1.1 Background of the Study
Pests and diseases are major threats to crop health and agricultural productivity, particularly in regions like Plateau State, where maize farming is an important economic activity (Adeoye et al., 2024). The use of AI-driven pest and disease control solutions offers promising alternatives to traditional methods, which are often inefficient and environmentally harmful. AI can enhance pest and disease management by analyzing data from various sources, such as satellite imagery, weather patterns, and farm-specific conditions, to predict outbreaks and suggest targeted interventions (Adebayo & Umar, 2024).
In Plateau State, maize farmers are increasingly turning to AI technologies to manage pest infestations and crop diseases, reducing the reliance on chemical pesticides and improving yields. This case study seeks to explore the role of AI in pest and disease control on maize farms in Plateau State and assess its effectiveness in enhancing farm productivity and sustainability.
1.2 Statement of the Problem
Pest and disease outbreaks are common challenges faced by maize farmers in Plateau State. Traditional methods of pest control, such as the widespread use of pesticides, are often costly, environmentally damaging, and inefficient. While AI-driven pest and disease control solutions offer significant advantages, the adoption and implementation of such technologies among farmers in the region remain limited. There is also a lack of empirical research on the effectiveness of AI solutions in pest and disease management for maize farming in Plateau State.
1.3 Objectives of the Study
1. To evaluate the role of AI-driven pest and disease control solutions in maize farming in Plateau State.
2. To assess the impact of AI-based pest control on maize productivity and sustainability in the region.
3. To identify the challenges and opportunities for expanding the adoption of AI in pest and disease management on maize farms.
1.4 Research Questions
1. How effective are AI-driven pest and disease control solutions for maize farming in Plateau State?
2. What impact do AI-based pest control solutions have on maize productivity and sustainability in the region?
3. What are the challenges and opportunities for expanding AI adoption in pest and disease management in Plateau State?
1.5 Research Hypothesis
1. AI-driven pest and disease control solutions significantly improve maize productivity and reduce the use of chemical pesticides.
2. The use of AI in pest and disease management leads to more sustainable farming practices on maize farms in Plateau State.
3. Barriers such as cost, access to technology, and lack of technical knowledge hinder the widespread adoption of AI solutions in pest control.
1.6 Significance of the Study
This study will contribute to the understanding of how AI can revolutionize pest and disease control in agriculture, particularly in maize farming. The findings could inform policymakers and agricultural stakeholders about the potential benefits of AI adoption, contributing to more sustainable and productive farming practices in Plateau State.
1.7 Scope and Limitations of the Study
This study will focus specifically on maize farmers in Plateau State who are utilizing AI-driven pest and disease control solutions. It will not cover other crops or regions. The limitations include challenges in accessing data on AI adoption and the generalizability of findings.
1.8 Operational Definition of Terms
1. AI-driven Pest and Disease Control Solutions: Technologies powered by AI that predict, detect, and manage pest infestations and crop diseases.
2. Sustainability: The ability to maintain farming practices that do not degrade the environment or deplete resources.
3. Chemical Pesticides: Synthetic chemicals used to control pests and diseases in agriculture.
4. Productivity: The measure of crop output in relation to the inputs used, such as land, labor, and resources.
5. Farm Management: The process of planning and executing farming practices to optimize crop yield and resource use.
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