Oluwafunbi Bello 
Nigerian Meteorological Agency, Charles Anosike
ABUJA, Nigeria – Nigeria’s weather agency warns that climate data gaps threaten effective disaster response, calling for urgent private sector investment to strengthen forecasting infrastructure.
Director-General of the Nigerian Meteorological Agency, Charles Anosike, delivers the message on Wednesday in Abuja during World Meteorological Day, highlighting rising climate risks across the country.
He cites extreme heat episodes, including over 100 days above 40°C in Nguru, alongside increasing floods nationwide, as evidence of mounting pressure on Nigeria’s monitoring systems.
“Strategic partnerships will improve data exchange and drive innovation in meteorological technologies,” Anosike says.
According to NiMet data, at least 23 cities recorded temperatures above 40°C, with northern regions hardest hit. Climate change, he adds, is accelerating equipment wear and reducing system efficiency.
Anosike emphasises that government funding alone cannot bridge the gap, urging investors to tap into opportunities in artificial intelligence modelling, remote sensing and automated weather stations.
“Investing today in data and systems safeguards our future,” he states.
He also highlights Nigeria’s regional role under the World Meteorological Organization, supporting climate observation systems in several African countries.
The call reflects growing urgency to build resilient climate intelligence systems amid escalating environmental threats.
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Korede Abdullah 
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