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Smartphones in the villages: impacts on agricultural intensification in Nigeria

Year: 2025

Type: article

Abstract: Smartphones, as more sophisticated versions of mobile phones, are expected to significantly influence how rural households manage their farms. This paper examines the extent to which smartphone ownership affects the adoption of modern agricultural inputs and technologies at the extensive margin. Using a rich, nationally representative household-level dataset from Nigeria and appropriate identification strategies, we find that smartphone ownership increases the likelihood of hiring labor, using phytosanitary inputs, and operating tractors. These findings suggest that promoting the diffusion of modern digital tools in rural areas can complement traditional agricultural input support programs, offering a promising avenue to enhance agricultural productivity and livelihoods in Nigeria.

Source: Agricultural and Resource Economics Review

DOI: 10.1017/age.2025.10013

Authors: Arouna Kouandou, Rawaa Laajimi

Institutions: Institut National de Recherche pour l'Agriculture, l'Alimentation et l'Environnement, Ecodéveloppement

Language: English

Topic: Agricultural Innovations and Practices

Subfield: General Agricultural and Biological Sciences

Field: Agricultural and Biological Sciences

Domain: Life Sciences

SDGs: Zero hunger, Decent work and economic growth, Industry, innovation and infrastructure, No poverty

Open Access status: gold

Estimated APC paid: $2,600