Effect of ICT Utilization on the Efficiency of Rice Marketing in Ogbomoso North, Oyo State, Nigeria

This study examines the impact of ICT utilization on the efficiency of rice marketing in the Ogbomoso North Local Government Area, Oyo State, Nigeria. It highlights the role of ICT tools, such as digital payment systems, mobile phones, and radio, in facilitating real-time information exchange and improving marketing efficiency. Data were collected from 80 rice marketers through structured questionnaires using a combination of descriptive statistics, budgetary analysis, multiple regression, and Tobit regression models. Findings reveal that most rice marketers adopt ICT tools, with digital payment systems being the most commonly used. ICT adoption enhances market access, price transparency, and transaction efficiency, ultimately improving marketing performance. However, challenges like poor internet access, inadequate ICT infrastructure, and low digital literacy hinder full adoption. Despite these limitations, the study underscores ICT's potential to transform rice marketing. It recommends targeted interventions, including digital literacy training and infrastructure development, to maximize the benefits of ICT in the sector.