The Nigerian Meteorological Agency (NiMet) has signed a memorandum of understanding with Agricultural Innovation Mechanism for Scale (AIM for Scale) to improve how weather and climate information is delivered to farmers across Nigeria.
The partnership will strengthen agricultural decision-making by integrating artificial intelligence into weather forecasting and expanding digital advisory systems.
According to NiMet, the collaboration will focus on translating accurate and timely climate data into practical guidance that farmers can use to make better decisions and reduce exposure to weather-related risks.
Through the agreement, both organisations will leverage AI-driven forecasting tools to provide weather insights tailored specifically to farmers’ needs. These insights will help farmers plan planting periods, manage inputs such as seeds and fertilisers more efficiently, and respond to extreme weather conditions.
The initiative will improve productivity and livelihoods by ensuring farmers have access to reliable and actionable climate information.
NiMet plays a central role in Nigeria’s agricultural ecosystem by providing early warning advisories, seasonal climate predictions, and digital climate services.
This new partnership builds on that foundation by introducing AI technologies into forecasting systems, strengthening institutional capacity, and improving how climate information is communicated to farmers.
The goal is to expand the reach of advisory services so that more farmers receive timely and relevant information to support their agricultural activities.
Nigeria is among the first group of countries to participate in the AI Weather Forecasting Training Program launched by Mohamed bin Zayed University of Artificial Intelligence and the University of Chicago in Abu Dhabi in September 2025, alongside AIM for Scale.
The programme will equip countries in Africa, Asia, and Latin America with the tools and capacity to generate and deliver localised weather forecasts, ensuring that technological innovations directly benefit farmers.
Director-General and Chief Executive Officer of NiMet, Charles Anosike, highlighted the importance of the partnership in advancing weather and climate services for agriculture.
He noted that farmers will gain access to timely rainfall forecasts and actionable climate data, helping them better plan planting and harvesting seasons while reducing the risks linked to unpredictable weather.
Prof Anosike stressed that “Providing accurate and timely weather and climate information is essential for national development, food security, and disaster risk management.
At the signing event in Abuja, Director of AIM for Scale, Imara Salas, emphasised the role of AI-powered forecasting and digital advisory systems in delivering practical benefits to farmers.
She noted that the innovation could improve crop yields, support efficient resource management, and strengthen resilience among smallholder farmers across Nigeria.
The collaboration is expected to improve NiMet’s ability to deliver actionable climate services to farmers and other stakeholders, while advancing innovation in weather forecasting through AI and data-driven tools.
