Nigeria Contributes 85, 325 sq km To Global Seabed Mapping Initiative

Hydrographer of the Federation, Rear Admiral Ayodeji Olugbode, said Nigeria has contributed 85,325 square kilometres to the global seabed mapping initiative.

Olugbode, the chief executive officer (CEO) of the National Hydrography Agency (NHA), revealed this during a press conference on Tuesday in Abuja, during the World Hydrography Day celebration/West Africa Hydrographic Summit, with the theme “Seabed Mapping -Enabling Ocean Action.”

He pledged the agency’s commitment to mapping the West African coastlines to ensure the safety of vessels navigating within the region.

He noted that despite oceans covering 71 percent of the earth’s surface, only 26.1 percent has been mapped, hindering effective ocean governance.

Rear Admiral Olugbode stated that the West Africa Hydrographic Summit, scheduled for June 19 to 21 in Abuja, will bring together ECOWAS navies to discuss challenges and opportunities in maritime governance.

According to him, hydrography is the backdrop of maritime safety, economic development, environmental sustainability, and ocean governance.

Olugbode said, “The summit will chart the course for the future of hydrography in our region, towards global action.

“In 2025, we aim to firstly strengthen regional collaboration through the main West African Hydrographic Summit, foster joint surveys, and share data platforms, both virtually and institutionally.

“Two, we aim to feature keynote lectures and presentations, advocating hydrography and seabed mapping to support the Seabed 2030 Initiative, a global programme critical for the safety of navigation, climate resilience, environmental stewardship, and economic growth of the world.

“Thirdly, we hope to showcase innovations in hydrography technology through exhibitions and live demonstrations. Last year, we celebrated the role of hydrography in maritime safety. This year, we took a bold step by addressing regional gaps and aligning with global frameworks, as well as regional frameworks, like the African Continental Free Trade Agreement, the United Nations Sustainable Goal 12, titled Life Below Water.

“This emphasises the critical importance of the ocean and marine resources to human well-being and the planet and the health of the planet…which is a critical factor for the sustenance of mankind.”

At the national level, Rear Admiral Olugbode said that the National Hydrographic Office has effectively mapped the Lagos and Calabar coastlines under the national charting scheme.

He said, “There are some things that we put into place: the mapping and the water. One is the density of shipping traffic, which Lagos has.

“Second, is the mobility of the seabed. How often does the seabed move? That will determine the rapidity with which we map.”

He stated that the next area for mapping is the Bonny, adding that the mapping process is being conducted systematically.