NiMet DG Commissions Meteorological Data Rescue Project to Preserve Nigeria’s Climate Heritage
The Director-General and Chief Executive Officer of the Nigerian Meteorological Agency (NiMet), Professor Charles Anosike, has inspected and commissioned the Agency’s Meteorological Data Rescue Project, marking a significant milestone in Nigeria’s efforts to preserve its climate heritage and strengthen national scientific capacity.
The project, which was unveiled during an inspection visit by the NiMet boss, is aimed at securing invaluable historical weather and climate records that were previously at risk of permanent loss.
Some of the materials date as far back as the 19th century and include handwritten observation logs, ship logs and early instrumental records that predate the digital era. These records provide a rare extension of Nigeria’s climate history and help to fill critical gaps in existing archives.
Over the years, many of the documents had deteriorated due to age, handling and storage conditions, raising concerns about the possible loss of irreplaceable climate data. Through the Meteorological Data Rescue Project, NiMet is systematically recovering, preserving and digitising fragile paper records and obsolete media.
The initiative ensures that Nigeria’s analogue climate history is safeguarded and made accessible for long-term scientific use.
Experts note that the rescued data will play a vital role in improving climate modelling and weather forecasting accuracy. It is also expected to enhance disaster risk reduction efforts, support evidence-based policymaking and provide essential historical context for understanding current and future weather and climate patterns.
Speaking during the inspection and commissioning ceremony, Professor Anosike described the project as a strategic investment in Nigeria’s future.
He said the initiative goes beyond mere archiving, as it transforms historical climate information into a robust scientific foundation for climate resilience, sustainable development planning and advanced meteorological services.
According to him, reliable long-term climate data is critical for addressing the growing challenges posed by climate change, including extreme weather events, food security risks and environmental degradation.
The Director-General noted that the project aligns with global best practices promoted by the World Meteorological Organization (WMO) and reflects NiMet’s commitment to modernisation and digital transformation.
He added that the initiative is in line with the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, which prioritises the strategic use of science, data and technology in national development.
By preserving and digitising historical atmospheric records, Nigeria is also strengthening its contribution to global climate science.
The availability of long-term data enhances international research collaborations and supports more accurate regional and global climate assessments.
With the successful commissioning of the Meteorological Data Rescue Project, NiMet has once again demonstrated leadership in climate data stewardship and digital preservation.
The agency reaffirmed its resolve to harness science and technology to support national development, climate resilience and informed decision-making in the face of a changing climate.
