A climate change expert, Dr Deborah Ishaku, has warned that the anticipated El Niño climate phenomenon could worsen heat stress, drought, and food insecurity in Gombe State and other parts of Nigeria, if adequate preventive measures are not taken.

Arewa PUNCH reports that Ishaku, who holds a PhD in Climate Change and Human Habitat and lectures at Gombe State Polytechnic, Bajoga, said the potential effects of the phenomenon could include delayed rainfall, prolonged dry spells, reduced water availability and crop failure.

She explained that El Niño is a climate phenomenon characterised by the abnormal warming of sea surface temperatures in the central and eastern tropical Pacific Ocean, which can influence weather patterns across different parts of the world.

According to her, the phenomenon typically occurs every two to seven years and can last between nine and 12 months.

Ishaku, thus, warned that the anticipated El Niño conditions towards the end of 2026 and early 2027 could heighten climate-related risks, particularly for communities that depend heavily on rain-fed agriculture and have limited access to electricity and cooling facilities.

She said, “El Niño is the warming of sea surface temperatures in the central and eastern Pacific Ocean. Although it originates in the Pacific, its effects can influence rainfall patterns, temperatures and agricultural production in different parts of the world.”

The climate expert identified Gombe State as one of the areas where the potential effects could have serious implications for farming, livestock production and access to water.

She explained that delayed rainfall could disrupt the planting calendar, while prolonged dry spells and higher temperatures could expose crops and livestock to heat stress.

According to her, crops such as sorghum, millet, maize and groundnuts could face increased risks if rainfall becomes irregular and temperatures rise significantly.

She added that reduced water availability could also affect dams and boreholes, increasing pressure on households and farming communities.

“Farmers need to prepare for the possibility of delayed rainfall and prolonged dry spells. These conditions can affect germination, crop development and yields, especially where farming depends entirely on rainfall,” she said.

Ishaku further warned that high temperatures, combined with dusty Harmattan conditions, could increase the risk of dehydration, heat exhaustion and heatstroke, particularly among children, older people, outdoor workers and people with limited access to cooling facilities.

She urged residents to take preventive measures against excessive heat by drinking sufficient water, wearing lightweight clothing and reducing outdoor activities during the hottest hours of the day.

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“People should avoid unnecessary exposure to direct sunlight, particularly between noon and 4pm, when temperatures may be high. They should drink enough water, wear light and loose-fitting clothes and ensure their homes are adequately ventilated,” she advised.

The Climate Change and Human Habitat expert also encouraged households to store water for periods of scarcity and plant trees around their homes to provide shade and reduce exposure to direct sunlight.

On agriculture, Ishaku advised farmers to rely on official weather forecasts from the Nigerian Meteorological Agency before commencing planting, rather than planting solely on the basis of the first rainfall.

She recommended drought-tolerant crop varieties, including SOSAT millet, ICSV 400 sorghum and SAMNUT 24 groundnut, as possible options for improving resilience to dry conditions.

The expert also encouraged farmers to adopt water conservation and harvesting techniques, including zai pits, to improve moisture retention in the soil and support crop growth during periods of limited rainfall.

She said farmers should consider storing harvested grains early to reduce the risk of food shortages if adverse weather conditions affect subsequent harvests.

“Farmers should pay close attention to NiMet’s seasonal forecasts and advisories before planting. They should also consider drought-tolerant seeds, water-harvesting techniques and early grain storage to reduce the impact of unfavourable weather conditions,” she said.

Ishaku called on community leaders and relevant authorities to promote the careful management of available water resources, particularly in areas vulnerable to drought.

She further recommended that schools consider scheduling outdoor activities during cooler hours, while health facilities should strengthen their preparedness to identify and manage heat-related illnesses and dehydration.

According to her, oral rehydration solutions should be available at health facilities to support the treatment of dehydration, alongside appropriate clinical care for people experiencing severe heat-related symptoms.

She stressed that public awareness, early preparation and coordination among government agencies, communities and farmers would be essential to reducing the potential effects of extreme weather.

Our correspondent reports that Ishaku’s warning comes amid concerns about the possible development of a strong El Niño event towards the end of 2026. However, the timing, intensity and regional effects of the phenomenon require confirmation through current scientific monitoring and official seasonal forecasts.

Source: Punch · Chima Azubuike

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