The Nigerian Meteorological Agency (NiMet) has dismissed reports alleging that Nigerian farmers lost nearly ₦5 trillion due to inaccurate weather forecasts, describing the claims as false, alarmist and unsupported by credible evidence.
The agency’s response followed recent media publications thatalleged that farmers incurred massive losses over 24 months due to NiMet’s forecasts.
According to NiMet, the claims, attributed to a group identified as the Foundation for Peace Professionals, amount to deliberate misinformation aimed at undermining public trust in Nigeria’s meteorological services.
In a statement issued in Abuja on Tuesday, NiMet’s Acting Head of Public Relations, Rabiatu Ado, stated that the agency has, for over 140 years, provided reliable weather and climate information that supports planning and decision-making across agriculture, aviation, water resources and disaster management.
She stressed that the assertion that farmers lost ₦5 trillion due largely to NiMet’s forecasts is not supportedby verifiable data, a transparent methodology, or any independent assessment.
NiMet noted that in 2024 and 2025, its services were consistently rated above the global benchmark of 60 per cent by development partners, farmers and key stakeholders across Nigeria’s geopolitical zones, with performance levels exceeding 90 per cent.
The agency mentioned that its seasonal climate predictions, early warning alerts and location-specific agro-advisories have helped farmers make informed decisions on planting schedules, crop selection, irrigation planning and climate risk management.
“These services are disseminated through state governments, agricultural extension officers, traditional and digital media platforms and other communication channels,” the statement said.
NiMet further referenced findings from the 2025 Wet Season Agricultural Performance in Nigeria, a collaborative assessment involving major agricultural institutions, research bodies and commodity associations.
According to the report, Nigeria recorded increased crop yields and improved livestock production during the review period, reinforcing agriculture’s role as a stabilising force for food security and rural livelihoods.
The assessment showed that production of staples such as rice, maize, cowpea, yam, cassava and groundnut exceeded 2024 levels.
Food prices also declined across all zones, reflecting improved supply conditions and the impact of coordinated government and private-sector interventions.
NiMet reaffirmed its commitment to supporting climate-smart farming, strengthening resilience to weather extremes and promoting sustainable agricultural livelihoods, particularly for smallholder farmers and young people entering the sector.
The agency emphasised that reliable climate information remains critical as farmers adapt to climate variability, protect investments and improve productivity.
Calling for responsible engagement, NiMet urged the media, civil society organisations and stakeholders to rely on factual, evidence-based reporting on issues affecting national development.
It added that it remains focused on its mandate and will not be distracted by sensational narratives that risk misleading farmers and the wider public.
Source: This Day Live
