The Nigerian Meteorological Agency (NiMet) has condemned what it described as false, alarmist and economically irresponsible claims that Nigerian farmers lost nearly N5 trillion due to poor weather forecasts, saying it had no data and proof.
NiMet was reacting to publications in The Nation of February 2, 2026, titled “Farmers lost N5 trillion to weather forecasts”, and Daily Trust of February 3, 2026, online, titled “Farmers lose N5 trillion in 24 months”.
The reports attributed the claim to the Foundation for Peace Professionals.
In a statement issued by the agency signed by its Acting Head, Public Relations Unit, Rabiatu Ado.
NiMet said the allegation amounts to a “campaign of calumny”, stressing that the N5 trillion loss figure is not supported by any verifiable data, transparent methodology or independent assessment.
“The bogus and alarmist claim that Nigerian farmers have lost nearly N5 trillion in productive capital due largely to NiMet’s weather forecasts is unsupported and misleading”, the agency stated.
It said it has, for over 140 years, provided credible and accurate climate and weather services that support national planning across key sectors of the economy. It added that its forecasts for 2024 and 2025 have been independently assessed by development partners, the World Meteorological Organisation (WMO), stakeholders and farmers across the geopolitical zones, with accuracy levels improving from about 60 per cent to over 90 per cent.
According to the agency, its Seasonal Climate Predictions (SCPs), early warning alerts and localised agro-advisories consistently empower farmers to make informed decisions on planting dates, crop selection, irrigation planning and climate risk mitigation.
“These services are disseminated through state governments, agricultural extension systems, the media and digital platforms to ensure nationwide reach”, it said.
Citing the executive summary of the 2025 Wet Season Agricultural Performance in Nigeria—a collaborative assessment involving institutions such as 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 and livestock development, NiMet noted that the sector recorded improved performance.
The survey, NiMet said, showed increases in crop yields and livestock production, with output of rice, maize, cowpea, yam, cassava and groundnut rising above 2024 levels. It also indicated that food prices declined across all zones, reflecting improved supply and the impact of ongoing interventions.
“The findings confirm that Nigerian agriculture remains a vital source of stability and opportunity, contributing to food security and economic growth”, NiMet added.
It reaffirmed its commitment to national food security, climate resilience and sustainable agricultural development, stressing that it will not be distracted by sensational narratives.
The agency urged stakeholders, civil society organisations and the media to engage responsibly, constructively and factually on matters of national importance.