The Nigerian Meteorological Agency (NiMet) has predicted above-normal rainfall for 2026 in Abia State, prompting the state government to issue an early climate outlook and farming advisory aimed at helping farmers maximize productivity during the coming agricultural season.
The State’s Commissioner for Agriculture, Dr. Cliff Agbaeze, announced the advisory in a statement, noting that the guidance was developed following NiMet’s Seasonal Climate Prediction to support farmers with timely information for planning their farming activities.
According to the forecast, Abia State is expected to record annual rainfall totals between 1,800mm and 2,200mm, with the rainy season projected to begin between late March and early April and end between late October and early November.
The season is expected to last seven to eight months, creating favourable conditions for multiple cropping cycles across the state.
However, the commissioner warned that peak rainfall expected in June and September may increase the risk of flooding, particularly in low-lying communities.
Farmers were therefore advised to construct raised ridges, ensure adequate drainage systems, and avoid cultivating flood-prone lands, especially for crops sensitive to waterlogging.
Agbaeze further explained that average temperatures are expected to range between 26°C and 30°C, with warmer conditions anticipated during the early months of the year.
He further advised that to mitigate heat stress and pest outbreaks, farmers should adopt mulching, intercropping and other climate-smart practices, while maintaining regular contact with agricultural extension officers for professional guidance.
The forecast also indicates the likelihood of the annual “August Break”, a short dry spell expected between late July and August, which may last two to three weeks.
Farmers were also advised to plant early-maturing and drought-tolerant crop varieties, adopt staggered planting within two to three weeks, and avoid establishing delicate crops during the dry period.
Providing a tentative cropping calendar, the Ministry recommended the following planting and harvesting schedule:
March–April: Plant yam, maize and cassava at the onset of rainfall.
May–June: Plant rice to benefit from peak rains.
June–July: Closely monitor fields for flooding and waterlogging.
August: Apply moisture-conservation practices.
September: Suitable for vegetable cultivation and a second maize cycle.
October–November: Harvest maize, rice and yam.
The ministry noted that cassava remains a flexible crop and can be cultivated throughout most of the rainy season.
To address climate variability, Agbaeze urged farmers to embrace climate-smart agriculture, including the use of early-maturing and flood-resistant crop varieties, improved drainage systems, water harvesting techniques, and frequent engagement with extension services for real-time updates.
He disclosed that the ministry would also distribute updated cropping calendars, supply improved climate-resilient seedlings, strengthen extension services across the state, and collaborate with NiMet to disseminate timely weather advisories in local languages.
Agbaeze also conveyed the goodwill and support of the Governor of Abia State, Alex Otti, assuring farmers of the government’s commitment to agricultural transformation and rural development.
According to him, the governor remains determined to implement policies that will attract investment into the agricultural sector and strengthen food production in the state.
“His Excellency sends his sincere goodwill to every farmer in Abia State and assures you of continuous support,” the commissioner said.
“With proper planning and unity of purpose, 2026 will be a year of agricultural growth and abundance for our dear state.”
Farmers were encouraged to maintain regular contact with their local agricultural extension offices for continuous guidance throughout the farming season.
