L-R Rep DG NASRDA, Godtimes Kadiri, Surveyor General of the Federation, Abdulganiyu Adebomehin, Nigerian Institution of Surveyors, Dr. Matthew Ibitoye and Ekiti State Surveyor General at the 2024 Survey Coordination and Advisory Board on Surveying training Conference in Abuja.
OSGoF Hosts 2024 Survey Coordination Conference: Paving the Way for Nigeria's Geospatial Advancement
By Gloria Sarauniya Usman
ABUJA, NIGERIA December, 2024 -The Office of the Surveyor General of the Federation (OSGoF) has successfully hosted the 2024 Survey Coordination Conference and Advisory Board on Survey Training. Themed “Repositioning the Nigerian Geospatial Space for the Renewed Hope Agenda and Sustainable Economic Growth,” the event brought together Surveyor Generals from the 36 states and the Federal Capital Territory, along with academics and industry professionals, to discuss strategies for advancing Nigeria's geospatial and surveying sector.
Delivering his welcome address, the Surveyor General of the Federation, Surv. Abuduganiyu Adeyemi Adebomehin, stressed the transformative potential of geospatial data and technologies for national development. He emphasized the need for capacity building, innovative training, and strategic collaborations to position Nigeria as a leader in geospatial technology.
“I am confident that this conference will serve as a catalyst for repositioning our profession, revitalizing the geospatial sector, and ensuring that survey and mapping remain at the forefront of Nigeria’s developmental agenda,” Adebomehin stated. He further highlighted the importance of strengthening survey practices at all levels and fostering partnerships to enhance Nigeria’s capacity in geospatial data management.
In his keynote address, the President of the Nigerian Institution of Surveyors (NIS), Surv. Dr. Matthew Olomolatan Ibitoye, advocated for an urgent review of the outdated Survey Coordination Act. He called for amendments that reflect current technological advancements and align with global best practices.
“It is essential to revisit the Survey Coordination Act of 1962 and its amendment in 1968. While the Act was progressive for its time, rapid advancements in surveying instruments and technologies have surpassed its provisions, rendering it ineffective in critical areas,” he remarked. Dr. Ibitoye commended OSGoF for convening the conference and reiterated NIS’s dedication to advancing the profession and contributing to national development.
The Director of Survey Coordination, Surv. Semiu Ayinde, outlined the conference’s objectives, which included addressing challenges, exploring opportunities, and developing strategies for effective survey coordination. “Our goal is to enhance collaboration, improve data quality, and advance our collective mission,” he stated.
Participants deliberated on pressing challenges in the surveying sector, including technological gaps, outdated practices, and insufficient training. Discussions focused on innovative solutions to improve the quality and utilization of geospatial data for decision-making.
The conference concluded with resolutions emphasizing innovation, inclusiveness, and sustained investment in the geospatial space to meet 21st-century demands. These resolutions will inform future policies and initiatives, reinforcing the pivotal role of geospatial data in governance, infrastructure development, environmental management, and disaster resilience.
The Press Release was signed by
Sani Datti, Head, Press and Public Relations.
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