Access and Use of Agricultural Information for Crop Production in Nigeria: A Systematic Review

International Journal of Research (IJR) e-ISSN: 2348-6848 p-ISSN: 2348-795X Vol. 12 Issue 11 November 2025 Received: 10 November 2025 179 Revised: 12 November 2025 Accepted 15 November 2025 Copyright  authors 2025 DOI: HTTPS://DOI.ORG/10.5281/ZENODO.17639527 Access and Use of Agricultural Information for Crop Production in Nigeria: A Systematic Review Adekemi Ireti Kehinde Department of Library, Archival and Information Studies, University of Ibadan, Nigeria Corresponding email: kenhope.e[email protected] Abstract Agricultural information plays a crucial role in enhancing farmers’ decision-making, innovation adoption, and crop productivity. However, access to and utilization of such information remain uneven across Nigeria’s smallholder farming communities. This study systematically reviewed empirical evidence published between 2010 and 2025 on farmers’ access to and use of agricultural information for crop production in Nigeria. Using the PRISMA framework, relevant literature was retrieved from databases including Scopus, Google Scholar, AJOL, and ResearchGate. Twenty-one studies that met the inclusion criteria were analyzed thematically. Findings reveal that farmers primarily access agricultural information through extension agents, radio programmes, farmer cooperatives, and increasingly, digital platforms such as mobile phones and social media. However, access and use are constrained by infrastructural deficiencies, low literacy levels, gender disparities, and inadequate institutional support. Utilization of information is strongest where extension services are active and information is locally relevant. Emerging evidence indicates a gradual shift toward ICT-enabled agricultural information systems, though adoption remains limited by digital and regional divides. The review concludes that improving information flow is essential for achieving sustainable crop productivity in Nigeria. Strengthening agricultural extension systems, promoting digital inclusion, and fostering multi-stakeholder collaboration are critical for building integrated and inclusive agricultural information ecosystems capable of empowering farmers and enhancing national food security. Keywords: Agricultural information, information access, extension services, ICT, crop production, Nigeria 1. Introduction Agriculture remains the backbone of Nigeria’s economy, contributing significantly to national employment, food security, and rural livelihoods. Despite its potential, productivity levels among smallholder farmers, who constitute over 70% of the agricultural labour force, remain low due to limited access to timely and relevant agricultural information (Amidu, Galadima, & Adamu, 2021). The dissemination and utilization of agricultural information are essential for informed decision-making, innovation adoption, and sustainable increases in crop productivity (Adetimehin & Okunlola, 2018). Agricultural information serves as a vital input for farm-level decisions, influencing the selection of crop varieties, input use, pest management, and post-harvest practices (Uwandu, Thomas, & Okoro, 2018). Effective access and use of such information empower farmers to improve yield outcomes, adopt climate- International Journal of Research (IJR) e-ISSN: 2348-6848 p-ISSN: 2348-795X Vol. 12 Issue 11 November 2025 Received: 10 November 2025 180 Revised: 12 November 2025 Accepted 15 November 2025 Copyright  authors 2025 DOI: HTTPS://DOI.ORG/10.5281/ZENODO.17639527 smart practices, and enhance market participation. However, in many developing countries. including Nigeria, information asymmetry remains a persistent challenge. Many rural farmers lack adequate access to reliable agricultural information due to infrastructural deficits, limited extension coverage, and poor integration of information and communication technologies (ICTs) into agricultural systems (Fidelugwuowo, 2021). Access to agricultural information refers to the ability of farmers to obtain relevant, accurate, and timely knowledge that informs production decisions, whereas use of agricultural information entails the application of such knowledge in practical farming operations to improve productivity and livelihoods (Adebayo, Olorunfemi, & Odedoyin, 2018). Access alone does not guarantee utilization; factors such as literacy, gender, income, and the suitability of communication channels influence whether information translates into action (Adomi, Ogbomo, & Inoni, 2003). Moreover, disparities in ICT infrastructure, socioeconomic barriers, and