By Omotayo Edubi
The World Meteorological Day 2022’is observed today (Wednesday March 23) in Nigeria, just like other countries of the world, commemorating the emergence of the World Meteorological Organization (WMO) as a specialized agency of the United Nations.
The theme of this year’s World Meteorological Day is ‘Early Warning and Early Action, (Hydro-meteorological and Climate Information for Disaster Risk Reduction).
The Nigerian Meteorological Agency, (Nimet) held a ceremony to mark the day at the AbdulRahman Bello Dambazau Conference Centre, Abuja.
The Director General/CEO, NiMet, Prof. Mandir Bako Matazu in his keynote speech, said the World Metrological Organisation (WMO), is an authoritative voice on the state and behavior of the Earth’s atmosphere.
He also said that the day is beyond celebration “it is a day used to advance a course on contemporary issues affecting the global community with relevant themes and solutions”.
He mentioned incidences of extreme weather stating that Nimet and all its sister bodies must work together to protect the environment.
“In recent decades, incidences of extreme weather event such as tropical cyclones, devastating hurricanes, ferocious wildfires, floods, heat waves, drought, etc., have been on the increase and have threatened food security, safety of lives and properties, human security, nutrition and health”. He said.
“To reduce risks associated with weather related disasters, both Nimet and Hydrological (NIHSA) services and Disaster Managers (NEMA,FEMA, and SEMA etc.) Must work in synergy”
“This will assist in better national prevention, preparedness, and response strategie,” he added.
The Director, weather forecasting services, Engr. Mailadi Yusuf Abba Misau in his welcome remark said the day is a day to connect with sister agencies across the globe and bringing fore activities of agencies like NiMet and the world metrological organisation that coordinates all activities on National Hydrological and Metrological Services.
“It is on this day we strive to bolster awareness on the impact of Metrological activities, from data collection, collation, archiving, analyzing, production of products and advisories to support early warning for early action” he said.
He then thanked everyone for coming “it is a great pleasure to us for all you here to have made out time out of your jam-packed schedules to join us in celebrating this day. This certainly, proves to us that the metrological activities are appreciated by all.
Prof. Charles Anosike, the Director, Allied Metrological Service NiMet , in his closing remarks thanked dignitaries, stakeholders, guests, students and everyone present, he then urge that the public should take early action against disaster risks.
NatureNews reports that the event ended with the DG NiMet presenting a car gift to the World Metrological Organisation representative, Dr Benarld Gomez and also thanking him for coming.
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