The Nigerian Meteorological Agency and the Maritime Organisation of West and Central Africa have solidified their collaboration to enhance maritime safety across member states.
This partnership, focused on improving weather observation, early warning systems, and capacity building in marine meteorology, was formalized through a Memorandum of Understanding signed on December 5, 2024, in Abidjan, Côte d’Ivoire.
A statement released on Friday highlighted that the initiative aims to address shared challenges such as maritime safety, security, and pollution in a region where maritime transport is vital.
During the signing ceremony, NiMet’s Director General, Prof. Charles Anosike, emphasized the crucial role of accurate weather information in maritime operations.
“Nigeria Meteorological Agency is the authoritative voice on the state and behaviour of Nigeria’s atmosphere and its interaction with all aspects of the economy,” Anosike said. “NiMet regulates and advises the Nigerian government on all aspects of meteorology towards sustainable economic development. As weather, climate, and water cycles cannot be controlled by a country, international cooperation is essential for the development of meteorology.”
He also highlighted the significance of adhering to international standards such as the Safety of Life at Sea Convention, which requires weather information broadcasts to ships twice a day.
“Improved collection and regional exchange of ocean-based observational data will deliver significant socioeconomic benefits to our region,” Anosike added.
He urged for investment in ocean observation infrastructure to support maritime safety and called for expanded regional maritime weather information-sharing capabilities.
MOWCA Secretary General, Dr. Paul Adalikwu, praised NiMet for its efforts in providing critical weather and climate information for the maritime sector.
“The role of meteorological agencies in maritime operations cannot be overemphasised, as they are essential in delivering precise weather forecasts and timely warnings, which significantly enhance the safety of vessels by predicting storms, tides and sea conditions,” Adalikwu stated.
He also stressed the importance of collaboration between NiMet and MOWCA member states.
“Considering the volume of vessels that pass through Nigerian waterways, it’s very important that we partner with NiMet, and so should other stakeholders in the maritime sector too. We have listened to NiMet’s presentation and are impressed by it. We will escalate the issues raised as well as the services that NiMet offers to our member states and encourage them to take advantage of the best practices that Nigeria has to offer,” he stressed.
