Emerging Trends in Robotics and Automation for Sustainable Development in Nigeria

Abstract

Nigeria faces significant developmental challenges in agriculture, healthcare, waste management, and infrastructure, which hinder progress toward the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Emerging trends in robotics and automation offer transformative solutions to enhance efficiency, reduce human error, and optimize resource utilization. This article explores four key trends: autonomous agricultural robots for precision farming, automated waste-sorting systems for the circular economy, drone-based healthcare logistics, and AI-driven infrastructure monitoring. Using a mixed-method approach combining case study analysis and secondary data from Nigerian pilot projects (2019–2025), the study evaluates the feasibility, socio-economic impacts, and sustainability potential of these technologies. Findings indicate that robotics can increase crop yields by up to 40%, reduce post-harvest losses by 25%, improve medical supply delivery times by 70%, and enhance waste recycling rates from 10% to 45%. However, challenges such as high initial costs, inadequate power supply, low digital literacy, and policy gaps remain pervasive. The article presents a table of seven ongoing automation initiatives in Nigeria and discusses their outcomes. Recommendations include government-backed innovation hubs, public-private partnerships for renewable-powered robotics, and curriculum reforms in tertiary institutions. Conclusively, strategic deployment of robotics and automation aligns with SDGs 2 (zero hunger), 3 (good health), 9 (industry innovation), 11 (sustainable cities), and 12 (responsible consumption). Nigeria must adopt a phased, inclusive automation roadmap to achieve sustainable development.