The Nigerian Meteorological Agency (NiMet) has strongly refuted recent media reports alleging that Nigerian farmers lost nearly N5 trillion due to poor weather forecasts, describing the claims as unfounded, alarmist, and economically irresponsible.
In a statement responding to publications by The Nation (February 2, 2026, p.26) titled “Farmers lost N5 trillion to weather forecasts” and Daily Trust (February 3, 2026, online) titled “Farmers lose N5 trillion in 24 months”, NiMet dismissed the figures attributed to the Foundation for Peace Professionals as lacking verifiable data, transparent methodology, or any independent assessment.
According to the Agency, the claim that farmers incurred “nearly N5 trillion” in losses largely due to NiMet’s weather forecasts is not supported by credible evidence and represents a deliberate attempt to misinform the public.
NiMet emphasised that for over 140 years, it has provided credible and reliable weather and climate forecasts that support policy planning and economic activities across multiple sectors.
The Agency noted that its performance between 2024 and 2025 has been widely acknowledged by development partners, the World Meteorological Organization (WMO), stakeholders, and farmers across the geopolitical zones, with forecast accuracy reportedly exceeding 90 per cent—well above the 60 percent benchmark.
The Agency highlighted its Seasonal Climate Predictions (SCPs), Early Warning Alerts, and localized agro-advisories, which it said have consistently empowered farmers to make informed decisions on planting schedules, crop selection, irrigation planning, and risk mitigation. These services are disseminated through state governments, agricultural extension services, media platforms, and digital channels nationwide.
NiMet further referenced the executive summary of the 2025 Wet Season Agricultural Performance Report in Nigeria, a collaborative effort involving key stakeholders across the agricultural value chain, including IAR, NBS, FDA, FDAE, P&PCD, FDF&A, NASC, IAR&T, NRCRI, NCRI, LCRI, NIFOR, NAPRI, DAC-ABU, NIFFR, ADPs, the Federal Ministry of Livestock Development, state ministries of agriculture and livestock development, as well as commodity-based associations.
The report indicated improved crop yields and increased livestock production, underscoring agriculture’s continued role as a pillar of food security and economic growth. Production levels for rice, maize, cowpea, yam, cassava, and groundnut reportedly rose above 2024 levels, while food prices declined across all geopolitical zones—reflecting improved supply and the effectiveness of ongoing interventions.
NiMet reaffirmed its commitment to advancing national food security, strengthening climate resilience, and promoting sustainable agricultural development.
The Agency stated that it would not be distracted by sensational narratives and urged stakeholders, civil society organisations, and the media to engage responsibly, constructively, and factually on matters of national importance.