The Nasarawa State Agricultural Development Programme (NADP) has encouraged farmers to seek proper knowledge and use certified improved seed varieties to enhance crop yields.
This call was made by Umaru Nuhu, the Programme Manager of NADP, during an interview with journalists on Tuesday in Lafia.
Nuhu emphasized the importance of this guidance as the rainy season approaches, noting that adopting better farming practices and using improved seeds will significantly boost productivity and contribute to food security across the state.
He revealed that in preparation for the wet season, the NADP has stocked a range of improved seeds such as rice and maize, along with other essential farm inputs, which are now available at the agency’s office.
Acknowledging the impact of climate change on agriculture, Nuhu stated that the agency regularly provides farmers with timely and relevant information on suitable planting periods and the best seed types to ensure a bountiful harvest.
“Understanding the importance of food security, we consistently share useful information with farmers in the state,” he said.
“To reach a wider audience, we promote our available seeds and inputs through radio programmes and jingles.”
He further advised farmers to avoid purchasing grains from open markets for planting, warning that such seeds are often unreliable and not genetically improved, which can lead to poor yields.
Nuhu urged all farmers interested in increasing their output to visit the NADP office for access to dependable, high-quality seeds.
Many farmers currently planting do not have access to proper seeds but are instead using grains purchased from open markets, which are unlikely to produce yields comparable to those from improved seed varieties.
Umaru Nuhu, Programme Manager of the Nasarawa State Agricultural Development Programme (NADP), stressed that farmers can achieve better harvests if they are equipped with the right knowledge about planting times and use certified seed varieties.
He reiterated NADP’s role in promoting food sufficiency and security within and beyond the state by continuously providing farmers with modern agricultural technologies, vital information, and technical support to boost their productivity.
Nuhu also praised the Nasarawa State Government, led by Governor Abdullahi Sule, for prioritizing agriculture and providing significant support to the sector.
However, he raised concerns over several pressing challenges confronting NADP. These include a severe shortage of extension officers and the poor condition of the agency’s facilities. He appealed to the governor to intervene.
According to him, the standard ratio is one extension officer for every 400 to 500 farmers. Unfortunately, due to limited personnel, each officer currently serves between 15,000 and 17,000 farmers. This overstretch, he noted, hampers the timely delivery of essential agricultural services to farming communities.
“Our offices are in dire need of renovation, and much of our equipment and furniture are outdated,” he added. “We are hopeful that once these issues reach the governor’s attention, he will support efforts to enhance staff welfare and improve the overall work environment.”
