Fields Awaiting Stable Rainfall: Issues Benue Farmers Worry About

Farmers in Benue State are preparing their fields for the upcoming farming season, waiting for the rains to stabilize before planting. Currently, farmers in Makurdi and surrounding areas have yet to till their land due to inconsistent rainfall, while those in more rural areas are holding off planting until conditions improve.
Jonah Iornondu, a farmer in Daudu, has his fields ready and seed yams prepared but is waiting for consistent rain to avoid heat damage to seeds. He also struggles with high input costs for seeds and chemicals. Similarly, Ekoja Adakole in Otukpo faces financial challenges and is hesitant to plant due to the high cost of inputs, except for cassava, which does not require seasonal production.
Onyebe Eneche has prepared her fields since March for maize, groundnut, and cassava but awaits rainfall and is seeking improved seeds, ready to sell her produce if necessary to buy the needed inputs.
Dr. Teryima Iorlamen from Joseph Sarwuan Tarka University advises that farmers should be ready to plant by May when rains are expected to stabilize. He emphasizes the importance of using improved seeds and acquiring inputs before prices rise. Iorlamen suggests farmers access seeds from the university’s College of Agronomy, which provides both seeds and agronomic advice.
Another expert, Iorkyaa Nater, urges farmers to prepare their farmlands and select appropriate, high-quality seeds suitable for the local conditions and the rainy season. He also recommends crop rotation, proper water management, and pest and disease control strategies to ensure a successful planting season. Source: Daily Trust

OUR REVIEW
Farmers in Benue State face challenges with erratic rainfall as they prepare for the planting season. While some, like Jonah Iornondu and Ekoja Adakole, await stable rains to avoid crop damage and cope with high input costs, others, like Onyebe Eneche, have their fields ready but seek improved seeds. Dr. Teryima Iorlamen stresses timely planting by May, advocating for improved seeds to boost yields. He suggests accessing seeds from institutions like Joseph Sarwuan Tarka University to mitigate rising input costs. Similarly, Iorkyaa Nater highlights the importance of proper land preparation, seed selection, and pest management for successful planting. These insights underscore the need for proactive farming strategies amidst climate variability and input cost challenges.