Abuja: The Hydrographer of the Federation, Rear Adm. Ayodeji Olugbode, has announced that Nigeria has made a substantial contribution of 85,325 square kilometers to the global seabed mapping initiative. This initiative is crucial as only 26.1 percent of the world’s oceans, which cover 71 percent of the earth’s surface, have been mapped, thereby affecting effective ocean governance.
According to News Agency of Nigeria, Olugbode made this announcement during a news conference in Abuja, held as part of the World Hydrography Day celebration and the West Africa Hydrographic Summit. He highlighted the efforts of the National Hydrographic Office in effectively mapping the Lagos and Calabar coastal lines under the national charting scheme. Olugbode pointed out that factors such as the density of shipping traffic in Lagos and the mobility of the seabed influence the mapping process. The next focus area for mapping is Bonny, with a systematic approach being adopted.
Olugbode also discussed the upcoming West Africa Hydrographic Summit, which will take place from June 19 to June 21 in Abuja. The summit aims to bring together navies from ECOWAS countries to address challenges and opportunities in maritime governance. He emphasized that hydrography serves as the foundation for maritime safety, economic development, environmental sustainability, and ocean governance.
The summit will aim to strengthen regional collaboration, foster joint surveys, and share data platforms, both virtually and institutionally, by 2025. Keynote lectures and presentations will advocate for hydrography and seabed mapping to support the Seabed 2030 Initiative. This global program is vital for navigation safety, climate resilience, environmental stewardship, and economic growth. The summit will also feature innovations in hydrography technology through exhibitions and live demonstrations.
Last year, the focus was on the role of hydrography in maritime safety. This year’s conference seeks to address regional gaps and align with global frameworks, including the African-Continental Free Trade Agreement and the United Nations Sustainable Goal 12, titled Life Below Water. Olugbode underscored the significance of the ocean and marine resources for human well-being and the health of the planet, which is essential for the sustenance of mankind.