NEMA Lists 8 Ways Nigerians Can Prepare for El Niño as Heat, Drought Risks Rise

The National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) has advised Nigerians to take precautionary measures against the possible effects of El Niño, warning of risks including extreme heat, drought, flooding and food shortages.

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 steps individuals, households and communities can take to reduce the risks associated with the climate phenomenon.

El Niño occurs when sea-surface temperatures in the central and eastern tropical Pacific Ocean become warmer than normal. It can disrupt atmospheric circulation and influence rainfall and temperature patterns around the world, although its effects vary from one location to another.

NEMA warned that the phenomenon could bring hotter temperatures, reduced rainfall, drought, flooding and food shortages. The Nigerian Meteorological Agency (NiMet) also reported the onset of a strong El Niño event in 2026 in its seasonal climate prediction update and rainfall forecast for August to October.

According to NiMet, the event was expected to influence global climate patterns during the period, with possible implications for rainfall across Nigeria and a greater likelihood of above-normal global temperatures.

To reduce exposure to extreme heat, NEMA advised residents to limit outdoor activities between 11 am and 4 pm, seek shade, wear hats or caps, take regular breaks and drink enough clean water. It also recommended wearing light clothing and using sunscreen, while planning outdoor activities for the early morning or late evening.

The agency urged Nigerians to conserve water by fixing leaks, avoiding waste and storing supplies in clean, covered containers. It also stressed the importance of maintaining clean surroundings, practising proper sanitation and handwashing, and seeking medical attention early when unwell.

On food security and livelihoods, NEMA recommended keeping emergency food supplies, supporting local farming and home gardening, protecting livestock and poultry, and taking advantage of agricultural support programmes. Farmers were also encouraged to consider drought-resistant crops and improved farming practices, while households were advised to explore different sources of income.

The agency further urged the public to follow updates from NEMA, NiMet and trusted media organisations, obey official warnings and report emergencies to the relevant authorities. It called on communities to participate in early-warning and preparedness efforts, share reliable information with neighbours and pay particular attention to children, older people and other vulnerable residents.