According to the latest Findings of Mohammed Tetengi, RSS (NISS/RSS/2022/0300):-  The soil properties of Niger State present a complex interplay of texture, composition, and chemical characteristics, shaping its agricultural potential and constraints. The dominant soil textures—loamy sand and sandy loam—indicate well-drained conditions suitable for a variety of crops, though clay loam deposits in floodplains introduce water retention challenges. Particle size analysis reveals a high sand content (66–86%) in upland regions, which enhances drainage but also accelerates nutrient leaching. Silt content fluctuates between 4% and 28%, while clay content, typically around 8–20% in upland areas, can reach 45% in floodplains, necessitating strategic land management to balance soil aeration and water retention. These variations highlight the importance of localized interventions in soil conservation and fertility enhancement.

Chemically, the soils exhibit a range of pH values, from moderately acidic (6.0–6.8 in water) to strongly acidic (4.1–5.7 in calcium chloride solutions), making soil acidity a notable concern. This acidity affects nutrient availability, particularly phosphorus fixation, and underscores the need for liming to improve crop productivity. Organic carbon levels range widely from 1.0 g/kg in Mashegu, where degradation is evident, to 14.4 g/kg in Lavun, where alluvial deposits enrich soil fertility. While total nitrogen levels are generally adequate (0.28–2.10 g/kg), deficiencies persist in heavily cultivated zones. Available phosphorus levels fluctuate between 2–28 mg/kg, with upland soils frequently falling below the critical 10 mg/kg threshold, restricting plant growth. Similarly, potassium, essential for plant vigor, is largely deficient across the state, necessitating targeted fertilizer interventions.

Despite its agricultural potential, the state’s soils suffer from multiple limitations, including nutrient depletion, soil acidity, and declining organic matter due to over-cultivation and erosion. Approximately 80% of the state’s soils register pH values below 5.5, exacerbating nutrient lock-up and reducing crop yields. Organic matter depletion further deteriorates soil structure, reducing water-holding capacity and microbial activity essential for plant growth. Intensive farming has led to nitrogen and phosphorus deficiencies, particularly in upland areas, while floodplain soils retain excessive water, complicating mechanized agriculture. Addressing these challenges requires integrated soil management practices, including conservation tillage, erosion control, and crop rotation to restore fertility and sustain productivity.

To mitigate these limitations, a multi-pronged soil management strategy is necessary. Fertilizer application, particularly nitrogen-phosphorus-potassium (NPK) blends, is crucial for replenishing depleted nutrients. Nitrogen fertilizers should be applied in split doses to enhance absorption and minimize leaching losses. Liming is essential to neutralize acidity and enhance phosphorus availability, while organic amendments, such as compost and manure, can rejuvenate soil health. Additionally, irrigation infrastructure is critical, especially for dry-season farming, ensuring consistent soil moisture and improved crop performance. These measures, combined with precision agriculture and soil testing, can significantly enhance the state’s agricultural resilience.

Despite existing constraints, Niger State’s diverse soil profile supports a variety of staple crops, including maize, cowpea, rice, sorghum, and groundnut. While upland areas struggle with lower fertility, floodplains offer higher yield potential due to their nutrient-rich deposits. Climate data further influences soil behavior, with annual rainfall ranging between 1,200–1,600 mm, particularly in the southern regions, and average temperatures hovering around 32°C, peaking in March–June. Given that only 11% of global soils are free from limitations, as noted by FAO (2011), Niger State must prioritize soil conservation to prevent further degradation. Urgent interventions—such as site-specific fertilization, sustainable farming practices, and enhanced research—are imperative for maintaining soil health and ensuring food security. This analysis, based on over 2,500 soil samples examined at FUT Minna’s GLOSOLAN-certified lab, underscores scientific insights that have shaded more lights.