The Nigerian Meteorological Agency (NiMet) and the Nigeria Governors’ Forum (NGF) are strengthening their partnership to address the adverse effects of climate change across the country. This collaboration, aimed at improving climate resilience, was confirmed during a meeting at the NGF office in Abuja over the weekend.
Speaking at the event, NiMet’s Director-General, Prof. Charles Anosike, highlighted the urgent need for collective action to mitigate the escalating impacts of extreme weather events. He noted that Nigeria experiences significant annual losses, including displaced communities, human casualties, and severe economic damages.
“These extreme weather events also trigger human trafficking, disease outbreaks, and other negative impacts,” Anosike said. “Proactive collaboration will ensure that weather and climate information reaches the last mile – the Nigerian people. Early warning systems are essential for enabling communities to respond effectively to climate risks.”
Anosike underscored the importance of NiMet’s Seasonal Climate Prediction (SCP) as a key early warning tool. He linked it to the United Nations’ Early Warning for All (EW4ALL) initiative, explaining that the forecast leverages rigorous scientific methods to enhance climate resilience.
In response, NGF Director-General Alhaji Abdulateef Shittu reaffirmed the forum’s commitment to climate action, describing NiMet as a vital Federal Government agency. Shittu revealed that the NGF is formalizing its support through a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with NiMet to drive climate adaptation and mitigation initiatives.
“Climate change impacts economic well-being, both nationally and globally,” Shittu said. “We must face its reality by prioritizing food security and preventing shortages. This partnership will strengthen Nigeria’s capacity to adapt to these challenges.”
The collaboration between NiMet and NGF is expected to amplify the dissemination of critical weather and climate information, empowering communities to safeguard lives, assets, and livelihoods against the growing threat of climate change.
- Tags: climate action Lagos, NGF, NIMET
