AN INVESTIGATION ON ADOPTION OF BLOCKCHAIN-BASED FERTILIZER DISTRIBUTION ECOSYSTEM IN NIGER STATE, NIGERIA

Abstract

This paper proposes the use of a blockchain based fertilizer distribution ecosystem in Niger State, Nigeria. The system addresses major challenges such as the prevalence of counterfeit fertilizers, high costs, and inefficiencies within the distribution network, faced by farmers. By leveraging blockchain's core attributes of transparency, traceability, efficiency and immutability, the system ensures that fertilizer products are genuine and easily verifiable throughout the supply chain. A survey was conducted to assess the awareness and readiness of key stakeholders, including farmers, distributors, and government officials, to adopt a blockchain solution. The survey administered to 100 participants (farmers, distributors, retailers, and government officials) revealed a response rate of 46%. Farmers constituted the majority of respondents (78.3%), followed by retailers and wholesalers (8.7% each), and government officials (4.3%). On the issue of counterfeit fertilizers, 32.6% rated it as extremely severe, while 47.8% identified high costs as extremely severe. Furthermore, 63% of respondents had prior knowledge of blockchain, and 76.1% indicated they were likely or very likely to adopt a blockchain-based fertilizer distribution system. The findings revealed strong interest of the stakeholders, particularly in the area of improving the fertilizer distribution process. This research paper concludes that the developed system, combined with active stakeholder participation and regulatory support, has the potential to significantly reduce the circulation of counterfeit fertilizers, reduce corruption and the cost of the products. Furthermore, the study emphasizes the need for education, pilot programs, and infrastructure to ensure successful system implementation and long-term sustainability.