2025 Climate Prediction: Kwara Farmers Advised On Best Agricultural Practices

The Kwara State Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development has cautioned farmers and all agricultural stakeholders in the state of the 2025 Seasonal Climate Prediction (SCP) as released by the Nigerian Meteorological Agency (NiMet).

 

According to the forecast, the rainy season in Kwara State will commence in mid-April in the southern part of the state and late May in the northern region.

 

It added that rains will cease across the state by November, resulting in a shorter-than-usual rainy season.

 

The forecast also implied potential dry spells between June and July that could cause water stress, impacting crop growth and livestock farming.

 

To ensure maximum productivity and reduced losses, the Ministry advised farmers to strategically plan their planting, harvesting, and overall agricultural activities based on the climate forecast.

 

It similarly urged farmers not to plant before the rains are well established to avoid crop failure stressing that given the early cessation of rainfall, priority should be given to drought-tolerant and early-maturing crops that can withstand dry conditions.

 

These include maize, millet, sorghum, cowpea, groundnut, soybean, sweet potatoes, and cassava.

 

It also advised that to retain soil moisture, farmers should adopt techniques such as mulching, rainwater harvesting, and minimal tillage.

 

The Ministry urged farmers to avoid applying fertilizers before heavy rains to prevent nutrient leaching and wastage while hort-range weather forecasts should be followed for proper timing.

 

The statement added with warmer temperatures expected, there may be an increase in pest activities, particularly Fall Armyworms on maize and that farmers should closely monitor their crops and apply pest control measures as needed.

 

 

It added that for livestock and poultry farmers, proper ventilation in poultry pens is crucial, as rising temperatures between February and June may cause heat stress. Farmers should reduce stocking density and ensure adequate cooling mechanisms are in place. Providing clean drinking water fortified with multivitamins will help prevent dehydration.

 

It also advised Dairy farmers to be aware that high temperatures can affect milk production and animal fertility stressing that feeding schedules should be adjusted, and cooling methods such as sprinklers should be used.

 

“Due to the early cessation of rainfall, farmers should store crop residues for dry-season feeding and engage in hay and silage production. Proper biosecurity measures, including regular sanitation of animal pens, should be observed to prevent disease outbreaks during the rainy season” the statement added.

 

“For fish farmers, proper pond management is essential. Ponds should be dredged to increase depth and reduce excessive heating. Planting shade trees around ponds will help regulate water temperature. Feeding should be done in the early morning and late evening to avoid stressing the fish. Farmers should also take preventive measures against flooding, which could wash away their stock” it cautioned further.

 

It advised Farmers to work closely with agricultural extension officers for up-to-date guidance on weather conditions and best farming practices while the use of irrigation and rainwater harvesting techniques is highly recommended to counter the effects of unpredictable rainfall patterns.

 

It urged Livestock farmers to cull weak animals early to minimize losses during extreme weather conditions.

 

The Ministry assured that government will continue to support farmers with information, inputs, and extension services to enhance resilience against climate challenges.

 

The Commissioner for Agriculture and Rural Development, Mrs. Oloruntoyosi Thomas, emphasized the government’s commitment to ensuring food security and sustainability.

 

“The Kwara State Government is fully committed to supporting our farmers with timely information and interventions.

 

We encourage all farmers to take these precautions seriously and work closely with agricultural extension officers to mitigate the impact of climate change on their production activities.”

 

She added that the Ministry encouraged all farmers to take these precautions seriously to ensure food security, sustainable agricultural development, and economic stability in the state.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Oyenike Oyeniyi