The Director General, National Space Research and Development Agency, NASRDA, Dr. Ahmad Shaba has emphasized the need for the promotion and utilization of cutting-edge technologies, like Geographic Information Systems (GIS) infrastructure, for the achievement of the seventeen Sustainable Development Goals (SDG’s).
Dr. Shaba who spoke through the Head of Cadastral and Urban Mapping, Department of Strategic Space Application, Dr. Aliyu Mustapha, said this at the opening ceremony of the State of the Map Conference at the agency’s headquarters in Abuja.
The NASRDA Boss therefore called for collective effort among stakeholders in overcoming the challenges, as well as exploring the benefits inherent in the geospatial data infrastructure.
Dr. Shaba therefore urged participants to explore perspectives that align with sustainable development goals(SDG’s) and also contribute to the responsible use of geospatial technologies for societal benefit.
In his remarks, the Chairman of the Advisory Board, Unique Mappers Network, Prof. Joel Umeuduji, expressed his heartfelt appreciation to the organizing committee for their meticulous efforts in putting together the conference, stating that the conference will address crucial issues that intersect technology, sustainability, and humanitarian efforts. Prof. Umeuduji explained that the global desire to enhance human comfort through sustainable development places a strong emphasis on aligning actions with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
He added that a major highlight is the promotion of initiatives such as the monthly Mapathon by the Unique Mappers Team, which will contribute to open access to spatial data for developers.
Prof. Umeuduji charged participants to seize the opportunity to engage in fruitful discussions and exchange ideas, as the conference aims to encourage youth mappers to make mapathons not only impactful but also enjoyable, as it fosters a sense of community engagement.
Grace Jacob
Media and Corporate Communications
