An Agricultural Extension Officer in Gombe State, Mr Abubakar Ibrahim, has cautioned farmers against rushing to plant following the first rainfall experienced in parts of the state on Wednesday night.
Speaking in an interview on Thursday in Gombe, Ibrahim explained that the warning was prompted by a recurring trend where farmers begin planting as soon as the first rain falls each year, often to their detriment.
“It is important for farmers to avoid rushing into planting,” he said, emphasising that the initial rains may not continue and could result in poor crop yields or even total failure.
“You need consistent rainfall before you can plant any seed. Seeds require adequate moisture to germinate and survive after planting. Planting too early could force farmers to replant and with the high cost of inputs, this increases farming expenses and reduces income after harvest.”
Ibrahim encouraged farmers to remain mindful of the ongoing effects of climate change and to adopt practices that are suited to the evolving weather patterns.
He further advised them to stay informed through updates from government agencies that provide weather forecasts and rainfall projections.
Referring to the 2025 Seasonal Climate Prediction (SCP) issued by the Nigerian Meteorological Agency (NiMet), Ibrahim urged farmers to use the information available to better time their planting efforts.
“I also advise farmers to purchase drought-resistant seed varieties to mitigate the effects of dry spells. Farming for commercial purposes requires the use of improved seeds; grains alone cannot guarantee productivity or ensure food security,” he said.
He also highlighted the need for stronger agricultural education and called on the Gombe State Government to recruit more extension officers to provide rural farmers with access to modern farming techniques.
According to NiMet’s SCP released on 3 April 2025, the rainy season in Gombe State is expected to last between 107 and 140 days. The rains are predicted to commence around 27 May in the southern region (Shongom) and end by 3 November.
Forecasts suggest that total rainfall will vary across the state, with Nafada in the north expecting around 606 mm and Shongom in the south likely to receive up to 789 mm.
