DIGITAL TRANSFORMATION OF RURAL AGRICULTURE IN NIGERIA: THE ROLE OF IOT AND DATA INNOVATION

Agricultural entrepreneurship in rural Nigerian communities has long been hindered by inefficient resource utilization and limited market access, exacerbating poverty and reducing productivity. This study addressed these challenges by exploring how Internet of Things (IoT) and data-driven solutions could optimize input use and improve market integration for smallholder farmers. The objective was to assess the impact of smart technologies on resource management and income generation in Nigeria’s Savannah zone. A convergent mixed methods design was employed. The study combined sensor-based field experiments with qualitative interviews to evaluate technology outcomes in three rural communities. Quantitative data were collected from sixty soil moisture sensors, drone-based imagery (biweekly), and mobile app transaction logs. Qualitative data were obtained through in-depth interviews with thirty farmers and agripreneurs. All data streams were integrated using a digital dashboard. Descriptive and comparative analyses were used to assess pre- and post-intervention outcomes. The results revealed a 21% reduction in water use and an 18% decrease in fertilizer application with no loss in yield. Furthermore, farmers using the digital marketplace experienced a 25% increase in net income, a 12% rise in sale prices, and a 15% reduction in post-harvest losses. The study recommends the deployment of solar-powered IoT hubs, tailored training programs in local languages, and mobile interfaces to bridge the digital divide. It concludes that IoT and data-driven tools, if properly supported, can significantly improve productivity and profitability for rural farmers, contributing to sustainable agricultural development in Nigeria.