By Abdulrazak Usman
The Surveyor General of the Federation (SGOF), Surv. Abduganiyu Adeyemi Adebomehin, has met with members of the Forum of States Surveyors General of Nigeria (FOSSGON) to deliberate on advancing Nigeria’s surveying sector and improving land administration systems across the country. The strategic meeting was held this weekend at the headquarters of the Office of the Surveyor General of the Federation (OSGOF) in Abuja.
In his remarks, Adebomehin emphasized the need for stronger synergy between federal and state surveying institutions, noting that integrating States Surveyors General into national decision-making structures would significantly improve policy outcomes.
“We need to move the States Surveyors General closer to the Federal level so they can fully participate in major national decisions,” he said.
Speaking on Geographic Information Systems (GIS) and land management, the SGOF highlighted the success of Abuja’s digital mapping project, which captured thousands of housing units. He stressed the importance of demonstrating the return on investment to the Federal Government.
“Digital mapping has proven its value. We must present a strong case to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu. By writing to state governors, we can begin preparations for nationwide digital twin mapping and enhance collaboration between federal and state surveyors,” he stated.
Adebomehin further encouraged FOSSGON members to identify skilled officers and motivate them through training and incentives. He disclosed that OSGOF has been undergoing specialized training with Chinese partners on advanced software and digital twin mapping technologies.
“With our new software that recognizes African building models, we are ready for the second phase of Abuja’s digital twin mapping. Our target is to map the entire country using aircraft. Developing our own capacity is essential, and I urge all states to embrace this vision,” he added.
In her remarks, Surv. Charity Michael, Director of Surveying and Mapping at the Federal Capital Development Authority (FCDA), commended the SGOF for his reforms, describing them as a lasting legacy for the surveying profession.
“You have created structures that will outlive your administration. We are grateful,” she noted. She also advocated the elevation of survey offices to extra-ministerial departments, calling for the same upgrade in the FCT. She expressed concerns over non-surveyors handling GIS data in some states and emphasized that land administration systems should be managed by professional surveyors.
The Chairman of FOSSGON and Surveyor General of Adamawa State, Surv. Pwavidon Simon, expressed gratitude to OSGOF for restoring the agency to its rightful prominence.
“We came to deepen collaboration and express our joy. Under your leadership, OSGOF has regained its national relevance since independence. We commend the confidence President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has placed in you,” he said.
Surveyor General of Osun State, Surv. Soladoye Abioye, congratulated Adebomehin on his tenure extension and OSGOF’s elevation to the Presidency. He appealed for the reconstitution of the Surveyors Council of Nigeria (SURCON), noting that the absence of a council has halted professional examinations and is affecting appropriations and manpower development.
He further called for improved cooperation between federal agencies and states, especially with bodies like the National Population Commission and INEC, to minimize boundary-related disputes.
The meeting reached a high point when FOSSGON members jointly presented a gift to the Surveyor General in recognition of his outstanding contributions and notable achievements, particularly the repositioning of OSGOF within the Presidency.
In his closing remarks, Surv. Duniya Magaji, Head of Geodesy at OSGOF, thanked FOSSGON for their continued support and collaboration. He wished all delegates safe travels back to their respective states.
