Surveyor General Calls for Increased Funding as Minister of State for Works Visits Office
By Gloria Sarauniya Usman
ABUJA, NIGERIA November, 2024 - The Honourable Minister of State for Works, Muhammad Bello Goronyo Esq., paid a familiarization visit to the Office of the Surveyor General of the Federation (OSGoF) today. During the visit, the Surveyor General, Surv. Abuduganiyu Adebomehin, emphasized the need for increased funding to address Nigeria's geospatial information demands and enhance the office's operations.
In his welcome address, Surv. Adebomehin highlighted the pivotal role of OSGoF in Nigeria's development, stating, "Established in the early 1900s, the Office of the Surveyor General has consistently defined Nigeria's territorial boundaries and supported national development. It remains the custodian of the country’s geospatial information and serves as a critical resource for sustainable national planning."
He outlined the office’s constitutional mandate, which includes providing geospatial data for the federal government and its agencies. However, he noted several challenges, including inadequate funding for critical projects such as the establishment of Continuously Operating Reference Stations (CORS). He revealed that only 51 of the 200 required stations had been developed, largely through private sector support.
"CORS is crucial for modern initiatives such as mechanized farming, search and rescue operations, and combating insurgency. Without adequate funding, we cannot fully address boundary demarcations across Nigeria's 36 states and the Federal Capital Territory," he added.
The Minister of State for Works, Muhammad Bello Goronyo, acknowledged the importance of mapping and geospatial data in national development, emphasizing that it is a cornerstone for effective planning across various sectors. "Mapping data is vital for agriculture, water resources, and other ministries. It also plays a critical role in addressing security challenges and fostering economic prosperity," the Minister stated.
He praised OSGoF's accomplishments despite the challenges and underscored the office’s relevance to achieving the federal government’s Renewed Hope Agenda. The Minister also conducted an on-the-spot assessment of the office’s infrastructure and pledged his support for addressing the pressing issues, including staff welfare and funding gaps.
"The Office of the Surveyor General is essential for driving progress, and I am committed to ensuring it receives the recognition and resources it deserves," the Minister affirmed.
The visit signifies a renewed commitment to collaboration between the Ministry of Works and the Office of the Surveyor General, aiming to enhance the nation’s geospatial capabilities and support its developmental goals.
The Press Release was e-signed
by Sani Datti,Head of Press and Public Relations.
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