The Nigerian Meteorological Agency (NiMet) has strongly dismissed reports alleging that Nigerian farmers lost about N5 trillion as a result of inaccurate weather forecasts, describing the claims as false, misleading and unsupported by credible evidence.
In a statement issued on Tuesday in Abuja, NiMet faulted publications by The Nation on February 2, 2026, and Daily Trust on February 3, 2026, which attributed the claim to the Foundation for Peace Professionals. The agency said the reports amounted to a deliberate attempt to misinform the public.
The statement, signed by Rabiatu Lawal Ado, Acting Head of NiMet’s Public Relations Unit, said the alleged N5 trillion loss was not supported by any verifiable data, transparent methodology or independent assessment.
“The alarmist claim that Nigerian farmers lost nearly N5 trillion in productive capital as a result of NiMet’s weather forecasts is entirely unfounded and economically irresponsible,” the agency stated.
NiMet stressed that it has provided reliable weather and climate services in Nigeria for more than 140 years, supporting planning and decision-making across critical sectors of the economy, particularly agriculture.
According to the agency, independent evaluations by development partners, the World Meteorological Organization, sector stakeholders and farmers nationwide indicate that NiMet’s forecast accuracy has improved significantly over time. The agency said its accuracy now exceeds the 60 per cent benchmark and has reached over 90 per cent in recent years.
NiMet explained that its Seasonal Climate Predictions, early warning alerts and location-specific agro-advisories are designed to help farmers make informed decisions on planting dates, crop selection, irrigation planning and risk management.
“These products are disseminated through state governments, agricultural extension services, traditional media platforms and digital channels to ensure wide reach and accessibility,” the agency noted.
The meteorological agency also referenced the executive summary of the 2025 Wet Season Agricultural Performance Survey in Nigeria, conducted in collaboration with key institutions across the agricultural value chain. According to NiMet, the survey recorded increased crop yields and livestock production across the country.
The findings showed improved output in major crops such as rice, maize, cowpea, yam, cassava and groundnut compared to 2024. The survey also indicated a reduction in food prices across all geopolitical zones, reflecting improved supply conditions and the impact of effective policy interventions.
Reaffirming its commitment to national food security, climate resilience and sustainable agricultural development, NiMet said it would not be distracted by what it described as sensational narratives.
The agency called on stakeholders, civil society organisations and the media to engage responsibly and ensure that public discourse is guided by facts, credible evidence and verified data.
