NiMet pledges stronger climate-nutrition partnerships as GAIN concludes SNIPS project

From Sola Ojo, Abuja

The Nigerian Meteorological Agency (NiMet) has reaffirmed its commitment to deepening climate and nutrition collaborations as the Global Alliance for Improved Nutrition (GAIN) rounded off its Strengthening Nutrition in Priority Staples (SNIPS) project in Nigeria.

Speaking at the project’s close-out ceremony, the Director General and CEO of NiMet, as well as Nigeria’s Permanent Representative to the World Meteorological Organisation (WMO), Prof. Charles Anosike, praised GAIN and its partners for their “remarkable dedication” to improving food systems and combating malnutrition.

He described SNIPS as “a testament to what can be achieved when expertise, resources and passion converge for a common goal.”

Prof. Anosike highlighted the increasing influence of climate variability on food production, noting that unpredictable rainfall patterns, extended dry spells and other climatic stresses continue to undermine crop yields and nutritional quality.

He emphasised NiMet’s role in providing accurate weather and climate information to guide farmers on planting, harvesting and crop protection, tools he said were critical for securing higher yields and ensuring nutritious food supplies.

The DG commended the project’s integration of nutrition-sensitive agriculture with climate-smart practices across Benue, Kaduna, Nasarawa and Oyo States.

He also lauded GAIN’s inclusion of women and young people in training and leadership roles, describing their participation as vital for building resilient and inclusive food systems.

Reiterating the need for sustained partnerships, Prof. Anosike said NiMet is poised to strengthen collaboration with GAIN, government institutions and the private sector to scale up early-warning systems, expand farmer education and drive innovation in climate-smart agriculture.

“As we celebrate the achievements of SNIPS, let us also look ahead,” he said. “Your dedication is shaping a healthier, more food-secure Nigeria. NiMet stands ready to collaborate as we move forward together.”