The Nigerian Meteorological Agency (NiMet) and the Anambra-Imo River Basin Development Authority (AIRBDA) have agreed to deepen their collaboration to address the increasing challenges of climate change, particularly its impact on river basin hydrology and water resource management.
During a visit by AIRBDA’s Managing Director/CEO, Mr. Emeka Nduka, to NiMet’s headquarters in Abuja, NiMet’s Director General/CEO, Professor Charles Anosike, emphasized that climate change is significantly disrupting rainfall and temperature patterns.
These shifts, he explained, are affecting river systems by increasing the likelihood and severity of floods and droughts, posing serious risks to food security, infrastructure, and livelihoods.
Professor Anosike highlighted the close connection between meteorology and river basin systems.
He noted that changes in weather, especially rainfall and temperature,directly impact water flow and distribution within river basins, while the geography of river basins can also influence local weather conditions.
He referenced NiMet’s Seasonal Climate Prediction (SCP) as a key resource for forecasting and preparedness. According to him, the SCP offers crucial guidance for anticipating extreme weather, particularly flood risks, and can aid policymakers in planning more effectively.
Anosike stressed the need for stronger collaboration between NiMet and AIRBDA in areas such as agricultural development and integrated water resource management.
Mr. Nduka, in his response, thanked the NiMet team for their hospitality and expressed AIRBDA’s commitment to enhancing technical cooperation.
He recognized the importance of NiMet’s data in supporting dam operations and irrigation planning, especially in the face of a changing climate.
The meeting ended with both agencies agreeing to formalize their partnership through a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) that will facilitate expertise sharing, boost resilience, improve food systems, and promote sustainable development in southeastern Nigeria.
