NIMET Predicts Early Rainfall, Farmers Express Concerns

The Nigerian Meteorological Agency (NIMET) has issued a prediction of early rainfall affecting 12 states, including Kwara and Kano, cautioning farmers against rushing to plant seeds as the rainy season has not officially begun. This warning comes as farmers in Asa Local Government Area of Kwara State express mixed feelings about the unusual rainfall patterns, particularly after experiencing significant losses during the 2025 planting season due to a sudden cessation of rainfall in June and July.

The first major rain of 2026 was recorded on January 31, raising concerns about the upcoming planting season. Abdulrazaq O.

Hamzat, Executive Director of the Foundation for Peace Professionals, highlighted the devastating impact of the previous season's erratic weather on farmers' investments. NIMET's forecasts for the 2025 season indicated rainfall from May 7 to November 18, but the reality diverged sharply, leading to drought during critical growing months.

Despite criticisms, NIMET maintains that its forecasts are reliable and have positively impacted agricultural practices.