institutional inefficiencies further constrain the flow and use of agricultural information among Nigeria’s farming communities (Obidike, 2011). In recent years, the integration of digital platforms, such as mobile phones, social media, and eextension systems, has expanded the potential for wider information dissemination. Nevertheless, adoption of these tools remains uneven across regions, and the digital divide continues to hinder inclusive agricultural development (Adio, Abu, Yusuf, & Nansoh, 2016). Understanding how Nigerian farmers access and use agricultural information, and identifying the socio-economic and institutional factors influencing this process, are therefore critical for designing effective extension and ICT-based interventions. This systematic review aims to synthesize empirical evidence on the access to and use of agricultural information for crop production among farmers in Nigeria. Specifically, the objectives are to: 1. Examine the nature, sources, and channels of agricultural information available to Nigerian farmers; 2. Identify the determinants influencing access and utilization of agricultural information; and 3. Highlight existing gaps in research and practice, and discuss their implications for agricultural policy and extension services. 2. Methodology 2.1 Review Design This study adopted a systematic review design to synthesize empirical evidence on the access to and use of agricultural information for crop production among farmers in Nigeria. The systematic review approach ensures objectivity and replicability by applying explicit inclusion and exclusion criteria in the selection and evaluation of studies. The review followed the general principles of the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) framework to enhance transparency in the identification, screening, eligibility, and inclusion stages. International Journal of Research (IJR) e-ISSN: 2348-6848 p-ISSN: 2348-795X Vol. 12 Issue 11 November 2025 Received: 10 November 2025 181 Revised: 12 November 2025 Accepted 15 November 2025 Copyright  authors 2025 DOI: HTTPS://DOI.ORG/10.5281/ZENODO.17639527 2.2 Search Strategy A comprehensive literature search was conducted across multiple academic databases and repositories, including Google Scholar, Scopus, Web of Science, African Journals Online (AJOL), ResearchGate, and ScienceDirect. Supplementary searches were performed using institutional repositories (e.g., University of Nigeria Nsukka, Federal University of Technology Akure) to capture grey literature such as theses and conference papers. The search was carried out between March and June 2025 and covered the publication period from 2010 to 2025. The search combined Boolean operators and truncations to capture variations of keywords relevant to the study. The following search string was used across all databases: (―agricultural information‖ OR ―agricultural knowledge‖) AND (―access‖ OR ―utilization‖ OR ―use‖) AND (―farmers‖ OR ―smallholder farmers‖) AND (―Nigeria‖) AND (―crop production‖ OR ―food crops‖ OR ―ICT‖ OR ―extension services‖) The search process initially yielded 247 records. After removing duplicates and screening titles and abstracts for relevance, 43 studies met the inclusion criteria for full-text assessment. Of these, 21 studies were retained for final synthesis. 2.3 Inclusion and Exclusion Criteria To ensure the review’s focus and quality, specific inclusion and exclusion criteria were applied. Inclusion Criteria Studies were included if they: 1. Were published between 2010 and 2025; 2. Focused on agricultural information access or use related to crop production; 3. Were conducted within Nigeria or had substantial relevance to the Nigerian context; 4. Were empirical (quantitative, qualitative, or mixed-methods); and 5. Were peer-reviewed or grey literature with verifiable methodology (e.g., academic theses, institutional reports). Exclusion Criteria Studies were excluded if they: 1. Were not related to agriculture or focused solely on livestock; 2. Were theoretical reviews or policy briefs without empirical data; 3. Addressed agricultural information in countries other than Nigeria; or 4. Lacked sufficient methodological detail or accessibility in English. 2.4 Study Selection Process The study selection process followed four stages: 1. Identification: Articles were retrieved through database searches using the defined search terms. 2. Screening: Titles and abstracts were screened for thematic relevance to information access, use, and crop production. 3. Eligibility: Full-text articles were evaluated against inclusion and exclusion criteria. 