DG NiMet Inspects, Commissions Meteorological Data Rescue Project

By Iyojo Ameh

The Director-General and Chief Executive Officer of the Nigerian Meteorological Agency (NiMet), Professor Charles Anosike, on Wednesday inspected and commissioned the Agency’s Meteorological Data Rescue Project, marking a major milestone in the preservation of Nigeria’s climate heritage and the strengthening of its scientific capacity.

The project is aimed at securing invaluable historical weather and climate records, some of which date back to the 19th century and were previously at risk of permanent loss.

These include handwritten observation logs, ship logs and early instrumental records that extend Nigeria’s climate history beyond the digital era and fill critical gaps in existing archives.

By systematically recovering, preserving and digitising fragile paper records and old media, the Data Rescue Project safeguards Nigeria’s analogue climate history and ensures its long-term accessibility.

The rescued data is expected to support improved climate modelling, enhanced weather forecasting, disaster risk reduction and more informed policymaking, while also providing essential historical context for understanding present and future weather patterns.

Speaking during the inspection and commissioning of the project, Professor Anosike described the initiative as a strategic investment in Nigeria’s future.

He explained that the project goes beyond archiving, as it transforms historical data into a scientific foundation for climate resilience, sustainable development planning and advanced meteorological services.

According to him, the initiative aligns with global best practices of the World Meteorological Organization (WMO) and reflects NiMet’s commitment to modernisation and digital transformation under the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR.

He added that it also strengthens Nigeria’s contribution to global climate science by making historical atmospheric data available for modern analysis and evidence-based decision-making.

With the successful commissioning of the project, NiMet continues to demonstrate leadership in climate data stewardship, digital preservation and the strategic use of science and technology to support national development.