The Nigerian Meteorological Agency (NiMet) has intensified calls for the adoption of artificial intelligence, satellite technology, and big data analytics to tackle the growing impact of climate change in Nigeria.
Director-General and Chief Executive Officer of NiMet, Charles Anosike, made the call at the 2026 International Conference of the Nigerian Meteorological Society (NMetS), held alongside its 35th Annual General Meeting at the University of Lagos, Akoka.
Delivering the keynote address, Anosike said the conference theme—“Advancing Meteorology: Harnessing AI, Satellites, and Big Data for Climate Resilience and Sustainability”—highlights the urgent need to translate scientific knowledge into practical solutions that protect lives and support national development.
He warned that climate change is no longer a distant threat but a present-day reality, pointing to rising temperatures, erratic rainfall, flooding, drought, and heatwaves already affecting ecosystems and livelihoods across Nigeria and Africa.
According to him, traditional meteorological approaches are no longer sufficient to address the scale and complexity of these challenges.
Anosike emphasised that AI-powered forecasting, combined with satellite observations and advanced data analytics, is transforming weather prediction and enabling more accurate, timely, and impact-based forecasts.
“These tools are critical to improving early warning systems and strengthening climate resilience,” he said.
The NiMet boss revealed that the agency has partnered with global organisations, including AIM for Scale, Ignitia, Tomorrow.io, the Korean Meteorological Administration, and the China Meteorological Administration, to integrate AI into its operations.
He added that NiMet’s Digital Climate Advisory Service (DCAS) is already providing farmers with real-time weather-based guidance to support climate-smart agriculture and boost productivity.
Anosike also called for stronger collaboration among researchers, professional bodies, the private sector, and civil society to enhance meteorological services and climate monitoring systems.
He urged the Nigerian Meteorological Society to mentor young professionals, promote ethical research, and bridge the gap between science and policy in line with the United Nations’ “Early Warnings for All” initiative.
Reaffirming NiMet’s commitment to innovation, he said the agency remains focused on deploying science and technology to build a more climate-resilient Nigeria.
In recognition of his contributions to the sector, Anosike was honoured with a fellowship and commendation award at the event.
