mobile Phone Use for Agribusiness by Farmers in Southwest Nigeria
Abstract
The emergence of Information and Communication Technology (ICT) has led to an increased adoption and use of mobile phones, even by rural farmers, for agribusinesses. Scanty studies, however, have focused on the use and influence of mobile phones for agribusiness in Nigeria. Therefore, this study investigated how farmers in Southwest Nigeria use mobile phones for agribusiness, the benefits of the use of mobile phones, and the challenges the farmers face using the device. Driven by theory of Information and Communication Technology for Development, this study adopted Survey and Focus Group Discussion (FGD) methods. While Stratified, Simple Random, Purposive and Convenience sampling techniques were employed to select the sample, questionnaire and FGD guide were used to collect data. For agribusiness, the mostly used mobile phone feature by farmers is radio (75.9%) while the mostly deployed phone service is voice call (83.4%). Mobile phone use contributed to increase in farmers’ income, reduction in transaction and transportation costs, and increase in farm productivity. However, epileptic electricity supply hinders the effective use of mobile phones for agribusiness. Infrastructural facilities, especially electricity, should be provided in the rural areas to enable farmers use mobile phones effectively for agribusiness activities and ensure sustainable agricultural development.
