From Sola Ojo, Abuja
The Nigerian Meteorological Agency (NiMet) has reiterated its commitment to deploying Artificial Intelligence (AI)-powered weather forecasting tools to improve climate and weather information services for farmers across Nigeria.
This was disclosed by the Director General and Chief Executive Officer of NiMet, Professor Charles Anosike, during a courtesy visit by the Agricultural Innovation Mechanism for Scale (AIM for Scale) team, led by Imara Salas, Director of the AIM for Scale Secretariat, and Mohammad Farrae, Scientific Director.
AIM for Scale is a global initiative that promotes agricultural innovation by scaling up weather and climate services for farmers.
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During the visit, discussions focused on possible areas of collaboration aimed at co-developing strategies to scale up weather services and mobilise investments for innovative, data-driven solutions tailored to the needs of Nigerian farmers.
Imara Salas noted that AIM for Scale uses AI-based weather forecasting and tailored innovation packages to deliver cost-effective, scalable climate solutions.
“Through strategic partnerships with key agencies like NiMet, we aim to reach millions of farmers with tools that enhance resilience and productivity,” she said.
In his remarks, Professor Anosike welcomed the inclusion of Nigeria in the first African pilot project and acknowledged NiMet’s participation in a recent AI weather training programme in Abu Dhabi.
He noted that NiMet is well-prepared for the collaboration, citing the agency’s expertise and readiness to meet the rising demand for accurate, real-time climate information among farmers.
He emphasised that AI-powered forecasting represents a transformative leap in meteorological science, allowing for greater accuracy, faster delivery, and improved reliability of weather predictions.
“By embracing these technologies and building global partnerships, NiMet is positioning Nigeria to provide more effective weather and climate services that empower farmers, reduce risks, and boost productivity,” he stated.
The NiMet boss also outlined existing challenges, including limited in-situ weather stations and the need to expand radar coverage across the country.
The AIM for Scale team later toured NiMet’s central forecasting facilities to gain firsthand insight into the agency’s capabilities and ongoing infrastructure plans.
Both parties agreed to develop and sign a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) which would focus on joint research, capacity building, and the long-term operational sustainability of innovative AI-driven weather services in Nigeria.
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