Adamawa, Kaduna States Hit by Devastating Drought, Farm Plants Wither Away

By Emmanuel Kwada

A severe drought has struck parts of northern Nigeria, leaving a trail of withered farm plants and parched earth in its wake. The affected regions, including Plateau, Jigawa, Adamawa, and Yobe states, are experiencing an unprecedented dry spell, with rainfall levels plummeting to alarming lows.

Farmers in the region, who rely heavily on rainfall to irrigate their crops, are counting their losses as their plants dry up and wither away. The drought has affected a wide range of crops, including maize, millet, sorghum, and cowpeas, which are staples in the region.

We’ve never seen anything like this before

“We’ve never seen anything like this before,” said Zitaku Elisha, a farmer and student of Fisheries at Adamawa State University, Adamawa State. “Our crops are dying, and we’re struggling to find water for our animals. If the rains don’t come soon, we’ll face a disaster.”

The drought has also had a devastating impact on livestock, with grazing land and water sources becoming increasingly scarce. Herdsmen are being forced to trek long distances in search of water and food for their animals.

The drought could have far-reaching consequences for food security in the region

Experts warn that the drought could have far-reaching consequences for food security in the region, with prices of staple foods already high.

“The situation is critical,” said Zitaku. “If the rains don’t come soon, we’ll face a severe food crisis. The government needs to take urgent action to support farmers and herdsmen.”

State governments in the affected regions have yet to respond to the situation, as farmers are calling for urgent action to address the crisis.

Credit: Facebook

In view of the ongoing drought that has plagued their farmlands, residents of Mayo Belwa Local Government Area of Adamawa state have united in prayer, seeking divine intervention for rainfall to ensure a good harvest. The prolonged lack of rainfall has severely impacted agriculture in the area, causing significant distress among local farmers.

Crops such as maize, rice, and other essential food staples are at risk, with many farms facing the threat of complete failure. Recognizing the gravity of the situation, both Muslim and Christian leaders in Mayo Belwa have called upon their followers to engage in fasting and prayers, asking for mercy and a return of the much-needed rains.

These interfaith prayers are held on the outskirts of the local government area, symbolizing a unified front in the face of this natural disaster. Residents remain hopeful that their prayers will bring the much-needed rainfall, ensuring a bountiful harvest and securing their livelihoods for the future.

Both Muslim and Christian leaders in Mayo Belwa have called upon their followers to engage in fasting and prayers

“We need help now,” said Sunday Swanzy. “Our crops are dying, and our animals are suffering. We can’t wait any longer.”

As the drought continues to ravage northern Nigeria, concerns are growing about the potential humanitarian consequences. Authorities are urged to take swift action to alleviate the suffering of affected communities and prevent a food crisis. However, many farmers and herdsmen are still waiting for help to arrive.

“We’re running out of time,” said Mallam Isa. “If we don’t get help soon, we’ll lose everything.”

Read Also: NNPC Ltd Denies Allegations Of Economic Sabotage