‘Our crops are dying’ — Plateau farmers lament short rainfall in southern zone
Farmers in Plateau State’s southern zone say delayed rainfall is killing their crops and threatening their livelihoods.
The affected zone includes Langtang North, Langtang South, Mikang, Shendam, Wase, and Qua’an Pan local government areas.
Unlike other parts of the state where rains have been steady, the southern belt is experiencing a disturbing dry spell. Crops such as maize, rice, groundnuts, millet, and beans are already wilting, raising concerns about low yields and potential food shortages.
Nandul Solomon, a farmer in Langtang South, said the rain stopped nearly a month ago.
“We only get drizzles once in a while. It’s not enough for the crops,” he told journalists.
“The drought is drying up our farms. If it continues, we’ll lose millions because most crops haven’t matured yet.”
Yusuf Maidoki, who farms groundnuts in Yelwa, Shendam LGA, shared similar concerns.
“I planted large quantities expecting a good harvest, but I’m now worried about the outcome. We just hope it rains soon.”
In Langtang North, Joseph Domle said the pattern is different from previous years.
“Since the farming season began, the rain hasn’t been consistent. This is affecting our means of livelihood,” he said.
The farmers are urging the state government and relevant authorities to monitor the situation closely and provide emergency support if the rainfall delay persists.
They say the zone’s unusual weather pattern this season could severely impact Plateau’s food production if no intervention comes soon.
On February 4, 2025, the Nigerian Meteorological Agency (NiMet) released its 2025 Seasonal Climate Prediction, forecasting a delayed onset of rainfall in eight northern and central states.
The affected states include Plateau, Kaduna, Niger, Benue, Nasarawa, Taraba, Adamawa, and Kwara.
Meanwhile, NiMet projected that Delta, Bayelsa, Rivers, Anambra, and parts of Oyo, Ogun, Osun, Ondo, Lagos, Edo, Enugu, Imo, and Ebonyi would witness early rainfall.
