Hydromet Meeting to Strengthen Global Weather and Climate Services
Nigeria will host the Hydromet Annual Meeting 2026, bringing together the world’s leading weather, water and climate experts in Lagos. The Nigerian Meteorological Agency (NiMet) will stage the event from 13 to 15 October 2026 at Eko Hotels & Suites following an invitation from the Secretary-General of the World Meteorological Organization (WMO). The meeting marks another milestone for Nigeria’s growing role in global climate discussions.
The Hydromet gathering will attract the leadership of the World Meteorological Organization alongside 17 member institutions of the Alliance for Hydromet Development. Participants will also include ministers, development banks, climate funds, United Nations agencies, private sector leaders, academics and users of weather, water and climate services. Therefore, Lagos will become the centre of global discussions on strengthening hydrometeorological systems.
This year’s meeting carries the theme, “Partnerships, Innovation and Sustainable Investment in Weather, Water and Climate Services.” It is significant because it will be the first Alliance for Hydromet Development Annual Meeting to take place on African soil. Meanwhile, the event offers Africa an opportunity to demonstrate leadership while supporting global efforts to improve climate resilience and disaster preparedness.
Hydrometeorological services remain essential for protecting lives and supporting economic growth. Reliable weather, water and climate information improves disaster risk reduction, food and nutrition security, water resources management, aviation safety, energy planning and public health. In addition, stronger climate services help communities adapt to changing weather patterns and build long-term resilience against climate impacts.
Nigeria will also showcase its efforts to strengthen meteorological and hydrological services through NiMet. As host, the country will present practical examples of how national leadership can improve weather services while coordinating investments that benefit citizens. The Hydromet meeting will also demonstrate how better planning can reduce pressure on government funding through strategic partnerships.
The programme has been organised around five strategic pillars that will guide discussions throughout the three-day event. These pillars focus on strengthening partnerships and Alliance coordination, mobilising sustainable investment, advancing innovation and public-private engagement, delivering value through user-centred services, and building sustainable hydrometeorological services. Together, they form the foundation for stronger global cooperation.
According to Professor Charles Anosike, Director-General of the Nigerian Meteorological Agency (NiMet) and Permanent Representative of Nigeria with the World Meteorological Organization, the event reflects Nigeria’s commitment to advancing climate services. Speaking under the leadership of the Honourable Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, the Chief Host, he highlighted the wider benefits of the meeting.
Professor Anosike said, “Nigeria is proud to host the Alliance for Hydromet Development Annual Meeting 2026 and promote the critical relevance of Weather, Water and Climate services for de-risking national, regional and global socioeconomic activities.” He noted that stronger weather services are vital for improving planning, protecting investments and supporting sustainable development across different sectors.
The Hydromet meeting is also expected to strengthen collaboration between governments, financial institutions and the private sector. Such cooperation will help unlock greater investment in weather infrastructure, forecasting technology and climate information services. However, long-term success will depend on sustained commitment from all partners beyond the annual meeting.
Hosting the Hydromet Annual Meeting 2026 further reinforces Nigeria’s position within the global meteorological community. It also highlights the country’s ambition to support innovation and climate resilience across Africa. As preparations continue, the meeting is expected to produce stronger partnerships and practical solutions that improve weather, water and climate services worldwide.
