The Nigerian Meteorological Agency (NiMet) and the Federal University of Petroleum Resources Effurun (FUPRE) in Delta State have formalized a partnership focusing on weather observation, research, and e-learning.
The collaboration was cemented with the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) on Thursday, May 16, 2024, by NiMet Director-General Professor Charles Anosike and FUPRE Vice Chancellor Professor Akpofure Rim-Rukeh.
Professor Anosike highlighted the issue of unregistered weather stations operated by oil companies along Nigeria’s coast, urging compliance with the new NiMet Act. He emphasized the critical role of this partnership in enhancing climate data collection, positioning NiMet as a key authority in risk dissemination to the oil and gas sector.
The collaboration will leverage NiMet’s soon-to-be-launched e-learning services, facilitating the development of joint courses between NiMet and FUPRE. This initiative aims to improve academic and research capacities, particularly in climate risk and meteorological studies.
Professor Rim-Rukeh expressed optimism about the partnership, anticipating support from NiMet in setting up observatory stations, training personnel, and generating valuable weather data for research and academic publications.
The MoU outlines a comprehensive framework for cooperation in research, training, and the promotion of meteorology and climate change activities. It includes the installation of NiMet’s Resident Observatory Stations (ROS) at FUPRE to enhance meteorological operations.
The signing ceremony was attended by key officials, including NiMet’s Director of Legal Services, Barr. Shola Gabriel, alongside other staff members.
