World Bank Lauds NiMet’s Accurate Weather Forecasts

World Bank Lauds NiMet’s Accurate Weather Forecasts

JOEL OLADELE, Abuja

The World Bank has commended the Nigerian Meteorological Agency (NiMet) for its accurate weather forecasts and commitment to enhancing disaster risk management in Nigeria.

This commendation was made during a visit by a World Bank delegation to NiMet’s headquarters in Abuja on Tuesday, as part of a high-level mission focused on Disaster Risk Management (DRM) in the country.

The mission, led by Senior Disaster Risk Management Specialist at the World Bank,

Francis Samson Nkoka, aims to strengthen technical collaboration with Nigerian institutions to bolster national resilience against climate and weather-related hazards.

In his remarks, NiMet’s Director General and CEO, Professor Charles Anosike, emphasized the importance of a multifaceted approach to strengthening climate advisory services.

“Improving the accuracy and timeliness of information, tailoring services to local needs, and enhancing stakeholder collaboration are essential,” he stated.

Professor Anosike further noted that leveraging technology, securing financial support, and investing in training are critical components of building a resilient system capable of addressing climate-related challenges.

The World Bank delegation included experts such as Lead Specialist in Disaster Risk Management, Oscar Ishizawa;

Mary Elinor Boyer, Senior Specialist in Disaster Risk Management; Ms. Nathalie Andrea Wandel, Specialist in Disaster Risk Management, Oscar Ishizawa; and a consultant in hydrometeorology, Christopher Cameron Hann.

The visit builds upon earlier engagements held in January 2025 between the World Bank and the Federal Government of Nigeria, which focused on establishing integrated frameworks for climate risk management and emergency preparedness.

During their visit, the delegation was given a guided tour of NiMet’s facilities, where they observed the cutting-edge technologies employed in generating accurate weather forecasts and climate advisories.

The World Bank representatives commended NiMet for its efforts in modernizing its infrastructure and delivering timely, science-based climate services that contribute significantly to Nigeria’s national development goals.

This engagement reflects a shared commitment between NiMet and the World Bank to enhance Nigeria’s resilience to climate shocks through innovation, strategic investment, and sustained institutional partnerships.