The Office of the Surveyor General of the Federation (OSGoF) has organised the 2024 Survey Coordination Conference and Advisory Board on Survey Training under the theme, “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, academics and professionals to discuss strategies for advancing Nigeria’s geospatial and surveying industry.
In his welcome address, the Surveyor General of the Federation, Surv. Abuduganiyu Adebomehin, emphasized the critical role of geospatial data and technologies in driving national transformation, economic planning and sustainable development. He stressed the importance of capacity building, innovative training programmes and stronger partnerships to position Nigeria as a leader in geospatial technology and data management.
“I am confident that this conference will serve as a catalyst for repositioning our profession, revitalising the geospatial sector and ensuring that survey and mapping remain at the forefront of Nigeria’s developmental agenda,” Adebomehin said. “Our discussions and resolutions today will focus on strengthening surveys at all levels, enhancing capacity building through robust training programmes and fostering partnerships that advance Nigeria’s leadership in geospatial technology and data management.”
Delivering the keynote address, the president of the Nigerian Institution of Surveyors (NIS), Surv. Matthew Ibitoye called for an urgent review of the outdated Survey Coordination Act to align it with contemporary technological advancements and global best practices. He praised OSGoF for organising the event and reaffirmed the NIS’s commitment to advancing the surveying profession and supporting national development initiatives.
“It is essential to reflect on the Survey Coordination Act of 1962 and its subsequent amendment in 1968. This legislation placed the vital responsibility of coordinating survey activities nationwide and enforcing relevant regulations on the Office of the Surveyor General of the Federation (OSGoF). However, the rapid advancements in surveying instruments, methods and technologies have outpaced the provisions of this Act. The inability of the Act to accommodate these advancements has rendered it ineffective in certain critical areas,” Ibitoye stated.
Earlier, the director of survey coordination, Surv. Semiu Ayinde outlined the conference’s objectives, which included addressing key challenges, exploring opportunities and developing strategies for effective survey coordination. “Our goal is to enhance collaboration, improve data quality and advance our collective mission,” Ayinde said.
The conference tackled significant issues in the surveying sector, such as technological gaps, outdated practices and insufficient training. Participants explored solutions to improve the quality of geospatial data to support effective decision-making. Stakeholders highlighted the critical role of geospatial information in governance, infrastructure development, environmental management and disaster resilience.
The event underscored the importance of innovation, inclusiveness and sustained investment in the geospatial sector to meet 21st-century demands. Resolutions adopted at the conference will inform future policies and initiatives, reinforcing the pivotal role of surveys and geospatial data in shaping Nigeria’s future.
