The Nigerian Meteorological Agency, (NiMet), has condemned the reports in some quarters which claimed that Nigerian farmers lost about N5 trillion as a result of the Agency’s inaccurate weather forecasts.
In a statement signed by the Head of its Ag. Head, Public Relations Unit, Rabiatu Lawal Ado, NiMet averred that such claims can neither be supported by any verifiable data, transparent methodology nor independent assessments.
Describing the reports published in February 2, 2026 online edition of The Nation and Daily Trust February 3, 2026, as bogus and alarmist, Lawal Ado said NiMet has never been found wanting in providing credible and accurate climate weather forecasts since its almost one and a half centuries of operations in Nigeria.
“The bogus and alarmist claim attributed to The Foundation for Peace Professionals that Nigerian Farmers have lost “nearly N5trillion” in productive capital due largely to NiMet weather forecast is not supported by any verifiable data, transparent methodology or independent assessment.
” The Nigerian Meteorological Agency, NiMet, has for over 140 years being providing credible and accurate climate weather forecasts, which has aided in policy planning for different sectors of the economy for 2024 and 2025 different development partners, world Meteorological Organization, WMO, stakeholders and indeed Farmers from the different geo political zones have all adjudged NiMet forecast to have eclipsed the 60 percent threshold to over 90 percent.”
She continued, “NiMet’s Seasonal Climate Predictions (SCPs), Early Warning Alerts, and localized agro-advisories have consistently empowered farmers across the country to make informed decisions on planting dates, crop selection, irrigation planning, and risk mitigation. These services are disseminated through multiple platforms, including state governments, extension services, media outlets, and digital channels.”
According to the executive summary from the 2025 Wet season Agricultural performance in Nigeria – collaboration of important stakeholders in the Agricultural value – chain like IAR, NBS, FDA, FDAE, P&PCD, FDF&A, NASC, IAR&T, NRCRI, NCRI, LCRI, NIFOR, NAPRI, DAC-ABU, NIFFR, ADPS, FMLD and State ministries of Agriculture, State ministries of Livestock Development, commodity based Associations, the Agricultural sector witnessed an increase in crop yields as well as livestock production.
Lawal Ado said the survey also revealed that Nigerian agriculture remains a vital source of stability and opportunity, contributing to food security and economic growth. Production of rice, maize, cowpea, yam, cassava, and groundnut increased over 2024 levels, while food prices fell across all zones, reflecting improved supply and the effectiveness of ongoing interventions.
The Nigerian Meteorological Agency, NiMet, remains committed to supporting national food security, climate resilience, and sustainable agricultural development. The Agency will not be deterred by sensational narratives and urges stakeholders, civil society organizations, and the media to engage responsibly, constructively, and factually on matters of national importance.
