Weather in Maiduguri

Planning your day or preparing for a journey? Here you will find the latest meteorological information on Maiduguri, including up-to-date forecasts and clear charts.

The climate in Maiduguri can be described as hot semi-arid, which is typical for northern Nigeria and the Sahel region. The weather here is defined by a clear division of the year into dry and wet seasons, with high temperatures prevailing almost constantly. The sun in this region is very intense, so travellers should be prepared for the heat.

The hottest period falls in spring, especially in April and May, when the average daytime temperature often rises to 40°C. During this time, the heat can feel quite intense. However, the winter months, particularly December and January, bring relative coolness: nights become fresh, and temperatures drop to more comfortable levels, making this the most pleasant time to visit.

Rainfall in the city is uneven and falls during the wet season. From November to May, there is practically no rain, and the weather remains absolutely dry. The rainy season starts in June and reaches its peak in August, when the number of rainy days is at its maximum. In September, precipitation continues but gradually tapers off, while increased humidity brings temporary relief from the aridity of the previous months.

The climate in the city of Maiduguri is characterised by high temperatures throughout most of the year, reaching its peak in the spring months. The hottest period is the interval from March to May, when the average temperature confidently stays above +30°C, and daytime highs in April often exceed the +40°C mark. Real heat reigns during this time, requiring caution and sun protection from travellers.

The winter season, falling in December and January, is considered the most comfortable and mild time for a visit. Days remain sunny and warm with temperatures around +30°C, yet nights bring long-awaited freshness: the thermometer may drop to +15°C...+16°C. Such a significant amplitude between daytime heat and nighttime coolness is characteristic of the dry season, so tourists should carry warmer clothes for the evening.

Summer months in Nigeria bring changes associated with the rainy season. With the arrival of precipitation in July and August, the extreme heat recedes: August becomes one of the "coolest" months with averages around +27°C. However, it is worth noting that the drop in temperature is accompanied by rising humidity, after which the air begins to warm up intensively again by October.

The climate in this region is characterised by a clear division into a dry season and a rainy season, typical for the north of the country. If you plan to visit Maiduguri, it is worth considering that arid weather prevails here for a significant part of the year. In the period from November to April, the probability of precipitation is practically zero, and the sky remains clear. This is the most stable time for trips if you wish to avoid rain.

The situation begins to change in May when the first rare rainfall occurs, but the real rainy season arrives in summer. June brings about 8 rainy days, and humidity peaks in August. This is the wettest month of the year: statistics record an average of 22 days with precipitation. In July and September, rains also occur quite frequently, so an umbrella and waterproof clothing will definitely be useful for travellers during this period.

By October, the intensity of precipitation drops sharply — on average, only about 3 rainy days are observed. This month serves as a transitional period, after which dry and sunny weather, characteristic of the winter season, quickly returns to the city.

When packing for Maiduguri, consider that the climate here is predominantly hot. The foundation of your wardrobe should be light clothing made from natural fabrics, such as cotton or linen, which allow the skin to breathe. Since the sun in this part of Nigeria can be very active, be sure to take high-factor sunscreen, a wide-brimmed hat, and sunglasses. In the hottest months (March, April, May), when daytime temperatures often exceed 30–35°C, choose light-coloured, loose-fitting items to avoid overheating.

If your trip is planned for the period from November to February, be prepared for noticeable daily temperature fluctuations. It will be comfortably warm during the day, but evenings and nights can be quite fresh (temperatures sometimes drop to 15–16°C), so a light jacket, windbreaker, or warm jumper in your suitcase will be essential. Also, do not forget comfortable closed shoes for long walks, as it can be quite dusty during the dry season.

The rainy season, which lasts roughly from June to September, requires adding waterproof accessories to your luggage. This is especially relevant for August, when the number of rainy days is at its maximum. You will definitely need a compact umbrella or a light raincoat. It is recommended to prefer quick-drying clothing and footwear that can withstand moisture. Despite the precipitation, the air remains warm, so the principle of layering will help you feel comfortable in any weather.