The federal government has urged farmers to leverage the 2026 seasonal climate prediction to boost productivity and reduce risks associated with climate variability across Nigeria, especially in vulnerable agricultural communities nationwide.

The Minister of Agriculture and Food Security, Abubakar Kyari, made the call on Monday during a seminar organised in Anambra for farmers by the Nigerian Meteorological Agency and partners.

The seminar was organised in collaboration with the Nigeria Hydrological Services Agency and partners to strengthen agricultural resilience among farmers in Anambra.

Partners included the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation and Sahel Consulting Agriculture and Nutrition Limited, which supported efforts to improve climate adaptation, risk management, and sustainable agricultural practices across the state.

It focused on sensitising farmers to the 2026 seasonal climate prediction and the annual flood outlook, highlighting risks, opportunities, and preparedness measures needed for effective climate-smart agricultural planning and action.

Mr Kyari, represented by State Director Chief Arthur Mbuba, said the training aimed to enlighten farmers on climate forecasts, implications for agriculture, and practical steps to improve yields and resilience in Nigeria.

He commended organisers for selecting Anambra among six participating states, describing the initiative as timely and essential for equipping farmers with critical information on climate variability and climate-smart agriculture practices.

The director general of NiMet, Charles Anosike, said the seasonal prediction should serve as an early warning tool for farmers, noting that expected rainfall in Anambra will begin on March 23.

He added that the end of the growing season was projected for between November 27 and December 4, with several local government areas expected to experience heavy rainfall, flooding, and temperature fluctuations.

He identified high-flood-risk areas, including Anambra East, Anambra West, Ayamelum, Onitsha North, Onitsha South, Ogbaru, and Ekwusigo, while other councils fall within moderate-risk zones across the state.

Officials from agricultural and emergency agencies urged awareness, early planting, adoption of insurance, proper drainage maintenance, and timely evacuation in vulnerable communities, reaffirming their commitment to proactive disaster management and improved agronomic practices.

(NAN)