Digital Extension Service Delivery and Rural Livelihoods

Description

The book examines the effects of digital-based extension service delivery applications on the livelihood status of arable farming households in North-Central Nigeria. Drawing on a systematic review of 44 empirical studies published between 2015 and 2025, it explores the digital platforms available to farmers, patterns of adoption, factors influencing utilisation and implications for rural livelihoods. The review considers mobile and SMS-based advisory services, smartphone applications, social media platforms, artificial intelligence tools, the Internet of Things and drone-supported services. Findings reveal generally low adoption of digital extension applications, influenced by socio-economic, technological, behavioural and institutional factors, including education, age, farming experience, smartphone ownership, internet access and cooperative membership. The evidence also highlights positive contributions to crop productivity, household income, operational efficiency and livelihood resilience. The book discusses the barriers limiting wider adoption and highlights the importance of digital capacity development, improved infrastructure and inclusive agricultural extension policies.