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NiMet DG/CEO Anosike Tasks Staff On Transparent Processes At 2024 Budget Retreat

The Director General, Chief Executive Officer of The Nigerian Meteorological Agency (NiMet), Professor Charles Anosike, has asked Directors and staff of the agency to ensure strict compliance to budgetary provisions.
Professor Anosike was speaking at the Budget Retreat of the agency on Monday, 6th May, 2024.

While declaring the retreat open, Professor Anosike said; “The NiMet Budget Retreat is fundamental for the new management and staff. It is an opportunity for us to improve our budgetary practices and also to discuss the 2024 budgetary provisions”.

Continuing, Professor Anosike tasked the Directors and senior staff of the agency who participated in the retreat to listen, participate and contribute to the robust discussions.

“Anticipated outcome of the retreat is that all will embrace performance-based budgeting which will lead to transparent and accountable budgetary processes.
This will help management and staff to achieve our set goals during the budget year, in line with the performance bond signed with the Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, SAN”, Professor Anosike concluded.

Dr Doreen Yusuf appointed Canadian Country Reps for Worldsdgs-org

By Emmanuel Daudu (SDGs Reporter)

A Canadian Citizen, Dr. Doreen Osasuwa Yusuf has been appointed as the Canadian Country Representative for the World Sustainable Development Goals Organization, worldsdgs.org. As the country representative, she has been urged to work within the framework of the 17 SDGs and collaborate with the Canadian government to achieve sustainable development in the country.

The SDGs are a set of global goals adopted by all United Nations Member States in 2015. They aim to address various social, economic, and environmental challenges faced by the world, including poverty, inequality, climate change, and biodiversity loss.

Dr Doreen’s role as the Canadian Country Representative will involve raising awareness about the SDGs, promoting their implementation, and fostering partnerships between different stakeholders, including the government, civil society organizations, politicians, business tycoons and the private sector.

Furthermore, Dr. Doreen will be expected to work closely with the Canadian government to align national policies and strategies with the SDGs. This collaboration will ensure that Canada progresses towards sustainable development by integrating the goals into national agendas and decision-making processes.

By assuming this position, Dr. Doreen has a significant responsibility to contribute to the achievement of sustainable development in Canada. The appointment reflects her expertise and dedication to the field, and it is hoped that her efforts, with the support of various stakeholders, will lead to positive and transformative change in the country.

According to the letter of appointment signed by the Global Chairman, Board of Trustees, World Sustainable Development Goals Organization, Chief Samson Adeosun, the Global Secretary-General, Advisory Council, H.E. Wajdi Aref Moukarim and the Founder, H.E. Emmanuel Huleji Daudu, Dr. Doreen was urged to take her new office seriously ensure that her quarter is contributed in impacting positively on lives within her scope of duty in Canada.

The letter, giving details on the aims and objectives of the organization, disclosed that the international NGO is aimed at promoting development and economic goals in all the UN member nations.
“To work within the scope of the I 7goals of Sustainable Development Goals within the member nations of UN which are: end poverty, end hunger, ensure healthy lives and promote well-being, ensure quality education, achieve gender equality, ensure sustainable water and sanitation, ensure reliable energy, promote economic growth, build resilient infrastructure, foster innovative and infrastructure, reduce inequality within and among countries, ensure sustainable consumption and production pattern, combat climate change, conserved and sustainable use of oceans, seas, marine resources for sustainable development.
“To empower youths globally with sustainable skill: focusing on youth development, gender and environmental sustainability.

“To support the adopted global goals (Sustainable Development Goals) to end poverty, protect the plant, and ensure prosperity for all across all UN member nations

” To inspire and educate youths and women to actively contribute to improving local and global issues affecting development on education, sustainability, health, environment and peacebuilding.

“To encourage purposeful leadership for the development of the people and society.

“To foster global development through integrated approach towards the Challenges facing development globally: good health, food, shelter, poverty alleviation, quality education, environment, peacebuilding, child abuse and human trafficking, youth and women empowerment and mentoring

” To collaborate with other Organizations, Foundations, NGOs, having similar objectives”.

CDS Visits CBN, Seeks for Intervention to enhance military operations

By Emmanuel Daudu

The Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), General Christopher Gwabin Musa on Friday 3 May 2024 has paid a visit to the Central Bank of Nigeria.

