News in brief:
– Ekiti State advises farmers to stay calm during the expected 18-27 day dry spell, urging climate-smart practices.
– Government support includes subsidised seeds, agro-chemicals, free fertiliser, and the National Agricultural Growth Scheme.
The Ekiti State government has issued an advisory to farmers in response to the ongoing dry spell in the region. Commissioner for Agriculture and Food Security Ebenezer Boluwade reassured farmers that the current weather conditions are not unexpected and encouraged them to remain calm and prepare for the rest of the farming season.
Understanding the Little Dry Season (LDS)
The Little Dry Season (LDS) is a short period of reduced rainfall expected to last from July 22 2024 through August 2024 in parts of southwestern Nigeria, including Ekiti, Oyo, Ogun, and Lagos States. This weather phenomenon is anticipated to last between 18 to 27 days, during which farmers may experience a temporary reduction in rain. The Nigerian Meteorological Agency (NiMet) and the Federal Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security had previously predicted this dry spell as part of their Seasonal Climate Prediction for 2024.
Boluwade emphasised that farmers should not be worried about the current dry spell. He noted that the rainy season is expected to continue until November, allowing farmers ample time to complete their agricultural activities.
Farmers are encouraged to adapt their practices to the changing climate by embracing climate-smart agriculture—a set of practices aimed at increasing productivity while reducing greenhouse gas emissions. This includes techniques such as using drought-resistant crops, optimizing water use, and adopting sustainable land management practices.
Government support for farmers
To help farmers cope with the challenges posed by the LDS, the Ekiti State government has initiated several support programs like:
- Subsidised seeds and agro-chemicals: The state government is providing improved seeds and agro-chemicals at reduced prices to help farmers maintain productivity during the dry spell.
- Land clearing and cluster farms: Continuous land clearing and the establishment of cluster farms are underway to increase the availability of arable land for farming.
- Free fertiliser distribution: The government plans to start distributing free fertilizers to farmers soon.
- National Agricultural Growth Scheme (NAGS): This federal program, part of the Renewed Hope Agenda in Agriculture, offers subsidies of up to 75% on seeds and other inputs. Distribution will begin soon, with 10 clusters identified as distribution points.
The advisory from the Ekiti State government is a reminder of the importance of staying informed about weather patterns and adapting farming practices accordingly. By adopting climate-smart agriculture and taking advantage of government support programs, farmers can overcome the challenges posed by unexpected weather changes and maintain productivity throughout the growing season.
