The Hydrographer of the Federation and CEO of the National Hydrography Agency (NHA), Rear Admiral Ayo Olugbode, has reaffirmed Nigeria’s commitment to advancing the blue economy and maritime safety through improved hydrographic data. Speaking at the World Hydrography Day and West Africa Hydrographic Summit in Abuja, themed “Seabed Mapping – Enabling Ocean Action,” Olugbode emphasized the agency’s role in promoting safe navigation, trade, and regional competitiveness.
Olugbode highlighted Nigeria’s contribution of over 85,000 square kilometers to the global seabed mapping initiative and outlined efforts to tap into the $90 billion global Electronic Navigational Chart market, targeting an annual revenue of $12 million. He noted the NHA’s expanded charting capabilities, partnerships with academia, private sector, and the Nigerian Navy, and collaboration with international bodies such as the IC-ENC and IBS.
He stressed that hydrography is key not only to navigation and safety but also to coastal planning, marine conservation, disaster risk reduction, and sustainable fisheries.
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Cross River State Governor, Senator Bassey Otu, represented by Deputy Governor Peter Odey, praised the NHA’s recent Bakassi Deep Seaport survey, calling it a milestone for national and regional trade enhancement. The Obong of Calabar, Ekpo Okon Abasi-Otu V, urged greater investment in ocean literacy and an inclusive blue economy, emphasizing the cultural and economic significance of Nigeria’s coastal waters.
Rear Admiral Luigi Sinapi of the International Hydrographic Organisation (IHO) described the summit as proof of Africa’s growing influence in global hydrography, highlighting its role in climate resilience, offshore energy, and sustainable marine development.