According to a press release signed by Brigadier General Tukur Gusau, Director Defence Information, the visit is part of the CDS engagement with critical stakeholders to curtail contemporary challenges facing the nation.

In his remarks at the occasion, General Musa applauded the CBN Governor for his sterling leadership qualities and his monetary and fiscal policies which are geared towards adressing economic hardships in the country. According to the CDS, the country’s challenges are enormous but he added that ” I can see light at the end of the tunnel. ” He further enumerated many challenges faced by the military which impinge on its operations and therefore appealed to the CBN Governor to critically look into the issues with a view of adressing them.

General Musa also seized the opportunity to call CBN to consider members of the Armed Forces in its agricultural schemes as means of enhencing welfare for both serving and retired personnel. He concluded that “the Armed Forces of Nigeria remain focus, professional and ready to secure Nigeria”.

The CBN Governor Mr Olayemi Cardoso in his response thanked the CDS for the visit, while acknowledging the immense sacrifice the AFN is making to secure the country. He added that the military takes too much risk to their lives to ensure peace and tranquility reigns. He assures of the CBN commitment to support and collaborate with Defence Headquarters. The governor also commended the CDS leadership philosophy. According to him, “it gives everybody hope for the future.”

The Central Bank Governor further stated that the CBN has re-set its strategy, primarily to focus on monetary policies to manage the stability of the system. He emphasised that the CBN needed AFN assistance in its daily operation. He promised that things would soon normalise.

Nigerian Worldsdgs.org Boss congratulates Lucky Aiyedatiwa over Primary elections victory

Gloria Daudu

The Nigerian Country Representative, World Sustainable Development Goals Organization, worldsdgs.org, His Excellency Engr. Adenekan Rasheed Kolawole has congratulated the Ondo State governor, His Excellency Lucky Aiyedatiwa over his victory at the just held party primary election disclosing that his victory is as a result of his exemplary leadership and humanitarian style of leadership.

According to the congratulatory message he signed on Monday, made available to journalists in Abuja, Engr. Kola described the Ondo State governor, H.E. Lucky Aiyedatiwa as an SDGs (Sustainable Development Goals) Governor.
“On behalf of the World Sustainable Development Goals Organization, I would like to extend our heartfelt congratulations to the Ondo State governor for his resounding victory at the party primary elections. This well-deserved victory reflects your dedication, leadership qualities, and unwavering commitment to the betterment of your state.

“Your victory is an affirmation of the trust and confidence that the people of Ondo State have in your ability to lead them towards sustainable development. We commend your progressive policies and initiatives aimed at achieving the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) in your state.

“His unwavering determination to promote inclusivity, education, healthcare, environmental sustainability, and economic development aligns perfectly with the goals of the World Sustainable Development Goals Organization.

“We look forward to collaborating with you and your administration to create sustainable change and improve the well-being of the people in Ondo State.

“We assure you of our continued support and partnership as you embark on this new phase of your leadership journey. Congratulations once again, and may you continue to excel in your endeavors for the betterment of Ondo State and its citizens” Kola prayed.

While speaking on his achievements, “Governor Aiyedatiwa has made significant strides in infrastructure development in Ondo State. Under his leadership, roads, bridges, and other critical infrastructure projects have been completed, connecting communities and improving transportation within the state.

” Aiyedatiwa has made education a priority. He has been proactive in addressing the educational needs of the state, improving school facilities, and ensuring quality education for all. Initiatives such as the provision of free textbooks and the renovation of schools have had a positive impact on the education system in Ondo State.

” The governor has demonstrated a commitment to improving healthcare in Ondo State. He has renovated and equipped healthcare facilities, ensuring that residents have access to quality healthcare services. Additionally, he has implemented healthcare programs to address issues such as maternal and child health, disease prevention, and vaccination campaigns.

“Governor Aiyedatiwa has prioritized the development of the agricultural sector in Ondo State. He has implemented various initiatives to support farmers, including the provision of improved seedlings, fertilizers, and modern farming techniques. These efforts have increased agricultural productivity, created employment opportunities, and driven economic growth in the state.

