The Director General and Chief Executive Officer of the Nigerian Meteorological Agency (NiMet), Professor Charles Anosike, has emphasised the urgent need to integrate meteorological data into urban development planning in response to the growing threats posed by climate change and increasing population pressures.
Speaking at the Abuja City Environmental Sustainability Summit, organised by the Special Assistant to the President on Climate Change Matters, Comrade Yussuf Olatunji Kelani, Professor Anosike stressed that the challenges of today require a more proactive and informed approach to building sustainable cities.
Referring to the summit’s theme, “Sustainable Urban Transformation: Building a Resilient and Green Abuja”, he stated that it underscores the collective duty to reimagine Abuja as a resilient, environmentally friendly city that secures the well-being of future generations.
Sustainable urban transformation, he explained, entails deliberate modifications to urban areas to enhance their environmental, social, and economic structures.
“In our efforts to reshape Abuja, it is essential to prioritise climate-smart practices and social inclusion. A systemic approach is necessary to understand how various drivers—hazards, exposure, vulnerability, and their underlying causes—interact to intensify the impact of climate-related disasters,” he said.
Also Read: AUDA/NEPAD Trains 3,000 Farmers in Cross River State
Professor Anosike highlighted that NiMet continues to provide essential services that support sustainability, increase productivity, and facilitate effective environmental management.
He noted that the agency’s weather forecasts, climate services, and seasonal predictions equip environmental managers with the information needed to mitigate risks, adapt to climate variability, and make informed decisions.
“There is an intrinsic link between sustainable urban transformation and meteorology. As cities expand and change, their weather and climate conditions have a direct bearing on sustainability efforts. Recognising and responding to these impacts is vital for building cities that are both resilient and sustainable,” Professor Anosike concluded.
