Ogunlade urges farmers to adopt drought management strategies
By Abubakar Abdulquadri and Bashirat Omotosho
The Dean of the Faculty of Agriculture, University of Ilorin, Prof. Israel Ogunlade, has called on farmers to adopt effective drought management strategies to minimise losses and sustain agricultural production, particularly during periods of low rainfall.
Prof. Ogunlade, who made the call last Thursday (August 13, 2026) while speaking with the UNILORIN Bulletin in his office, stressed the need for farmers to pay close attention to weather forecasts and seek professional advice from the Nigerian Meteorological Agency (NiMet) and agricultural extension experts.
The Dean explained that drought could have significant effects on crop yields, livestock production and the overall livelihoods of farmers, making timely access to reliable climate information crucial to effective farm management.
He pointed out that farmers who understand weather patterns and respond appropriately to early warnings would be better positioned to adjust their farming activities, select suitable crops and adopt appropriate production practices to reduce the impact of drought.
Prof. Ogunlade further disclosed that the Faculty of Agriculture was equipping its students with the knowledge and skills required to understand and manage climate-related challenges, including drought.
He noted that the training was designed to produce graduates capable of helping farmers adapt to changing climatic conditions and develop sustainable agricultural practices.
Prof. Ogunlade also highlighted the outreach programmes of the Faculty, which, he said, were supported by organisations such as the Sasakawa Africa Association and the International Institute of Tropical Agriculture (IITA).
The Dean explained that the programmes were aimed at taking improved agricultural knowledge and practices to farmers to enhance their productivity and enable them to maximise the benefits of their crops and livestock.
He, therefore, urged farmers to make use of available agricultural extension services, climate information and improved farming techniques, noting that proactive drought management remained essential to reducing losses, improving productivity and ensuring sustainable food production.
