In a powerful move to combat the increasing threats of climate change, the Nigerian Meteorological Agency (NiMet), the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA), and the World Meteorological Organization (WMO) have called for stronger collaboration to address gaps in early warning systems. This partnership was highlighted during the World Meteorological Day celebration on Monday in Abuja, as key agencies emphasized the importance of closing the early warning gaps that put communities at risk.
Addressing Early Warning Gaps for a Safer Future
Simon Katu, representing the Director-General of NEMA, acknowledged the existing challenges in ensuring that early warning systems are accessible, understood, and actionable at the community level. He stressed the need for a unified approach, involving government agencies, meteorologists, emergency responders, development partners, and local communities, to enhance early warning dissemination and build local capacities for risk reduction.
“We must continue working together to close these gaps,” Katu stated. “By strengthening early warning systems, investing in technology, and empowering communities, we can improve disaster preparedness and reduce climate-related risks.”
The theme of this year’s World Meteorological Day, “Closing the Early Warning Gap Together,” highlights a critical issue in disaster risk reduction, ensuring that timely and accurate early warnings reach even the most vulnerable communities, especially those most affected by climate-related hazards.
Strengthening Disaster Preparedness Through Climate Forecasts
Katu also praised NiMet’s Seasonal Climate Prediction, which has been instrumental in shaping NEMA’s disaster preparedness strategies. He noted that integrating climate forecasts into planning allows for better responses to floods, droughts, storms, and other extreme weather events, ultimately enhancing national resilience to climate change impacts.
The Value of Investing in Early Warning Systems
NiMet’s Director-General, Charles Anosike, underscored the importance of early warning systems, emphasizing that they not only save lives but also boost economies. “Investing in early warning systems generates a ten-fold return on investment by preventing losses and strengthening economies,” Anosike said.
He highlighted NiMet’s efforts to improve meteorological forecasting, enhance data dissemination capabilities, and modernize hydrometeorological infrastructure. “By upgrading our weather systems and providing robust forecasts, we can trigger preemptive measures and equip stakeholders with the tools needed to act on early warnings,” Anosike added.
However, he acknowledged challenges such as inadequate funding, lack of modern technology, uncoordinated dissemination efforts, and insecurity that hinder progress in closing the early warning gaps. Anosike stressed that collaboration between national and international partners, policymakers, the private sector, and local communities is essential to overcoming these obstacles.
International Cooperation Is Key
Bernard Gomez, representing the World Meteorological Organization, emphasized the critical role of international cooperation in meteorological data exchange. “No country can collect global weather data alone,” Gomez explained. “The WMO’s coordinated network ensures that countries can share vital data to combat the effects of climate change.”
Gomez also warned of the growing impact of climate change, noting that 2024 was the hottest year on record, with temperatures temporarily rising 1.5°C above pre-industrial levels. In Nigeria, the frequency and intensity of heatwaves, windstorms, floods, and dry spells have been increasing over the past decade, with significant implications for both human lives and economic development.
Moving Forward: A Unified Effort to Combat Climate Change
As climate change continues to pose a serious threat to communities worldwide, the call for greater collaboration and investment in early warning systems has never been more urgent. By strengthening partnerships between government agencies, international organizations, and local communities, Nigeria can better protect its citizens from the devastating effects of climate change and build a more resilient future.