4. Inclusion: Eligible articles were retained for data extraction and thematic synthesis. International Journal of Research (IJR) e-ISSN: 2348-6848 p-ISSN: 2348-795X Vol. 12 Issue 11 November 2025 Received: 10 November 2025 182 Revised: 12 November 2025 Accepted 15 November 2025 Copyright  authors 2025 DOI: HTTPS://DOI.ORG/10.5281/ZENODO.17639527 A PRISMA-style flow diagram (Figure 1) was used to illustrate the selection process, ensuring transparency and reproducibility. Figure 1: PRISMA Flow Diagram for the Study Selection Source: Author, 2025 2.5 Data Extraction and Management A data extraction template was developed in Microsoft Excel to record essential characteristics of each included study. Extracted variables included:  Author(s) and year of publication;  Study location and sample size;  Research objectives and methods;  Information sources and channels examined;  Determinants of access and utilization;  Key findings and reported constraints; and  Limitations or identified research gaps. To ensure consistency, two independent reviewers cross-checked the extracted data. Discrepancies were resolved through discussion and consensus. 2.6 Data Synthesis and Analysis A thematic synthesis approach was adopted to analyze and integrate findings from the reviewed studies. Thematic synthesis is suitable for mixed-method evidence as it allows both International Journal of Research (IJR) e-ISSN: 2348-6848 p-ISSN: 2348-795X Vol. 12 Issue 11 November 2025 Received: 10 November 2025 183 Revised: 12 November 2025 Accepted 15 November 2025 Copyright  authors 2025 DOI: HTTPS://DOI.ORG/10.5281/ZENODO.17639527 qualitative insights and quantitative trends to be combined. Extracted information was categorized under the following themes: 1. Sources and channels of agricultural information; 2. Accessibility and determinants of information use; 3. Barriers and constraints to effective information utilization; and 4. Emerging trends and ICT innovations in agricultural information delivery. Patterns and relationships among themes were interpreted to provide an integrated understanding of how farmers in Nigeria access and use agricultural information for crop production. Quantitative indicators (such as frequency of sources used or access level) were summarized descriptively, while qualitative findings were synthesized narratively. 2.7 Quality Assessment To ensure the credibility of findings, a quality appraisal was conducted using a simplified checklist adapted from the Critical Appraisal Skills Programme (CASP). Each study was assessed on:  Clarity of objectives;  Appropriateness of methodology;  Transparency of data collection and analysis;  Relevance to the review objectives. Only studies rated as moderate to high quality were included in the synthesis. 2.8 Ethical Considerations As this study is based on secondary data from published sources, no ethical approval was required. However, all original authors were properly acknowledged, and open-access or licensed sources were prioritized to ensure ethical data use. 3. Results This section presents the findings from the 21 studies that met the inclusion criteria. The results are organized around five key themes that emerged from the literature: (1) sources and channels of agricultural information; (2) accessibility of agricultural information; (3) utilization of agricultural information; (4) barriers and constraints; and (5) emerging trends and innovations in information dissemination. 3.1 Sources and Channels of Agricultural Information The reviewed studies reveal that Nigerian farmers rely on a wide range of information sources, both formal and informal, for crop production decisions. Extension agents remain the most trusted and frequently cited formal channel of information, providing farmers with updates on improved crop varieties, pest management, and fertilizer application (Uwandu, Thomas, & Okoro, 2018). However, due to limited extension coverage, farmers increasingly depend on mass media and peer networks to fill information gaps. Radio and television programs are prominent among the traditional media sources, especially in rural areas where literacy levels are low (Amidu, Galadima, & Adamu, 2021). Radio, in particular, is recognized for its accessibility, affordability, and ability to broadcast in local languages (Obidike, 2011). More recent studies highlight the growing importance of mobile phones and social media platforms, such as WhatsApp and Facebook, as emerging ICT-based International Journal of Research (IJR) e-ISSN: 2348-6848 p-ISSN: 2348-795X Vol. 12 Issue 11 November 2025 Received: 10 November 2025 184 Revised: 12 November 2025 Accepted 15 November 2025 Copyright  authors 2025 DOI: HTTPS://DOI.ORG/10.5281/ZENODO.17639527 communication tools that enable real-time information sharing among farmers and extension agents (Fidelugwuowo, 2021). Regional variations also exist. For instance, farmers in southern states, such as Imo and Ondo, tend to access information through extension officers and cooperatives, while northern farmers rely more on radio broadcasts and community associations (Adetimehin & Okunlola, 2018). In general, most farmers use a combination of sources to verify information credibility before adoption. 