The Abia State Government, in collaboration with the Nigerian Meteorological Agency (NiMET), has unveiled the 2026 Climate Outlook and Agricultural Advisory, notifying farmers that the state is projected to record above-normal rainfall in 2026.
Speaking on Monday while presenting the forecast NIMET, the Abia State Commissioner for Agriculture, Cliff Agbaeze, explained that the advisory is aimed at equipping farmers across the state with vital information to ensure a successful farming season.
According to the NiMET report, Abia is expected to receive annual rainfall totals ranging between 1,800mm and 2,200mm in 2026.
The representative from NIMET said the rainy season is expected to commence between late March and early April and end between late October and early November, lasting approximately 7–8 months, noting that the predicted raining pattern would support multiple cropping cycles.
He, however, warned that the anticipated rainfall may at its peak, increase the risks of flooding especially in some parts of the state in June.
“Peak rainfall is anticipated in June and September, increasing the risk of flooding, especially in low-lying areas. Farmers are advised to cultivate raised ridges, ensure proper drainage systems, and avoid flood-prone lands for sensitive crops”, Agbaeze said.
The advisory said that short dry spell, commonly known as the August Break, is expected between late July and August and may last 2–3 weeks and advised the farmers to plant early-maturing and drought-tolerant crop varieties, practice staggered planting over 2–3 weeks, and avoid establishing sensitive crops during this period.
It said that yam, maize, and cassava should be planted at rainfall onset between March and April while Rice should be planted between May and June, among other advisory.
The Commissioner for Agriculture who asked farmers to carry out field monitoring to prevent flooding and water logging in June and July, urged them to plant early maturing and flood- resistant varieties.
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