Nigeria: NiMet facilitates collaborative discussion with stakeholders for 2024 seasonal climate prediction

In a pivotal move gearing towards the forthcoming public presentation of the 2024 Seasonal Climate Prediction (SCP), the Nigerian Meteorological Agency (NiMet) orchestrated a strategic gathering of stakeholders in Abuja today – Tuesday, January 23, 2024. 

This collaborative event aimed to delve into the socio-economic ramifications of the SCP.

The diverse assembly of stakeholders spanned crucial sectors such as aviation, agriculture, oil and gas, construction, marine, insurance, financial services, tourism, academia, and more. 

Applauding NiMet for its pivotal role in Nigeria’s economic development, stakeholders acknowledged the agency’s invaluable services over the years. 

Notably, the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) cited NiMet’s 2022 flood prediction advisory, estimating that adherence to it saved the country over N120 billion.

Welcoming participants, Prof. Charles Anosike, the Director-General and Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of NiMet, emphasised the agency’s commitment to climate-proofing the economy through timely weather and climate information.

He underscored the evolution of the SCP, highlighting the concept of co-production supported by the World Meteorological Organization (WMO), which enables critical stakeholders to contribute to the production of weather and climate information.

Prof. Anosike expressed optimism that the collaborative efforts during the meeting would result in a scientifically sound, relevant, and actionable 2024 SCP. 

Capt. Chris Najomo, the Director-General of the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA), lauded NiMet’s impact on aviation safety through SCPs, attributing the reduction of incidents/accidents associated with adverse weather to zero in Nigeria over the years.

Najomo encouraged NiMet to provide data showcasing the accuracy of SCP, particularly regarding phenomena like Wind Shear at airports. He also urged NiMet to enhance compliance with aviation regulations, stressing the importance of training personnel and modernizing observing and forecasting techniques.

Dr. Bernard Gomez, the representative of the World Meteorological Organization (WMO) in Nigeria, commended NiMet for a decade of issuing seasonal climate predictions and stressed the importance of collaborative efforts in meeting stakeholders’ needs.

Stakeholders, including the Director General of the Nigeria Hydrological Services Agency (NIHSA) and representatives from various sectors, expressed their appreciation for NiMet’s proactive approach in organizing the meeting.

In closing, Captain Alex Badeh Jnr., Director-General and Chief Executive Officer of the Nigerian Safety Investigation Bureau (NSIB), conveyed gratitude for NiMet’s adherence to standards, affirming continued collaboration.

The public presentation of NiMet’s 2024 Seasonal Climate Prediction is scheduled for Tuesday, February 20, 2024, as approved by the Minister of Aviation, Festus Keyamo, SAN.