By Faith Anisiobi, The Sight News
The Nigerian Meteorological Agency (NiMet), in partnership with the International Livestock Research Institute (ILRI), has commenced a 10-day Training of Trainers workshop on Climate Risk Management in Agricultural Extension (CRMAE) aimed at equipping agricultural extension professionals with the skills to deliver climate information that promotes resilient and sustainable farming practices across Nigeria.
The workshop, taking place in Abuja from July 6 to 17, is part of an Alliance for a Green Revolution in Africa (AGRA) target-countries project designed to strengthen digital climate advisory services and build climate-resilient agricultural systems across the continent.
Speaking at the opening ceremony, the Director-General and Chief Executive Officer of NiMet, Prof. Charles Anosike, said climate variability and extreme weather events continue to pose significant threats to agricultural productivity, food security and rural livelihoods, making it imperative to strengthen the capacity of those working directly with farmers.
According to him, farmers increasingly face challenges such as irregular rainfall, prolonged dry spells, heat stress, flooding, pest infestations and other climate-related shocks, highlighting the need to translate weather and climate information into practical, actionable advice.
Anosike reaffirmed NiMet’s commitment to providing weather and climate services that support planning, early warning systems and informed decision-making in weather-sensitive sectors, particularly agriculture.
He described agricultural extension officers as the critical link between climate science and farm-level decisions, including crop selection, planting schedules, water and soil management, input use and disaster preparedness.
The NiMet boss noted that the training would create a multiplier effect by improving the quality, reach and impact of climate services delivered to farmers across the country.
He added that the Nigeria-adapted CRMAE curriculum would enable extension and advisory service providers to integrate climate services into support programmes for smallholder farmers. He urged participants to exchange knowledge, strengthen professional networks and transfer the skills acquired to extension platforms, farmer groups, cooperatives and rural communities nationwide.
In his goodwill message, Dr. Kelvi Shikuku of ILRI commended Prof. Anosike for hosting the workshop and praised NiMet’s efforts in advancing climate services in Nigeria.
Also speaking, the lead facilitator from the Stockholm Environmental Institute, Dr. Tufa Dinku, stressed the importance of the Climate Risk Management in Agricultural Extension curriculum, expressing confidence that NiMet would drive its full implementation in Nigeria under Prof. Anosike’s leadership.
Prof. Anosike also expressed appreciation to ILRI, AGRA, the facilitators and participating institutions for their support in advancing climate-resilient agriculture, food security and sustainable development in Nigeria.
