Matazu gets UN top job

A former Director-General of Nigerian Meteorological Agency (NiMet) has been appointed by the United Nations (UN) as UN expert on Early Warning and Disaster Management Operations at the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) Commission.

Consequently, the African Centre of Meteorological Application for Development (ACMAD) has congratulated him on the appointment.

Matazu, now based at the ECOWAS Disaster Operations Centre in Abuja, Nigeria, brings a wealth of experience and expertise to his new role.

Prior to his appointment, Matazu served as Expert in Climate Services Applications at ACMAD, where he contributed significantly to the development and implementation of climate services for the benefit of African countries.

His work at ACMAD focused on providing critical climate information and services to support decision-making in various sectors, including agriculture, health, and disaster risk reduction.

Before joining ACMAD, Matazur held the position of Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of the Nigerian Meteorological Agency (NiMet), where he played a key role in shaping the country’s meteorological services.

During his tenure as CEO NiMet, Professor Matazu oversaw the development of the agency’s strategic plan, which aimed to improve its capacity to provide accurate and reliable weather forecasts and warnings to support national development.

Matazu’s experience and expertise extend beyond his work at NiMet and ACMAD. He has also served as Chairman of the ACMAD Board, where he provided strategic guidance and oversight to the organization.

His leadership and technical expertise have been instrumental in shaping the direction of ACMAD and promoting the use of climate services for sustainable development in Africa.

In his new role at ECOWAS, Professor Matazu will be responsible for providing technical expertise and support to member states on early warning and disaster management operations.

He will work closely with national authorities, regional organizations, and international partners to strengthen disaster risk reduction and climate resilience in West Africa.

ACMAD has expressed its warm congratulations to Professor Matazu on his new appointment and wishes him every success in his new role.

The organization expressed its confidence in Professor Matazu’s technical expertise and experience, which will enable him to make a significant contribution to strengthening disaster risk reduction and climate resilience in West Africa.

The appointment is a testament to Matazu’s  expertise and commitment to promoting sustainable development and disaster risk reduction in Africa.

His new work at ECOWAS will be critical in supporting the region’s efforts to build resilience to climate-related disasters and promote sustainable development.

Wole Shadare