Value Chain Analysis of Social Agriculture in Nigeria

This study investigates “social agriculture”—the use of social media platforms for information exchange, support networks, and agricultural markets—in Nigeria. Using qualitative research methods, data, and analysis, the study focuses on three agricultural value chains in Nigeria: cassava, snail, and broccoli. The research employs value chain analysis to explore how various characteristics, such as governance, network effect, specific qualities of products, and access to logistics, finance, and information, shape the dynamics within these value chains and influence the usage of social media platforms.

The research documents the strategies and practices of social agriculture, pursued via social media platforms, to address challenges associated with the characteristics of these value chains. It also reports on the livelihood outcomes and associated risks experienced by participants in these value chains. The findings and recommendations of this study cater to various stakeholders, including social media platforms, governments, foundations, researchers, and practitioners of social agriculture.

This study underscores the transformative impact of social media on agricultural value chains in Nigeria, shedding light on the complex interplay between value chain characteristics and the use of social media, offering valuable insights for practitioners in the agricultural sector. Despite the challenges , participants overwhelmingly report that the benefits of social agriculture outweigh the disadvantages.