Some farmers in Dutse, Jigawa, have expressed apprehension over irregular rainfall threatening crop cultivation in the area.

The situation had forced many farmers to delay planting water-intensive crops amid fears of low yields at harvest.

They said the prolonged dry spell after planting had left many crops struggling to establish, while uncertainty over rainfall disrupted farming activities. A cross-section of the farmers stated this in separate interviews on Friday in Dutse.

Ayuba Sadisu, a farmer, described the erratic rainfall pattern as a major challenge, saying that many farmers planted their crops expecting consistent rains.

Yahaya Haruna said inadequate rainfall posed a greater threat to smallholder farmers, whose livelihoods depend largely on rain-fed agriculture.

Salihu Auwalu, a farm labourer who also provides ox-ploughing services, said that irregular rainfall had slowed his farming operations.

“Many farmers usually engage my services to prepare their rice fields, but most of them have suspended the work because they are waiting for the rains to become consistent before cultivating the farmlands.

“Without adequate rainfall, crops are at risk of withering before they become properly established,” he said.

An agricultural expert, Hussaini Tukur, said irregular rainfall during the early stages of the rainy season could affect seed germination, reduce crop establishment and delay planting decisions, particularly for water-intensive crops such as rice.

He advised farmers to adhere to weather forecast advisories from the Nigerian Meteorological Agency (NiMet) before planting and adopt good farming practices to minimise losses.

“Farmers should avoid rushing to plant immediately after the first rainfall. They should ensure the rainy season is fully established, cultivate drought-tolerant or early-maturing seeds, and seek guidance from extension officers,” he said.

(NAN)