By
Gloria Abutu
Once a hallmark of Nigeria’s dry season, the biting cold of harmattan seems to have mellowed.
The usual crisp mornings and chilly nights have given way to unexpected warmth, raising concerns about the shifting climate in Adamawa State and beyond.
Experts believe this is yet another sign of a warming planet.Unusual Harmattan and Changing Weather PatternsIn past years, harmattan in Adamawa State was marked by hazy skies, poor visibility, and extreme cold.
However, this season has been different.The air is warmer, and the characteristic dry chill is noticeably absent.
Environmental experts say this shift is not just a random occurrence but part of a broader climate change pattern.
The Head, Department of Disaster Management, School of Environmental Sciences, Adamawa State Polytechnic, Yola, Dr. Jinga Clement-Jahknwa, attributes the changes to human activities.
He identified deforestation, excessive use of chemical fertilizers leading to land degradation, and industrial emissions as major contributors to climate change.
“In Nigeria, we’re already so close to the sun—positioned near the equator with the sun almost overhead. Add human activities like gas flaring, carbon emissions, and burning fossil fuels, and you’re significantly increasing atmospheric heat. This isn’t just a random shift—it’s a climate crisis.”
According to him, these disruptions in the natural ecosystem are responsible for increasing dry spells, delayed rainfall, and more intense flooding events.
To mitigate these effects, Dr. Clement-Jahknwa emphasized the need for intentional tree planting, proper nurturing, and poverty alleviation programs to reduce environmental exploitation.
“You can’t tell someone to stop cutting down trees for firewood if they can’t afford alternatives. Alleviating poverty must come first, so people can transition to cleaner energy sources like cooking gas.”
He also stressed the importance of media sensitization to educate the public on climate-related issues.
Government Efforts and Environmental ChallengesDespite a state ban on tree felling, deforestation continues at an alarming rate.
The Federal Controller, Ministry of Environment, Adamawa State, Safiya Mohammed identified deforestation and poor waste management as major drivers of climate change in the region.
“The worst aspect is human activities—deforestation due to building, farming, and gathering firewood and charcoal for cooking. We’ve been warning about this, and now we’re facing the reality. Despite the ban on cutting trees, you still see people with logs coming out from the forest.”
She highlighted various government interventions, including the Green Economy Initiative, flood simulation projects, and large-scale tree planting programs by state, federal government and Non-Governmental Organizations aimed at addressing the impact of climate change.
However, she stressed that these efforts need community support to be effective.”Every action we take has repercussions.
A healthy environment means a healthy community. All hands must be on deck to care for our surroundings.
Imagine if tree planting becomes a cultural norm at every community event—together, we could create a forest.
“Mohammed urged citizens to embrace eco-friendly practices such as improved sanitation, tree planting, and responsible waste disposal to ensure environmental sustainability.
Public Reaction and the Road Ahead Residents of Adamawa State have expressed confusion over the unusual weather, with many unsure of what to expect in the coming weeks.
While some hope for relief from the heat, others worry about the long-term implications of these changes. Chris Andrew is among those who feel the season has lost its defining chill.
“This year’s harmattan is just too brief. To me, I would say there is no harmattan at all.”For Amough Sesugh, the inconsistency is what stands out the most.
“Unlike previous years when the cold was intense, this time it’s unpredictable. One moment it’s cold, and the next, it’s warm again.
“Endurance Adeniran finds it unsettling. “Some days are hot, and others are cold. It leaves you wondering whether we are in the harmattan season or the hot season.”
As experts continue to warn of the growing impact of climate change, the call for action remains urgent.Addressing the crisis requires not only government policies but also active community involvement in protecting and restoring the environment. Whether through tree planting, waste management, or reducing emissions, every small effort counts in the fight against climate change.
Conclusion:The shifting weather patterns in Adamawa State are a clear signal that climate change is no longer a distant threat but a present reality.
The once predictable harmattan is now a fading memory, replaced by an uncertain climate future. Without urgent and sustained action from both authorities and citizens, Nigeria risks facing more severe environmental challenges in the years ahead.
