By Faridat Salifu
The Kwara State government has alerted farmers about a potentially “shorter-than-usual” rainy season, based on predictions from the Nigerian Meteorological Agency (NiMet).
These forecasts suggest dry spells could occur between June and July, posing risks to both crop growth and livestock management.
The state’s Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development has stated that the rainy season is expected to start in mid-April in the southern regions and late May in the north, with rainfall expected to end by November.
Farmers are encouraged to adjust their planting and harvesting schedules accordingly to mitigate risks of crop failure.
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Key recommendations include delaying planting until rains are consistent and prioritizing drought-resistant and early-maturing crops, such as maize, millet, and cassava.
Farmers are also advised to employ soil moisture retention methods like mulching and rainwater harvesting, as well as to avoid applying fertilizers before heavy rains to reduce nutrient runoff.
Farmers should also keep an eye on short-term weather updates to effectively time their agricultural activities. Increased pest activity, particularly the Fall Armyworm, may be a concern due to rising temperatures, necessitating vigilant pest management practices.
Livestock farmers should ensure adequate ventilation in poultry housing to combat heat stress, while also providing fresh water enriched with multivitamins. Dairy producers are cautioned to adapt feeding practices and implement cooling solutions to maintain milk production levels during warmer months.
The government also highlights the importance of proper management for fish farming, recommending pond dredging to improve conditions and planting shade trees to regulate water temperatures. Feeding should occur during cooler parts of the day to minimize stress on fish.
The state government urged farmers to work closely with agricultural extension officers for the latest information and best practices. The use of irrigation and rainwater harvesting is highly recommended to address unpredictable rainfall patterns.
