General News
NiMet, China Deepen Partnership on AI-Powered Early Warning Systems
By Iyojo Ameh
The Nigerian Meteorological Agency (NiMet) and the China Meteorological Administration (CMA) have agreed to strengthen cooperation in artificial intelligence-powered early warning systems, satellite technology and institutional development to improve weather forecasting and disaster preparedness.
The agreement was reached during a strategic partnership engagement on the sidelines of the 2026 Alliance for Hydromet Development Annual Meeting, where both institutions identified priority areas for collaboration.
Speaking at the meeting, CMA Deputy Administrator, Song Shanyun, commended NiMet Director-General and Chief Executive Officer, Prof. Charles Anosike, and congratulated the Nigerian Government on hosting the annual gathering.
Shanyun said Nigeria, through NiMet, had demonstrated leadership in meteorological development, reaffirming China’s readiness to support efforts to strengthen weather services in Nigeria and other countries.
He outlined three priority areas for cooperation: the joint development of the MAZU operational platform for Nigeria, expanded application of Fengyun satellite technology to improve meteorological observation, and enhanced capacity-building and institutional development.
Responding, Anosike expressed appreciation to the Chinese Government and CMA for deploying a six-member delegation to the annual meeting, describing the participation as evidence of China’s commitment to advancing meteorological services globally.
He called for the formalisation of the partnership through a memorandum of understanding that would reflect Nigeria’s socioeconomic priorities and practical meteorological needs.
As part of the engagement, CMA presented NiMet with two tablet devices equipped with the MAZU artificial intelligence agent, designed to support urban multi-hazard early warning.
The devices are expected to serve as dedicated intelligent terminals for delivering meteorological early-warning information, potentially strengthening access to timely weather alerts and supporting efforts to mitigate the effects of hazardous weather events.
Both institutions also agreed to establish a regular communication mechanism to coordinate joint development activities, monitor progress and sustain cooperation in the identified areas.
The partnership is expected to strengthen technical collaboration between Nigeria and China in meteorological observation, early warning and the development of institutional capacity, as both countries seek to improve preparedness for weather-related hazards.
