The Office of the Surveyor-General of the Federation (OSGOF) has embarked on a groundbreaking project to develop a high-resolution topographical map of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Abuja, using advanced drone technology. This initiative represents a significant leap forward in Nigeria’s adoption of geospatial data for sustainable development and the creation of smart cities. Surveyor-General Abuduganiyu Adebomehin announced the project during a workshop in Abuja, emphasizing its importance as a crucial step towards aligning Nigeria with global advancements in geospatial technology. The workshop, organized by OSGOF in collaboration with PLACE, a U.S.-based organization, focused on utilizing high-resolution drone imagery and street-view data collected from parts of the Abuja Municipal Area Council (AMAC) to construct the detailed map.
This project marks a significant milestone for Nigeria, placing it at the forefront of geospatial innovation in Africa. The utilization of drone technology for large-scale mapping allows for the collection of highly detailed and accurate data, surpassing the limitations of traditional surveying methods. The 17,000 images being processed require cloud-based solutions for efficient handling, underscoring the project’s technological sophistication. Adebomehin stressed the transformative potential of geospatial information and management in shaping the world, highlighting the importance of Nigeria’s proactive approach. He attributed the project’s success to the “Renewed Hope Agenda” and the support received from government ministers who facilitated the necessary approvals.
The advanced mapping technology employed in this project offers a wide range of applications, extending beyond mere topographical representation. It holds the potential to revolutionize various sectors, including search and rescue operations, security enhancement, and disaster management. Adebomehin emphasized the technology’s ability to provide timely disaster alerts and aid in locating individuals during emergencies, further highlighting its potential to curb insecurity by providing real-time surveillance capabilities. He called for inter-agency collaboration to fully leverage the transformative potential of this innovation and maximize its benefits for the nation. This project further signifies Nigeria’s commitment to harnessing technology for national development.
Azeez Afeez, Head of Photogrammetry and Remote Sensing at OSGOF, elaborated on the organization’s mandate, which includes coordinating survey and mapping activities and disseminating precise geospatial data. He explained that the new mapping technology could be instrumental in addressing various humanitarian challenges, enhancing agricultural practices, improving disaster response mechanisms, and bolstering national security. Afeez drew parallels with South Korea’s use of digital twin technology for real-time monitoring of airport movements, highlighting its potential applications in Nigeria for border control, airport security, and urban planning. He underscored the transformative potential of digital twin technology in creating smart cities and enabling autonomous land management in Nigeria.
The concept of a “digital twin” refers to a virtual representation of a physical asset or system. This digital replica allows for simulations, analyses, and modifications to be performed in the virtual environment before implementation in the real world. In the context of urban planning, a digital twin of a city can be used to model and optimize various aspects, such as traffic flow, infrastructure development, and resource management. This technology empowers urban planners to make informed decisions based on simulated scenarios, minimizing risks and maximizing efficiency. It provides a powerful tool for creating sustainable and resilient urban environments, paving the way for smarter cities that can adapt to the ever-evolving needs of their citizens.
The OSGOF project signifies a paradigm shift in Nigeria’s geospatial capabilities, enabling more efficient and effective land management, urban planning, and disaster response. By embracing cutting-edge technology, Nigeria is positioning itself as a leader in geospatial innovation in Africa. The development of a detailed topographical map of the FCT is just the first step towards a future where geospatial data plays a pivotal role in driving sustainable development and creating smarter, more resilient cities across the nation. This project promises substantial benefits for Nigeria’s development, laying the groundwork for advancements in various sectors and positioning the nation at the forefront of geospatial technology in Africa.
