The Nigerian Meteorological Agency (NiMet) and 3IS have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to strengthen cooperation on the ANTICIPA project in Nigeria, with a focus on using artificial intelligence to improve the delivery of climate information to communities.
The agreement was signed on 24 September 2026, as both organisations formalised their collaboration around the ANTICIPA initiative, which is currently being piloted in Sokoto State.
AI to support last-mile climate information
In his welcome remarks, NiMet Director General and Chief Executive Officer, Prof. Charles Anosike, highlighted the growing role of new technologies in delivering climate information to communities.
He said the technologies are important in taking climate information to the last mile in support of Early Warning for All, particularly through AI-driven solutions.
The ANTICIPA Project Manager, Pridon Japaridze, provided an overview of the initiative and explained how the project is being implemented in Sokoto State.
According to him, 3IS uses NiMet information and advanced technology to generate knowledge that helps communities strengthen resilience and improve lives.
The Sokoto pilot uses an AI-powered WhatsApp chatbot that receives NiMet forecasts and applies a decision tree to develop advisories for users.
The advisories are then delivered as text or voice messages in users’ preferred language, with Hausa currently available for the Sokoto State pilot.
Project could expand to other states
Prof. Anosike also emphasised the importance of the MoU and the potential for the project to be expanded to other states across Nigeria.
He further highlighted the possibility of collaboration with NiMet’s AI team on additional research and development aimed at supporting the sustainability of the project.
The agreement was signed on behalf of NiMet by Prof. Charles Anosike, while Hélène Pelisson signed on behalf of 3IS.
MoU sets framework for cooperation
The MoU establishes a formal framework for collaboration between NiMet and 3IS in relation to the ANTICIPA project.
It is expected to guide coordination, knowledge exchange, implementation planning and engagement with relevant stakeholders, in line with the provisions of the agreement.
The signing marks a step towards strengthening institutional cooperation around the project in Nigeria.
The next phase will focus on translating the commitments contained in the MoU into agreed activities and measurable outcomes.
Share this
