NiMet Forecast: State Government Recommends Strategic Planning To Combat Mid Season Risk

By Lawrence Mpama

In line with the advisory warning by the Nigerian Meteorological Agency (NiMet) on the 2026 Seasonal Prediction, the Cross River State government has taken proactive steps and issued a comprehensive public safety advisory, especially to farmers in the state

Speaking during an interactive session with journalists in Calabar on Wednesday, April 29, 2026, the Honourable Commissioner for Information and Orientation, Dr. Erasmus Ekpang, outlined the state’s strategy to mitigate the impacts of the predicted weather patterns.

According to the NiMet 2026 SCP, most of Nigeria is expected to experience normal to above-normal rainfall. Notably, Cross River is listed among the states – including Borno, Sokoto, Enugu, and Akwa Ibom – anticipated to receive higher-than-average precipitation volumes.

Dr. Ekpang pointed out that Cross River is also projected to experience a delayed end to the rainy season, alongside states like Lagos, Anambra, and Benue. This extension, coupled with an early-to-normal onset of rains, suggests a significantly longer wet season for the state.

“The 2026 forecast underscores a commitment to science-based planning,” Dr. Ekpang stated. “With the early rainfall expected in parts of Cross River, we are urging residents, particularly those in the agricultural and disaster management sectors, to be proactive.”

For the state’s farming population, the Commissioner emphasized caution. While early rains are expected, the government warned against premature planting.

“Farmers must note that rainfall establishment, not the first rainfall, should guide planting decisions,” Ekpang advised. “We recommend waiting until rains become consistent over several days to ensure sufficient soil moisture for germination, especially for sensitive crops like maize, rice, and vegetables.”

To combat potential mid-season risks, the state government recommended several moisture-retention practices such as adoption of mulching, tied ridges, contour bunding, and staggered planting. The government also recommended strategic planning to optimize planting dates based on NiMet’s onset predictions.

The 2026 SCP also predicts warmer-than-normal daytime and nighttime temperatures throughout the first half of the year. In response, the state government is advising residents to prepare for increased heat levels.

Regarding flood Tier-1 risks associated with above-normal rainfall, the government issued several precautionary measures for households, including the cleaning of gutters and drainage systems and sealing of structural walls, and as well as avoiding walking or driving through floodwaters and turning off electrical appliances during flooding and heavy rainfall.

The Commissioner however noted that the state is working closely with relevant stakeholders to manage risks of potential flooding.
“Our goal is to ensure that every citizen is equipped with the information necessary to protect their livelihoods and lives as we navigate the 2026 climate cycle,” Dr. Ekpang concluded.