NiMet’s DG, Prof. Anosike, cites limited observation networks, technical gaps, coordination issues, and rural outreach challenges in Nigeria’s climate early warning system.
He stated this during the inaugural meeting of the ‘Building Agricultural Systems Resilience in Nigeria Project’ in Abuja.
To tackle these obstacles, the ‘Building Agricultural Systems Resilience in Nigeria Project’, funded by the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation, aims to enhance climate early warning system infrastructure. This initiative will boost the provision of timely climate information for decision-making in agriculture, bolster analytic capabilities, improve locally tailored services, align national infrastructure, and enhance operational governance.
He further said, “The project will align national early action infrastructure for improved regional impact and enhance early warning systems operational governance through inter-agency cooperation”.
The project’s steering committee, composed of technical directors from key ministries and agencies along with partners and representatives from the foundation, will oversee implementation, provide strategic direction, monitor progress, advocate for coordination, and manage risks effectively.
Climate stakeholders involved in the ‘Building Agricultural Systems Resilience in Nigeria Project’ include the Nigerian Meteorological Agency (NiMet), Nigeria Hydrological Services Agency (NIHSA), the Federal Ministry of Environment, National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA), and the Federal Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security. Additionally, Sahel Consulting Agriculture and Nutrition Ltd manages the project as well.
