MOTIVATIONAL FACTORS FOR SUSTAINABLE IRISH POTATO PRODUCTION: LEVERAGING EMERGING TECHNOLOGIES TO ENHANCE FARMERS' ACCESS TO INFORMATION NEEDS IN PLATEAU STATE, NIGERIA

Abstract

Irish potato is a key contributor to global food and nutrition security. Sustainability in Irish potato production focuses on meeting current cultivation needs while preserving and enhancing resources for future use, thus promoting long-term food security. Access to information needs is vital for farmers, enabling them, to obtain the necessary information to satisfy their agricultural needs. It is essential for improving farm practices, maximising profits, and enhancing livelihoods. Effective information access is especially crucial for sustainable Irish potato production, helping farmers use sustainable techniques, manage resources efficiently, and ensure healthy crop production over generations. The objectives of this study include to: identify the motivational factors that influence farmers to adopt sustainable Irish potato production in Plateau State, Nigeria; examine the role of emerging technologies (such as precision agriculture, social media, and mobile apps) in enhancing farmers' access to information needs and improving their productivity and to identify the key information needs of Irish potato farmers in Plateau State, Nigeria. and how these needs can be met through emerging technologies such as access to real-time information on best practices, weather forecasts. market prices, and pest management strategies, which are crucial for optimizing productivity and minimizing environmental impact. The study will adopt a literature review and make recommendations on strategies to integrate emerging technologies to enhance farmers' access to information needed to boost sustainable Irish potato production in Plateau State Nigeria to improve food security and job opportunities.