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SURVEYOR-GENERAL LAUDS NASRDA AS STRATEGIC PARTNER IN SURVEYING AND MAPPING INNOVATION
The Surveyor General of the Federation, Surv. Abdulganiyu Adebomehin, has emphasized the importance of Ministries, Departments, and Agencies (MDAs) sourcing satellite data from the National Space Research and Development Agency (NASRDA) rather than procuring such services from foreign providers.
He made the statement during a courtesy visit by the Director General of the National Space Research and Development Agency (NASRDA) and his management team to his office in Abuja.
Surv. Adebomehin said that relying on external sources for satellite data not only drains the country’s revenue in foreign currencies but also undermines national capacity building.
He highlighted the critical role of science and technology in modern surveying practices, particularly emphasizing the importance of Geographic Information Systems (GIS) and the digitization of data for national development.
The Surveyor General explained that while digitizing data is essential, the real value lies in translating that data into actionable insights and solutions that tackles real-life challenges.
Surv. Adebomehin also emphasized the urgent need for a satellite-based requisite system and modern software to facilitate comprehensive nationwide surveying, adding that NASRDA plays an integral role in the actualization of such project, which by extension, supports the mandate of the Office of Surveyor General of the Federation.
In aligning with this vision, the Surveyor General also addressed the growing challenge of brain drain, particularly among software engineers and tech professionals, saying MDAs should work together to create an enabling environment that not only stops the continued exodus of Nigerian talent, but also retains skilled professionals.
He expressed appreciation to NASRDA for its past financial and technical support, especially in the OSGOF program on land use analysis.
Surv. Adebomehin affirmed the full support of OSGOF for NASRDA’s initiatives and pledged continued collaboration in the shared mission of national transformation.
In his remarks, the Director General of NASRDA, Dr. Matthew Adepoju, stated that the Agency is willing and ready to collaborate with the Office of the Surveyor General of the Federation (OSGOF) in carrying out projects that promote national development.
He referenced his recent visit to the Minister of Steel Development, emphasizing that no single agency should be left to handle a task alone when multiple organizations and Agencies can collaborate to achieve a unified goal.
Dr Adepoju explained the Agency’s willingness to collaborate on national mapping saying that the most effective way to conduct mapping is through space technology, which, he added, has its origins in surveying.
The NASRDA Boss further revealed that the President has approved the launch of four new satellites for the Agency, one of which is a Synthetic Aperture Radar (SAR) satellite, which he said will significantly enhance surveying and mapping activities across the country.
Dr. Adepoju stated that the President has approved the commencement of space regulation and spectrum management by the Space Agency.
He stressed that the mismanagement of space-related activities has done more harm than good to the country, citing the rising cases of cancer linked to the unregulated planting of telecommunication masts in nooks and crannies of the country.
According to report compiled by Ninma Yacim and Joy Opaluwa
of Media and Corporate Communications of the Agency, the Director General concluded by thanking the Surveyor General for his humility and willingness to collaborate with the Space Agency, stating that collaboration is key to success of national projects and programs.
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