NiMet Warns Farmers Against Relying on Early Rains in 2026

NiMet Warns Farmers Against Relying on Early Rains in 2026

FELICIA OLADELE, Abuja

The Nigerian Meteorological Agency (NiMet) has warned farmers across the country not to rely on early rainfall as a signal to begin planting in 2026, citing shifting weather patterns and the growing impact of climate change.

The warning was contained in the keynote address delivered on Tuesday in Abuja by the Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo (SAN), at the presentation of the 2026 Seasonal Climate Prediction (SCP) organised by NiMet.

Keyamo said climate change has become a daily reality, affecting food security, safety, infrastructure and economic planning, making accurate weather information critical for farmers and other stakeholders.

“The impacts of climate change are now daily realities of modern times, shaping food security, infrastructure development and the wellbeing of our people,” he said.

He stressed that early rains in some parts of the country should not be mistaken for the start of the farming season, urging farmers to depend on NiMet’s official onset dates and guidance from relevant authorities before planting.

“Those engaged in rainfall agriculture and other rainfall-dependent activities are advised to refer to the predicted onset dates in this publication and consult with your local government for proper guidance,” the minister said.

According to the 2026 forecast, early rainfall onset is expected in states such as Bayelsa, Rivers, Akwa Ibom, Cross River, Benue, Kogi, Nasarawa and parts of Kebbi, Niger, Jigawa, Katsina, Kano, Adamawa and Taraba.
However, NiMet also warned that rainfall may stop earlier than normal in some areas, while other states may experience a delayed end to the rainy season.

The SCP further indicates that several parts of the country will face severe dry spells during the farming season. In some northern and central states, dry periods could last up to 25 days, posing serious risks to crops planted too early.

Keyamo also warned of a prolonged “August break”, especially in Lagos, Ogun, Ekiti and parts of Oyo, where dry conditions may last between 28 and 40 days.

He added that temperatures in many parts of Nigeria are expected to be warmer than average in 2026, increasing stress on crops and water resources.

The minister said the Federal Government now places strong emphasis on climate science and early warning systems, noting that weather information is no longer optional but essential for national development.

“Climate science is fundamental to sustainable development. Any development effort that ignores it will be costly and ultimately unsustainable,” he said.

Keyamo commended NiMet for its growing role in supporting agriculture, disaster risk reduction and economic planning, and urged farmers, state governments and other stakeholders to study and apply the 2026 Seasonal Climate Prediction document to reduce losses and improve productivity.

He reaffirmed the Federal Government’s commitment to supporting NiMet to ensure Nigerians have access to timely and reliable weather and climate information.