3.2 Accessibility of Agricultural Information Access to agricultural information in Nigeria is strongly influenced by infrastructural, socioeconomic, and institutional factors. Studies show that infrastructural constraints, including poor electricity supply, limited internet connectivity, and inadequate road networks, reduce farmers’ ability to obtain timely agricultural information (Adebayo, Olorunfemi, & Odedoyin, 2018). Socioeconomic and demographic variables such as age, education, income, and gender significantly affect access. Younger and better-educated farmers are more likely to use digital and print-based information sources, while older farmers depend on interpersonal channels. Female farmers often have less access to agricultural information due to cultural restrictions and time burdens (Adomi, Ogbomo, & Inoni, 2003). Institutional and policyrelated factors—including weak extension services, underfunding, and lack of coordination among agricultural information agencies—further constrain access. Studies note that in many rural areas, a single extension worker serves thousands of farmers, limiting personal contact and reducing information quality (Adio, Abu, Yusuf, & Nansoh, 2016). Consequently, farmers often depend on local cooperatives or informal social networks for agricultural updates. 3.3 Utilization of Agricultural Information The utilization of agricultural information refers to how farmers apply the knowledge acquired from various channels in their farming practices. The reviewed literature indicates that effective utilization of information directly contributes to improvements in crop yield, pest control, and input efficiency (Adetimehin & Okunlola, 2018). Farmers who receive consistent advisory support are more likely to implement recommended practices, such as proper fertilizer application, spacing, and improved seed adoption (Uwandu et al., 2018). However, utilization rates vary widely depending on farmers’ information literacy, perceived relevance of the information, and access to inputs or credit to operationalize new knowledge. Some studies found that while farmers are aware of improved practices, the absence of follow-up training or technical support often limits adoption (Amidu et al., 2021). Additionally, the lack of localized content, information tailored to specific crops, soil types, or climatic zones, reduces practical applicability. Training programs and interactive information services (e.g., community ICT centers) have been shown to improve farmers’ ability to interpret and apply agricultural information effectively (Fidelugwuowo, 2021). 3.4 Barriers and Constraints Despite increasing awareness of the importance of agricultural information, several persistent barriers hinder effective access and utilization among Nigerian farmers. Low literacy levels, International Journal of Research (IJR) e-ISSN: 2348-6848 p-ISSN: 2348-795X Vol. 12 Issue 11 November 2025 Received: 10 November 2025 185 Revised: 12 November 2025 Accepted 15 November 2025 Copyright  authors 2025 DOI: HTTPS://DOI.ORG/10.5281/ZENODO.17639527 especially in rural communities, prevent many farmers from engaging with printed or digital information sources (Obidike, 2011). Gender disparities also limit women’s participation in training sessions and access to ICT tools. Economic barriers, such as the cost of mobile data, low income, and lack of access to affordable devices, further marginalize smallholder farmers. Institutional inefficiencies, manifested in inadequate extension staffing, limited mobility, and poor coordination between research institutions and field agents, compound these challenges (Amidu et al., 2021). Moreover, language diversity and the absence of regionally customized agricultural content restrict message comprehension, especially when communication is in English or non-local dialects (Adebayo et al., 2018). Overall, these constraints reinforce the information divide between urban and rural farmers, as well as between male and female agricultural actors. 