Nigerian Meteorology Agency (NiMet) is seeking the power to issue regulations without external approval, citing the need for timely and effective governance in the sector.
Gatekeepers News reports that NiMet Director-General Charles Anosike made the request during a public hearing on a bill to amend the Nigerian Meteorological Agency Establishment Act, 2022.
According to Anosike, granting NiMet regulatory autonomy is essential for eliminating delays and administrative bottlenecks associated with the current approval process.
“Granting NiMet this regulation-making autonomy is essential for timely and effective governance in a sector that is both data-driven and highly responsive to climate disasters,” he said.
Anosike noted that the proposed amendment would allow NiMet to develop, issue, and revise regulations, rules, and guidelines independently, without requiring further external approval. This approach, he said, mirrors the regulatory autonomy granted to the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) under the NCAA Act, 2022.
The bill, according to Tajudeen Abisodun, chairman of the House of Representatives Committee on Aviation Technology, seeks to amend the NiMet Act to enhance the effectiveness and efficiency of the meteorological agency.
Abisodun emphasised the vital role NiMet plays in ensuring the safety of lives and property, particularly in the aviation sector.
The Speaker of the House, Tajudeen Abbas, represented by Deputy Chief Whip Ibrahim Isiaka, pledged to support NiMet in achieving its mandate.
