The Role of Artificial Intelligence in Modern Farming System for Achieving Sustainable Agricultural Transformation in Nigeria

Abstract

The agricultural sector in Nigeria faces pressing challenges, including food insecurity, land degradation, and climate change impacts. To address these issues, the integration of artificial intelligence (AI) in modern farming practices presents a transformative opportunity for achieving sustainable agricultural development. This paper explores the role of AI technologies in enhancing productivity, optimizing resource use, and minimizing environmental impacts within the Nigerian agricultural landscape. Through a semi-systematic literature review (SLR), the study examines the historical context of agriculture in Nigeria, current AI applications such as precision agriculture, crop monitoring, and pest detection, as well as the associated benefits of increased yield and economic returns for farmers. The semi-SLR methodology incorporates structured search strategies, established inclusion and exclusion criteria, and systematic data extraction techniques to synthesize existing knowledge and identify gaps in the current understanding of AI's impact on sustainable farming in Nigeria. The findings reveal that while AI can significantly contribute to sustainable agricultural transformation, several barriers hinder its widespread adoption, including infrastructural deficiencies, technological illiteracy, and socio-economic constraints. By analyzing these aspects, this research underscores the importance of a structured approach to literature reviews in agricultural research, ultimately aiming to inform policy and encourage the adoption of AI innovations in the sector. The findings indicate that concerted efforts from stakeholders, including policymakers, researchers, and farmers, are essential to overcome existing challenges and fully realize the potential of AI in fostering a resilient agricultural system in Nigeria.