Resource Centre to host workshop on climate prediction, flood forecasting

The Human and Environmental Development Agenda (HEDA Resource Centre) and its partners are set to host a train-the-trainer workshop on the interpretation and application of climate prediction and flood forecasting tools.

This is contained in a statement signed by Mr Salako Nurudeen, Communications Manager at HEDA, and made available on Tuesday in Lagos state.

Nurudeen said that HEDA would organise the workshop in collaboration with the Nigeria Meteorological Agency (NiMet) and the Nigeria Hydrological Services Agency (NIHSA).

According to him, the initiative is part of the African Activists for Climate Justice project, in partnership with Oxfam and Community Action for Food Security.

He said that the workshop had been scheduled to take place in Abuja, Akwa-Ibom, Kano, Adamawa and Oyo, from Dec. 18 to Dec. 27.

He said that the workshop aimed to address persistent challenges associated with dissemination and understanding of climate-related information in Nigeria.

He quoted HEDA’s Executive Secretary, Mr Sulaimon Arigbabu, as saying that in spite of the timely and reliable Seasonal Climate Predictions (SCP) and flood forecasts provided by NiMet and NIHSA, there was still a significant gap in the interpretation and practical use of the information at the grassroots.

“Key stakeholders, such as environmental and agricultural development officers, often face difficulties translating these forecasts into actionable plans.

“This gap increases vulnerabilities in critical areas like agriculture, food security and disaster preparedness, especially as climate shocks like floods and droughts continue to have severe consequences,” Nurudeen quoted Arigbabu as saying.

He said that the workshop aimed to bridge information gap by enhancing the technical capacity of environmental and agricultural officers.

He said that participants would learn advanced skills to accurately interpret SCP and flood forecasts and apply the knowledge to guide communities in adopting climate-resilient practices.

He added that the capacity building would support decision-making within state ministries of agriculture, as well as support environment and planning, ultimately improving climate-responsive planning and interventions.

He said that the workshop would also address barriers to effective communication of climate forecasts.

“These barriers include language challenges, technical complexity and inadequate outreach strategies.

“By overcoming these obstacles, the project will ensure that climate data reaches and benefits those who need it most, enhancing the resilience of Nigerian communities to climate risks.

“This workshop will strengthen collaboration between NiMet, NIHSA, HEDA and regional stakeholders, aiming to improve access to climate information for frontline communities.

“The initiative further reflects HEDA’s commitment to promoting sustainable development, environmental justice and community resilience in the face of climate challenges.”

NAN / Foluke Ibitomi