The Nigerian Meteorological Agency (NiMet) and Nigeria Centre for Disease Control (NCDC) on Tuesday signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to establish a structured framework for data sharing and exchange.
The data partnership seeks to address the reoccurrence of climate-sensitive diseases like cholera and malaria, the statement signed by that agency revealed.
The Director General and Chief Executive Officer of NiMet, Prof. Charles Anosike said the four-year partnership to be renewed on grounds of mutual agreement would assist in correlating climate patterns with disease outbreaks, enabling improved predictive models and risk assessments.
He said, “Climate change is the most impactful threat to our health. This partnership with the NCDC will allow us to enhance our systems beyond current efforts. It is an important collaboration to strengthen preparedness and response to climate-related disasters.
“These elements are key components of the United Nations’ early warning system initiative. Investing in this area is essential to protect all citizens from climate-related risks.”
Optimistic about the partnership, the Director General NCDC, Dr. Jide Idris, said data collection, expertise, and resource-sharing are important for a country with an institutional mandate on growth in the health sector.
Idris said, “This collaboration will strengthen our ability to prevent and respond to public health threats in Nigeria. It will not only enhance cooperation between the NCDC and NiMet but also provide benefits across Nigeria.
“We will continue this journey towards a healthier and climate-resilient Nigeria”.
