BY OLAPEJU OLUBI
The Nigerian Meteorological Agency (NiMet) has won the AfriGEO Weather, Climate and Early Warning Services Award in recognition of its contributions to weather forecasting, climate information and early warning services in Nigeria.
The award was presented to NiMet’s Director-General and Chief Executive Officer, Professor Charles Anosike, by the Director-General of the National Space Research and Development Agency (NASRDA), Prof. Matthew Olumide Adepoju, at the 10th AfriGEO Gala Dinner held in Abuja on October 7, 2026.
The ceremony was part of activities marking the 10th AfriGEO Symposium, which brought together policymakers, scientists, development partners, private-sector representatives and other stakeholders from 33 African member states.
NiMet was recognised for its role in using weather, climate and Earth observation information to improve early warning systems, strengthen climate resilience and support efforts to prepare for the effects of extreme weather events.
Earth observation involves gathering information about the Earth through satellites and other monitoring technologies.
Such information helps experts track weather patterns, monitor environmental changes and provide data for decisions on disaster preparedness, agriculture, aviation and other climate-sensitive sectors.
The 2026 AfriGEO Symposium was held under the theme, “Earth Observations for a Resilient Africa,” with discussions focused on how satellite data, geospatial information and environmental intelligence could help African countries address climate-related challenges and promote sustainable development.
The platform also provided an opportunity for participants to share knowledge, strengthen partnerships and explore ways to improve the use of Earth observation technologies in tackling environmental risks across the continent.
NiMet said it remained committed to expanding the use of weather, climate and Earth observation information to improve early warning services and support evidence-based decision-making in Nigeria.
The agency said it would continue to pursue innovation, build strategic partnerships and provide timely and useful climate information to support the Federal Government’s climate resilience agenda.
Effective weather forecasting and early warning systems are important for helping communities, businesses and government agencies prepare for severe weather conditions, reduce potential losses and protect lives and property.
NiMet’s recognition comes amid growing efforts across Africa to strengthen climate preparedness and improve access to reliable environmental information as countries contend with the effects of changing weather patterns.
The agency said it would sustain its efforts towards building a safer and more climate-resilient Nigeria through improved meteorological services and the delivery of actionable climate information.
Olapeju is a journalist and aviation reporter.
