The Hydrographer of the Federation and Chief Executive Officer of the National Hydrographic Agency (NHA), Rear Admiral Olumide Fadahunsi, has underscored the importance of accurate hydrographic data in promoting maritime safety and effective ocean governance.
He said the data is critical for safe navigation, sustainable exploitation of marine resources, environmental protection and informed decision-making across the maritime sector.
Fadahunsi made this known at a world press conference in Abuja to announce the 2026 World Hydrography Day (WHD) celebration.
He said hydrography remains the foundation of maritime development and security, adding that sustained investment in surveying and charting is necessary for maritime safety and economic growth.
According to him, “Hydrography remains the bedrock of maritime safety, ocean governance and environmental protection. Accurate charts and ocean-data products derived from modern surveys are essential for safe navigation, port development, offshore energy, submarine cable and pipeline routing, fisheries management and coastal-resilience planning.”
He added that improved organisation and sharing of ocean data through modern systems would reduce navigational risks and strengthen maritime trade and safety.
Fadahunsi also disclosed that the plenary session of the 2026 WHD celebration will hold on 20 June 2026 at the Lagos Oriental Hotel.
He said the event will bring together experts, policymakers, researchers and industry stakeholders to discuss improved ocean-data sharing for maritime safety and blue economy growth.
He noted that Nigeria’s participation in the celebration aligns with global frameworks such as the United Nations Sustainable Development Goal 14 on life below water and the UN Decade of Ocean Science for Sustainable Development.
Fadahunsi called on the media to support awareness by highlighting the importance of hydrography and modern ocean-data systems.
The 2026 World Hydrography Day is themed “Transforming How Ocean Data is Shared,” focusing on modern standards for marine navigation and data exchange.
Linus Aleke
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