The Nigerian Meteorological Agency (NiMet) and the Anambra-Imo River Basin Development Authority (AIRBDA) are set to deepen their collaboration in addressing the escalating impacts of climate change, especially on river basin hydrology and water resource management.
Speaking during a courtesy visit by the managing director of AIRBDA, Hon. Emeka Nduka to NiMet headquarters in Abuja, the director-general of NiMet, Prof. Charles Anosike emphasised the growing influence of climate variability on rainfall patterns and temperature shifts. “These changes significantly affect river basin hydrology, leading to more frequent and intense floods or droughts, with serious implications for food security, livelihoods and infrastructure,” Anosike said.
He underscored the link between meteorology and basin behaviour, noting that climatic elements like rainfall and temperature directly influence river systems. Conversely, the physical characteristics of basins also shape local weather and climate trends.
Anosike highlighted NiMet’s Seasonal Climate Prediction (SCP) as a key early warning tool that supports proactive disaster management and agricultural planning. “Our SCP remains critical for forecasting weather extremes and informing decisions, especially during flood-prone periods,” he said.
In his response, Nduka expressed appreciation for NiMet’s efforts and reaffirmed AIRBDA’s interest in enhanced technical collaboration. He acknowledged the role of NiMet’s data in guiding irrigation and dam management amid unpredictable climate conditions.
Both agencies concluded the meeting with a shared commitment to sign a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) aimed at expanding cooperation, exchanging expertise, and promoting climate resilience, food security and sustainable development in Nigeria’s southeastern corridor.
