Kwara Farmers Urged to Prepare for Thunderstorms as NiMet Forecasts Unsettled Weather



The Kwara State Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development is calling on farmers and stakeholders in the agricultural sector to take precautionary measures in response to the weather outlook released by the Nigerian Meteorological Agency (NiMet), which forecasts isolated thunderstorms across parts of Kwara State from Sunday through Tuesday.

This renewed advisory follows NiMet’s latest update and comes at a critical time as many farmers across the state are returning to their farmlands to commence land preparation ahead of the 2025 planting season, expected to begin in the first week of May. The Ministry underscores the importance of safety and planning as weather conditions become increasingly unpredictable.

According to the forecast, thunderstorms—likely to be accompanied by strong winds and high temperatures—may disrupt farming activities and pose risks to farm infrastructure, livestock, and the well-being of farmers, especially in open-field settings.

Farmers are therefore advised to take the following precautions:

- Avoid working in open fields during stormy periods.

- Secure greenhouses, farm sheds, and irrigation equipment.

- Reinforce crop protection structures such as stakes and trellises.

- Monitor livestock closely and ensure adequate shelter is provided.

- Shield harvested produce and feed from moisture during transportation and storage.


The Ministry also notes that anticipated high temperatures may lead to heat stress in both humans and animals. Farmers are encouraged to provide sufficient shade and clean water for livestock, stay hydrated, and avoid strenuous activities during peak sun hours.

The Commissioner for Agriculture and Rural Development, Dr. Alabi Afees Abolore, has directed extension officers across all local government areas to intensify sensitization efforts in farming communities and provide real-time guidance as the rains set in. He emphasized that the safety of farmers and the protection of farm investments remain a top priority for the Ministry.

This advisory is issued as part of the ongoing efforts of the Kwara State Government, under the leadership of His Excellency Mallam AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq, to promote climate-smart agriculture and ensure a resilient and productive planting season for farmers across the state.

Farmers are encouraged to stay updated through their local extension officers and the Ministry’s official communication channels for further advisories as the season progresses. For regular updates, tips, and announcements, follow the Ministry’s verified social media platforms via https://linktr.ee/KwaraMARD.


Ashaolu Omotola
Press Secretary
Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development
08109057777

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