Nigerians to witness extreme weather conditions, says WMO

The World Meteorological Organisation (WMO) has said the weather conditions experienced in various parts show the extreme weather conditions the country may face in the coming days.

The organisation called on Nigerians to be responsive to weather predictions released by the Nigerian Meteorological Agency (NiMet).

The WMO representative, Bernard Gomez, stated this in Abuja during the celebration of the 2024 World Meteorological Day with the theme “At the frontline of Climate Action”.

Gomez said: “This theme recognises the critical stage that we find ourselves with regards to severe weather and climate events caused by climate variability and change and the need for enhanced action to protect lives, property and livelihoods, among others.

“The recent fluctuations in the weather witnessed in Nigeria, during this transition from dry to rainy season clearly demonstrate the extreme weather events that we can face across the country.

“The shifting weather phenomena from heat waves, thunderstorms, and thick dust haze happening within a short period are indicative of a changing climate.”

He called on the Nigerian Meteorological Agency (NiMet) to be more vigilant and communities to be responsive to weather forecasts and alerts.

On the importance of the predictions, he said: “The predictions by NiMet help Nigerians to understand the current state of the planet, predict future trends, and develop mitigation and adaptation strategies.”
He assured that climate-induced disaster and resilience to climate shocks can be achieved through the implementation of the National Framework for the Application of Climate Services (NFACS) in Nigeria.

He said: “Resilience to climate shocks can be achieved. The various forecasts and warnings issued by NiMet are just the starting point for this to happen in the entire country.

“The adoption and implementation of the National Framework for the Application of Climate Services (NFACS) in Nigeria is the next step. An operational NFACS will see every inhabitant of this country provided with accurate and fit-for-purpose weather, water, and climate services.

“This will not only ensure the safety of lives from climate-related hazards but would enhance socio-economic development and prosperity.”

The Director General of NiMet, Prof. Charles Anosike assured Nigerians that through its observation stations, research, and training facilities, the agency will keep striving and innovating to deliver timely and reliable meteorological services to all socio-economic sectors.

He also emphasised the need for Nigerians to be resilient.

Anosike said: “Climate change poses an existential threat to our planet, exacerbating extreme weather events, disrupting ecosystems, and endangering vulnerable communities.

In the face of these challenges, it has become imperative that we increase our efforts towards building a weather and climate-resilient society, enhance our preparedness for weather-related disasters, and promote sustainable development practices at all levels of government.”

He also called for sustained awareness and continuous education on climate and climate change-related issues.

“We must not relent at encouraging our young minds to build their capacity for meaningful contributions to effective climate actions that are impactful and measurable”.