NiMet and the National Council on Climate Change (NCCC) have agreed to strengthen efforts in promoting climate actions. This cooperation, aimed at tackling climate issues in Nigeria, was announced after a meeting between the two agencies on August 20, 2024.
During the meeting, Professor Charles Anosike, NiMet’s Director General, emphasized the importance of promoting climate actions for the nation’s benefit. He highlighted NiMet’s crucial role in climate adaptation, mitigation, and education, mentioning the agency’s over 100 years of meteorological data. According to Anosike, this data serves as the foundation for understanding climate patterns and supporting national initiatives. He added, “The World Meteorological Organization (WMO) will be glad to see NiMet and NCCC working together.”
Anosike also pointed out that NiMet is currently working on key initiatives like the national rollout of the United Nations Early Warnings for All (EW4All) program. He stressed the need for NCCC’s involvement, particularly in the national framework for climate services and the domestication of the WMO Global Framework for Climate Services (GFCS). He further invited NCCC to partner with NiMet on its annual seasonal climate prediction, which serves as a critical early warning tool.
Dr. Nkiruka Maduekwe, NCCC’s Director General, echoed the importance of this partnership, acknowledging that NiMet plays a critical role in understanding climate change. She noted that changing weather patterns directly impact sectors like agriculture, where many farmers are unaware of shifting rain patterns. “We have a lot of work ahead, but by working together, we can tackle these challenges effectively,” Maduekwe stated.
Moreover, the meeting explored scientific contributions to UNFCCC activities and the ongoing review of Nigeria’s Nationally Determined Contributions (NDC). This highlights both agencies’ commitment to advancing climate goals at both national and international levels.
