By|| Goodluck E.Adubazi || Abuja
The Nigerian Meteorological Agency (NiMet) has strongly refuted claims that Nigerian farmers lost nearly ₦5 trillion due to poor weather forecasts, describing the reports as false, alarmist, and unsupported by evidence.
In a statement issued on Tuesday, NiMet reacted to publications by The Nation (February 2, 2026) and Daily Trust (February 3, 2026 online), which quoted the Foundation for Peace Professionals as alleging massive agricultural losses linked to NiMet’s forecasts.
According to the agency, the claim is not backed by verifiable data, transparent methodology, or any independent assessment, and amounts to what it described as a “campaign of calumny” capable of causing economic anxiety and misinformation.
NiMet подчеркed that for over 140 years, it has provided credible and increasingly accurate weather and climate services that support planning across key sectors of the Nigerian economy. The agency noted that evaluations by development partners, the World Meteorological Organization (WMO), stakeholders, and farmers across all geopolitical zones show that NiMet’s forecast accuracy has improved from the global benchmark of 60 percent to over 90 percent in recent years.
The agency highlighted that its Seasonal Climate Predictions (SCPs), Early Warning Alerts, and localized agro-advisories have helped farmers make informed decisions on planting schedules, crop choices, irrigation, and climate risk management. These advisories are shared through state governments, agricultural extension services, traditional and digital media platforms.
Backing its position with sector-wide data, NiMet cited the 2025 Wet Season Agricultural Performance Report, produced through a collaboration involving institutions such as IAR, NBS, FDA, NASC, NRCRI, NCRI, NIFOR, NAPRI, ADPs, federal and state ministries of agriculture and livestock development, and commodity-based associations.
The report shows that Nigeria recorded increased crop yields and livestock production, with output of major staples including rice, maize, cowpea, yam, cassava, and groundnut rising above 2024 levels. It also noted a decline in food prices across all zones, reflecting improved supply and the effectiveness of ongoing agricultural interventions.
NiMet reaffirmed its commitment to national food security, climate resilience, and sustainable agricultural development, stressing that it will not be distracted by sensational narratives.
Rabiatu Lawal Ado
Ag. Head, Public Relations Unit, NiMet, noted ”
The agency urged the media, civil society groups, and other stakeholders to engage responsibly, constructively, and factually on issues of national importance.
