Federal Government gives nod to updated service framework for Nigerian Meteorological Agency

The Federal Government has given its seal of approval to the revised Scheme of Service for the Nigerian Meteorological Agency, a decision designed to bolster the agency's career framework, boost staff benefits, and enhance its capacity to fulfill its meteorological obligations.

n

This approval was formally communicated to NiMet's Director-General, Prof. Charles Anosike, via a letter dated July 9, 2026, from the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, signed on behalf of the Director of Organisation Design and Development.

n

The letter, titled "Re-Approval and Forwarding of the Reviewed Schemes of Service for the Nigerian Meteorological Agency," explained that the approval followed preliminary discussions and an in-depth field study conducted in accordance with the approved Standard Operating Procedure for reviewing Schemes of Service.

n

According to the letter, the review aimed to align NiMet's Scheme of Service with current developments in the Federal Public Service, address gaps in certain professional categories, strengthen career advancement opportunities for staff, and reflect the agency's specialized mandate as Nigeria's premier meteorological institution.

n

The approved Scheme of Service establishes a suitable career framework for the agency by incorporating Junior, Intermediate, and Professional/Officer cadre categories, consistent with existing public service policies.

n

The approval also takes into account NiMet's specialized professional categories while ensuring consistency with the approved Schemes of Service for the Federal Public Service.

n

The government instructed the agency to ensure strict adherence to the approved Scheme in line with Public Service Rules, establishment circulars, and other regulations governing appointments, promotions, career progression, conversions, and related personnel matters.

n

Furthermore, officers in the Junior and Intermediate cadres will only be able to progress beyond their terminal grade after obtaining the prescribed bachelor's degree or equivalent qualification through the approved conversion or upgrading process, in accordance with existing rules.

n

This approval comes months after the Federal Government approved a new unified salary structure and revised Conditions of Service for NiMet staff in April 2026, which took effect on June 1.

n

The revised Scheme of Service is expected to strengthen the agency's human resource framework and support its mandate of providing weather and climate information for critical sectors, including aviation, agriculture, maritime operations, and disaster risk management.

n

NiMet is also responsible for advising the Federal Government on meteorological matters, collecting and disseminating weather and climate data, supporting research, and enhancing national preparedness for climate-related challenges.