SCP: NiMet Boosts Crop, Livestock Yields In Abuja, Yobe, Katsina, Kwara, Others
By Chuks Iwerumoh
Through availability of accurate and timely Meteorological data and information, the Nigerian Meteorological Agency (NiMet) has boosted both crop and livestock yields in various states across the country, including Abuja, Yobe, Katsina, Kwara and others.
The Director General of NiMet, Prof Mansur Bako Matazu gave the hint in his presentation at the 2021 World Food Day (WFD) held recently.
Speaking on the topic: “The 2021 Growing Season: Forcast, Reality and the Role of NiMet” said that the Seasonal Climate Prediction is critical to farmers and that is why the agency has taken very seriously.
According Prof Matazu him SCP entails onset and cessation dates of the cropping season, length of growing period, rainfall amount and socio-economic implications.
He stated that the agency also provides Decadal Agromet Bulletin published every 10 days, farmers guide, Crop Weather Calendar (CWC), Annual Climate Review, Quarterly Weather Review, Drought and Food Monitoring Bulletin, State Downscaled (SCP) and Daily Weather Forecast.
For farmers to gain optimally from the SCP,, Prof Matazu informed that the agency took it upon itself to train farmers and extention officers on the application of SCP for agricultural production.
Additionally, he added that crop weather calender and livestock comfortability index is being provided.
Matazu revealed that between 2016 and 2019, 45 local government and 180 villages’ areas covered with over 5,000 farmers and extention officers were trained on the application of the SCP for agricultural production.
“Between 2017 to 2021, 104 local government and 727 village areas covered with over 60,000 farmers and extension officers were trained on the application of the SCP for agricultural production”,the DG said.
Meanwhile, WFD showcases a collective action across 150 countries, which makes the day one of the most celebrated days of the UN calendar.
On that day, which was 18th October for 2021, hundreds of events and outreach activities brought together governments, businesses, NGOs, the media, and general public. They promote worldwide awareness and action for those who suffer from hunger and for the need to ensure healthy diets for all.
