The House of Representatives has reaffirmed its resolve to strengthen the Nigerian Meteorological Agency (NIMET), as part of broader efforts to improve safety across sectors, particularly aviation.
This commitment was emphasized during a public hearing held at the National Assembly Complex on Tuesday, where lawmakers reviewed a bill seeking to amend the Nigerian Meteorological Agency (Establishment) Act No. 29 of 2022. The session, convened by the House Committee on Aviation Technology, focused on equipping NIMET with the legislative tools necessary to meet its expanding responsibilities.
Committee Chairman Tajudeen Abisodun, speaking at the event, explained that the proposed amendment is designed to enhance the agency’s capacity to deliver precise and timely weather-related data. He highlighted that accurate meteorological services are vital not only for the safety of flights but also for the protection of lives and property in various weather-sensitive industries.
“This amendment aims to significantly improve NIMET’s operational reach and its ability to support sectors where weather plays a critical role. Section 13(2) of the current Act will be central to these reforms,” Abisodun said.
In his opening remarks, Speaker of the House of Representatives, Tajudeen Abbas represented by Deputy Chief Whip Ibrahim Isiaka stressed that the bill is a reflection of the legislature’s dedication to strengthening governance through meaningful reforms. He emphasized that modernizing NIMET’s framework will have a direct impact on public safety and national development.
“This legislative intervention underscores our focus on transparency, improved service delivery, and national resilience,” Abbas said.
Also contributing, Hon. Abisodun Akinlade, the bill’s sponsor, outlined that the amendment seeks to better position NIMET to fulfill its mandate as the sole statutory body authorized to produce weather data essential for disaster preparedness and national planning.
“NIMET plays a vital role in keeping the nation informed and secure through accurate weather forecasts. A stronger legal foundation will allow the agency to meet increasing demands and adapt to technological changes,” Akinlade added.
Addressing the gathering, NIMET Director General Prof. Charles Anosike advocated for the inclusion of a cost-recovery clause within the agency’s mandate. He noted that while NIMET currently collects revenue for aviation-related services under existing provisions, the law does not support similar revenue collection from other sectors such as construction, maritime, and telecommunications.
“This legal gap has led to revenue shortfalls and limited our capacity to scale infrastructure. A proper framework for cost recovery will allow us to improve service delivery and sustain operations across multiple industries,” Anosike told the lawmakers.
The bill is expected to undergo further legislative scrutiny in the coming weeks, as lawmakers seek to ensure that NIMET remains a vital pillar in Nigeria’s pursuit of safer skies and weather-informed development planning.
