The Nigerian Meteorological Agency (NiMet) has attributed the soaring temperatures in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Niger, Kogi, and several other states to climate change.
According to NiMet, the current maximum temperature in these areas has reached 40°C, with a minimum of 23°C. The agency’s recent Seasonal Climate Prediction indicates that most northern and central states will experience daytime temperatures between 37°C and 40°C this month. Meanwhile, states such as Kano, Kaduna, Bauchi, Plateau, Oyo, Osun, Ogun, Ekiti, Edo, Enugu, Anambra, Ebonyi, Imo, Abia, and parts of Cross River and Delta are expected to see temperatures ranging from 34°C to 37°C.
NiMet’s Director of Weather Services, Prof. Vincent Weli, explained that climate change is the primary driver of the extreme heat. He noted that cities like Abuja, Lokoja, and Minna share similar weather patterns due to their location within the same ecological zone. As a result, temperature fluctuations in one city directly impact the others.
He also warned that 2025 could be even hotter than 2024, which was already recorded as the hottest year. “Every experience we are having now is due to climate change. The heat is affecting not just a few towns but everywhere,” Prof. Weli stated.
To mitigate rising temperatures, he emphasized the need to reduce carbon dioxide emissions by promoting the use of electric cars, solar power, and afforestation. He urged individuals and governments to plant more trees, which help absorb carbon dioxide and increase oxygen levels in the atmosphere.
For residents in high-temperature areas, NiMet advised avoiding direct sunlight between 12 pm and 3 pm, drinking plenty of water, and taking precautions against heat-related illnesses such as heat stroke. Prof. Weli stressed that staying hydrated is crucial to preventing dehydration, which can lead to severe health issues.
As climate change continues to drive extreme weather patterns, experts warn that proactive measures are essential to mitigating its effects and ensuring public health and safety.
