The Director General of the Nigerian Meteorological Agency (NiMet), Professor Charles Anosike, has emphasized the importance of weather early warning alerts in ensuring safe and efficient ferry operations. Speaking at the Regional Ferry Safety Conference in Lagos, which took place from June 25–26, 2025, at the Continental Hotel, he highlighted challenges from changing weather.
Professor Anosike noted that ferry operators face risks from sudden weather shifts. These operators serve as a lifeline for many coastal communities. He urged stricter adherence to weather early warning alerts for safer trips. Such systems help in planning routes and crew deployment effectively. Sustainable practices in maritime regulation can reduce weather-related accidents.
“Maritime regulation must ensure ferries adopt sustainable practices,” said Professor Anosike. “Integrating weather early warning alerts is critical for operational safety.” He explained that timely forecasts allow for better pre-departure assessments. This helps operators decide if conditions are safe for travel. Real-time updates also improve search-and-rescue readiness during emergencies.
Additionally, he stressed the need for collaboration between agencies and NiMet. In 2022, NiMet hosted a workshop with key maritime stakeholders. Attendees included the Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency (NIMASA). Others were the Nigerian Ports Authority (NPA) and the Nigerian Inland Waterways Authority (NIWA). The Nigerian Navy, Marine Police, and ferry operators also participated.
The workshop led to Memoranda of Understanding with NIMASA, NIWA, and MOWCA. These agreements aim to improve meteorological data sharing. The goal is to enhance safety and efficiency in ferry operations. Professor Anosike said NiMet is committed to providing accurate forecasts. These will help protect lives and boost Nigeria’s maritime economy.
Furthermore, he outlined five measures to improve data usage in ferry safety. While he did not list them, he stressed their importance. Proper implementation will reduce risks linked to adverse weather conditions. Reliable forecasts support navigation security and marine environment protection.
In conclusion, Professor Anosike reaffirmed NiMet’s readiness to support ferry operators. “Weather forecasts are vital for Nigeria’s coastal prosperity,” he said. By addressing challenges, ferry operations can achieve sustainable growth. NiMet will continue providing impact-based marine forecasts for safer travel.
The conference ended with calls for stronger inter-agency cooperation. Attendees agreed that weather early warning alerts must be prioritized. With better planning, ferry accidents due to weather can be minimized. This will ensure safer journeys for passengers and crew members.
