The Nigerian Meteorological Agency (NiMet) has forecast a delayed onset of rainfall in eight northern states in its 2025 Seasonal Climate Prediction (SCP) report.
The prediction was unveiled in Abuja on Tuesday by the Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Mr. Festus Keyamo, under the theme: “The Role of Early Warnings Towards a Climate-Resilient Aviation Industry for Sustainable Socio-Economic Development.”
According to a statement from NiMet, the states expected to experience delayed rainfall onset include Plateau, Kaduna, Niger, Benue, Nasarawa, Taraba, Adamawa, and Kwara.
Meanwhile, early rainfall onset is predicted in Delta, Bayelsa, Rivers, Anambra, and parts of Oyo, Ogun, Osun, Ondo, Lagos, Edo, Enugu, Imo, and Ebonyi.
NiMet also warned of severe dry spells lasting over 15 days in Oyo during the April-May-June (AMJ) season and up to 21 days in northern states during the June-July-August (JJA) season.
The “Little Dry Season” (August Break) is expected to start in late July, with severe effects in Lagos and Ogun lasting between 27 to 40 days. Moderate effects are anticipated in Ogun, Oyo, and Ekiti, while mild conditions will affect Osun, Oyo, Kwara, and parts of Ondo-North.
Additionally, warmer-than-normal temperatures are expected across Nigeria, especially in January, February, March, and May, while April is projected to be cooler than normal.
NiMet advised stakeholders, particularly in agriculture, aviation, and disaster management, to use the forecasts for planning and mitigation efforts.
