World Meteorological Day: NiMet reiterates commitment to safeguarding lives, property

World Meteorological Day: NiMet reiterates commitment to safeguarding lives, property

Joel Oladele, Abuja

As the World marks 2024 Meteorological Day, Nigerian Meteorological Agency (NiMet) has reaffirmed its commitment to safeguarding lives, property and livelihood across the country.

The Director General of the Agency, Prof. Charles Anosike noted this in his address at the event held on Thursday, at NiMet headquarters in Abuja.

Prof. Anosike emphasized the significance of World Meteorological Day, celebrated annually on 23rd March, in commemorating the founding of WMO and promoting global cooperation in meteorology, hydrology, and related sciences.

According to him, this year’s celebration was held earlier on 21st March to ensure active participation from stakeholders and young minds.

He noted that the theme of this year’s celebration, “At the Frontline of Climate Action,” resonated with the urgent need for collective efforts in leveraging weather and climate information for societal well-being. He therefore highlighted meteorology’s vital role in providing accurate forecasts, mitigating natural disasters, and building climate-resilient communities.

“The theme of this year’s celebration, “At the Frontline of Climate Action,” is a call for our collective resolve towards harnessing the power of weather and climate information for the betterment of humanity.

“We recognize the indispensable role of meteorology in building a sustainably developed society. From providing accurate weather forecasts to mitigating the impacts of natural disasters, as well as building climate resilient societies, the Nigerian Meteorological Agency remains steadfast in its commitment to safeguarding lives, property, and livelihoods across the country. 

“Through our extensive network of observation stations, research and training facilities, forecasting capabilities and in pursuit of early warning for all, we keep striving and innovating to deliver timely and reliable meteorological services to all socio-economic sectors.”

While acknowledging the challenges posed by climate change, including extreme weather events and environmental disruptions, Prof. Anosike called for enhanced climate resilience, preparedness, and sustainable development practices at all levels.

He stressed the importance of continuous education on climate-related issues, particularly through initiatives like the Young Meteorological Ambassador Programme.

“However, as we reflect on the progress we have made, we must also acknowledge the challenges that lie ahead. Climate change poses an existential threat to our planet, exacerbating extreme weather events, disrupting ecosystems, and endangering vulnerable communities. 

“In the face of these challenges, it has become imperative that we increase our efforts towards building a weather and climate-resilient society, enhance our preparedness for weather-related disasters, and promote sustainable development practices at all levels of government.

“Additionally, we must also sustain awareness and continuous education on climate and climate change related issues. One of the ways to achieving this is to catch-them-young: Our Young Meteorological Ambassador Programme is a testament to that and 2024 WMD Celebration is no exception. 

“We must not relent at encouraging our young minds to build their capacity for meaningful contributions to effective climate actions that is impactful and measurable,” he stated.

He therefore made a call to action for enhanced climate action, scientific excellence, collaboration, and innovation. 

“In the words of WMO Secretary-General, Prof Celeste Saulo “The lives of future generations are in our hands. Our efforts today will ensure a safer, healthier world for future generations—a world where children thrive in harmony with nature.”

In his Goodwill Message, Bernard Gomez on behalf of Secretary General of the World Meteorological Organization, Professor Celeste Saulo, appreciated the  incredible work of Meteorologists across the world, saying; “You are the silent heroes, providing the data, forecasts, and early warnings that empower communities to prepare for extreme weather events and adapt to a changing climate.”

Speaking about the recent usual weather witnessed in Nigeria in recent time, Gomez said it is a clear indication of climate change that calls for collaborative efforts of stakeholders to combat.

“The recent fluctuations in the weather witnessed in Nigeria, during this transition from dry to rainy season clearly demonstrate the extreme weather events that we can face across the country. 

The shifting weather phenomena from heat waves, thunderstorms and thick dust haze happening within a short period, are indicative of a changing climate which calls for concerted efforts by NiMet to be more vigilant and for communities to be responsive to weather forecasts and alerts” Gomez said.

He reiterated the WMO’s commitment to work with “each National Meteorological and Hydrological Service to make sure that the climate value cycle is impactful at national, regional, and global levels. Noting that; “this is about fostering inclusivity and sustainable pathways. In the face of unprecedented environmental challenges, we are not mere observers. Rather, we are called upon to be game changers. Our role as scientists and advocates for the planet has never been more crucial.”