Korede Abdullah 
ABUJA, Nigeria – Climate-smart farming is receiving a boost as the Nigerian Meteorological Agency (NiMet) launches a 10-day training programme to equip agricultural extension workers with skills to deliver climate information that supports resilient food production.
The training, organised in partnership with the International Livestock Research Institute (ILRI), begins in Abuja and runs from July 6 to 17 as part of an AGRA-supported initiative to strengthen digital climate advisory services across Africa.
Opening the workshop on Monday, NiMet Director-General and Chief Executive Officer, Professor Charles Anosike, says climate change continues to threaten Nigeria’s agricultural productivity, food security and rural livelihoods.
He notes that farmers increasingly face irregular rainfall, prolonged dry spells, flooding, heat stress and pest outbreaks, making climate information essential for informed farming decisions.
“Training trainers will multiply the quality, reach and impact of climate services across Nigeria’s agricultural landscape,” Anosike says.
He explains that the Nigeria-adapted Climate Risk Management in Agricultural Extension (CRMAE) curriculum will enable extension officers to integrate weather and climate information into advisory services for smallholder farmers.
Anosike urges participants to transfer the knowledge gained during the programme to farming communities to strengthen climate resilience nationwide.
In separate goodwill messages, Dr Kelvi Shikuku of the International Livestock Research Institute commends NiMet for advancing climate services in Nigeria.
Lead facilitator from the Stockholm Environmental Institute, Dr Tufa Dinku, says the curriculum will strengthen climate advisory services and expresses confidence that NiMet has the capacity to implement the programme successfully across the country.
The initiative forms part of broader efforts to help farmers adapt to climate change while improving agricultural productivity, food security and sustainable rural development.
About the Author
Otamere Gladness 
