The Nigerian Institution of Surveyors (NIS) officially began its 59th Annual General Meeting (AGM) on Tuesday in Enugu, choosing the theme “Harnessing Geospatial Intelligence in the New World.” The gathering took place at the International Conference Centre (ICC) and drew members from across the country.

Speaking at the opening ceremony, the outgoing NIS President, Surv. Dr. Mathew Ibitoye, praised Governor Peter Mbah of Enugu State for his remarkable infrastructure projects and vision for the state. He singled out the establishment of the Enugu State Geographical Information System (ENGIS) as a game-changer for data-driven development and urban planning.

He also applauded the Governor for projects like the ICC itself, the New Enugu City, and a recently completed 5-star hotel, describing them as “monumental strides” that place Enugu on the map of fast-developing Nigerian cities.

Focusing on the AGM theme, Dr. Ibitoye emphasized the importance of geospatial intelligence in addressing today’s challenges—such as climate change, rapid urban growth, food insecurity, and disaster management. He explained that the integration of geospatial tools and data supports sound decision-making, aligning well with the UN’s Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

Dr. Ibitoye called for the creation of a comprehensive National Geospatial Data Infrastructure (NGDI) to support President Bola Tinubu’s developmental agenda, particularly around infrastructure. He noted that while geospatial intelligence was once reserved for military use, it now plays a key role in civil sectors like agriculture, governance, environmental protection, and emergency response.

However, he acknowledged some obstacles to its wider use, including limited funding, inadequate data access, lack of trained professionals, and data privacy concerns. He urged stakeholders to invest more in training, infrastructure, and collaboration across sectors.

As Dr. Ibitoye prepares to hand over leadership to Chief Surveyor Chukwuemeka Ezeh from Enugu State, he assured attendees of his continued commitment to advancing the profession.

Declaring the event open, Governor Peter Mbah—represented by Secretary to the State Government, Prof. Chidiebere Onyia—welcomed the surveyors to Enugu and thanked them for choosing the city for their AGM. He condemned the rise of unqualified practitioners in the field, warning that the activities of quacks threaten not only professional standards but also public safety, as they often trigger land disputes and community clashes.

Governor Mbah revealed that his administration is taking active steps to tackle quackery, including creating frameworks that will empower citizens to identify and report unlicensed surveyors. He asked the NIS to work with his government in sanitizing the profession in the state.

Highlighting his administration’s milestones, the Governor spoke of the 260 Smart Schools, 260 Primary Health Centres, and 260 farm settlements—one in each political ward of the state. He said these initiatives were made more efficient and transparent through the implementation of ENGIS, which also helps reduce land-related conflicts.

The Enugu State branch chairman of NIS, Surv. Emmanuel Nnamani, echoed these praises. He said the state's impressive transformation under Governor Mbah was a key reason Enugu was selected as host. He added that the Governor clearly understands the critical role of surveying in achieving sustainable development.

Also present was the keynote speaker, former Minister of Power, Prof. Chinedu Nebo, who gave an insightful talk on geospatial intelligence. He highlighted its role in improving food security, promoting irrigation, reducing environmental degradation, and enhancing resource management. Prof. Nebo called on the Federal Government to take GEOINT seriously as a vital tool for national development.

The AGM also featured technical presentations, exhibitions, and networking opportunities. Over 1,000 professionals from across Nigeria attended, marking another milestone in the Institution’s commitment to advancing geospatial science in nation-building. Chief Surveyor Chukwuemeka Ezeh and his newly elected executive team officially took over the reins of leadership at the event.