Reps Sound Alarm, Push NIMET To Frontline Of National Emergency Defense!

The House of Representatives Committee on Aviation Technology has restated its commitment to enhancing the operational efficiency of the Nigerian Meteorological Agency (NIMET) in a bid to protect lives and property across vital sectors of the economy.

According to iReporter Online, this assurance was given on Tuesday during a public hearing in Abuja on a bill seeking to amend the Nigerian Meteorological Agency Establishment Act No. 29 of 2022. The Chairman of the Committee, Hon. Tajudeen Abisodun, noted that the proposed legislative adjustments are crucial to boosting NIMET’s capacity to deliver timely, accurate, and actionable weather forecasts.

“This bill is essential for strengthening NIMET’s responsiveness and capacity to safeguard national safety, especially in the aviation sector,” Abisodun declared.

He explained that the focus of the amendment lies in Section 13, Subsection 2, which must be addressed urgently to empower the agency to fulfill its mandate more effectively.

Enhancing NIMET’s ability to deliver accurate forecasts and alerts, he said, would provide vital information for aviation personnel, farmers, and emergency responders.

According to iReporter Online, Speaker of the House, Rt. Hon. Abbas Tajudeen, who was represented by Deputy Chief Whip Hon. Ibrahim Isiaka, emphasized that the hearing underscores the House’s dedication to transparency, accountability, and responsive governance.

He asserted that improved meteorological services would positively impact both public safety and economic growth.

The sponsor of the bill, Hon. Abisodun Akinlade, added that the amendment aims to reposition NIMET for broader national relevance. “NIMET remains the sole authority authorized to generate critical meteorological data,” he said, stressing the importance of strengthening its legal foundation to better serve diverse sectors.

Prof. Charles Anosike, Director General of NIMET, threw his weight behind the proposed changes, advocating for a sustainable cost recovery model.

He pointed out that while the current law allows the agency to charge for aeronautical services, there is no legal basis to recover costs from other sectors like marine, telecoms, and construction, which also depend on weather data.

According to iReporter Online, Anosike warned that this legal gap has led to revenue loss and hampered infrastructure growth within the agency. He urged lawmakers to close the loophole and ensure NIMET aligns with global best practices in service delivery and funding.

”IREPORTER REPORTS”