The Nigerian Meteorology Agency (NiMet) is seeking the power to issue regulations without external approval.
Charles Anosike, director-general of NiMet, made the request on Tuesday during a public hearing organised by the house of representatives committee on aviation technology on a bill to amend the Nigerian Meteorological Agency Establishment Act, 2022.
“To ensure transparency, accountability, and stakeholder engagement, the proposed amendment includes a provision mandating the agency to consult relevant stakeholders during the rule-making process,” Anosike said.
“Additionally, it introduces the power to impose penalties for non-compliance, reinforcing the enforceability of NiMet’s regulations.
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“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.
“We are also proposing an amendment to section 43 of the NiMet Act to grant the agency express authority to develop, issue, and revise regulations, rules, and guidelines independently, without requiring further external approval.
“This approach mirrors the regulatory autonomy granted to the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) under the NCAA Act, 2022.”
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Anosike said the amendment is critical to “eliminating the delays and administrative bottlenecks currently associated with the approval process”.
Tajudeen Abisodun, chairman of the committee, said the bill seeks to amend the NiMet Act to enhance the effectiveness and efficiency of the meteorological agency.
He said the agency plays a vital role in ensuring the safety of lives and property, particularly in the aviation sector.
The committee chairman said the amendment focuses on sections of the Act to enhance the agency’s capacity to provide accurate advisories.
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Tajudeen Abbas, speaker of the house, represented by Ibrahim Isiaka, the deputy chief whip, pledged to support NiMet in achieving its mandate.
