BY OLAPEJU OLUBI
The Nigerian Meteorological Agency (NiMet) has reactivated its carpentry workshop at the Regional Training Centre (RTC) in Oshodi, Lagos, breathing life into a previously dormant facility.
The initiative aims to bolster in-house production, promote local content development and enhance operational efficiency.
The workshop now serves as a hub for producing high-quality furniture and specialized woodwork for NiMet’s use, while also catering to external clients seeking customised carpentry solutions.
Among its notable outputs are Stevenson Screens—vital enclosures for housing meteorological instruments like thermometers, hygrometers, and barometers.
These screens ensure the accuracy of weather measurements by shielding instruments from direct sunlight while allowing optimal airflow to reflect ambient conditions.
The carpentry unit also produces classroom chairs, tables, beds, office furniture and home furnishings, showcasing craftsmanship that meets global standards.
Professor Charles Anosike, Director General and CEO of NiMet, highlighted the strategic importance of the workshop’s revival:
“The resuscitation of the carpentry workshop is a first step towards the reactivation of the entire entrepreneurial units of the Regional Training Centre Complex for the in-house production of basic non-mercury conventional instruments.”
He further noted, “This initiative ensures the prompt availability of quality instruments that adhere to World Meteorological Organization (WMO) standards.
It is also a capacity-building effort, leveraging local talent to enhance productivity and optimize the Agency’s human resources.”
NiMet’s efforts have not gone unnoticed on the international stage.
Dr. Paul Bugeac, Coordinator of Learning and Development at the WMO Education & Training Office in Geneva, commended the Agency during a recent re-accreditation visit.
He lauded the quality of items produced under Professor Anosike’s leadership, describing the workshop as a model for other meteorological organizations in the sub-region:
“NiMet’s resuscitation of the workshop is a shining example for other meteorological organizations in the sub-region.”
The resuscitation, industry stakeholders note, exemplifies NiMet’s commitment to innovation, sustainability and operational excellence, solidifying its position as a trailblazer in meteorological services across Africa.
