The Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, has unveiled the 2025 Seasonal Climate Prediction (SCP), forecasting early onset of rains in the southern part of Nigeria. The report, released by the Nigerian Meteorological Agency (NiMet), was presented to stakeholders in Abuja on Monday, providing critical insights into the country’s weather patterns for the year.
According to the forecast, the southern states, including Lagos, Port Harcourt, and Calabar, are expected to experience their first rains as early as February, marking a deviation from the usual March-April timeline. The northern regions, however, will witness a delayed onset of rains, with the season likely to begin in June.
Keyamo emphasized the importance of the predictions for farmers, policymakers, and disaster management agencies. “This forecast is a vital tool for planning and mitigating the impact of climate variability. Farmers, in particular, should take note of the timelines to optimize their planting seasons and avoid losses,” the minister stated.
The report also warned of potential flooding in some parts of the country, especially in coastal and riverine areas, due to expected heavy rainfall. NiMet Director-General, Prof. Mansur Matazu, urged state governments to take proactive measures to prevent a repeat of the devastating floods experienced in previous years. “We are working closely with relevant agencies to ensure that early warnings are disseminated and acted upon,” Matazu said.
The early rains prediction has been met with mixed reactions. While some farmers welcomed the news, others expressed concerns about the potential disruption to their farming calendars. “If the rains come too early, it could affect our harvest and lead to food shortages,” said Mr. Adewale Ojo, a cassava farmer in Ogun State.
Environmental experts have called for increased investment in climate-resilient infrastructure and sustainable farming practices to help Nigerians adapt to changing weather patterns. “Climate change is real, and its effects are becoming more pronounced. We must act now to safeguard our future,” said Dr. Nnimmo Bassey, an environmental activist.
As the government and stakeholders digest the forecast, Nigerians are urged to stay informed and prepare for the weather changes ahead.
Leave a Reply