“Aiyedatiwa has been proactive in tackling security challenges in Ondo State. He has collaborated with security agencies to enhance the safety and security of residents. By equipping security personnel and implementing community policing strategies, he has successfully reduced crime rates and ensured a peaceful environment for residents.

“These achievements reflect Governor Aiyedatiwa’s dedication to improving the lives of the people of Ondo State. Worldsdgs.org congratulates him on his party primary election victory and looks forward to his continued efforts towards sustainable development in his new role as the Country Representative”.

Safe Schools Initiative:NSCDC Maps Out Security and protection strategies, assures Public Safety of schools, Host Communities

By Emmanuel Daudu

In response to the challenges of Insecurity in Schools the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps through the National Safe Schools Response Coordination Centre (NSSRCC), has assured adequate provision of safety and security for schools ranging from primary, post-primary and tertiary institutions as all is now set to commence sensitisation programme for schools and community as stimulated in its action plan.

According to a press release signed by CSC Babawale Zaid Afolabi National PRO NSCDC National Headquarters Abuja on Monday, the Commander of the NSSRCC; Commandant Hammed Abodunrin PhD fdc, made this known when he received the President, National Association of University Students at the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence National Headquarters in Abuja.

Dr Abodunrin said the National Safe Schools Project is not only for the security agencies alone but also for schools, tertiary institutions and host communities, describing it as a whole-of-society affair.

The Commander who applauded the initiative of the Commandant General of the NSCDC, Ahmed Abubakar Audi PhD mni OFR, for conducting a schools vulnerability survey on assumption of duty said, the centre was birthed to address the insecurity in the nation’s educational sector in line with global safe schools declaration.

He stated further that the NSSRCC was designed to go beyond ensuring smooth learning and teaching process in schools; as well as mitigate against issues like rape, kidnapping, sexual harassment, intimidation, cultism, bullying etc.

Abodunrin assured NAUS of his willingness to collaborate with the association in providing security for educational institutions through kinetic and non-kinetic approaches to combat all forms of insecurity across the board.

In addition, he hinted that the non-kinetic approach will involve sensitization and awareness programs which would be in form of train a trainer workshop at the Institution’s national executive meetings where matters concerning basic security tips and how to identify possible security threats or dangers would be addressed.

“I am optimistic that with these modalities and security strategies put in place, every graduate will be a mini security person he added”.

The National President of NAUS, Obaji Marshal, earlier in his address said that the gaint strides of the NSCDC is recognised and appreciated, hence the need for a courtesy visit to further strengthen the relationship.

He however noted that the activities of the NSSRCC need wider publicity and the association is willing to partner with the Centre to get students integrated in its programmes.

Citing the recent ugly incident at the Plateau State University, the president solicited the deployment of armed personnel of the Corps to tertiary institutions amongst other measures.

GRMA To Partner NiMet In Climate Risk Modeling

The Global Risk Modelling Alliance (GRMA), has expressed a willingness to partner the Nigerian Meteorological Agency (NiMet), in creating and enhancing access to risk
data and models.

During a courtesy visit on the Director General, Chief Executive Officer of the Nigerian Meteorological Agency (NiMet), and Nigeria’s permanent representative with WMO, Professor Charles Anosike, on Thursday, 2nd May, 2024, Alastair Norris and Renuka Srinivasan from the GRMA said the proposed partnership will also cover application of open source platforms and open standards designed to inform risk financing, and providing technical assistance via strategic and operational projects co-defined with key stakeholders in Nigeria.

According to Prof. Anosike, “Nimet welcomes the idea of the proposed partnership with GRMA to support our efforts and improve our forecasting and dissemination capacity”.

He further stated that the agency provides early warnings to farmers and other stakeholders by downscaling and disseminating the seasonal climate prediction (SCP).
Professor Anosike also highlighted that pilot briefings and daily advisories on weather and climate conditions are other ways NiMet provides early warnings to the aviation sector.

The Global Risk Modelling Alliance (GRMA) is a technical assistance programme funded by the German government. GRMA leverages public and private sector risk expertise to enhance capabilities in vulnerable communities to undertake risk analytics.

Falemi Ayodeji of The National Council on Climate Change, NCCC, accompanied the GRMA team during the courtesy visit. Mrs Gloria Onyegbule, Director, Department of Applied Meteorological Services (DAMS), and Mr James Ijampy, Chief Meteorologist at NiMet, were also present.

