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By Kabir Abdulsalam
The Federal Government today unveiled revised hydrographic charts and a catalogue for the Nigerian Navy to enhance maritime safety, efficiency, and sustainability.
Speaking at the 2024 World Hydrography Day celebration in Abuja, Minister of Defence Muhammed Badaru Abubakar emphasized the importance of geographic information, efficiency, and sustainability in maritime activities.
He said the new approaches to Lagos Chart, Revised National Charting Scheme and Catalogue of Nigerian Charts produced by the National Hydrographic Agency are expected to enhance the efficiency of maritime activities, reduce operational costs, and increase competitiveness.
He highlighted the critical role of national hydrographic agencies in promoting environmental sustainability and balancing economic growth with environmental protection.
The minister praised the Nigerian Navy’s instrumental role in protecting the nation’s waters and providing accurate geographic information, which is crucial for the country’s economic growth.
He also acknowledged the efforts of national geographic agencies in supporting sustainable maritime activities, mitigating coastal erosion, and addressing the impacts of climate change.
The minister reaffirmed the government’s commitment to leveraging hydrographic information to ensure safety, efficiency, and sustainability in maritime activities, driving Nigeria’s economic development and prosperity.
In his remarks, the Chief of Naval Staff, Vice Admiral Emmanuel Ogalla, noted that the celebration is coming at a time when Africa is harnessing the potentials of the Blue Economy for prosperity, and the Nigerian Navy is collaborating with the National Hydrographic Agency to actualize this feat through systematic mapping of Nigerian waters.
The CNS highlighted the Nigerian Navy’s efforts to support hydrography, including the acquisition of two hydrographic survey ships, NNS LANA and NNS OCHUZO, equipped with state-of-the-art technology to produce updated navigational charts for maritime stakeholders.
He expressed gratitude to the President, Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces, and other stakeholders for their support.
The event marked a significant milestone in Nigeria’s journey to enhance its hydrographic capabilities, with the government poised to harness the full potential of the nation’s resources and opportunities to elevate its economic status.
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