USAGE OF MOBILE PHONE APPLICATIONS FOR THE MANAGEMENT OF CROP DISEASES AMONG ARABLE CROP FARMERS IN ONDO STATE, NIGERIA

Abstract

Arable farming, which involves the cultivation of annual food crops, faces significant challenges from crop diseases that negatively impact productivity, particularly in Nigeria. Despite limited understanding of the underlying causes, farmers recognize the adverse effects of diseases. With the rapid adoption of Information and Communication Technologies (ICT), especially mobile phones, in Nigeria and across Africa, there is potential for these tools to enhance disease management among farmers. This study aims to assess the socio-economic characteristics of farmers, their awareness, and knowledge of using mobile phones for crop disease management, and the constraints they face in utilizing these technologies. A multi-stage sampling method was employed to select 120 arable crop farmers from Ondo State, Nigeria. Data were collected using structured interviews and analyzed using descriptive statistics, Chi-square, and correlation analysis. Results indicated that while most farmers (65.8%) are highly aware of the potential of mobile phones for disease management, there is a low perception of their practical application due to concerns about reliability and accessibility. Significant relationships were found between farmers’ socio-economic factors, such as primary occupation and mobile phone ownership, and their awareness and knowledge of using mobile phones for crop disease management. The study concludes that although mobile phones can potentially improve disease management among farmers, barriers such as inadequate extension support, high illiteracy, and high data and smartphone maintenance costs limit their effectiveness. The findings suggest a need for targeted educational programs and integrated extension approaches to enhance farmers' capabilities in using mobile technologies for agricultural purposes.