PHOTO STORY

Left to Right; Alastair Norris of The Global Risk Modelling Alliance (GRMA), Professor Charles Anosike, Director General, Chief Executive Officer of the Nigerian Meteorological Agency (NiMet), and Nigeria’s permanent representative with WMO, Renuka Srinivasan of the GRMA, and Falemi Ayodeji of The National Council on Climate Change, NCCC, during a courtesy visit on Prof. Anosike at NiMet Headquarters in Abuja, on Thursday, 2nd May, 2024.

By Dr. Uche Nworah

CISLAC, Other CSOs Condemns Corruption And Malicious Attacks On Anti-Corruption Agencies

Bilkisu Adejoh

A number of about 50 civil society organisations have condemned corrupt practices in Nigeria and decried the malicious attacks on anti-corruption agencies

Auwal Ibrahim Musa (Rafsanjani), Executive Director of the Civil Society Legislative Advocacy Centre (CISLAC), who spoke at a press conference in Abuja on Thursday on behalf of other CSOs, said transparency and accountability are crucial elements that enable democracies to flourish.

Rafsanjani lamented that democracy in Nigeria has persistently functioned under a veil of secrecy and lawlessness.

The groups faulted President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for appointing politicians facing corruption allegations into his cabinet

“We urge the ruling All-Progressive Party APC and other political parties to take decisive action in purging its ranks by denouncing and breaking support with their members who are currently being investigated by anti-corruption agencies,” they said.

“This can be operationalised by suspending all members tainted by corruption allegations and ensuring they are held accountable before the law.

“Procurement of political appointments by some suspected or investigated looters who are serving under the current administration as ministers, legislators, or occupying leadership positions of the ruling party, has exposed anti-corruption work to serious setbacks and deliberate sabotage that cripple the efficiency of the anti-corruption agencies.

The CSOs expressed that many serving lawmakers and ministers have corruption allegations against them. This is producing a culture of impunity, where politicians engage in corrupt practices without fear of consequences

The CSOs further expressed with sadness the malicious attacks and deliberate efforts to blackmail anti-corruption agencies through sponsorship of influencers, incentivised opinion publications in some national dailies, online and electronic platforms, all targeted at discouraging anti-corruption efforts and shielding the kleptocrats from a thorough investigation”.

The pattern is clear, there is an unfolding plot of surreptitious moves to backpedal on the progress made by anti-corruption progress,” they said.

According to the CSOs, judicial corruption constitutes a major challenge to anti-corruption work in Nigeria.

The looters have repeatedly used their influence to manipulate the judicial process and system, to block and/or delay the arrest or prosecution of suspects,” he said.

“Clearly, the judiciary is not living up to its responsibility of ensuring that the rule of law and provisions of the constitution are upheld.

“Nigerians have witnessed too many situations where courts have granted injunctions which deterred anti-corruption agencies from inviting and prosecuting corrupt government officials and politically exposed persons.

They also added that Nigerians have witnessed with alarm numerous cases featuring a high number of foreign enablers from Switzerland, Monaco, Panama, British Virgin Islands and the United Kingdom (UK) facilitating corruption. Enablers from the UK are particularly strongly linked to Nigerian cases. Of course, Nigeria also has a number of domestic enablers involved in cases. Out of 87 enablers captured, 5 enablers are from Nigeria: 3 lawyers/law firms and 2 real estate agents. This is due to cases involving, for example, Nigerian lawyers managing trusts on behalf of their clients that are then used to move funds abroad

The groups also noted that the budgetary allocations to the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC), Code of Conduct Bureau (CCB) and Nigeria Police, among others are inadequate.

“Poor resource allocation is a calculated attempt to gradually push these agencies towards extinction. By limiting their resources, the government is effectively crippling their ability to function effectively and independently,” said the CSOs.

“There are desperate efforts by corrupt elements to disinform, mislead, misinform and confuse Nigerians on the efforts of various anti-corruption institutions in Nigeria.

“We are worried over the poor understanding of the work and mandates of the anti-corruption agencies by many Nigerians including the youth.”

Suggesting ways to curb corruption the groups said to effectively combat corruption and make significant strides towards progress, it is crucial to adopt a cohesive strategy that addresses all elements that support Nigeria’s growing corruption system.

