The Nigerian Meteorological Agency (NiMet) has projected varied rainfall patterns across the country in its 2026 Seasonal Climate Prediction (SCP), with longer rainy seasons expected in Lagos, Benue, Enugu, Ebonyi, Ogun, Oyo, Nasarawa, Anambra, Kwara, Kebbi, Kaduna, Gombe and Taraba states. In contrast, Borno, Yobe and Niger states are forecast to experience shorter rainy seasons.
NiMet also warned of severe dry spells exceeding 15 days between March and May in parts of Oyo and Ogun states, alongside moderate dry spells in several southern and central states. The “Little Dry Season” or August Break is expected to begin in late July, lasting between 28 and 40 days in Lagos, Ogun, Ekiti and parts of Oyo. A separate severe dry spell of up to 21 days is predicted between June and August in parts of the North and Middle Belt.
The forecast anticipates early rainfall onset in several southern and central states, including Bayelsa, Rivers, Akwa Ibom and Benue, while Borno is likely to record a late start. Rainfall cessation is projected to occur earlier than normal in parts of Ogun, Osun, Ondo and Rivers, but later than usual in Lagos, Anambra, Enugu, Cross River and Kaduna. Most parts of the country are expected to record normal annual rainfall, though some northern and southeastern states may see above-normal totals, while parts of Katsina, Zamfara, Kwara, Oyo and Ogun could experience below-normal rainfall.
Unveiling the report in Abuja, the Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development stressed that accurate weather information is critical to aviation safety, food security and infrastructure planning amid climate variability. NiMet Director-General Prof. Charles Anosike said the agency would continue to provide timely forecasts and expand digital advisory services to farmers and other stakeholders to strengthen climate resilience.
