By Awyetu Asabe Hope
The Federal Government has urged farmers to leverage the 2026 Seasonal Climate Prediction to improve productivity and reduce climate-related risks, particularly in vulnerable communities.
The Minister of Agriculture and Food Security, Abubakar Kyari, made the call on Monday at a farmers’ seminar in Anambra State organised by the Nigerian Meteorological Agency in collaboration with the Nigeria Hydrological Services Agency and development partners.
The seminar, supported by the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation and Sahel Consulting Agriculture and Nutrition Limited, focused on equipping farmers with climate forecasts, flood outlooks, and strategies for climate-smart agriculture.
Represented by State Director Arthur Mbuba, Kyari said the initiative would help farmers understand weather patterns, plan effectively, and strengthen resilience against climate variability.
Director-General of NiMet, Charles Anosike, described the seasonal prediction as an early warning tool, noting that rainfall in Anambra is expected to begin on March 23 and end between November 27 and December 4.
He warned that several local government areas, including Anambra East, Anambra West, Ayamelum, Onitsha North, Onitsha South, Ogbaru, and Ekwusigo, face high flood risks, while others fall within moderate risk zones.
Officials advised farmers to adopt early planting, maintain proper drainage, take up agricultural insurance, and prepare for possible flooding, including relocating from high-risk areas when necessary.
They reaffirmed their commitment to strengthening disaster preparedness and promoting sustainable agricultural practices nationwide.
