Director General and Chief Executive Officer of the Nigerian Meteorological Agency (NiMET) and Nigeria’s Permanent Representative at the World Meteorological Organization (WMO), Prof. Charles Anosike, has been appointed as the president of the ECOWAS Committee of Directors of National Hydrological and Meteorological Services (NMHSs).
The election occurred during the committee’s 14th meeting, which brought together representatives from across West Africa in Abuja from May 20 to 22, 2025.
The ECOWAS Committee, composed of the heads of NMHSs from member states, plays a crucial role in fostering regional collaboration on vital issues such as weather forecasting, climate monitoring, and water resource management.
One of its primary objectives is to enhance early warning systems, facilitate disaster risk reduction strategies, and build climate resilience within the framework of the ECOWAS Hydromet Initiative.
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In his acceptance remarks, Prof. Anosike expressed his commitment to bolstering regional cooperation, emphasizing the urgent need for collective action in addressing the pressing challenges posed by climate change.
“As we confront the multifaceted challenges of climate change, our collaborative efforts are essential,” he stated.
“I am deeply honored to assume the leadership of this committee at such a critical juncture for our region.”
The meeting attracted delegates from Benin, Côte d’Ivoire, The Gambia, Ghana, Guinea, Guinea-Bissau, Liberia, Nigeria, Senegal, Sierra Leone, Togo, and Cape Verde, many of whom participated virtually.
Additionally, key partners such as the WMO, the African Centre of Meteorological Applications for Development (ACMAD), the Regional Centre for Training in Aeronautical Meteorology (AGRHYMET), the West African Science Service Centre on Climate Change and Adapted Land Use (WASCAL), the ECOWAS Commission, the World Bank, and the Maritime Organization of West and Central Africa (MOWCA) were also present.
The meeting was officially inaugurated by Nigeria’s Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Mr. Festus Keyamo, alongside Ibrahim Kana, the permanent secretary of the ministry.
The highlight of the event was the review of the “Early warnings for all” initiative, which aims for full regional implementation by the year 2027.
This initiative is vital for enhancing the preparedness of communities against climate-related disasters.
Prof. Anosike’s election as president not only underscores Nigeria’s leadership role within the ECOWAS framework but also reflects the country’s ongoing commitment to advancing climate action, fostering innovation, and enhancing coordination among National Meteorological and Hydrological Services across West Africa.
