The Director-General and Chief Executive Officer of the Nigerian Meteorological Agency (NiMet), , has called for greater investment in weather observation systems across Africa, saying reliable data is essential for deploying Artificial Intelligence (AI) to improve weather forecasting and support agricultural productivity.
Prof. Anosike made the call while representing Nigeria at the Executive Council Side Event of the on “Scaling AI-Powered Weather Services for Farmers”, held at the organisation’s headquarters.
The high-level event convened global leaders, meteorological experts and development partners to explore how artificial intelligence can transform weather forecasting, strengthen climate services for agriculture and enhance food security.
Addressing participants, Anosike said AI-powered forecasting can only deliver accurate and dependable results when supported by robust observation networks and quality meteorological data.
He noted that bridging observation and data gaps across Africa should remain a priority to maximise the benefits of AI in meteorology and climate services.
The NiMet Director-General also highlighted the agency’s ongoing efforts to integrate AI into its operations, revealing that an AI Research Team was inaugurated in January 2026 to oversee the identification, evaluation and operational deployment of AI and machine learning technologies.
Since then, he said, the agency has developed an AI implementation framework, including Terms of Reference, Standard Operating Procedures, an operational roadmap with phased milestones and documented AI use cases to guide deployment.
According to Anosike, NiMet is currently evaluating advanced AI weather prediction models while developing the MeteoAI platform to improve weather forecasting, climate prediction, forecast verification and early warning services.
He added that the agency is equally assessing the most cost-effective computing infrastructure required to support the operational use of AI technologies.
Reaffirming NiMet’s commitment to innovation, Anosike said the agency would continue leveraging artificial intelligence and geospatial technologies to strengthen operational meteorology and support the Early Warnings for All initiative, ensuring farmers and vulnerable communities have access to timely, accurate and actionable weather and climate information.