By Kalu Obasi Benjamin
The Nigerian Meteorological Agency (NiMet) has released its 2026 Seasonal Climate Prediction, highlighting that 13 states—including Lagos, Kaduna, and Oyo—will experience a rainy season longer than what is usually expected.
Aviation Minister Festus Keyamo presented the report in Abuja, noting that while many areas will see rain start earlier than usual, Borno State is expected to have a late start to its wet season.
The report also details when the rains will stop across the country. While some states like Ogun and Imo might see an early end to the downpours, others such as Anambra, Enugu, and Cross River are bracing for a delayed end to the season.
Interestingly, despite these variations in timing, NiMet expects the total amount of water that falls across Nigeria this year to stay within normal levels.
Farmers and residents should be prepared for significant “dry spells” even during the wet months. A severe dry spell lasting up to three weeks is predicted for much of the north and central regions between June and August. Additionally, the traditional “August Break” is expected to be particularly harsh and long in the southwest, lasting nearly 40 days in places like Lagos and Ogun.
Temperature-wise, 2026 is looking to be a warm one. NiMet predicts that both daytime and nighttime temperatures will be hotter than average throughout the first half of the year, specifically from January to May. This increased heat, combined with the shifting rain patterns, suggests a year of climatic extremes that will require careful planning for those in agriculture.
The agency warned citizens not to be fooled by early heavy rains in the south, clarifying that a few big storms do not necessarily mean the official rainy season has begun. NiMet advises anyone involved in farming or water-dependent businesses to check the official onset dates in their full report to avoid making costly mistakes with their planting schedules.
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