Nigerian Meteorological Agency (NiMet)
Nigeria joined the rest of the Global Community and World Meteorological Organisation (WMO) to celebrate the 2024 World Meteorological Day with a special event held at the Nigerian Meteorological Agency’s (NiMet's) headquarters in Abuja on 21 March 2024. This early commemoration was aimed at ensuring broader participation, particularly from the youth and stakeholders, given that 23 March 2024 fell on a Saturday. Professor Charles Anosike, NiMet's Director General/CEO and Permanent Representative of Nigeria with WMO, emphasized the crucial role of meteorology in fostering sustainable development, highlighting the agency's dedication to providing accurate weather forecasts, mitigating natural disasters, and fostering climate-resilient societies.
Addressing the challenges posed by climate change, Professor Anosike stressed the need for intensified efforts towards building weather and climate-resilient communities. He underscored the importance of nurturing young minds to contribute meaningfully to climate action, and the quest for the realisation of the goal of Early Warnings for All. Quoting WMO Secretary-General, Prof. Celeste Saulo, he emphasized the responsibility of the present generation in shaping a safer and healthier world for future generations.
Speaking at the ceremony was Mr. Bernard Gomez, WMO's Representative for North, Central, and West Africa, who emphasized the urgency of responding to changing weather patterns, citing recent fluctuations witnessed in Nigeria. He called for collaborative efforts among governments, scientists, communities, and individuals to harness weather and climate information for a sustainable future. In attendance was the Hydrological Adviser to the Permanent Representative of Nigeria, Engr. Clement Nze, who emphasised the essence of synergy and effective partnership in Multi-Hazard Early Warnings.
The event featured poetry and drama performances by students from the Young Meteorological Ambassadors Arm of the Agency representing selected Secondary Schools, highlighting the significance of meteorology across various sectors, and fostering partnerships for socio-economic development.