With eyes on the sky and tools in hand, farmers across Gombe State are gearing up for early planting as May begins, motivated by climate forecasts that suggest a shorter and drier growing season ahead.
This optimism follows the release of the 2025 Seasonal Climate Prediction by the Nigerian Meteorological Agency (NiMet) on February 4 in Abuja. Themed “The Role of Early Warnings towards a Climate Resilient Aviation Industry for Sustainable Socio-Economic Development,” the forecast outlined critical climate patterns for the year across Nigeria, including Gombe.
According to the prediction, the rainy season in Gombe is expected to commence on May 27 in Shongom and by June 17 in Nafada. The cessation is projected to occur on October 14 in Nafada and November 3 in Yamaltu/Deba. Annual rainfall is expected to range between 606mm and 789mm, which is below normal, with Nafada likely recording the lowest and Shongom the highest.
Lydia Simon Bawa, Desk Officer for Climate Change, cautioned that the state will experience a relatively short growing season just 107 days in Nafada and up to 140 days in Yamaltu/Deba. She also warned of a severe dry spell lasting over 21 days between June and August across Nafada, Yamaltu/Deba, Dukku, and Funakaye.
Farmers were strongly advised not to plant until the rains are fully established. Bawa urged the adoption of early-maturing and drought-resistant crop varieties, especially in areas forecasted to have shorter rainy seasons or delayed onset.
Other key advisories included the need for proper drainage maintenance, avoiding open defecation and waste dumping in waterways, trimming tall tree branches near power lines, and promoting water harvesting to cope with dry spells.
NiMet also forecasted strong windstorms and possible sandstorms in the extreme northern regions, including Gombe, prompting further caution from authorities.
However, residents were reminded to turn off electrical appliances during storms and avoid road travel during severe weather, as the state braces for a challenging but manageable planting season.
