By Nkechi Eze
Professor Charles Anosike, Director General and CEO of the Nigerian Meteorological Agency (NiMet), has been chosen by the Board of Editors of Independent Newspapers Limited as the Aviation Sector CEO of the Year for 2024.
Presenting the letter of nomination to Professor Anosike in his office in Abuja, Mr Steve Omanufeme, the Managing Director and Editor-in-Chief reading from the letter said that the nomination is in recognition of his proactive efforts within a short time at, “transforming the agency and its valued contribution to various socio-economic sectors of the country through partnerships with local and international institutions”.
The letter stated; “We particularly note your agency’s issuance of early warnings aimed at preventing the loss of property, including farmlands, and lives, especially to flood across the country due to climate change which is a threat multiplier”.
The Board of Editors recognized NiMet’s collaborative efforts with various agencies, including the Nigeria Centre for Disease Control (NCDC). These partnerships aim to enhance the country’s preparedness and response to climate-sensitive diseases like cholera and malaria. By sharing data, expertise, and resources, NiMet seeks to understand the link between climate patterns and disease outbreaks, ultimately leading to improved predictive models and risk assessments.
The letter mentioned the successful conclusion of the re-accreditation of NiMet’s Regional Training School in Oshodi, Lagos by a team from the World Meteorological Organisation (WMO) Headquarters In Geneva, Switzerland. The Board of Editors also considered the commitment of NiMet’s management to human capital and capacity development amongst other achievements.
Professor Anosike expressed his gratitude to the Board of Editors of Independent Newspapers for considering him a deserving nominee.
“This honour will spur me on to do more towards fulfilling the mandate given to NiMet by the law, and also the expectations of Nigerians and other critical stakeholders of the agency”.
Professor Anosike expressed his gratitude to Festus Keyamo, the Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, for his leadership support. He also dedicated the award to the diligent staff and management of NiMet, acknowledging their hard work and contributions.
The investiture ceremony is scheduled to hold on Saturday, March 15, 2025, at 6:00 pm, at the Convention Centre, Eko Hotels and Suites, Victoria Island, Lagos.