Appropriateness of Information and Communication Technologies (ICTs) Toward Rural and Agricultural Transformation of Nigeria

Abstract

The importance and relevance of Information and Communication Technologies (ICTs) towards rural and agricultural development of nations of the world (including Nigeria) is discussed here. There is abundance of evidence laying credence to the usefulness, application and effectiveness of ICTs to development of many advanced and developing countries of the world. As an integral component of Science and Technology (S & T), ICTs has become a veritable instrument to combat underdevelopment, poverty, illiteracy, ignorance and stagnation. Some examples of countries where ICTs are widely applied are cited. Some evidences of significant stride made in Nigeria toward ICTs adoption and application are presented. This paper pleads for the creation of enabling environment for adequate application and adoption of ICTs and S & T by underdeveloped countries and developing countries including Nigeria. The paper highlights some considerable opportunities that could be exploited for realization of pro-poor growth. It emphasizes and illustrates some contradictions associated with S & T application and adoption, especially in the less developed countries (LDCs). It concludes its thesis by stressing the obvious that every nation has potential for growth and development and Nigeria is no exception, and recommended positive steps for ICTs application.

Key words: Information, Communication, Technologies, Transformation,
Rural, Nigeria