Meteorology provides Fundamental Weather, Climate Data that form Foundation for Sustainability Reporting –DG NiMet
By: Goodluck E. Adubazi, Abuja.
The Director-General/CEO of the Nigerian Meteorological Agency (NiMet) and Nigeria’s Permanent Representative to the World Meteorological Organization (WMO), Professor Charles Anosike, held a strategic meeting with the International Sustainability Standards Board (ISSB) on Tuesday, September 9, 2025, at the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) office in Lagos. The engagement focused on integrating climate data into sustainability and financial reporting in Nigeria.
Prof. Anosike reaffirmed NiMet’s commitment to ensuring access to reliable climate data and building national capacity for its application. He stated:
“NiMet’s data is critical for assessing the financial effectiveness of the emission factor, which is directly linked to economic and investment outcomes. Our role is to ensure that businesses and regulators have the evidence base they need for informed decision-making.”
NiMet delivered a presentation titled “Socio-Economic Benefits of Agricultural Meteorology in an Emerging Economy: Risks and Opportunities.” The paper highlighted how timely forecasts have helped farmers reduce post-harvest losses, improve yields, and enhance food security. It also outlined adaptation strategies and financial opportunities to strengthen resilience in agriculture and agribusiness.
In response, Mr. John Briggs, Head of the SEC Lagos Office, welcomed the initiative and emphasized the importance of integrating NiMet’s data into the commodity value chain at the Nigerian Exchange (NGX). Dr. Ndidi Nnoli Edozien of the IFRS Foundation added that evidence-based data is essential for investor confidence and alignment with global sustainability standards.
The meeting agreed that while climate finance provides the resources, meteorology provides the science and data that guide effective investment decisions.
Notable participants included Professor Richard Barker, ISSB Board Member; Dr. Neil Stewart; senior SEC officials; and NiMet representatives.
The engagement underscored the strategic role of meteorology in sustainability reporting, enhancing transparency, boosting investment, and strengthening Nigeria’s global competitiveness.
