The National Orientation Agency (NOA) has urged the citizenry to strictly adhere to the predictions of the Nigerian Meteorological Agency (NiMET) for proper planning in agriculture and disaster management.

Mkpoutom Mkpoutom, NOA’s director in Akwa Ibom, said in Uyo on Friday that NiMET’s predictions offered critical insights towards effective planning across key sectors.

Mr Mkpoutom, who spoke after meeting with the agency’s community orientation and mobilisation officers, urged members of the public to adhere strictly to the 2026 Seasonal Climate Prediction (SCP) recently published by NiMET.

“The SCP provides detailed information on the expected rainfall patterns, onset and cessation dates of the rainy season. Complying with it will safeguard lives, livelihoods, and property.

“The prediction report also forecasts temperature variations and dry spell periods for the upcoming year. So it’s a very critical document for the public,” he said.

The NOA official urged Akwa Ibom residents to use the 2026 SCP to make critical decisions about agriculture, water resources, health, disaster management, and construction.

Mr Mkpoutom said climate prediction was not just a scientific report but a tool for survival and prosperity for the people.

“By understanding what the weather holds for 2026, our farmers can plan their planting calendars accurately, our communities can prepare for potential floods or dry spells, and our government can allocate resources effectively,” he said.

He decried the increasing volatility of weather patterns arising from climate change, saying, “Adhering to NiMET’s advisories will help citizens to mitigate risks associated with floods, erosion, heatwaves, and poor agricultural yields.”

Mr Mkpoutom reiterated the agency’s commitment to working closely with NiMET to disseminate climate prediction reports in simplified formats nationwide.

“Our community orientation and mobilisation officers will translate these predictions into all major local languages in order to ensure that no one is left behind,” he said.

(NAN)