Why IAR Recommends Soil Fertility Test As Wet Season Commences

“Prof. Ado Yusuf, Executive Director of the Institute for Agricultural Research at ABU, Zaria, emphasized that soil testing reduces fertilizer use, lowers production costs, and protects the environment. A 2023 study with the International Atomic Energy Agency found that Kaduna State farmers cut fertilizer use by one-third without reducing yields through soil testing. Yusuf noted that while few Nigerian farmers currently conduct soil tests, agro-allied companies offering mobile testing labs are helping improve practices. He also advised using improved seeds and good farm management. For the North West, he recommended planting early-maturing seeds due to a forecast of potential dry spells and an early end to the rainy season. Source: Daily Trust

Our Review
Soil testing, as highlighted by Prof. Ado Yusuf, is a game-changer in Africa’s agri-food sector, offering cost-effective solutions to farmers while promoting environmental sustainability. By reducing fertilizer usage without compromising yields, farmers can optimize resources and mitigate environmental degradation. The adoption of soil testing, alongside improved seeds and farm management practices, can enhance productivity and resilience in the face of climate uncertainties. Moreover, the involvement of agro-allied companies in providing mobile testing labs signifies a step towards democratizing access to crucial agricultural technologies, potentially transforming farming practices across the continent. This shift not only empowers farmers but also strengthens the entire agri-food value chain, fostering growth and sustainability.”