Kwara State Government has advised farmers to exercise caution and avoid premature planting, stressing that the recent sporadic rainfall does not yet indicate the commencement of the rainy season across the state.
The State Commissioner for Agriculture and Rural Development, Dr. Afees Alabi, gave the advice while featuring on a local radio programme in Ilorin.
According to him, occasional rainfall should not be mistaken for the establishment of the wet season, as premature planting often results in avoidable losses for farmers.
He urged farmers to align their farming decisions with verified seasonal weather forecasts, local field conditions, and official agricultural advisories.
The commissioner observed that climate variability has continued to alter traditional rainfall patterns, making informed decision-making increasingly important.
Dr. Alabi further acknowledged concerns arising from farmers’ experiences with previous seasonal weather predictions, adding that weather forecasts are not guarantees but planning tools that must be carefully interpreted.
He explained that, lessons from past seasons have reinforced the need to combine national outlooks with local assessment, soil readiness evaluation, extension guidance, and phased planting decisions in order to reduce production risks.
The commissioner assured farmers that the Ministry is working with relevant agencies and partners to strengthen its advisory systems to ensure that weather information is better contextualized, practical, and supportive of farmer livelihoods.
Dr. Alabi also outlined the agricultural direction for Kwara State in 2026 under the administration of Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq, describing it as a consolidation of ongoing efforts to strengthen food security, improve productivity, and expand inclusive participation across the agricultural sector.
He explained that the State would deepen food security interventions while scaling agricultural mechanisation and irrigation-supported dry season farming to reduce over-dependence on rainfall.
ALI MUHAMMAD RABIU
