Dry Season Farming: Nasarawa Farmers Appeal For Govt. Support

Some dry season farmers in Nasarawa State have urged government at all levels to provide support to farmers to ensure steady food supply.

The farmers made the call in separate interviews with newsmen in Kokona Local Government Area of the state.

Dry season farming plays a vital role in food security by offering a consistent supply of food during the dry months, particularly in regions with short rainy seasons or high drought vulnerability.

The practice of dry season farming, typically conducted between October and March in southern Nigeria and September and April in the northern region, is characterised by minimal rainfall.

According to Mr Nazifi Salisu, a dry season farmer, the rigorous demands of dry season farming necessitates consistent water supply to nurture plant growth.

“Farming during the dry season is a big task; we farm a variety of crops so there will be adequate food all year round and we do all these because we want to be self-reliant.

“So, we are appealing to governments at all levels for insecticides, fertilisers, access to adequate water supply and many more so as to carry out dry season farming that will yield adequate food supply for the populace,” he said.

He said the advantage of irrigation lied in regulating water delivery to crops.

Salisu added that the lack of affordable fertiliser and fuel remained a pressing concern for farmers; hence, the call for governments for support.

Mr Monday Kuje, another dry season farmer, also pointed out the security risks faced by farmers, including incidents of theft and armed attacks on their farms as other challenges affecting farmers.

He then called for protective measures and government support to safeguard their livelihoods to ensure uninterrupted food production.

“The security issue is a huge challenge and so we call on the government to put in place measures to protect what we do and we pray to God to change the mindset of those perpetrating attacks on our farms because they used to enter and do what they like,” he added.

Malam Mustapha Abdullahi, another dry season farmer, appealed for government’s assistance in procuring essential inputs, such as pesticides to mitigate production costs and enhance crop yields.

“In this dry season farming, if you succeed you will enjoy a lot but at times you will lose.

“So, to forestall losses, it is important to select suitable farmlands to guarantee appreciable harvests,” he said.

He highlighted the capital-intensive nature of dry season farming and called on the government to facilitate the sustainability of this vital agricultural practice to ensure food security and economic stability.

NAN/Oyenike Oyeniyi