Farmers’ Perception toward Utilization of Drone Technology for Smart Farming in Ondo State, Nigeria

Abstract

This study assessed the perception-driven utilization of drone technology for smart farming among smallholder farmers in Ondo State, Nigeria. Specifically, the study: examined the socio-economic characteristics of arable crop farmers influencing the utilization of drone technology for smart farming in Ondo State; examined farmers’ perceptions of drone technology and; examined the factors affecting the utiliization of drone technology. Using a descriptive survey design and multi-stage sampling, primary data were collected from 120 arable crop farmers in Akure South and Ifedore LGAs. Descriptive statistics were employed. A descriptive survey design was used. Data was collected from 120 farmers selected through multi-stage sampling across Akure South and Ifedore LGAs using a structured questionnaire. Descriptive statistics (frequencies, percentages, means, and grand means) were employed. The findings revealed that most respondents were male, within the productive age group of 36–55 years, and smallholder farmers cultivating less than 2 hectares. Farmers generally had a positive perception of drones, with grand mean values above 4.00, indicating strong agreement that drones improve productivity, save time, and detect pests and diseases. However, drones were also perceived as complex. The major factors affecting adoption were high cost, lack of technical knowledge, poor internet connectivity, restrictive government regulations, and limited training opportunities. The findings contribute to policy and extension strategies for scaling precision agriculture in sub-Saharan Africa.