Using Artificial Intelligence to Address the Effect of Climate Change on the Revenue of Smallholder Farmers in Delta State, Nigeria
摘要
The adverse effect of climate change on the income of smallholder farmers in Nigeria has been scholarly triggered, but the issue remains largely concerning. This study examined the impact of climate change on the revenue of smallholder farmers in Delta State, Nigeria, focusing on flooding, weather patterns, rising temperatures, and ecosystem disruption, with artificial intelligence (AI), represented by drones and sensors, assessed as a moderating factor. Data were collected from 151 respondents, the majority being experienced smallholder farmers, and analysed using multiple regression techniques. The model was statistically significant, accounting for 42% of the variation in revenue from product sales. Findings indicated that rising temperature had the strongest positive effect on revenue, though its interaction with AI was negatively significant, suggesting that technological tools require careful adaptation in heat-stressed conditions. Flooding also significantly influenced revenue, with AI showing a strong positive moderating effect, confirming the usefulness of drones and sensors in mitigating post-flood losses. By contrast, ecosystem disruption reduced revenue significantly, with AI showing no meaningful moderating influence, while weather pattern variability and its interaction with AI were insignificant. The results underscore both the vulnerability of smallholder farmers to climate shocks and the selective benefits of AI-driven interventions. The study concludes that while AI can provide important adaptive support in specific contexts, broader measures such as flood control systems, biodiversity conservation, and climate-smart agricultural practices remain essential. Recommendations are advanced for policy, practice, and future research.