Assessment of Agricultural Information Systems in Supporting Farm Managers in Kogi State

Agricultural information systems encompass the tools, platforms, and networks through which farm managers access market prices, weather forecasts, agronomic recommendations, and regulatory updates that inform production and marketing decisions. In Kogi State, in Nigeria's North Central geopolitical zone, the adequacy and accessibility of agricultural information systems for farm managers at different scales of operation require professional assessment. This study evaluates the types, adequacy, and utilisation of agricultural information systems by farm managers in Kogi State. A sample of 65 farm managers representing smallholder, medium-scale, and commercial enterprises was selected from Lokoja, Okene, and Dekina areas. A structured information needs assessment instrument was administered, covering sources used, frequency of access, reliability perception, and decision application. Descriptive statistics and an information adequacy scoring framework were used. Results indicate that radio and mobile telephone SMS alerts remain the dominant agricultural information sources for the majority of respondents, accessed by 74 percent of sampled managers. Internet-based platforms were used by 32 percent, predominantly among managers with tertiary education. Market price information was rated most critical and most difficult to access reliably. Weather forecast information was accessed regularly by only 21 percent of respondents. Digital agricultural advisory apps had very low awareness levels among the sample. The study recommends investment in a state-level agricultural information portal integrating real-time market prices, agrometeorological forecasts, and extension advisory content, disseminated through a multi-channel approach in Kogi State. Keywords: agricultural information systems, farm management, Kogi State, decision support, digital advisory