Oyo Farmers Urge State Government to Provide Irrigation Facilities Amid Irregular Rainfall

By Abdullahi Lukman

The All Farmers Association of Nigeria (AFAN), Oyo State chapter, has appealed to the state government to provide irrigation facilities to support year-round farming. This call comes as the state faces irregular rainfall patterns and shifting planting seasons, threatening food production.

Mr. Adewumi Abass, Chairman of AFAN Oyo State, highlighted the impact of unpredictable weather on agriculture in the region.

Speaking in Ibadan, he pointed out that despite forecasts predicting flooding in several states, including Oyo, the actual rainfall in 2025 has been sporadic and insufficient.

“Some areas are experiencing rainfall while others remain dry. The rainy season, which typically starts in late March or early April, has already seen a delay, and we are now in the first week of May,” Abass explained.

The AFAN Chairman stressed that Nigeria’s agricultural calendar relies on two seasons—the rainy season and the dry season.

He noted that the traditionally expected “August break” that separates the two seasons has now shifted to between June and July, further complicating planting schedules for farmers.

To address these challenges, Abass called on the government to assist farmers by providing irrigation systems, which would allow them to cultivate crops throughout the year, regardless of rainfall.

He proposed that these facilities be offered to farmers on an installment payment plan to make them more accessible.

“Government support in the form of irrigation facilities will ensure we can continue farming even in the dry season,” Abass said.

In addition to climate-related challenges, Abass also raised concerns about the growing security threats faced by farmers, particularly in relation to farmer-herder conflicts.

He urged the state’s security agencies to increase patrols around farmlands to ensure farmers’ safety.

Despite the challenges, Abass praised Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde for his promise to subsidize half the cost of land cultivation for farmers and commended the Federal Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security for providing essential farm inputs to support agriculture in the state.

The call for irrigation support reflects growing concerns over the impact of climate change and insecurity on farming, which plays a crucial role in food security and the economy of Oyo State and Nigeria at large.