NiMet Urges Nigerians to Prepare for Changing Weather Patterns
The Nigerian Meteorological Agency (NiMet) has warned that the developing El Niño phenomenon could disrupt rainfall patterns across Nigeria, with possible implications for agriculture, water supply, health and electricity generation. El Niño is a natural climate pattern associated with warmer-than-normal sea-surface temperatures in the central and eastern tropical Pacific Ocean, which can influence weather conditions globally. In its August–October 2026 rainfall forecast, NiMet said wetter-than-normal conditions were expected in parts of northern Nigeria, including Sokoto, Kebbi, Zamfara, Katsina, Kano, Yobe, Borno, Bauchi and Jigawa. However, parts of the South, including Oyo, Ogun, Osun, Ekiti, Edo and Delta, as well as Kogi and parts of Benue, could experience below-normal rainfall. The agency stressed that the effects would vary by location and that seasonal forecasts do not guarantee specific weather conditions.
NiMet warned that changes in rainfall could affect planting schedules and crop yields, while excessive rainfall in some areas could increase flood risks and damage farmland. Reduced rainfall could also lower water levels in rivers, reservoirs and dams, potentially affecting domestic water supplies, irrigation and hydropower generation. The agency further highlighted possible public health risks linked to extreme temperatures, flooding, stagnant water and inadequate sanitation. It advised farmers to follow updated weather and agricultural guidance, use drought-resistant and early-maturing crop varieties where appropriate, apply fertiliser after effective rainfall and keep farm drainage channels clear. NiMet also recommended water conservation, rainwater harvesting, improved irrigation and stronger monitoring of weather forecasts to help communities and authorities prepare for changing conditions.
Beinta Ibrahim
