As weather prediction indicates possible draught by June this year, an expert has advised farmers to use drought-tolerant variety seeds to mitigate negative impact of the anticipated harsh weather.
The Executive Director, Institute of Agricultural Research (IAR), Zaria, Professor Mohammed Faguchi Isiyaku, gave the advice while commenting on the Nigerian Meteorological Agency (NiMet) prediction of possible drought in June this year.
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He said the harsh weather, including flood and draught, would have negative consequences on agricultural production activities if farmers do not heed to professional advice.
He, however, said drought may also be recorded in August and September this year.
“Already, the IAR has engaged its farming groups and intimated them on current weather changes that may affect their production activities.
“We sensitised them on the need to procure and use drought-tolerant variety seeds like maize and sorghum to guard against any abnormally,” Prof Faguchi explained.
The director-general said part of the mandate of the institute included research into genetic improvement and production of groundnut, cowpea, sorghum, maize, cotton, sunflower and jatropha. He told farmers to take advantage of the highly researched improved seeds developed by the institute to avert loss.
He also informed that there were indications of late onset of rainfall in most northern states, saying it may start and stabilise in June and August this year.
Prof Faguchi, however, said only Kaduna State may record early rainfall, beginning from May.
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