Prof. Charles Anosike, the Director-General of the Nigerian Meteorological Agency (NiMet) has advocated the integration of meteorological data into urban transformation efforts, particularly as climate change worsens amid growing population.
Speaking at the Abuja City Environmental Sustainability Summit, Anosike stated that embedding weather and climate information into planning processes is vital for building cities that are resilient to climate-related disasters. The event was organized by Comrade Yussuf Olatunji Kelani, Special Assistant to the President on Climate Change Matters.
Prof. Anosike noted that the summit’s theme, Sustainable Urban Transformation: Building a Resilient and Green Abuja, serves as a reminder of the collective responsibility to reshape Abuja into a city that supports the well-being of future generations through environmentally conscious policies.
He described sustainable urban transformation as a deliberate shift in the development of cities to enhance their environmental, social and economic integrity. He stressed that efforts to develop Abuja must prioritise climate-smart practices and social inclusion. He called for a systemic approach to understanding how the drivers of hazards, exposure, and vulnerability combine to intensify the impact of climate events.
Anosike explained that NiMet’s services – ranging from weather forecasts to seasonal climate predictions – play a critical role in advancing environmental sustainability and supporting effective risk management.
“Sustainable urban transformation and meteorology are intrinsically linked,” he said. “As cities expand, understanding changing weather patterns and climate conditions is essential to ensure resilient and sustainable development.”
Story was adapted from Sciencenigeria.
