By Nkechi Eze
The Nigerian Meteorological Agency (NiMet) and Adamawa State University (ADSU), Mubi, are set to deepen collaboration in critical areas aimed at enhancing early warning systems, improving climate resilience, and supporting sustainable development in Adamawa State and beyond.
This renewed commitment was underscored during a courtesy visit by the Vice-Chancellor of ADSU, Professor Augustine Clement, to the headquarters of NiMet in Abuja on Tuesday, July 29, 2025. The visit was part of broader efforts to explore institutional partnerships that strengthen data-driven responses to climate-related risks, especially in vulnerable, agrarian regions.
Receiving the delegation, the Director-General and Chief Executive Officer of NiMet, Professor Charles Anosike who also serves as Nigeria’s Permanent Representative with the World Meteorological Organization (WMO) emphasized the vital role of meteorological data in disaster risk reduction and agricultural planning. He particularly highlighted the strategic location of Adamawa State University within an agricultural corridor and its proximity to major hydrological infrastructure like the Kiri Dam as a critical advantage.
“The geographical positioning of Adamawa State University within an agrarian corridor and in close proximity to critical hydrological infrastructure presents a strategic opportunity for collaboration in meteorological observation, climate research, downscaling of seasonal climate prediction and capacity-building initiatives,” Professor Anosike stated.
He disclosed that NiMet is ready to assist the university in establishing a fully functional weather station, facilitating academic exchanges, and advancing joint research projects. These efforts, he said, would directly support the development of a robust early warning system and enhance the ability of local communities to anticipate and respond to climate hazards.
“We will formalize this collaboration through a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU), with clear expectations on station maintenance, data generation, and transmission. It is vital that the university actively engages its surrounding communities to leverage the benefits of this partnership fully,” Anosike added.
In his remarks, Professor Augustine Clement expressed appreciation for NiMet’s continued support in strengthening climate services in Nigeria. He acknowledged the agency’s leadership in driving national and subnational climate policy and commended its efforts in building local capacity for environmental monitoring and adaptation.
“Our university is deeply committed to research that promotes environmental sustainability and enhances climate resilience, particularly in flood-prone areas of Adamawa State. This partnership with NiMet will allow us to not only generate and analyze critical data but also apply it in meaningful ways that impact lives and livelihoods,” Professor Clement said.
The proposed collaboration will include the deployment of meteorological infrastructure at the university, training for staff and students, and joint community outreach programs designed to raise awareness about weather patterns, disaster preparedness, and climate-smart agriculture.
Both institutions expressed optimism that the partnership will serve as a model for similar collaborations between research institutions and national agencies in other parts of the country. The forthcoming MoU will formalize roles, responsibilities, and timelines for implementation, paving the way for a long-term alliance focused on resilience, sustainability, and innovation.
