The Nigerian Meteorological Agency (NiMet) has released its 2025 Seasonal Climate Prediction (SCP), forecasting delayed onset of rains in northern and central states, early rains in the south, and normal rainfall onset for the rest of the country.
The SCP also predicts severe 21-day dry spells from June to August in northern states, a 15-day severe dry spell in Oyo State, and moderate 15-day dry spells in 13 southern states, including Ekiti, Osun, Ondo, and Edo.
Critical Predictions for 2025
- Rainfall Patterns:
- Northern and central states will experience delayed rainfall onset.
- Southern states will see early rains.
- Lagos and Ogun states are expected to face severe effects of the “August Break,” with little or no rain for 27–40 days.
- Temperature Outlook:
- Above-average temperatures are expected across the country in January, February, March, and May.
- Cooler-than-normal temperatures are predicted in April for most northern states.
Empowering Stakeholders Through Early Warning
The SCP, themed “The Role of Early Warnings Towards a Climate Resilient Aviation Industry for Sustainable Socio-Economic Development,” was unveiled in Abuja by the Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, SAN.
The minister emphasized that the SCP serves as an essential early warning tool aligned with the UN’s Early Warning for All Initiative. He highlighted its role in preparing against hazards such as floods, dry spells, and temperature extremes.
“Early warning systems, backed by robust climate predictions, are essential for ensuring safety, efficiency, and sustainability across sectors, particularly in aviation,” Keyamo stated.
Impact on Aviation and Other Sectors
Keyamo underscored the SCP’s importance in addressing challenges posed by climate change on aviation, including erratic weather patterns and increasing delays due to adverse conditions.
“The SCP empowers stakeholders with the knowledge to anticipate and adapt to climatic changes, ensuring uninterrupted operations and safeguarding lives and property,” he added.
The document also provides critical insights for agriculture, disaster risk management, health, transport, and marine operations.
Stakeholders’ Reactions and Recommendations
The Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF), Sen. George Akume, commended NiMet and urged stakeholders to leverage the SCP for better planning.
NiMet’s Director General, Prof. Charles Anosike, stressed the importance of utilizing and providing feedback on the SCP for continuous improvement.
“Everyone present here today is a custodian of the anticipated early actions to ensure the SCP’s maximum impact,” he noted.
The Director General of NEMA, Mrs. Zubaida Umar, highlighted the agency’s partnership with NiMet, stating that a post-SCP meeting will analyze disaster risks and provide advisories to sub-national governments for preparedness and mitigation planning.
Mrs. Patience Ogalo-Dickson, Executive Director of the Advocacy for Women With Disability Initiative (AWWDI), applauded NiMet for making the SCP inclusive by considering persons with disabilities, especially those affected by climate change.
Inclusive and Accessible SCP
The 2025 SCP has been translated into English, Pidgin English, Hausa, Yoruba, and Igbo to ensure accessibility for a diverse audience.
With its actionable insights, the SCP aims to strengthen Nigeria’s resilience against climate challenges while fostering sustainable development across various sectors.