“The National Judicial Council must diligently monitor its members and promptly remove any corrupt judicial officer found to be compromising the judicial system. By doing so, it will significantly contribute to the restoration of sanity and the promotion of accountability within the nation.

“To truly establish a flourishing democracy, transparency and accountability must be strictly adhered to in governance.

“We urge IGP Kayode Egbetokun to promptly reinstate the police personnel withdrawn from the Kano State Anti-Corruption Commission, to facilitate the effective execution of Commission’s duties. Nigeria Police must avoid actions that may portray it as being submissive to politicians”, the CSOs added.

The Civil Society Organisations represented at the press conference were Civil Society Legislative Advocacy Centre (CISLAC), Human and Environmental Development Agenda (HEDA Resource Centre), Resource Centre for Human Rights and Civic Education (CHRICED), Centre for Information Technology and Development (CITAD), African Centre for Media & Information Literacy (AFRICMIL), Borno Coalition for Democracy and Progress (BOCODEP), BudgIT Foundation, Corporate Accountability and Public Participation Africa (CAPPA), State of the Union (SOTU), Tax Justice and Governance Platform, Transition Monitoring Group (TMG), Women in Media Communication Initiative (WIM), Zero Corruption Coalition (ZCC), Alliance for Credible Elections (ACE), Centre Democracy and Development (CDD) and Accountability Lab, Nigeria.

Others include Centre for Journalism Innovation and Development (CJID), Say NO Campaign, Femi Falana Chamber, Health of Mother Earth Foundation (HOMEF), Socio-Economic Rights and Accountability Project (SERAP), Good Governance Team, 21st Century Community Empowerment for Youth Initiative, OCCEN-Kano, Mothers and Marginalised Advocacy Centre (MAMA Centre), Social Action, Centre for Transparency Watch, West Africa Civil Society Forum WASCSOF, Global Rights, African Centre for Leadership, Strategy & Development (Centre LSD), Partners West Africa, Order Paper, Environmental Rights Action/Friends of the Earth, Nigeria, Center for Fiscal Transparency and Public Integrity, Amnesty International Nigeria, Rule of Law and Accountability Advocacy Centre RULAAC, Connected Development (CODE), Centre for Democratic Research and Training (CRDDERT), Praxis, CLEEN Foundation, Spaces for Change, Abuja School of Social and Political Thought, Yiaga Africa, Policy Alert, Socio Economic Research and Development Centre, Procurement Observation and Advocacy Initiative, Media Rights Agenda and Centre for Social Justice.

The Newest Sovereign State in Bir Tawil, Africa

On May 15, 2015, a new nation was born in the unclaimed territory of Bir Tawil, situated between Sudan and Egypt. Birland State, founded by Emir Haiyawi, is a pioneering experiment in creating a humanitarian-focused sovereign state. This unique ambition provides a home for the stateless Nubian people and an opportunity for individuals desiring a state built on the true doctrines of humanitarianism.

Birland has achieved significant milestones in gaining international recognition, with formal endorsements from various African kings, several Intergovernmental Organizations, International Institutions such as Ballsbridge University, World Society of Peace, World Humanity Commission acknowledging its legitimacy as a humanitarian state.This recognition is crucial as Birland seeks to establish diplomatic relationships with other nations and join the international community.

Birland’s cultural setting is rich and inclusive, with three official languages: English, Nubian, and Arabic This multilingual nature reflects a commitment to diversity and encourages communication with the broader global community. The country’s capital city is Bartazuga.

The amiable Birland’s founder, and leaders envision a state that fosters harmony, inclusivity, and core humanitarian values. Birland country aims to build strong diplomatic ties with other nations, positioning itself as a positive force in the region. The establishment of Birland is a significant step toward providing a sense of belonging for those who have been without a recognized homeland.

Despite the challenges ahead, Birland’s journey from conception to recognition is an inspiring story of determination and vision, and no day passes by without good news. As the state continues to grow, the world will watch with interest to see how it navigates the tough dynamics of nation-building and international diplomacy.
With its soundly active humanist leaders, Birland holds the potential to be a beacon of hope and a rare model for a humanitarian-oriented state in the heart of Africa.

