The National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) has advised Nigerians to take precautionary measures against the potential effects of the El Niño climate phenomenon, including extreme heat, drought, flooding and food shortages.
Gatekeepers News reports that in an advisory issued on Monday titled “Super El Niño Is Coming: What You Can Do to Protect Yourself, Your Family and Your Community,” the agency outlined eight measures individuals, households and communities could adopt to reduce climate-related risks.
NEMA warned that “Super El Niño can cause hotter temperatures, less rainfall, drought, floods and food shortages,” urging Nigerians to prepare for possible disruptions to daily life, agriculture and water supplies.
El Niño is a natural climate phenomenon that occurs when sea-surface temperatures in the central and eastern tropical Pacific Ocean become warmer than normal. It is the warm phase of the El Niño-Southern Oscillation (ENSO), which also includes the cooler La Niña phase and neutral conditions.
The phenomenon can alter atmospheric circulation and influence rainfall and temperature patterns across the world, although its effects vary from one region to another.
In its Seasonal Climate Prediction Update for August 2026 and the August-September-October 2026 Rainfall Forecast, the Nigerian Meteorological Agency (NiMet) stated that “analysis of the most recent ocean observations confirms the onset of a strong El Niño event in 2026.”
The agency added that “El Niño continues to intensify steadily and is expected to dominate global climate patterns during the August to October 2026 season.”
NiMet also described the event as a “super El Niño”, warning of significant implications for Nigeria’s rainfall patterns and an increased likelihood of above-normal temperatures globally.
Eight Measures Nigerians Should Adopt
NEMA recommended the following steps to help Nigerians prepare for the potential effects of El Niño:
1. Reduce Exposure to Extreme Heat
The agency advised Nigerians to limit outdoor activities during peak heat hours, particularly between 11am and 4pm.
Residents were encouraged to stay in shaded areas, wear hats or caps, take regular breaks and drink sufficient clean water to prevent dehydration.
NEMA also recommended scheduling outdoor activities for early mornings or late evenings when temperatures are generally lower.
2. Conserve Water
NEMA urged households to use water responsibly, avoid unnecessary waste and repair leaking pipes and taps.
It also advised residents to store water in clean, covered containers and maintain clean surroundings to protect available water sources.
3. Take Precautions Against Extreme Heat
The agency advised Nigerians to remain hydrated, wear lightweight clothing and use hats and sunscreen when outdoors.
It also urged people to avoid direct exposure to the sun during the hottest hours of the day and regularly check on children, elderly people and others who may be particularly vulnerable to extreme temperatures.
4. Protect Personal and Environmental Health
NEMA called on residents to take preventive measures against heat-related illnesses and dehydration.
It also stressed the importance of proper sanitation, regular handwashing and clean surroundings to reduce the risk of malaria and waterborne diseases.
The agency encouraged anyone who becomes unwell to seek medical attention promptly.
5. Strengthen Food Security
To prepare for potential disruptions to food production and supply, NEMA advised households to maintain adequate food reserves for emergencies.
It also encouraged Nigerians to support local farming, establish home gardens where possible, protect livestock and poultry, and take advantage of available agricultural support programmes.
6. Protect Livelihoods
The agency urged farmers to adopt drought-resistant crop varieties and improved agricultural practices to reduce the impact of changing weather conditions.
It also recommended diversifying income sources and accessing government and development-partner support programmes to strengthen household resilience.
7. Follow Reliable Weather Information
NEMA advised Nigerians to monitor updates from the agency, NiMet and other trusted media organisations.
Residents were urged to comply with official weather advisories and warnings and promptly report emergencies to NEMA and other relevant authorities.
8. Promote Community Preparedness
The agency called on communities to participate in early-warning systems and emergency preparedness initiatives.
It also encouraged residents to share reliable information with neighbours and family members and look out for vulnerable people who may need assistance during periods of extreme weather.
NEMA said adopting these measures could help individuals and communities reduce their exposure to climate-related risks and better prepare for possible disruptions associated with El Niño.
