Africa’s Weather Deficit and Investment Push at WMO Meeting

The continent has only about 12.5 per cent of the minimum weather station density recommended by the WMO, with compliance rates of seven per cent for surface land stations and nine per cent for upper-air stations across 53 African countries, according to Prof Anosike.

Prof Anosike called for increased investment in observation infrastructure, remote sensing, data analytics, and digital platforms, stressing that government funding alone cannot meet the growing demand for reliable weather and climate information.

WMO Director Dr Abdulla Al Mandous urged Nigeria and other African countries to prioritize investment in meteorological and hydrological services to protect lives and livelihoods while supporting sustainable economic development.