The Prime Minister of the State of Birland HRM Queen Eden Soriano Trinidad who has painstakingly written a noteworthy history of Birland is invited to promote and introduce Birland to the citizens of the USA. Her Excellency’s Birland history from when it was a no-man’s-land to its full statehood has been garnering mammoth international multilingual translations from notable scholars. Check out this link: https://birland.net/2024/03/27/birland-brief-history-in-english-tajikistan-and-spanish-languages/to the published history of Birland in different languages.

By Chika Udekwe
May 1, 2024

NiMet’s Renewed Collaboration With Agriculture Ministry Is Good For The Nigerian Economy

By Dr. Uche Nworah

The Federal Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security is a Ministry of the Federal Government of Nigeria that has the mandate to ensure food security in crop, livestock and fisheries. The ministry is also tasked to stimulate agricultural employment and services, promote the production and supply of raw materials to Agro- allied industries, provide markets for the products of the industrial sector, generate foreign exchange and aid rural socio-economic development throughout Nigeria.

The Nigerian Meteorological Agency (NiMet), is a Federal Government of Nigeria agency charged with the responsibility to advise the Federal Government on all aspects of meteorology. NiMet is also tasked to project, prepare and interpret government policy in the field of meteorology; and to issue weather (and climate) forecasts for the safe operations of aircrafts, ocean going vessels and oil rigs.

The Nigerian Meteorological Agency (NiMet), and the Federal Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security have in the past made moves to strengthen their existing relationship towards improving agricultural production and food security in Nigeria. The Ministry and NiMet had signed an MoU on the 3rd of March, 2022, to collaborate in a lot of areas including development of a dash-board for early warning systems, capacity building for staff of the Ministry and other stakeholders on accessing and interpreting information on meteorological parameter changes, and the provision of agro-meteorological advisory services to farmers on specific agricultural commodities. It would seem as if things quietened down after the MoU was signed.

However, at a joint press briefing on NiMet’s 2024 Seasonal Climate Prediction (SCP), at the instance of the Honourable Minister of Agriculture and Food Security, Senator Abubakar Kyari, on Tuesday, 16th April, 2024, the Honourable Minister and the Director General, Chief Executive Officer of NiMet, and Nigeria’s permanent representative with World Meteorological Organization (WMO), Professor Charles Anosike, resolved to strengthen the relationship and make it stronger. The Honourable Minister said at the press briefing; “Your presence here today, at our headquarters, marks another milestone in the deliberate and desirable collaboration and co-operation between our Ministry and your agency. Over the years, critical sectors of the economy, such as aviation, maritime, and agriculture, have come to rely on the Seasonal Climate Prediction published by NiMeT usually in the first quarter of the year. The reliability of the Seasonal Climate Prediction is indicated by increased recourse to the weather advisories contained therein”.

The Honourable Minister also said that NIMET’s Seasonal Climate Prediction can assist in shaping agriculture in Nigeria with regard to information about the pattern and duration of rainfall across the country’s agronomic zones, when to grow and length of growing season, as well as dry spells that could occasion loss of agricultural investment, where remedial measures are not taken. This in turn helps to boost the adaptive capacity of farmers. Regrettably, there have been farming seasons in Nigeria when farmers did not take advantage of the institutional advice from NIMET, and on their own misread the rainfall pattern, only to face dry spells that invariably ruined their crops and livelihoods.

In his remarks, Professor Anosike thanked the Honourable Minister for his leadership and the kind gesture to strengthen the relationship between NiMet and the ministry. “NiMet wishes to build on the database of farmers that the ministry has. Already NiMet disseminates information about seasonal climate prediction through formal engagements with farmers , and through the media such as the BBC, social media, Radio Nigeria and through national television stations.
However, a lot of gaps still exist within the dissemination space. Our goal is to reach as many Nigerians as possible with timely, accurate and actionable weather and climate information as part of NiMet Early Warning Drive”

Continuing, Professor Anosike said; “Food security requires consistent collaboration with all stakeholders. The SCP as predicted are being manifested but the challenge remains disseminating the contents to over 70 million farmers in Nigeria. Farmers need to be equipped with information and other resources to make climate resilient decisions”.

