Background of the study
Yola North LGA, situated in Adamawa State, is a vital hub for agricultural production and trade. However, the region faces considerable challenges in preserving perishable foods due to fluctuating ambient temperatures and unreliable traditional cold storage facilities. In recent years, IoT‑based smart cold storage systems have emerged as innovative solutions capable of maintaining optimal storage conditions through real‑time monitoring and automated adjustments (Oluwole, 2023). These systems integrate sensors that continuously measure temperature, humidity, and other critical parameters, ensuring that perishable goods remain in peak condition from harvest to market (Ahmed, 2024). By reducing food spoilage and waste, smart cold storage can significantly bolster food security and increase economic gains for local farmers and traders.
The adoption of IoT in cold storage management has been transformative in various parts of the world. In Yola North, the integration of such technology presents an opportunity to bridge the gap between traditional storage methods and modern, technology‑driven solutions. This system not only automates temperature regulation but also provides data‑driven insights that can forecast potential system failures or deviations from optimal conditions. Consequently, stakeholders can implement preemptive measures to safeguard food quality and reduce operational costs (Ibrahim, 2024). Despite these promising advantages, several challenges must be addressed. The local infrastructure, including power supply and internet connectivity, often falls short of supporting advanced IoT applications. Moreover, there is a significant gap in technical expertise among local operators, which can hamper the effective use and maintenance of these systems (Lawal, 2023).
The integration of IoT‑based systems in Yola North also demands a re‑evaluation of current regulatory frameworks to address issues of data security and interoperability. As the technology continuously evolves, stakeholders must update standards and protocols to ensure that the smart cold storage systems operate efficiently and securely (Garba, 2024). Additionally, financial constraints and the high initial cost of implementing such systems pose challenges to widespread adoption. There is a clear need for collaborative efforts among government agencies, agricultural bodies, and technology providers to overcome these limitations and fully exploit the benefits of IoT in enhancing food preservation (Umar & Yusuf, 2023). This study will examine the technical, economic, and regulatory aspects of developing an IoT‑based smart cold storage system, aiming to propose practical solutions tailored to the specific needs of Yola North LGA.
Statement of the problem
Perishable food losses continue to undermine the economic potential of Yola North LGA, largely due to inadequate cold storage solutions that fail to maintain consistent storage conditions. Traditional storage facilities are often subjected to temperature fluctuations and lack the capacity for real‑time monitoring, resulting in accelerated spoilage and financial losses for farmers and traders (Abdullahi, 2024). The absence of automated, IoT‑driven systems exacerbates this problem, leaving stakeholders dependent on manual checks and reactive measures that are both time‑consuming and prone to error.
Furthermore, the current infrastructure in Yola North poses a significant barrier to the deployment of smart cold storage systems. Frequent power interruptions and unstable internet connectivity lead to data discontinuity and system failures, diminishing the reliability of temperature control mechanisms (Hassan, 2023). Additionally, there is an evident skills gap among local operators, who are often untrained in the technical aspects of IoT maintenance and troubleshooting. This deficiency not only increases operational costs but also risks the long‑term sustainability of the technology. Regulatory frameworks have not kept pace with technological advancements, resulting in ambiguities regarding data privacy and security standards that are crucial for the effective functioning of IoT networks (Yusuf & Adeyemi, 2023).
These systemic challenges highlight the urgent need for an in‑depth investigation into the technical, economic, and regulatory constraints that impede the successful implementation of IoT‑based smart cold storage systems in Yola North LGA. By identifying these issues and exploring feasible interventions, the study aims to propose a strategic framework that will enhance the efficiency, reliability, and scalability of cold storage operations, thereby reducing food wastage and improving the overall economic stability of the region (Musa, 2024).
Objectives of the study
To assess the current challenges in maintaining effective cold storage for perishable foods in Yola North LGA.
To evaluate the feasibility and performance of IoT‑based monitoring systems in improving storage conditions.
To develop a strategic framework for the deployment of smart cold storage systems that enhances food preservation.
Research questions
What are the major limitations of existing cold storage facilities in Yola North LGA?
How can IoT technology be integrated to improve temperature control and monitoring in cold storage systems?
What strategic measures can be proposed to overcome infrastructural and regulatory challenges in the implementation of smart cold storage systems?
Significance of the study
This study is pivotal in addressing food preservation challenges in Yola North LGA. By integrating IoT technology into cold storage management, it offers a pathway to reduce perishable food losses, enhance food security, and boost local economic activities. The findings will provide valuable insights for policymakers, agricultural stakeholders, and technology providers, ultimately paving the way for scalable and sustainable smart cold storage solutions. These recommendations will support enhanced regulatory frameworks and infrastructure development, ensuring broader adoption and long-term success of IoT applications in agriculture (Oluwole, 2023; Ahmed, 2024).
Scope and limitations of the study
This study is limited to the evaluation of IoT‑based smart cold storage systems for perishable foods in Yola North LGA, focusing solely on technological efficacy, infrastructural requirements, and regulatory challenges. Broader agricultural policies are not examined.
Definitions of terms
Cold Storage: A controlled environment facility designed to maintain low temperatures to preserve perishable goods.
IoT (Internet of Things): A network of devices connected through the internet that collect and exchange data in real‑time.
Smart Systems: Automated, technology‑driven systems that utilize sensors and data analytics to enhance operational efficiency.
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