Early Downpour Not Sign Of Rainy Season, Govt Tells Kwara Farmers

Kwara State government has advised farmers to exercise caution and avoid premature planting, stressing that the recent rainfall was not indicative of the commencement of the rainy season.

The commissioner for Agriculture and Rural Development, Dr Afees Abolore, explained that occasional rainfall should not be mistaken for the arrival of the wet season.

He urged farmers to align their decisions with verified seasonal weather forecasts, local field conditions and official agricultural advisories.

Abolore observed that climate variability had continued to alter traditional rainfall patterns, making informed decision-making increasingly important.

He acknowledged concerns arising from farmers’ experiences with previous seasonal weather predictions, explaining that weather forecasts are not guarantees but planning tools that must be carefully interpreted.

According to him, lessons from past seasons have reinforced the need to combine national outlooks with local assessments, soil readiness evaluations, extension guidance and phased planting decisions to reduce production risks.

He assured the farmers that the ministry was working with relevant agencies and partners to strengthen its advisory systems to ensure that weather information is better contextualised, practical and supportive of farmer livelihoods.

Abolore outlined the agricultural direction for Kwara State in 2026, 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 up agricultural mechanisation and irrigation-supported dry-season farming to reduce over-dependence on rainfall.