BY OLAPEJU OLUBI
NiMet has renewed its pledge to promote climate-smart farming and enhance national nutrition, following the conclusion of the Strengthening Nutrition in Priority Staples (SNIPS) Project by the Global Alliance for Improved Nutrition (GAIN).
Speaking at the close-out ceremony, NiMet’s Director General/Chief Executive Officer and Nigeria’s Permanent Representative with the WMO, Prof. Charles Anosike, praised GAIN and its partners for their sustained efforts in transforming food systems.
He described the SNIPS initiative as “a testament to what can be achieved when we unite expertise, resources and passion for a common goal.”
Professor Anosike highlighted the intensifying effects of climate variability on Nigeria’s agricultural landscape, citing erratic rainfall patterns, prolonged dry spells and other climatic shocks that continue to depress yields and weaken nutritional quality.
He reaffirmed NiMet’s mandate to supply precise and timely weather information that empowers farmers to plan effectively.
“This supports higher yields, reduces losses and ensures that the staples reaching Nigerian households are both abundant and nutritious,” he said.
Highlighting SNIPS’ achievements, the DG noted its success in embedding nutrition-sensitive agriculture into climate-smart practices across Benue, Kaduna, Nasarawa and Oyo States.
He commended GAIN for deliberately incorporating women and youth into the programme through training, leadership roles and livelihood avenues—an approach he said was essential for building “resilient and inclusive food systems.”
Professor Anosike stressed that addressing food security and nutrition challenges demands long-term collaboration among government institutions, development partners and the private sector.
He pledged NiMet’s readiness to expand partnerships that strengthen early-warning systems, scale farmer education and deepen innovation in climate-smart agriculture.
“As we celebrate the achievements of SNIPS, let us also look to the future. Your dedication is shaping a healthier, more food-secure Nigeria. NiMet stands ready to collaborate as we move forward together,” he said.
Olapeju is a journalist and aviation reporter.
