At National Conference, Nasarawa Surveyors Appeal for Upgraded State Office to Harness Geospatial Data for Development

When it comes to land resources management, Nasarawa State is determined to remain at the forefront. This commitment was evident as state members of the Nigerian Institution of Surveyors (NIS) recently attended the 56th Annual General Meeting (AGM) and Conference in Enugu a pivotal gathering of top surveying experts addressing critical challenges and innovations in geospatial sciences.

The state delegation was led by Surveyor Ishaya Makama, the Nasarawa State Surveyor-General, who joined peers nationwide to explore solutions to emerging societal issues under the conference theme: “Harnessing Geospatial Intelligence: Innovation and Opportunities for Sustainable Development.

In his keynote address, Professor Chinedu Nebo, Vice-Chancellor of the University of Nigeria, emphasized that geospatial intelligence has become a transformative force in global development. He highlighted its integration with cutting-edge technologies like AI, machine learning, remote sensing, and big data analytics, calling it an indispensable tool for Nigeria’s sustainable growth.

“Geospatial intelligence is vital for powering Nigeria’s socioeconomic progress,” Professor Nebo stated. “It is crucial that policymakers recognize the expertise of surveyors, town planners, and regional development specialists in governance, particularly within regional development commissions.”

The President of the Nigerian Institution of Surveyors (NIS), Surv. Dr. Matthew Olomolatan, in his address, disclosed that the surveying and geoinformatics profession continues to play a pivotal role in the acquisition, processing, and management of geospatial data in response to complex environmental and development challenges.

He stressed that it is time to establish a coordinated National Geospatial Data Infrastructure in line with global best practices. “Such a framework will significantly support the actualization of President Tinubu’s seven-point agenda, especially in the area of infrastructural development, positioning geospatial intelligence as a key enabler of national progress,” he said.

The Enugu State Governor, in his opening remarks, described the conference as more than a routine professional meeting but a critical platform for shaping the future of environmental management, urban development, and national planning.

With Nasarawa State actively engaging in such high-level discussions, the state reinforces its dedication to advancing surveying standards and leveraging geospatial innovation for sustainable development.

A major resolution from the conference was the urgent need for state governments to establish or upgrade the Office of the Surveyor-General to an extra-ministerial department. This move was highlighted as fundamental to implementing the conference's theme and harnessing geospatial intelligence for sustainable development.

The Surveyor General of the Federation has repeatedly appealed to states that have not yet upgraded their Surveyor-General's office to seek guidance from his office, and for those who have begun the process to expedite it.

The reason behind this call is the office's critical role in providing reliable and up-to-date geospatial information. This data is essential for effective planning in various sectors, including infrastructure, agriculture, and urban development. As surveying and mapping are fundamental to national development, accurate spatial data is crucial for infrastructural projects, resource management, and national security. Establishing a dedicated, empowered State Office of the Surveyor General ensures this vital data is readily available and managed effectively for state governance and development.

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