The Nigerian Meteorological Agency (NiMet) and the Nigeria Centre for Disease Control (NCDC) are strengthening their partnership to tackle climate-sensitive diseases and public health threats.
This development comes after Prof. Charles Anosike, Director General of NiMet, acknowledged the successes of NCDC in leveraging technology during the COVID-19 pandemic to address societal issues in Nigeria.
During a courtesy visit by Dr. Olajide Idris, Director General of NCDC, to Prof. Anosike’s office in Abuja, the two agencies discussed potential areas of collaboration, including early warning systems for climate-sensitive diseases and integrating climate data into disease prediction models. This partnership is crucial, as climate change impacts health services delivery globally.
Others are Climate Data Integration which deals with incorporating climate data into disease prediction models. Data Exchange and Analysis which borders on stablishing a framework for regular data exchange to inform public health decisions was also discussed.
The two government agencies also proposed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) for data sharing and joint research
Dr. Idris emphasized the importance of partnering with NiMet, given the impact of climate change on health services delivery globally. “It’s a good thing that NiMet has been working with the NCDC over the years. We only need to make the collaboration stronger,” he said.
Prof. Anosike on his part, highlighted the need for stronger collaboration. “Climate change poses threats to the health and well-being of all. It affects our food, water, and air. This has caused the spread of pests and diseases worldwide.” NiMet already provides early warnings through its annual Seasonal Climate Prediction (SCP) and issues forecasts ranging from three days to three months
