By Ada Nkong
The Nigeria Meteorological agency NiMet has tasked journalists on timely and efficient reportage of climate and weather advisories.
The director general NiMet, Prof Charles Anosike gave the charge Tuesday at a media dialogue in Abuja.
The media dialogue with the theme ‘Weather and Climate Reporting for Safety of Lives’ organized by NiMet in partnership with FGW resources had in attendance Journalist from various media as well as key players in NiMet.
The DG NiMet Prof Anosike stressed the pivotal role the media plays on ensuring life saving information gets to the public and solicited for greater synergy between NiMet and the media
The success of NiMet’s mission does not rest solely on the accuracy of our scientific data and forecast,it equally depends on the effective communication and dissemination of this information to the public which is where you, the media and civil society groups play an indispensable role’.
‘ This dialogue is meant to update you in the measures NiMet has taken, especially by employing management to provide best quality service in line with the renewed hope agenda of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu .
He said the agency under his watch has trained several staff home and abroad as well as cleared outstanding debts inherited from the previous administration.
The facilitator Mr Bonaventure Melah who started by applauding NiMet for accurate forecast of the day’s weather stressed the need for proper training of the media on the operations and terminology of weather and climate reporting to ensure effective reportage.
According to him ” weather advisories have a direct impact on our everyday lives ,the fact is that the media plays a critical role in informing the public about these advisories. This dialogue was organized in recognition of the responsibility that lies on our collective shoulders as journalists with regards to saving lives ‘.
Mr Melah said the objective of the dialogue is to brainstorm on how journalists can ensure timely and accurate information so that the public can be well informed and empowered to take action.
Directors from the relevant departments at NiMet took turns to explain the processes and essence of Nimets SCP , daily forecast and other products and how they could be annexed to save lives, properties and resources.
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