Nigeria faces heat and drought risks from El Niño

Climate experts and the Nigerian Meteorological Agency (NiMet) have warned of significant weather disruptions caused by the El Niño phenomenon. The event, characterized by abnormal warming of sea surface temperatures in the central and eastern tropical Pacific Ocean, is expected to influence global weather patterns, including those in Nigeria.

In Gombe State, Dr. Deborah Ishaku of Gombe State Polytechnic warned that El Niño could lead to delayed rainfall, prolonged dry spells, and reduced water availability. These conditions pose serious risks to rain-fed agriculture, specifically threatening crops such as sorghum, millet, maize, and groundnuts, as well as livestock production.

NiMet forecasts indicate varying impacts across the country. Northern states, including Sokoto, Kebbi, Zamfara, Katsina, Kano, Yobe, Borno, Bauchi, and Jigawa, may experience wetter-than-normal conditions. Conversely, southern states such as Oyo, Ogun, Lagos, Osun, Ekiti, Edo, and Delta, along with parts of Kogi and Benue, are expected to face drier-than-normal conditions.

The phenomenon also brings increased health risks due to extreme heat. Experts advise Nigerians to prioritize hydration and ventilation, noting that unreliable electricity and limited access to cooling facilities may exacerbate heat-related illnesses.