By Our Correspondent
National News – Farmers across Nigeria have been strongly advised to prepare for heavy rainfall and avoid rushing into full-scale planting, despite recent showers in several regions.
Micheal Ale, Founder of the Global Initiative for Nigeria Development, issued the warning from Ibadan, Oyo State, on Monday, emphasizing that early rains may not signal a stable start to the planting season.
The Nigerian Meteorological Agency (NiMet) and the Federal Government previously cautioned farmers against early planting following “deceptive” rainfall in February and March 2026.
These early showers, officials noted, do not mark the official start of the rainy season and could increase the risk of crop failure if farmers plant prematurely.
Ale linked the erratic rainfall pattern to global climate variability and energy disruptions, warning that unpredictable weather could affect agricultural output.
Ale highlighted that smallholder farmers, especially women and those in rural areas, are the most vulnerable to inconsistent rainfall.
He explained that intermittent heavy rains followed by intense heat could limit access to farms and reduce yields, worsening food security challenges.
To mitigate potential losses, he urged farmers to adopt climate-smart practices, including delayed planting, proper irrigation planning, and careful monitoring of weather forecasts.
The expert also called on the Federal Government to enhance support for farmers through robust early warning systems and timely agricultural advisories.
“The signals are clear; stable rainfall is essential for consistent productivity. Without proactive measures, food insecurity may deepen in the coming months,” Ale said.
Farmers are advised to stay informed about weather patterns and prepare adequately for the upcoming heavy rains to safeguard crops and ensure sustainable harvests across the country.