3.5 Emerging Trends Recent studies indicate a growing shift toward digital and ICT-based agricultural information systems in Nigeria. Mobile applications, SMS alerts, WhatsApp groups, and interactive radio programs have begun to supplement traditional extension services (Fidelugwuowo, 2021). These platforms provide opportunities for real-time knowledge exchange, especially among youth farmers. The integration of climate-smart agriculture information systems, such as early warning alerts for weather and pest outbreaks, reflects the country’s gradual move toward data-driven decision-making. Similarly, public–private partnerships and NGO-driven e-extension initiatives, for example, the use of Olam and IFAD-supported mobile advisory tools, are bridging the communication gap between research institutions and farmers. However, despite these advancements, ICT adoption remains uneven across regions due to disparities in literacy, affordability, and digital infrastructure. Continued investment in digital literacy training, infrastructure development, and policy alignment is therefore essential to fully harness these innovations for improved crop productivity and farmer empowerment (Adio et al., 2016). 4. Discussion The synthesis of studies across Nigeria reveals complex but consistent patterns in how farmers access and use agricultural information for crop production. Variations are influenced by geography, socioeconomic context, and institutional support, which together shape the extent to which information access translates into productivity and livelihood gains. 4.1 Regional and State-Level Variations Significant regional disparities exist in the modes of agricultural information dissemination and utilization. Farmers in southern states such as Imo, Ondo, and Osun benefit more from formal extension networks, farmers’ cooperatives, and non-governmental organizations that regularly organize training and demonstration plots (Uwandu, Thomas, & Okoro, 2018; Adetimehin & Okunlola, 2018). In contrast, the northern and middle-belt zones, such as Nasarawa and Kwara States, rely heavily on radio broadcasts and community-based associations due to lower literacy levels and limited extension reach (Amidu, Galadima, & Adamu, 2021; Adio, Abu, Yusuf, & Nansoh, 2016). These disparities underscore how International Journal of Research (IJR) e-ISSN: 2348-6848 p-ISSN: 2348-795X Vol. 12 Issue 11 November 2025 Received: 10 November 2025 186 Revised: 12 November 2025 Accepted 15 November 2025 Copyright  authors 2025 DOI: HTTPS://DOI.ORG/10.5281/ZENODO.17639527 contextual factors, including language, infrastructure, and education, determine not only the availability of agricultural information but also its practical value to farmers. States with active local extension networks and development programs exhibit higher rates of technology adoption and crop yield improvement, suggesting that institutional presence amplifies information use outcomes. 4.2 Influence on Productivity and Livelihood Outcomes Access to relevant and timely agricultural information plays a pivotal role in increasing crop productivity and improving farmers’ livelihoods. Studies show that farmers who regularly engage with extension agents or ICT-based information sources adopt better pest management strategies, optimize input use, and diversify crop choices (Adetimehin & Okunlola, 2018). Enhanced access translates into measurable gains in yield and income, ultimately contributing to food security and poverty reduction in rural communities. However, the benefits are not uniformly distributed. Many smallholders continue to operate under conditions of information poverty, where access to reliable agricultural information is sporadic or outdated. Consequently, they remain vulnerable to environmental shocks and market volatility. The literature consistently indicates that information access alone is insufficient, utilization depends on literacy, institutional support, and farmers’ economic capacity to act on the information received (Adebayo, Olorunfemi, & Odedoyin, 2018). 