World Meteorological Day: NiMet Seeks Private Sector Support to Boost Weather Services

World Meteorological Day: NiMet Seeks Private Sector Support to Boost Weather Services

JOEL OLADELE, Abuja 

The Director-General of the Nigerian Meteorological Agency (NiMet), Charles Anosike, has called for stronger private sector collaboration to enhance Nigeria’s weather observation systems and climate services.

He made the appeal on Wednesday in Abuja during the 2026 celebration of World Meteorological Day, where stakeholders underscored the growing urgency of tackling climate change and extreme weather events.

Speaking at the event, Anosike said the increasing demand for accurate and timely weather information requires broader partnerships beyond government efforts.

“To meet these growing expectations, no single institution or government can act alone,” he said. “This is why the theme of this year’s celebration also calls for greater partnerships and collaboration, particularly with the private sector.”

He stressed that private investments in technology, data systems, and innovation would strengthen Nigeria’s meteorological capacity.

“The private sector has a critical role to play in strengthening meteorological observation systems and advancing weather and climate services,” he added.

The NiMet boss explained that the theme for the year, “Observing Today, Protecting Tomorrow,” highlights the importance of accurate data in forecasting and disaster preparedness.

According to him, “the quality of tomorrow’s forecasts depends on the observations we make today,” noting that every early warning and climate outlook is built on reliable data gathered from land, air, and sea.

Anosike also revealed that Nigeria recorded extreme temperatures of 40 degrees Celsius and above in at least 23 cities in 2025, with the most intense heat occurring between March and June.

He warned that climate change is increasing the frequency of floods and other extreme weather conditions, making investments in meteorological infrastructure more critical.

Also speaking, the Director-General of the Nigeria Hydrological Services Agency (NIHSA), Umar Ibrahim Mohammed, commended NiMet’s contributions to disaster risk reduction and national development.

“The forecasts have been reliable and accessible, and have greatly contributed to disaster risk mitigation strategies in the country,” he said.

In a goodwill message, a representative of the World Meteorological Organization, Roland Abah, warned that extreme weather remains the top global risk, with Africa experiencing rising temperatures, floods, and droughts.

“The last 10 years have been the warmest on record in Africa… These are not distant problems — they are today’s reality,” he said, urging both public and private actors to invest in climate services.

Similarly, the Director-General of the Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA), Chris Najomo, highlighted the critical role of meteorology in aviation safety.

“In this dynamic sector, observing isn’t just a scientific exercise, it is the very foundation of every takeoff, every landing, and every mile flown,” he said.

Najomo added that real-time weather data remains essential for detecting hazards such as turbulence and wind shear, which are crucial for flight safety.

Stakeholders at the event agreed that improving weather and climate observation systems is vital for sectors including agriculture, aviation, disaster management, and public health.

They also stressed that sustained investments, innovation, and collaboration would be key to building resilience against climate risks and safeguarding lives and livelihoods.