Communities in Northern Nigeria experienced a surprising Harmattan season in 2025. This annual dry, dusty wind usually sweeps in from the Sahara, typically arriving between late November and March. However, this year, it came late, was less intense, and had lower dust levels across states like Yobe, Adamawa, and Sokoto.
Umar Sale Anka, the Director of Climate Change at the Kano State Ministry of Environment, shared this information on Facebook. He noted that the weather patterns we once relied on are becoming less predictable.
Experts explain that the arrival of Harmattan is influenced by the balance of moist monsoon air and dry Saharan air. This balance has changed due to rising global temperatures and shifting atmospheric conditions. Historically, these patterns were stable, but now, they’re increasingly erratic. In 2025, extended rainfall lingered into the dry season, trapping moisture in the air and delaying the onset of Harmattan.
This shift poses significant challenges for farmers, who depend on consistent weather for planting and harvesting. Erratic rain and unexpected dry periods can disrupt growing schedules, leading to crop failures. In Sokoto and Yobe, water shortages are making irrigation harder and more expensive, adding to food insecurity.
To adapt, experts suggest several strategies. Climate-smart agriculture is one effective approach. This includes using drought-resistant crop varieties, diversifying crops, and practicing better soil management. These methods can help stabilize food production even in unpredictable weather.
Investing in water management is also crucial. Techniques like rainwater harvesting and drip irrigation can help farmers use water more effectively. Providing accurate local weather forecasts can empower them to make better decisions.
On a policy level, incorporating climate adaptation into agricultural strategies is vital. Expanding rural water infrastructure and promoting insurance for crops will help farmers face these new realities.
Organizations like the Women Farmers Advancement Network (WOFAN) and the Centre for Dryland Agriculture are already working to promote these practices within communities.
The unusual Harmattan of 2025 serves as a stark reminder of our changing climate. It highlights the necessity for ongoing adaptation and collaborative effort. With the right support, communities can build resilience and secure a sustainable future.
For further reading on the impacts of climate change on agriculture, you can visit the World Bank’s Agricultural Sector report.
