PRECISION FISH FARMING IN NIGERIA: CHALLENGES AND OPPORTUNITIES

The use of modern technologies such as Artificial Intelligence (AI), the Internet of Things (IoT), and Machine Learning in Agriculture has revolutionized agricultural practices and productivity. Precision Fish Farming (PFF) is the use of technology and automation in aquaculture to improve the accuracy and repeatability of fish farming operations thereby enhancing productivity, environmental sustainability, and overall fish health and welfare. This paper examines the application of PFF tools among fish farmers in Delta State, Nigeria, focusing on their challenges and potential solutions. Using Google Forms distributed via WhatsApp, 201 fish farmers were surveyed to evaluate their knowledge, degree of acceptance, and limitations in using PFF technology. Descriptive analysis tools such as frequency, percentages, pie charts, and bar charts were used for visualization of the result as well as a Pareto chart to show the causes of non-adoption of precision fish farming tools by the fish farmers in the study area. Our findings revealed that while 55.72% of farmers are aware of PFF tools, only 33.33% have implemented water quality monitoring sensors, with no adoption of automated feeding systems or fish health monitoring tools. High costs (22.22%), lack of knowledge (33.33%), and limited access to technology (55.72%) were identified as major barriers to adoption. To improve the use PFF tools among Nigerian fish farmers, the researchers advise infrastructural expansion such as providing stable electricity and internet access, financial aid, and regular training.