Adoption and Impact of Big Data Analytics in the Food Industry in South-Western Nigeria

Within the South-Western food industry of Nigeria, the overall impact, associated challenges, and implementation of Big Data Analytics (BDA) have remained underexplored. Thus, this study aimed to investigate the extent of BDA adoption, identify key barriers and enablers, assess the operational impacts of BDA adoption, and propose a structured framework to guide effective integration. The study adopted a deductive, mono-quantitative method. Data were collected from 151 participants through a stratified sampling technique using an online survey questionnaire and analysed using descriptive and inferential statistical methods, including Chi-Square, Likelihood Ratio, and Fisher-Freeman-Halton Exact tests, using SPSS version 26 and Excel as analytical tools. While awareness and appreciation of BDA’s strategic benefits are growing, significant challenges such as high implementation costs, a shortage of skilled personnel, regulatory uncertainties, and technological limitations persist. Nevertheless, organisations that have embraced BDA report notable improvements in operational efficiency, strategic decision-making, customer satisfaction, and competitive advantage. This study proposes a practical BDA adoption framework designed to address the identified barriers and enhance successful implementation and offers several recommendations. The research helps bridge the knowledge gap on BDA adoption in emerging economies and offers actionable insights for business leaders, policymakers, and practitioners seeking to drive innovation and sustainability in Nigeria’s food industry.