A non-governmental organization identified as Agric Echo Reource Foundation (AERF) focused on sustainable agriculture has advised smallholder farmers in Bayelsa and across the Niger Delta region to brace for potential heavy flooding as the rainy season intensifies.
The warning came in light of the Nigerian Meteorological Agency’s (NiMet) latest forecast, which predicted that parts of the Niger Delta are at a high risk of severe flooding in the coming weeks. Historically, the region has been vulnerable to extreme weather conditions, and smallholder farmers are often the hardest hit by the floods.
Martin Eyomiowei , founder of AERF who spoke with our correspondent on Friday, 9 September 2024 in Yenagoa, the Bayelsa State capital, called on farmers in the region to take immediate steps to safeguard their farms and livelihoods. He emphasised the need for farmers to adopt proactive measures to mitigate the impact of the floods.
“We urge farmers, especially those cultivating in lowland areas, to begin preparations now. Floods in the Niger Delta have shown their devastating potential year after year, and this time will be no different. Farmers need to prioritize the safety of their families, livestock, and crops by reinforcing their farms and moving vulnerable assets to higher ground”, he said.
Eyomiowei also highlighted the importance of utilizing early warning systems to anticipate flooding events and stressed the need for the government and agricultural stakeholders to support rural farmers with resources such as seedlings that are resilient to floods and access to emergency relief funds.
“Farmers must stay informed about the weather patterns and follow updates closely. The Agri Echo Resource Foundation is working alongside local authorities to ensure that vulnerable communities in Bayelsa and beyond have the information and tools they need to respond to this looming threat. However, we also call on the government to accelerate flood protection measures and ensure that emergency response mechanisms are in place", Eyomiowei stated.
Bayelsa State has long been a key agricultural hub in the Niger Delta, with smallholder farmers playing a critical role in producing food for the region. However, the annual flooding has often disrupted farming activities, leading to crop losses and heightened food insecurity. With climate change contributing to more erratic and intense rainfall, stakeholders are worried about the long-term future of agriculture in the area.
