Fostering Sustainable Agricultural Practices through Co-design: Integrating Sociological Insights and Agronomic Practices in Nigeria

Abstract

This review article explores the potential to enhance the adoption of sustainable agricultural practices in Nigeria through a co-design approach that integrates sociological insights into agronomic practices. By highlighting the importance of engaging local communities, understanding their needs, and incorporating indigenous knowledge into agricultural development, this paper emphasizes how sociological perspectives can enhance the effectiveness and sustainability of agricultural practices. Through a systematic analysis of existing literature and case studies, the article identifies challenges to successful co-design implementation such as power imbalances, institutional barriers and limited resources. To overcome these challenges, policymakers, researchers, and practitioners must work together to create enabling environments that support collaborative innovation and sustainable agricultural development. The findings suggest that collaborative approaches in agricultural practice not only improve productivity but also foster social cohesion, stakeholder engagement, knowledge sharing, build social capital and environmental sustainability, thereby contributing to food security and the well-being of farming communities in Nigeria. By involving local communities in the design process, stakeholders can ensure that agricultural practices are culturally relevant, socially acceptable, and ecologically sound.