4.3 ICT Innovations and Extension Reforms The growing integration of information and communication technologies (ICTs) represents one of the most transformative developments in agricultural knowledge dissemination in Nigeria. Mobile phones, SMS alerts, and WhatsApp groups now complement traditional methods, providing a cost-effective means of reaching dispersed farming populations (Fidelugwuowo, 2021). ICT-enabled services facilitate real-time communication, access to market prices, and weather updates, thereby enhancing decision-making and resilience among farmers. Nonetheless, ICT use remains constrained by infrastructural limitations such as unreliable power supply, weak internet coverage, and the high cost of data services (Adio et al., 2016). Furthermore, most ICT platforms are urban-centric and primarily designed in English, limiting accessibility for non-literate or indigenous-language farmers. The reviewed literature, therefore, calls for hybrid extension models, integrating conventional field extension with digital tools and increased investment in rural connectivity. Government initiatives such as the Agricultural Transformation Agenda and e-wallet programs provide useful templates but require better coordination and sustained funding to ensure equitable reach. 4.4 Gender, Youth, and the Digital Divide Persistent gender and generational disparities are evident in access to and use of agricultural information. Female farmers are often marginalized due to unequal land rights, cultural constraints, and domestic workloads, which limit participation in extension training or ownership of ICT devices (Adomi, Ogbomo, & Inoni, 2003). Similarly, youth farmers tend to have higher digital literacy and are more open to adopting ICT-based information platforms than older farmers, highlighting the potential of youth-led digital extension initiatives. International Journal of Research (IJR) e-ISSN: 2348-6848 p-ISSN: 2348-795X Vol. 12 Issue 11 November 2025 Received: 10 November 2025 187 Revised: 12 November 2025 Accepted 15 November 2025 Copyright  authors 2025 DOI: HTTPS://DOI.ORG/10.5281/ZENODO.17639527 Addressing these divides requires targeted policies promoting gender-inclusive communication strategies and youth engagement in agricultural information systems. Empowering women and youth not only enhances equity but also expands the pool of information intermediaries who can bridge the communication gap between researchers and smallholders. 4.5 Methodological Limitations in Reviewed Studies While the reviewed studies provide valuable insights, several methodological limitations constrain the robustness of existing evidence. First, most research relies on cross-sectional surveys, which capture only snapshots of information access patterns and fail to account for seasonal or long-term behavioural changes. Second, many studies depend heavily on selfreported data, which may be subject to recall bias or social desirability bias. Additionally, the geographic scope of many investigations is narrow, often limited to one or two local government areas, which restricts generalizability across Nigeria’s diverse agro-ecological zones. Few studies employ mixed-methods or longitudinal designs, which would allow a deeper understanding of causal relationships between information access and productivity outcomes. Finally, there is limited use of theoretical frameworks, such as the Diffusion of Innovations or the Information Behaviour Model, to explain variations in access and use across socio-cultural contexts. Future research should therefore adopt multi-method, theory-driven approaches that incorporate geospatial, socioeconomic, and behavioral data to provide more comprehensive insights into Nigeria’s agricultural information ecosystem. 5. Implications for Policy and Practice The findings of this review highlight clear policy and practical implications for improving the accessibility and utilization of agricultural information among Nigerian farmers. Strengthening agricultural extension systems, promoting digital inclusion, and fostering multi-sectoral collaboration are critical to enhancing information flow and supporting sustainable agricultural transformation. 5.1 Strengthening Agricultural Extension Systems A recurring theme across the reviewed studies is the limited capacity and reach of Nigeria’s agricultural extension system (Amidu, Galadima, & Adamu, 2021; Adebayo, Olorunfemi, & Odedoyin, 2018). Many extension agents serve thousands of farmers with minimal logistical support, leading to information bottlenecks. Policymakers should prioritize:  Increased funding for recruitment, training, and mobility of extension officers;  Integration of ICT-based advisory tools (e.g., mobile apps, SMS alerts, WhatsApp extension groups) into extension workflows; and  Development of bilingual and localized extension materials to improve comprehension and adoption among diverse farmer populations. Strengthened extension systems would bridge the gap between agricultural research outputs and on-farm practices, ensuring that innovations reach farmers more efficiently and equitably.