Nigeria Faces Health Risks from El Niño's Impact in 2026

Nigeria is expected to experience increased heat and altered rainfall patterns as a strengthening El Niño event raises concerns about its effects on agriculture, water supply, electricity generation, and public health. The World Meteorological Organisation stated in September 2026 that El Niño is anticipated to strengthen into a very strong event and persist into early 2027.

The Nigerian Meteorological Agency warned that this phenomenon could influence rainfall patterns across Nigeria, affecting the length and timing of the rainy season. NiMet's August 2026 seasonal climate update forecasted normal to above-normal rainfall in much of northern Nigeria, while parts of the South-West and Cross River State may see normal to below-normal rainfall.

Additionally, the Climate Impact Lab projected that Nigeria could see an additional 31,400 heat-related deaths between September 2026 and February 2027 compared to an average year, highlighting the public health risks associated with extreme heat.