By George George Idowu
In response to the escalating cost of crude oil products, dry season farmers in Taraba state have revealed their transition to solar and gas-powered water pumping engines, abandoning traditional diesel and petrol engines.
This shift, driven by lower operational costs associated with solar and gas-powered engines, was disclosed by farmers on January 13, 2024.
Engineer Yahaya Mafindi, an active irrigation farmer, highlighted the successful deployment of solar water pumping engines at the Shika irrigation field.
He emphasized the financial burden of rising petrol costs, prompting the switch to gas systems, which has garnered significant interest among farmers aiming to reduce production expenses.
“As a direct consequence of the soaring fuel prices, the shift towards solar and gas-powered water pumping engines has significantly curbed the expenses incurred in fueling engines, thereby reducing the overall cost of watering farms,” stated Engineer Mafindi.
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He urged both the federal and state governments to invest in nationwide solar system irrigation to minimize production costs for farmers.
Haruna Sarkin Shekar, another large-scale farmer, shared his experience using both solar and petrol systems in his Shekar dry season farms.
While emphasizing the urgent need to convert petrol-powered engines to gas systems and procure additional solar-powered pumping engines, he highlighted the cost-efficiency of the new system.
Musa Dan Wurkum, a prominent mechanic in the field, noted a substantial increase in customers seeking this transition due to its cost-effectiveness. However, he mentioned that the surge in demand has doubled the cost compared to the previous year.
Despite these advancements, concerns were raised about the distribution of solar water pumping engines provided by the Federal Ministry of Agriculture, with reports indicating misallocation and many intended recipients not receiving them.
While farmers embrace technological advancements for cost efficiency, they also highlighted ongoing security challenges, emphasizing the need for comprehensive measures to safeguard lives and properties in the face of potential threats.
