Some farmers in Adamawa State have called on their colleagues to embrace climate-smart agriculture by using high-breed seeds to boost crop productivity and increase returns on their farming investments.

They made the appeal during a field trip to Asmau Farms in Jabi Lamba community, Girei Local Government Area, organised by Propcom+, a UK-funded programme.

Tukur Muazu, managing director of Asmau Farms, emphasised that the use of high-breed seeds was key to addressing food security concerns and the impact of climate change on agriculture.

He said with support from Propcom+, high-breed seeds were being multiplied on his farm to help farmers across the state.

According to him, more than 400 farmers currently cultivate certified quality seeds on his farm, which are readily available to rural farmers.

“The only way for farmers to escape poverty, boost productivity, and gain more from farming is by adopting improved seeds,” Mr Muazu stated.

Aliyu Bello, a 41-year-old rice farmer, shared his success story, saying he now harvests between 35 and 40 bags of rice per season, compared to 10 bags when using traditional seeds.

“Last year, I harvested 37 bags of paddy, which I sold for N55,000 per bag.

“This improved my income and living standard,” he said.

Mr Bello encouraged fellow farmers to abandon traditional seeds, which he said could not withstand drought or flooding.

Rebecca James, a 70-year-old widow displaced from Borno State in 2014, also testified to the benefits of using climate-resilient seeds.

She said cultivating soya beans with improved seeds had significantly boosted her yield.

“From my small piece of land, I harvested 15 bags of soya beans last year.

“The proceeds helped me build a one-room apartment.

“I urge other women to embrace improved seeds to earn more and live better lives,” she said.

Propcom+ is working to transform Nigeria’s rural and agricultural sectors by promoting climate-resilient and sustainable farming practices.

The initiative aims to benefit people, the climate and nature by empowering over 3.79 million rural farmers, 50 per cent of them women, to adapt to climate change, increase productivity, and protect natural ecosystems.

The programme also seeks to improve incomes and foster inclusive economic growth.

(NAN)