Nigeria Joins Nations With Globally Recognised Cartography Training Programme

Nigeria has entered a new era of maritime relevance following the international certification of its first nautical cartography programme by the International Hydrographic Organisation (IHO).

The recognition signals the nation’s rising influence within the global hydrographic community. The historic achievement was announced after the 49th meeting of the International Board on Standards of Competence for Hydrographic Surveyors and Nautical Cartographers (IBSC).

It marks a defining moment for Nigeria’s maritime education and technical capacity development, firmly positioning the country among a select league of nations with internationally accredited expertise in hydrography and nautical cartography.

According to a statement issued by the company’s media aide, Kunle Awosika, “Nigeria has taken a defining step onto the global maritime stage following the international certification of its first nautical cartography programme by the International Hydrographic Organisation (IHO), a landmark achievement widely regarded as a breakthrough for the nation’s hydrographic and maritime education sector.”

According to him, the milestone signals Nigeria’s emergence as a member of a select group of nations with globally recognised training programmes in nautical cartography and hydrographic sciences.

At the heart of this historic accomplishment is the visionary leadership of Rear Admiral Olumide Fadahunsi, the Hydrographer of the Federation and Chief Executive Officer of the National Hydrographic Agency (NHA), whose strategic drive continues to reposition Nigeria within the rapidly evolving global blue economy.

For a nation long defined by its strategic maritime corridors and vast coastal assets, the certification represents far more than institutional recognition. It is a bold affirmation of Nigeria’s growing technical capacity, intellectual competence, and commitment to international best practices in hydrography, navigation safety, and marine science development.

IHO was established in 2022 through legislation enacted by the National Assembly. The National Hydrographic Agency was conceived as Nigeria’s central authority for hydrographic and oceanographic operations.