An agricultural expert, Dr. Joel Ibiyemi, has cautioned farmers against planting based on the recent rains, stressing that the rainfall experienced so far does not signal the onset of the rainy season.
Ibiyemi, who is also the Chief Executive Officer of Ibis Agro-Biz Consults in Ibadan, gave the warning in an interview with reporters in Ibadan on Saturday.
He advised farmers to wait for the actual onset of the planting season, expected to begin in late March.
According to him, the recent rains are misleading, as the true rainy season has not yet commenced. Premature planting could lead to crop failure and significant losses for farmers.
He urged farmers to exercise patience and plant at the appropriate time to ensure optimal crop growth and yield.
“Farmers are advised to monitor weather forecasts and consult local agricultural authorities for guidance on the best planting time,” he added.
Ibiyemi also cautioned farmers against applying the wrong fertilizer to specific crops, noting that each fertilizer is formulated to meet the unique needs of particular crops.
He explained that using inappropriate fertilizer could significantly reduce yields. For instance, applying maize-specific fertilizer to cassava would result in poor cassava yields.
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“Each fertilizer has a specific crop it is meant for. Applying the wrong one can cause nutrient imbalance, reduced yields, and even soil degradation,” he further explained.
He urged farmers to consult agricultural officers or experts to determine the most suitable fertilizer for their crops to ensure optimal growth and productivity.
The expert also called on the federal and state governments to adopt a more serious approach to agriculture by supporting genuine farmers and implementing policies favorable to the sector.
He urged governments to prioritize agriculture-friendly policies, such as providing affordable fertilizers, improving irrigation systems, and enhancing access to markets.
Ibiyemi further called for the establishment of robust agricultural insurance schemes to protect farmers against crop failures and other risks.
He noted the vast potential of Nigeria’s agricultural sector, saying inadequate government attention had continued to pose serious challenges to its growth.
He underscored the need for governments at all levels to increase budgetary allocations to agriculture and ensure prompt and full release of funds.
“Our farmers are the backbone of the economy, yet they are struggling. If urgent action is not taken, we risk food insecurity and economic stagnation,” he said.
