The Nigerian Meteorological Agency has called on governments, emergency managers, and relevant stakeholders to utilize weather forecasts for better planning and disaster mitigation effectively.
According to the News Agency of Nigeria, this advice was given by Mrs Glory Onyegbule, the Director of Applied Meteorological Services at NiMet, during a National Emergency Coordination Forum organized by the National Emergency Management Agency in Abuja on Thursday.
Onyegbule emphasized that NiMet, in line with its mandate, provides seasonal climate predictions for the entire country.
She highlighted the importance of these predictions, particularly for emergency managers, in understanding Nigeria’s climate patterns in 2024, including rainfall forecasts and other critical weather factors.
“In our seasonal climate prediction, we provide information on the onset and cessation dates of the rainy season, the expected total annual rainfall, and the duration of the rainy season,” she explained.
“We also compare these predictions with long-term averages to identify any deviations, especially in regions like the North East, such as Maiduguri and Bauchi.”
She noted that the current flooding in Borno State is an indication of climate change and urged emergency managers to take swift action. “We must pay attention to weather reports and act on them promptly,” Onyegbule added.
“Flooding will persist unless adequate measures are taken early to address vulnerable areas, especially those on flood plains.”
The Head of the United Nations Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs in Nigeria, Mr. Trond Jensen, speaking virtually from Maiduguri, shared that the UN is working closely with NEMA, state emergency agencies, and other partners to support flood-affected communities.
He emphasized that providing access to food, clean water, and shelter is critical in preventing the spread of communicable diseases.
“We are on the ground in Maiduguri, working with the Nigerian Government to ensure that those affected by the floods receive immediate assistance,” Jensen stated.
“We’ve also activated our humanitarian response system and are collaborating with local and state authorities to map out the most urgent needs.”
Jensen warned that the flooding could extend to other areas, including Adamawa State, where preparations are underway to relocate vulnerable populations and reduce their risk.
“Our focus is on preparedness, ensuring that people have alternative shelters before the floods hit,” he said.
Both Onyegbule and Jensen stressed the importance of early action and preparedness to minimize the impacts of climate-related disasters across Nigeria.
