The Nigerian Meteorological Agency (NiMet) convened a stakeholder’s workshop in Abuja to prepare for the public unveiling of the 2025 Seasonal Climate Prediction (SCP), scheduled for early next year.
The workshop, held on Tuesday, December 17, 2024, brought together representatives from diverse sectors to discuss the socio-economic implications of the SCP.
Stakeholders praised NiMet’s dedication to Nigeria’s socio-economic development through the timely release of annual climate prediction reports.
In his opening remarks, NiMet’s Director General and CEO, Prof. Charles Anosike, emphasised the workshop’s significance in shaping the 2025 SCP document. “NiMet is committed to climate-proofing the economy by providing timely weather and climate information,” he stated.
Prof. Anosike highlighted the agency’s adoption of the co-development concept, supported by the World Meteorological Organization (WMO), which integrates stakeholders into the data production process. “This approach enhances accuracy and relevance, making stakeholders co-owners of the weather and climate information generated,” he explained.
He urged participants to use insights from the 2024 predictions to refine advisories for 2025, aiming to improve livelihoods, secure food security, and enhance resilience nationwide.
Dr. Rowland Abah, representing the WMO, lauded NiMet’s leadership in weather and climate forecasting, noting its pivotal role in supporting other African nations. “NiMet’s capacity-building initiatives and production of forecasts for neighboring countries underscore its commendable expertise,” he remarked.
Bilkisu Yakubu, representing the Advocacy for Women with Disabilities Initiative (AWWDI), praised NiMet’s inclusivity, stating, “This is the first time in Nigeria’s history that such hospitality and inclusivity are demonstrated. Prof. Anosike is truly an ambassador for inclusivity in climate change initiatives.”
The workshop serves as a platform for stakeholder feedback, ensuring the SCP meets diverse expectations. The finalized SCP document is set for public unveiling in late January 2025, pending approval from the Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, SAN.
Participating organizations included the Federal Ministries of Aviation and Agriculture, the World Meteorological Organization, NEMA, NCDC, NIHSA, OCHA, NAERLS, HEDA, Harvest Plus, AWWDI, and others.
NiMet’s SCP remains a critical tool for guiding Nigeria’s socio-economic activities, helping sectors prepare for and adapt to changing climatic conditions.
