Climate Change: Provide Farmers With Accurate Planting, Harvesting Period – NAERLS Expert

By; SANI ALIYU, Zaria

A climate change expert Malam Sani Inusa of Department of Agric Engineering and Irrigation, National Agricultural Extension Research and Liaison Services (NAERLS) has said that the 2025 seasonal cropping calendar should aim to optimize crop yields by identifying the most suitable crops for each rainy season and providing farmers with accurate planting and harvesting dates.

This was contained in a presentation he made on 2025 seasonal climate prediction for Northern Nigeria.

Malam Inusa said this can help in ensuring that crops receive adequate moisture, nutrients, and sunlight, resulting in higher yields and better-quality produce.

According to him, the 2025 seasonal cropping calendar should also prioritize farming efficiency by helping farmers choose crops that can be grown with minimal input costs and labour requirements.

“Also this can lead to increased profitability for farmers, as well as reduced environmental impact from agricultural activities.

“By improving crop yields and farming efficiency, the 2025 seasonal cropping calendar can help ensure food security in Northern Nigeria.

“This can be particularly important during periods of climate change-induced drought, as farmers will have a more reliable source of food and income.

“The 2025 seasonal cropping calendar can also contribute to economic growth in Northern Nigeria by promoting agricultural exports and creating job opportunities in the agricultural sector,” he said.

He explained that by identifying markets for surplus crops and providing farmers with information on pricing and market trends, the 2025 seasonal cropping calendar can help farmers make informed decisions and maximize their revenue.

“The 2025 seasonal cropping calendar should also take into account the impacts of climate change on agriculture in Northern Nigeria.

“This can include identifying crops that are more resilient to drought, heat, and other climate-related challenges, as well as implementing practices that promote soil health and water conservation.

“The expected outcomes from the 2025 seasonal cropping calendar for Northern Nigeria include increased crop yields, enhanced farming efficiency, improved food security, strengthened economic growth, and better climate resilience.

“By achieving these outcomes, the 2025 seasonal cropping calendar can help promote sustainable agriculture and contribute to a more prosperous and resilient Northern Nigeria.

“Cropping the seasonal calendar for Northern Nigeria refers to the practice of identifying and scheduling the planting and harvesting of crops based on the region’s distinct climate patterns and rainfall seasons.

“Northern Nigeria has two main rainy seasons: the major rainy season from April to July, and the minor rainy season from August to October.

“The summer rainfall season, also known as the major rainy season, is the most suitable period for planting crops like maize, sorghum, millet, and groundnuts,” he stressed.

The climate change expert said this season provides sufficient moisture for these crops to grow and mature.

“The harvesting of these crops typically begins in July and continues into August.

“The autumn rainfall season, or the minor rainy season, is less predictable in terms of precipitation and duration, making it less suitable for farming compared to the major rainy season.

“However, some farmers in Northern Nigeria still plant crops like vegetables and short-cycle crops during this period to make the most of any available rainfall.

“Cropping the seasonal calendar for Northern Nigeria is essential to ensure agricultural productivity, food security, and economic sustainability in the region.

“It involves coordinating activities such as crop selection, planting, and harvesting with the most favourable weather conditions, while also taking into account factors like soil fertility, market demand, and available resources.

“Cropping the seasonal calendar for Northern Nigeria involves carefully planning and scheduling agricultural activities according to the region’s two main rainy seasons to optimize crop growth, yield, and overall farming success,” he advised.