The Nigerian Meteorological Agency (NiMet) has entered into a strategic partnership with the Agricultural Innovation Mechanism for Scale (AIM for Scale) to deploy AI-powered weather forecasting systems aimed at improving agricultural productivity and resilience across Nigeria.
The collaboration, formalised through a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU), will focus on integrating artificial intelligence into weather forecasting and strengthening digital advisory platforms. The goal is to translate accurate, real-time climate data into practical guidance that enables farmers to make informed decisions and better manage climate-related risks.
Under the agreement, both organisations will leverage advanced AI-driven tools to generate localized weather insights tailored to farmers’ needs. These insights will be converted into actionable advisories to help farmers optimize planting schedules, improve input management, and mitigate the impact of extreme weather conditions—ultimately enhancing productivity and livelihoods.
NiMet, which plays a pivotal role in Nigeria’s climate and agricultural information systems, currently provides early warning alerts, seasonal climate predictions, and digital advisory services. The new partnership builds on this foundation by embedding AI capabilities into its forecasting processes, improving both the accuracy and reach of its services.
Nigeria’s participation in the AI Weather Forecasting Training Programme—launched in September 2025 by AIM for Scale in collaboration with the Mohamed bin Zayed University of Artificial Intelligence (MBZUAI) and the University of Chicago in Abu Dhabi—has already positioned the country among early adopters of localised AI forecasting solutions. The programme equips countries in Africa, Asia, and Latin America with the tools to independently generate and deliver weather forecasts.
Speaking at the MoU signing in Abuja, NiMet’s Director General and Chief Executive Officer, Prof. Charles Anosike, described the partnership as a major step forward in enhancing climate services for Nigeria’s agricultural sector. He noted that access to timely rainfall forecasts and actionable climate information would enable farmers to better plan planting and harvesting cycles while reducing exposure to weather uncertainties.
“Providing accurate and timely weather and climate information is critical to national development, food security, and disaster risk management,” he said.
Also speaking, the Director of AIM for Scale, Imara Salas, highlighted the transformative potential of AI-powered forecasting and digital advisory systems. She noted that the initiative could significantly improve crop yields, enhance resource efficiency, and build resilience among millions of smallholder farmers.
The partnership is expected to strengthen NiMet’s capacity to deliver impactful climate services while advancing innovation in weather forecasting through the integration of AI and data-driven technologies, ensuring that more farmers receive timely, relevant, and actionable information.