It is noteworthy and encouraging that weeks after the joint press briefing between the Federal Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security and NiMet, there are evidences of the renewed collaboration. This is positive and will benefit the Nigerian economy. Knowledge is power and if Nigerian farmers have weather and climate information translated in their local languages, they will be able to make climate resilient decisions such as knowing when to plant, what species of plants and seeds to plant and when to harvest to achieve greater yield.

The 2024 Seasonal Climate Prediction (SCP) released by NiMet provides an outlook of climate variables to help improve decision-making across all sectors of the economy. NiMet’s SCP for 2024 which was originally released in February 2024, forecasts normal on-set of rains over the northern states.Borno, Abia and Akwa Ibom states are predicted to have early on- sets. An early end to the season is predicted for parts of Yobe, Jigawa, Sokoto, Kebbi, Kano, Kaduna, Plateau, Nasarawa, Taraba, Gombe, Bauchi, Cross River, Ebonyi, Ogun and Lagos states.

A late secession is predicted over the southern states of Bayelsa, Rivers, Akwa Ibom, Ondo, Ekiti and part of Edo, Delta, Ogun, Oyo, Kogi, Kwara, FCT, Niger and Kaduna states.
Day and Night time temperatures for January to May is predicted to be warmer than normal in most parts of the country. Also, most of the North is anticipated to be cooler in March.

The Ministry and NiMet have re-intensified efforts at disseminating NiMet’s seasonal climate prediction (SCP), using FRCN network service, local radio, local and national press, national and local television. They are also using social media platforms. Applying the multi-step information flow model will require social media savvy stakeholders picking up the information online and sharing same to the farmers in their various communities.

A critical aspect of the dissemination is the physical downscaling of the SCP information to farmers in the various communities. This will require the support of the various states ministries of agriculture and NGOs operating in the agricultural space. They should support current downscaling efforts by the ministry and NiMet. From the schedule released by the Federal Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security, and NiMet, downscaling of SCP information to farmers in the six geopolitical zones have been scheduled as follows; Ondo (13th May), Imo (15th May), Delta (17th May), Niger (22nd May), Sokoto (4th June) and Borno (6th June). Farmers, civil society organizations, states ministries of agriculture, the media and other stakeholders can help in sensitizing the farmers to attend on the dates stated for their zones.

This initiative by the two MDAs is viewed as a positive step towards enhancing food security in Nigeria. It will empower our farmers, and has the capacity to mitigate the perennial challenges of climate variability. It will at the same time contribute towards sustainable resilience in the agricultural value chain.

The full SCP report can be downloaded from http://www.nimet.gov.ng. The report is also available from the Federal Ministry of Agriculture And Food Security Abuja, and State Ministries of Agriculture.

Dr. Nworah, a public affairs commentator wrote from Lagos.

Prime Minister of Birland Introduces Sovereign State in the USA California, USA

Her Royal Majesty Queen Eden Soriano Trinidad, the Prime Minister of the State of Birland in Bir Tawil land, Africa, has officially presented Birland to the United States during her visit to California.Birland, a sovereign country in the process of establishment, will commemorate its 9th Founding Anniversary on May 15, 2024, in California, USA.

This celebration symbolizes the resilience and aspirations of the Birland people.“This occasion marks the beginning of a new chapter for Birland,” stated Queen Eden. “As we embark on this journey, we extend our hand in friendship and cooperation to the global community, nurturing partnerships and collaborations for a prosperous future.”
During her visit, Prime Minister Queen Eden Soriano Trinidad forged significant support notably with Mayor Bill Zimmerman of Menifee City, and Mayor Lori Stone of Temecula California, USA as they proudly raised the Birland flag together. Additionally, she engaged with prominent figures such as Ambassador Dr. Lady Robbie Motter, the esteemed founder and president of the Global Society for Female Entrepreneurs-GSFE. Her itinerary included visits to iconic locales like Hollywood and Beverly Hills, where she introduced Birland State, amplifying its global presence.

About Birland State: Founded officially in 2015 by H.R.M. King Emir A. Haiyawi. Birland, also known as Bir Tawil land, is a desert located between Sudan and Egypt in the African continent.For further information about Birland and its initiatives. please visit https//: http://www.birland.net
or contact us at QueenEden@birlandstate.org
or ±1 951-723-7665

Written by Lukman Nurudeen