As the dry season sets in, researchers at the Institute for Agricultural Research (IAR), Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria, have turned their attention to solutions that could safeguard Nigeria’s crops against water scarcity.
Recently, IAR officially kicked off its 2026 In-House Research Review, beginning with the Irrigation Research Programme. Unlike other programmes, this review aligns with the start of the dry season, a critical time for assessing irrigation strategies and preparing for the months ahead.
Prof. Hamza Mani, Programme Leader, highlighted successes and challenges from the past year, noting issues such as drought, pest outbreaks, and flooding that continue to threaten irrigated farms. Twelve ongoing research projects were reviewed, while two new proposals were introduced, focused on improving water management, irrigation efficiency, and crop resilience.
Chairman Prof. L. J. Bamaiyi urged researchers to maintain integrity and dedication, emphasising that their work directly impacts farmers’ livelihoods and national food security.
“This review is not just about science on paper,” Prof. Mani said. “It is about finding practical ways to ensure that communities have water for crops even when the rains fail.”
By connecting research to real-world challenges, IAR aims to translate data into action, enabling farmers to adapt to a changing climate and secure harvests during the harsh dry season.
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