KADUNA STATE FARMERS’ WEATHER GUIDE

by Akinmayowa Shobo | Aug 19, 2025 | Climate Justice, ejsd-Blog

🌧 KADUNA STATE FARMERS’ GUIDE 2025

This guide explains exactly what this year’s weather means for your crops, fish ponds and livestock.

RAIN CALENDAR – KNOW YOUR PLANTING WINDOW

For farmers in Birnin-Gwari, Ikara and Kubau areas:

• Your rains will start between June 3-9 
• They will end around October 13-18
• You have just 127-143 days of growing time
• Expect about 844-879mm of rain this year

What this means for your crops:

• The short season means you must plant immediately when rains stabilize – any delay risks crop failure

• Focus on traditional grains like millet and sorghum that mature quickly

• Avoid long-duration crops like some maize varieties that need 5-6 months

• The moderate rainfall means you’ll need to conserve every drop – consider digging small water collection pits around your fields

For farmers in Jema’a, Kachia and Kagarko:

• Your rains come earlier (May 11-19) and stay longer (until October 24-28)

• You have 173-184 growing days – nearly 6 months

• Generous rainfall of 1022-1116mm

What this means:

• You have flexibility to plant both early and late-maturing crops

• Can successfully grow maize, yam, and rice alongside traditional grains

• The heavier rains may cause waterlogging – plant on ridges or mounds

• More humidity means more pests – be ready to inspect crops weekly

CROP-SPECIFIC STRATEGIES

For grain farmers:

• In northern areas: Plant millet/sorghum June 5-12, spaced 75cm between rows

• In southern areas: Maize can be planted May 15-25, but choose varieties that mature in 4 months

• Everywhere: Practice intercropping with legumes like cowpea to improve soil

For vegetable growers:

• Southern farmers: Can plant multiple cycles of tomatoes, peppers

• Northern farmers: Focus on quick vegetables like spinach during rainy season

• All areas: Prepare to irrigate during dry spells if possible

LIVESTOCK MANAGEMENT

For cattle owners:

• Northern pastures will dry by mid-October – start planning fodder storage in August

• Consider moving herds southward gradually from September

• Identify water sources now for dry season

For poultry keepers:

• The hot period (March-May) requires:

• Adding more water containers

• Providing shade with palm fronds or mats

• Reducing stocking density by 20%

CRITICAL DANGER PERIODS

July 10-25:

• Likely dry spell across central areas
• For crops planted in June, this will be their most vulnerable stage

Prepare by:

• Mulching immediately after planting
• Having water containers ready for emergency watering

October:

• Northern rains end early (13-18)
• Begin harvesting as soon as crops mature
• Collect and store crop residues for animal feed

MONTH-BY-MONTH ACTION PLAN

May:

• Clear and prepare fields
• Obtain quality seeds from approved sources
• Repair tools and equipment

June:

• Plant immediately when rains stabilize
• Apply organic manure if available
• Mark vulnerable areas needing pest watch

July:

• Complete all planting
• Weed thoroughly
• Prepare dry spell measures

August:

• Continue weeding
• Begin fodder collection
• Start planning dry season gardens

September:

• Early harvesting begins
• Process and store grains properly
• Vaccinate animals

October

• Complete all harvesting
• Prepare storage facilities
• Implement dry season water plans

SECTION 5: WHERE TO GET HELP

NiMet Kaduna Office:

📞 Mr. Stephen Bala                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                  

☎️ 08029883300, 08031540444

📧 s.bala@nimet.gov.ng, bala0912tani@yahoo.com

🌍 To download the SCP 2025, visit NiMeT website: https://www.nimet.gov.ng/scp

Remember:

• Share this information with fellow farmers
• Call for help if you notice unusual weather
• Attend local agriculture extension meetings
• Ask Questions: If you don’t understand something, call the NiMet number.
• For farmers in riverine areas, prepare for possible floods
• All farmers – watch for the August break

Social Media

X: @nimetnigeria

LinkedIn, Facebook, Youtube: @Nigerian Meteorological Agency

Instagram: officialnimetng

Summary of Predicted Onset Date, Cessation Date, Length of Season and Annual Rainfall Amounts for States and Local Government Areas for Kaduna state