Remote Sensing Technology Accessibility and Agricultural Development in Niger State (2020-2025)

Ngozi Obasi

Download article picture_as_pdf

Abstract

Despite Nigeria’s substantial investment in space infrastructure and the formulation of a National Space Policy aimed at promoting socio-economic development, the practical integration of remote sensing technology into agricultural development in Niger State remains limited due to weak institutional intervention and implementation gaps. This study examined remote sensing technology accessibility and agricultural development in Niger State from 2020 to 2025. Anchored in Actor Network Theory (ANT), the study conceptualised policy frameworks, institutions, technologies, and farmers as interconnected actors whose interactions shape technology adoption outcomes. The theoretical perspective provided an analytical lens for understanding accessibility constraints as outcomes of relational and institutional misalignments rather than purely technical deficiencies. A mixed-methods research design combining quantitative and qualitative approaches was employed. The findings revealed a significant disconnect between national policy intentions and state-level implementation. Although remote sensing technology was formally recognised as essential for agricultural planning, productivity enhancement, and climate risk management, its operational utilisation in Niger State remained minimal. Structural, financial, technical, and institutional barriers continued to limit large-scale farmers’ access to satellite-derived data and related applications. The study recommended strengthening policy implementation mechanisms, enhancing inter-institutional coordination, improving data affordability and local relevance, and investing in sustained capacity-building initiatives. Addressing these challenges is critical for aligning national space policy objectives with agricultural development realities. The study contributed to policy discourse by advancing a network-based governance perspective necessary for achieving sustainable, technology-driven agricultural transformation in Niger State.

Author

Read more