NAN-AE-8
Rainfall
By Awayi Kuje
Keffi (Nasarawa State) Feb. 20, 2018 (NAN) Nasarawa State has recorded its first rains in 2018 in different locations, News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports.
NAN learnt that there was a downpour in Keffi Local Government Area of the state on Monday, Feb. 19 between 7p.m. and 8 p.m. which brought some relief to the residents after months of intense heat.
NAN also learnt that there was another heavy shower in Akwanga Local Government Area of the state on the same date.
Mr Adigizi Anzaku, a Keffi-based farmer, said that the rainfall had reduced the heat in the area, adding that it would also encourage farmers to start preparing for the coming farming season.
“The downpour took everybody by surprise, as most of the residents of the town were apparently shocked because there were no visible signs such as lightning or thunder before the onset of the rain.
“We thank God for His blessing; this is because the rain will reduce the dust which is usually associated with the dry season and it will also reduce heat.
“With the rain, we can start preparing for the farming season,’’ he added.
Hajiya Halima Abu, another resident of Keffi, said that the rain marked the beginning of the wet-season farming.
“This is the first rain we are experiencing in this area. The rain will boost the farmers’ morale to start farming and boost food production in the country,’’ he said.
She, however, appealed to President Muhammadu Buhari and Gov. Tanko Al-Makura of Nasarawa State not to relent in their efforts to boost farming activities, improve food production and fight poverty.
Mr John Nathaniel, who also lives in Keffi, said that the rain was a blessing to the people, as it would reduce dust and heat in the neighbourhood.
“The downpour is a blessing from God; we also thank God for the rain, as farmers will now start preparing for their farming activities,” he said.
Nathaniel, however, advised the farmers not to rush to farms to plant crops but to wait for more rains before engaging in crop planting. (NAN)
AKW/OIF/OOK
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Edited Ifeyinwa Okonkwo and Dayo Komolafe