By Helen Udo.
The Nigerian Meteorological Agency (NiMet), in collaboration with the International Livestock Research Institute (ILRI), AGRA, Stockholm Environment Institute (SEI), Sasakawa Africa Association, and other partners, has concluded a 10-day Climate Risk Management in Agricultural Extension (CRMAE) Training of Trainers workshop in Abuja.
Speaking at the closing ceremony, the Director-General and Chief Executive Officer of NiMet, Prof. Charles Anosike, described agricultural extension officers as the vital bridge between climate services and farmers, helping to translate weather and climate information into practical farming decisions.
Prof. Anosike said the Nigeria-adapted Climate Risk Management curriculum will strengthen the capacity of extension personnel to provide climate-informed advisory services. He noted that effective extension support can significantly improve agricultural productivity while reducing farmers’ vulnerability to climate-related risks.
He urged participants to transfer the knowledge gained during the training to extension networks, cooperatives, farmer groups, and rural communities, stressing that the programme’s success would be measured by improved livelihoods, stronger climate resilience, and enhanced national food security.
Reaffirming NiMet’s commitment to supporting climate-smart agriculture, Prof. Anosike pledged the agency’s continued efforts to institutionalize and expand the adoption of the Climate Risk Management in Agricultural Extension curriculum across the country.
On behalf of the AGRA Country Director, Dr. Esther Ibrahim encouraged participants to apply the skills acquired to deliver timely and reliable climate information to farmers. The workshop ended with the presentation of certificates to participants, who are expected to cascade the training nationwide to strengthen farmers’ resilience and improve agricultural decision-making.
