An Overview of Meteorological Data Utilization and Entrepreneurial Innovation in the Agricultural Sector: Pathways to Climate-Resilient Agribusiness in Nigeria

Abstract

Nigeria’s agricultural sector remains highly vulnerable to increasing climate variability. The reliance on rainfall for agricultural production, coupled with the growing frequency of extreme climatic events such as droughts and floods, poses a serious threat to food security and rural livelihoods. The utilization of meteorological data offers a strategic pathway toward enhancing climate resilience, improving productivity, and fostering entrepreneurial innovation in agribusiness. This paper examines how meteorological data can be effectively leveraged by entrepreneurs, agrotech firms, and farmers to develop adaptive, data-driven agricultural systems in Nigeria. Using a qualitative review and case-based approach, the study synthesizes information from peer-reviewed journals, Nigerian Meteorological Agency (NiMet) reports, and the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO). It outlines the relevance of meteorological information in precision agriculture, irrigation scheduling, insurance, and early warning systems, while exploring innovation models and start-up opportunities emerging from climate services. Findings indicate that with improved access to reliable meteorological data, entrepreneurs can develop scalable, technology-enabled agribusinesses that reduce climate risk, optimize resource use, and promote sustainable development. The study concludes with policy recommendations emphasizing capacity building, public private partnerships, and the mainstreaming of meteorological services into Nigeria’s agricultural innovation ecosystem.