Institute Offers Guidance To North West Farmers For 2024 Rainy Season
he Institute for Agricultural Research at Ahmadu Bello University (ABU) Zaria has issued recommendations to farmers in the North West region concerning the upcoming 2024 rainy season, in alignment with predictions from the Nigerian Meteorological Agency (NIMET).....KINDLY READ THE FULL STORY HERE▶

Prof. Ado Yusuf, the Executive Director of the Institute, shared these insights during a session with journalists in Zaria on Monday.

Yusuf emphasized NIMET’s forecast indicating a dryer-than-normal wet season for 2024, with early rainfall expected in few states but delayed onset anticipated for most northern states.

Highlighting the distinction between the first rain and the season’s onset, Yusuf cautioned about possible dry spells, which might extend beyond two weeks, particularly in the northern states.

He advised farmers to delay planting until rainfall is well established to mitigate the risk of replanting. Additionally, he suggested opting for early maturing seed varieties due to the forecasted early cessation of rainfall in many areas.

Considering the shortened rainy season, Yusuf recommended that farmers in the North Central States, known for root and tuber crops, diversify their crops by including cereals.

For moisture conservation in the face of anticipated hot temperatures, Yusuf urged farmers, especially in the North-Western states, to employ techniques such as ridges and avoid zero or minimal tillage. He emphasized the importance of water retention through enclosures.

Livestock farmers, particularly poultry farmers, were advised to ensure adequate water supply for their animals due to the expected high temperatures.

By adhering to these strategies, farmers can better navigate the challenges posed by the predicted weather patterns and optimize their agricultural practices for the 2024 rainy season.

The Institute for Agricultural Research at Ahmadu Bello University (ABU) Zaria has issued recommendations to farmers in the North West region concerning the upcoming 2024 rainy season, in alignment with predictions from the Nigerian Meteorological Agency (NIMET).

Prof. Ado Yusuf, the Executive Director of the Institute, shared these insights during a session with journalists in Zaria on Monday.

Yusuf emphasized NIMET’s forecast indicating a dryer-than-normal wet season for 2024, with early rainfall expected in few states but delayed onset anticipated for most northern states.

Highlighting the distinction between the first rain and the season’s onset, Yusuf cautioned about possible dry spells, which might extend beyond two weeks, particularly in the northern states.

He advised farmers to delay planting until rainfall is well established to mitigate the risk of replanting. Additionally, he suggested opting for early maturing seed varieties due to the forecasted early cessation of rainfall in many areas.

Considering the shortened rainy season, Yusuf recommended that farmers in the North Central States, known for root and tuber crops, diversify their crops by including cereals.

For moisture conservation in the face of anticipated hot temperatures, Yusuf urged farmers, especially in the North-Western states, to employ techniques such as ridges and avoid zero or minimal tillage. He emphasized the importance of water retention through enclosures.

Livestock farmers, particularly poultry farmers, were advised to ensure adequate water supply for their animals due to the expected high temperatures.

By adhering to these strategies, farmers can better navigate the challenges posed by the predicted weather patterns and optimize their agricultural practices for the 2024 rainy season.