By Anita Uzoagba
An agriculture expert, Mr Sunday Obasi, has urged Nigerians and small-scale farmers to adopt all-year-round farming techniques in organic and climate-resilient agriculture to boost national food security.
Obasi, a staff of the Federal Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security, gave the advice on an All-Year-Round Farming Training held on Thursday in Abuja.
The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the training was organised by Farm Flowers and Allied Products Initiative (FFAP).
Obasi reiterated the need for Nigerian households and smallholder farmers to adopt improved dry-season farming techniques to boost food security, reduce high market prices, and empower women economically.
According to him, proper planning, water management, land preparation and the use of appropriate irrigation systems remained the backbone of successful dry-season farming.
He said that in Northern states like Kano, Katsina, and Sokoto, farmers commonly adopt flood irrigation, where water flows through channels across the field.
Obasi said the method is effective but often leads to nutrient loss as water moves from upstream to downstream, making soil enrichment necessary.
He highlighted land preparation as one of the major challenges facing agriculture in Nigeria.
“No matter the amount of fertiliser applied, crops will not perform well if the soil is not properly loosened,” he said.
He added that households could diversify their food intake and reduce health risks by producing their own vegetables using home gardens.
Obasi noted the growing opportunities in greenhouse farming, describing it as a profitable venture for investors.
He added that a standard greenhouse with about 490 plants could yield up to 1.2 metric tonnes of produce in six months, with steady demand from retailers and supermarkets.
He said that promoting vegetable production at household and community levels would reduce pressure on markets and help stabilise food prices.
“The time has come for Nigerians to take their destiny in their own hands by producing what they consume, both for health and economic reasons,” he said.
In her remarks, Mrs Christy Yakubu, President, FFAPI, said that the programme was designed to equip farmers with practical skills to boost productivity amid climate variability.
According to her, it was a pivotal step in strengthening food security and boost economic opportunities across communities.
Yakubu said that with climate change and rapid technological advancements, traditional seasonal farming was no longer sufficient for national food needs.
“Our commitment is to ensure farmers gain hands-on knowledge in resilient crop cultivation, efficient water and soil management, and the use of digital tools that improve yields,” she said.
She assured participants that the organisation would continue to champion innovative and sustainable agricultural practices inspired by global best practices.
Yakubu commended participants for their dedication and urged them to take full advantage of the sessions.
Mr Cornelius Agenyi, President, National Sugarcane Producers, Processors and Marketers Association of Nigeria (NASPMAN), said the initiative reflected the very blueprint for the future of Nigerian agriculture.
According to him, seasonality, climate vulnerability and high input costs remained major constraints to food production.
He noted that the training would address these challenges by equipping farmers with practical skills for year-round cultivation.
“By empowering smallholder farmers especially women and youth, you are investing in the most potent catalyst for rural economic transformation.”
“This initiative resonates with our core mission at NASPMAN to enhance productivity, promote value addition and improve the livelihood of our farmers,” he said.
Mrs Yamusa Ladi, National Women Leader, All Farmers Association, said that agriculture remains the foundation of healthy living, wealth creation and national development.
According to her, farmers should learn the right planting seasons and soil conditions for various seeds.
“Some seeds are not meant for waterlogged areas. Many seeds do not need much water, but we must seek guidance to avoid planting wrongly and losing yield,” she said.
She said the programme was initiated with the aim to develop a resilient, efficient, and environmentally friendly agricultural system that enhances food security and economic growth.
She emphasised the importance of identifying credible agriculturists and accessing quality inputs, noting that improved seeds could significantly increase yields.
Ladi advised farmers on the correct use of manure and fertilisers, warning that improper application could damage crops.
She shared new methods of maize cultivation, stressing the need for correct spacing and fertiliser placement.
“When planting maize, apply NPK 15-15-15 in the middle of the plant gaps, not directly on the roots. With this method, on a 100 by 100 plot, I harvest six to seven bags.
“It all depends on the method and the quality of seeds,” she said.
She called for continuous training and collaboration within the group to ensure that farmers, especially women, remain informed and empowered. (NAN) (www.nannews.ng)
Edited by Dorcas Jonah/Joseph Edeh
