In a bid to tackle pressing meteorological and hydrological issues, the Nigerian Meteorological Agency (NiMet) has forged a strategic partnership with Business France Nigeria.
The director-general of NiMet, Prof. Mansur Matazu made this announcement during the inaugural French-Nigeria Meteorological Seminar and Business Meetings held in Abuja.
Matazu underscored the significance of the two-day workshop, emphasising its purpose to convene authorities, stakeholders and private companies involved in the meteorology and hydrology sectors. The event aimed to deliberate on contemporary challenges and concerns while providing French companies and institutions with an opportunity to showcase their products and solutions, fostering potential areas of collaboration.
Addressing the global challenges faced by economies, including natural and man-made disasters and the lingering effects of the COVID-19 pandemic, Matazu highlighted the increased costs of meteorological operations. He pointed out challenges such as staff attrition due to inadequate remuneration, urging the necessity of exploring Public-Private Partnerships (PPPs) to address these issues.
NiMet, in alignment with its mandate, continues to champion activities supporting national socio-economic development across various sectors of the Nigerian economy. Matazu highlighted NiMet’s role in providing around-the-clock weather information crucial for aviation operations and overall development. The agency also develops reliable products and services, including the seasonal climate prediction (SCP), a vital early warning tool.
Among NiMet’s products are marine inshore and offshore forecasts, public weather forecasts, impact-based weather forecasts, and heavy rainfall forecasts, among others. Matazu stressed the importance of adopting credible PPPs to ensure the successful sustenance of these products and services, especially given the economic challenges.
Expressing gratitude to the French Ambassador to Nigeria, H.E. Mrs. Emmanuelle Blatmann and the Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Mr. Festus Keyamo, SAN, Matazu welcomed distinguished guests, including the permanent representatives of Cameroon, Ghana, Rwanda and Uganda with the World Meteorological Organisation (WMO).
“I heartily welcome to Nigeria, the Permanent Representatives of Cameroon, Ghana, Rwanda, and Uganda with the World Meteorological Organisation (WMO): my brothers: Mr. TCHINDA Tazo Simplice, Mr. Eric ASUMAN, Mr. Aimable GAHIGI, and Dr. Bob Alex Ogwang for making out time to grace this important workshop,” he expressed.
Matazu extended congratulations to the management of Business France Nigeria, the commercial department of the French Embassy, Prométéo, the French Meteorology & Hydrology Association and the NiMet staff for organising this significant meeting, marking the first of its kind between the Meteorological Community in Nigeria and France.
