Well-drained sandy loam or loamy soil, rich in organic matter, with a pH of 5.5–7.0. Millet is highly drought-resistant and thrives in low-fertility soils.

Major producing states include Sokoto, Kebbi, Zamfara, Katsina, Kano, Jigawa, Yobe, Borno, Bauchi, and Niger. The North-West and North-East regions are the leading producers due to their semi-arid climate and minimal rainfall.

Rain-fed farming: May–July (beginning of the rainy season). Dry season farming (irrigation-based): November–December.

Rain-fed planting: September–November. Irrigated planting: March–April.

Early-maturing varieties: 60–75 days. Late-maturing varieties: 90–120 days.

Land Preparation: Land is cleared, plowed, and harrowed to ensure good soil tilth. Raised beds or ridges are recommended in areas prone to erosion. Planting: Millet is directly sown by broadcasting or row planting at a depth of 2–3 cm. Recommended spacing: 20–30 cm between plants and 60–75 cm between rows. Fertilizer Application: Apply NPK 15:15:15 at planting and top-dress with Urea (46% N) at the tillering stage. Organic manure (compost or poultry droppings) improves soil fertility.

Use of high-yield, drought-tolerant millet varieties like LCIC 9702, ZATIB, SOSAT-C88, and GB 8735. Intercropping with legumes (e.g., cowpea, groundnut) or sorghum improves soil fertility. Weeding at 3 and 6 weeks after planting ensures better yield. Mulching and minimum tillage help retain soil moisture and prevent erosion.

Common millet pests in Nigeria include Stem Borers, Millet Head Borers, Aphids, and Armyworms. Control measures: Use of resistant millet varieties. Neem-based bio-pesticides or botanical insecticides. Application of Cypermethrin or Lambda-cyhalothrin to manage insect infestations. Timely harvesting prevents bird damage.

Millet is harvested manually by cutting the mature stalks when the grains turn golden brown. Threshing and winnowing are used to separate the grains from the stalks. Proper drying and storage in airtight containers prevent pest infestations.

Nigeria is one of the top millet producers in Africa, producing over 5 million metric tons annually. High demand for millet grains, millet flour, pap (kunu), porridge, and animal feed. Government support includes CBN’s Anchor Borrowers’ Programme (ABP) and agricultural grants. High export potential for processed millet flour, baby food, and animal feed.