BY OLAPEJU OLUBI
The Nigerian Meteorological Agency (NiMet) has declared that its recent Stakeholder Engagement Forum, held in Lagos, has signaled a new chapter of connection, transparency and service delivery for the nation’s weather and climate services.
Speaking on the significance of the forum, the Director, Public Affairs and Consumer Protection, Mrs. Funke Adebayo-Arowojobe, said the initiative was designed to strengthen NiMet’s bond with its diverse audience, while also repositioning the agency as a key player in national development.
“The forum was an avenue to project NiMet, showcase our products, and intimately connect with stakeholders and the public, informing them about our strategic plans, progress and even challenges,” Adebayo-Arowojobe explained.
Held under the theme, “Early Warnings: Raising Awareness on Climate Risks and Promoting Early Action,” the forum brought together stakeholders from government, aviation, agriculture, education, environment, and the private sector. It was the first of its kind in the agency’s history, and one that Mrs. Adebayo-Arowojobe personally championed.
She noted that the engagement aligned with reforms driven by the Director General and CEO of NiMet, Professor Charles Anosike, over the last two years.
These reforms, she said, include the upgrade of forecasting equipment, staff welfare improvements, and renewed efforts to ensure NiMet’s outputs remain accurate, accessible, and relevant.
Highlighting the forum’s main goals, she said: “We want to open communication channels with stakeholders, understand how we are perceived, as well as learn precisely what problems they want us to solve.
This engagement is essential to improving client satisfaction and managing expectations, which is one of the core functions of the Public Affairs and Consumer Protection directorate.”
Beyond showcasing NiMet’s products, the forum emphasized listening to stakeholder concerns and co-creating solutions.
“We hope this reform will build trust and foster inclusion through clear, concise, and transparent communication,” she added.
According to her, while NiMet’s services have historically been strong in aviation, agriculture, hydrology, and environmental management, the ambition is to deepen its relevance in marine, oil and gas, construction, health, and other industries.
“Stakeholder engagements and collaborations are a key success factor of the Federal Ministry of Aviation and Aerospace Development’s Strategic Plan 2024–2028.
“This factor is aimed at increasing partnerships and participation for optimum resource utilization and better outcomes,” Adebayo-Arowojobe stressed.
She was quick to acknowledge the support of Minister Festus Keyamo, SAN, and President Bola Ahmed Tinubu under the Renewed Hope Agenda, saying their backing has been vital in ensuring that NiMet remains positioned for growth and impact.
Looking ahead, the Public Affairs Director revealed that NiMet intends to conduct a comprehensive mapping of stakeholders across geography, economic sector, gender, and service areas.
The exercise, she said, will allow the agency to better understand its diverse audience while tailoring its products and feedback mechanisms.
According to her, the agency plans to disseminate outcomes widely through radio, television, social media, government platforms, and in multiple languages to ensure inclusivity.
“Our aim is to remain responsive and build lasting partnerships with all Nigerians, more especially those in need of our products and services,” she affirmed.
Adebayo-Arowojobe underscored the diversity of NiMet’s stakeholders, which include federal and state governments, policymakers, the aviation industry, farmers, educators, private investors, and the general public.
She urged citizens to take advantage of the agency’s services and feedback channels, including its dedicated consumer protection email: [email protected].
NiMet is mandated to collect, analyze, and disseminate weather and climate data, while advising the government and private sector on policies that safeguard lives, protect property, and promote socio-economic development.
“This forum is not just about communication; it is about partnership, trust, and creating shared successes,” she stated.
