As part of efforts to assess and improve meteorological infrastructure across Nigeria, the Director General of the Nigerian Meteorological Agency (NiMet), Prof. Charles Anosike, commenced an inspection tour of the Northwest Zonal Headquarters on March 4, 2025.
Upon arrival at the Mallam Aminu Kano International Airport Zonal Headquarters, Prof. Anosike was received by Meteorological Manager Adewara Hassan, State Meteorological Inspector Banky Jonathan, and other key staff members.
Inspection of Key Meteorological Assets
During the visit, the DG inspected critical aviation safety infrastructure, including the METEO station on the airport tarmac, pilot briefing rooms at both domestic and international terminals, and other essential NiMet facilities.
In an interactive session with staff, Prof. Anosike commended their dedication despite operational challenges, such as vandalism, documentation issues, and equipment sabotage.
Commitment to Aviation Safety and Accountability
Reiterating the importance of meteorology in aviation safety, the DG urged staff to prioritize the protection and maintenance of meteorological equipment. He also emphasized greater accountability from contractors, ensuring that newly installed equipment meets approved standards and includes proper staff training.
“Aviation safety depends on accurate meteorological data. We must ensure that investments in equipment upgrades are protected and that contractors fulfill their obligations, including staff training. The era of installing equipment without proper knowledge transfer is over,” Prof. Anosike stated.
Staff Welfare and Government Support
Prof. Anosike assured staff that NiMet management is actively working to enhance staff welfare, revealing that federal government approvals for key improvements have already been secured.
Accompanying the DG were Engr. Abdulkareem Hamid Olayinka (Director of Engineering and Technical Services), Prof. Vincent Weli (Director of Weather Forecasting Services), Cyprian Okpalaku (Special Adviser on ICT), and Dr. Haruna Zakari (Technical Assistant to the DG).
This tour underscores NiMet’s commitment to strengthening aviation safety, upgrading meteorological facilities, and improving staff welfare across its zonal offices.
