ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE AND AGRICULTURAL DEVELOPMENT IN NIGERIA

Abstract

This paper discussed the application of artificial intelligence on agriculture. Secondary data were used in the paper. The data were collected from print and online publications. The paper concluded artificial intelligence (Al) can be applied to improve irrigation systems, for weeding of crops, to monitor livestock health, to sort and aid harvesting of produce, to detect leaks or damage to irrigation systems, to monitor crop and soil and to predict weather and price forecasting. On the area of Al benefits to farmers, the paper pointed out that artificial intelligence (Al) can aid decision making, cost saving and reduction in labor shortage. The paper recommended that government should increase investment in agricultural sectors and provide loans facilities for farmers to enable tem acquires modern artificial intelligence tools to boost agricultural production in Nigeria. Government should also ensure effective capacity building for farmers in rural communities with requisite knowledge and information necessary to promote utilization of Artificial Intelligence.