The director-general of the Nigerian Meteorological Agency (NiMet), Prof. Charles Anosike has highlighted the role of technology in addressing societal problems in Nigeria, citing the successes achieved by the Nigeria Centre for Disease Control (NCDC) during the COVID-19 pandemic. Anosike made these remarks on Tuesday, September 17, 2024, while hosting NCDC director-general, Dr. Olajide Idris, at NiMet’s headquarters.
The meeting provided an opportunity for both agencies to explore closer collaboration, particularly in integrating climate data with public health initiatives. Discussions centered on the development of early warning systems for climate-sensitive diseases and public health threats, as well as incorporating climate data into disease prediction models. The leaders also discussed the impact of weather and climate on disease outbreaks, including climate change’s influence on vector-borne and water-borne diseases.
A key outcome of the meeting was the consideration of a framework for regular data exchange between NiMet and NCDC to inform public health decisions. The possibility of drafting a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) for data sharing and joint research was also proposed.
Idris emphasised the importance of partnering with NiMet, particularly as climate change increasingly impacts health service delivery both in Nigeria and globally. “NiMet has been a valuable partner to the NCDC over the years. We now need to strengthen this collaboration further,” Idris said.
In response, Anosike reiterated the need for stronger ties between the two agencies, especially as climate change continues to affect every aspect of life. “NiMet is ready to explore all identified areas of collaboration, including data sharing and developing an MoU,” he stated. He also noted that NiMet’s seasonal climate prediction (SCP) reports serve as an early warning tool, providing forecasts ranging from three days to several months ahead.
Anosike further stressed the urgent need for action in addressing the health risks posed by climate change. “Climate change affects the food we eat, the water we drink and the air we breathe. It has increased the spread of pests and diseases worldwide, not just in Nigeria. These threats are compounded by climate change, making collaboration between NiMet and NCDC more critical than ever,” he concluded.
