By Emmanuel Nduka Obisue
The Nigerian Meteorological Agency (NiMet) and the National Council on Climate Change (NCCC) have intensified efforts to strengthen Nigeria’s climate resilience by deepening collaboration on climate services, early warning systems, climate data management, and evidence-based climate action.
The renewed partnership was discussed during a courtesy visit by the Director-General and Chief Executive Officer of NiMet, Prof. Charles Anosike, to the Director-General of the National Council on Climate Change Secretariat, Dr. Nkiruka Maduekwe Tenioye Majekodunmi.
Speaking during the meeting, Prof. Anosike described NiMet as the custodian of Nigeria’s long-term meteorological records, stressing that the agency provides the atmospheric data needed for climate trend analysis, climate risk assessment, and the development of reliable climate projections.
He said stronger collaboration between both institutions would improve the co-development of climate projections, enhance early warning systems, standardize climate data, and promote joint research to support evidence-based policymaking and informed decisions on climate adaptation.
According to him, closer cooperation will enable policymakers to access localized, science-based information required to implement effective climate adaptation and mitigation strategies, while also improving the translation of global climate projections into practical advisories for communities and climate-sensitive sectors such as agriculture, water resources, health, and disaster management.
Prof. Anosike further noted that reliable meteorological and climate data are critical requirements for accessing international climate finance. He said both agencies could jointly pursue funding opportunities to support climate resilience programmes, strengthen early warning systems, and develop climate infrastructure capable of improving Nigeria’s response to the growing impacts of climate change.
Responding, the Director-General of the National Council on Climate Change Secretariat, Dr. Tenioye Majekodunmi, commended NiMet for its contributions to weather forecasting and climate services across the country and expressed support for stronger institutional collaboration.
Both organisations agreed to formalize their partnership through the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU), which will provide a framework for sustained cooperation in climate services, climate data management, climate research, early warning systems, capacity development, and other areas of mutual interest.
The meeting underscored the commitment of both institutions to advancing Nigeria’s climate agenda through stronger institutional partnerships, improved climate information services, and science-driven policies aimed at safeguarding lives, livelihoods, and the environment.
