The National Emergency Management Agency has urged Nigerians to adopt safety measures to protect themselves and their communities against the potential effects of the developing El Niño climate phenomenon.
The agency, in an advisory issued on Monday titled “Super El Niño Is Coming: What You Can Do to Protect Yourself, Your Family and Your Community,” warned that the weather event could trigger extreme temperatures, reduced rainfall, drought, flooding and food shortages.
“Super El Niño can cause hotter temperatures, less rainfall, drought, floods and food shortages,” NEMA stated.
El Niño is a natural climate phenomenon characterised by unusually warm sea-surface temperatures in the central and eastern tropical Pacific Ocean. It can disrupt global weather patterns, influencing temperatures and rainfall, although its effects vary across different regions.
The Nigerian Meteorological Agency (NiMet) had also confirmed the development of a strong El Niño event in 2026.
In its seasonal climate prediction update for August 2026 and rainfall forecast for August to October, NiMet stated, “Analysis of the most recent ocean observations confirms the onset of a strong El Niño event in 2026.”
The agency further noted that the phenomenon was intensifying and expected to influence global climate patterns during the period.
To minimise its potential impact, NEMA outlined eight measures for individuals, households and communities.
The agency advised Nigerians to drink clean water regularly, wear lightweight clothing and avoid prolonged exposure to direct sunlight, particularly between 11am and 4pm.
It also urged residents to check on children, older persons and other vulnerable individuals who may be more susceptible to heat-related illnesses.
On water conservation, NEMA encouraged households to avoid wastage, repair leaking pipes and store water in clean, covered containers to prevent contamination.
The agency further recommended that households maintain adequate food supplies, support local farming and home gardening, protect livestock and poultry, and take advantage of available agricultural support programmes.
NEMA stressed the importance of maintaining good hygiene and sanitation to reduce the risks of malaria and waterborne diseases, while urging people experiencing symptoms of illness to seek medical attention promptly.
To protect livelihoods, particularly in the agricultural sector, the agency recommended drought-resistant crops, improved farming practices and diversified income sources.
It also encouraged residents to schedule outdoor activities for early mornings or late evenings, use shaded areas and take regular breaks when exposed to high temperatures.
NEMA called on communities to strengthen emergency preparedness by participating in early-warning initiatives, sharing reliable information and paying attention to the needs of vulnerable residents.
“Follow updates from NEMA, the Nigerian Meteorological Agency (NiMet) and trusted media channels,” the agency advised, urging Nigerians to comply with official warnings and report emergencies to the relevant authorities.
The agency emphasised that staying informed and taking preventive measures would help individuals, families and communities reduce their exposure to the potential risks associated with the climate phenomenon.
