ZenToks Publication

CHAPTER 3

Prospects Of Precision Agriculture For Improving Agricultural Production In Nigeria

Abstract/Preface

Precision agriculture can be referred to as science for improving crop yields and assisting management decisions using high technology sensor and analysis tools. It is a new concept adopted throughout the world to increase production, reduce labor time and ensure effective management of farm inputs and irrigation processes in order to maximize production. It uses a large amount of data and information to improve the use of agricultural resources, yields and the quality of crops. Precision agriculture is a data-driven approach to farm management that can improve productivity and yields, thereby increasing the overall profitability of farming. It also helps reduce the need for inputs such as water and artificial fertilizers and pesticides, thus reducing the environmental footprint of farming. Advances in digital technologies like mobile phones, remote sensing using satellites, unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs), Internet of Things (IoT), artificial intelligence (AI), and cloud computing, as well as their growing affordability are making precision agriculture applications accessible to smallholder farmers in developing countries.