…as SGOF Hits Back at Critics, Defends Office’s Move to Presidency
By Joy Odor Abuja
The Federal Government’s groundbreaking blueprint to map Nigeria is set to revolutionize the nation’s infrastructure, and the Surveyor General of the Federation (SGOF), Surv. Abuduganiyu Adeyemi Adebomehin, has firmly declared that the initiative is on track, despite attempts by some to halt it through court action.
Speaking during a meeting with the Abuja branch of the Nigerian Institution of Surveyors (NIS) in his office, Adebomehin made it clear that those challenging the transfer of the Office of Surveyor General of the Federation (OSGOF) to the Presidency are essentially “fighting a presidential order.”
The SGOF stressed that the visionary agenda of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, which includes the modernization and digital mapping of Nigeria, is vital for national progress.
“The last time Nigeria was fully mapped was in the 1970s. His Excellency President Tinubu is deeply invested in this project, and no one can contest the presidential directive,” Adebomehin stated.
This shift, according to Adebomehin, will usher in “real surveying” in Nigeria under the president’s Renewed Hope Agenda, transforming the way the country approaches critical national data collection and infrastructure development.
In a bold revelation, Adebomehin also shared exciting news for Nigeria’s infrastructure future: the country is set to build the first-ever underground tunnel in Africa, connecting Victoria Island to Badagry in Lagos State.
This ambitious project, a partnership with the Minister of Works, Engr. David Umahi, will not only enhance transportation within Lagos but also establish Nigeria as a continental leader in innovative infrastructure.
“This tunnel will be the first of its kind in Africa,” said the SGOF. “Our office recently conducted a site tour with Minister Umahi, and this tunnel project is part of the broader effort to modernize Nigeria’s infrastructure. It will be a game-changer.”
He explained that moving OSGOF to the Presidency will unlock the full potential of the survey profession in Nigeria.
Historically, OSGOF has faced significant challenges due to bureaucratic inefficiencies and underfunding.
However, by reporting directly to the Presidency, the office will be better equipped to make faster decisions and drive forward much-needed reforms in the country’s surveying landscape.
“By being under the Presidency, we are positioning the surveying profession for real growth and development,” Adebomehin emphasized. “We have worked under a low budget for far too long, and now it is time to seize the opportunities ahead.”
The move to the Presidency was met with overwhelming support from within the surveying community.
Surv. Robert Coker, Head of Hydrography at OSGOF in his remark, was blunt in his address: “Anyone opposing this move is essentially going against a presidential directive, and they must contend with the highest authority in the land.”
Coker also urged his peers in the NIS to continue protecting the integrity of the profession, particularly by mentoring young surveyors.
“Our responsibility is to ensure that the next generation of surveyors is properly trained and equipped to carry this vision forward.”
The NIS FCT Secretary, Surv. Alfred Adeojo, also voiced his support for the transition, noting that the change signifies a positive shift for Nigeria’s surveying profession.
“This move is a bold step, and we, the younger generation, are proud to stand behind it,” he said. “It will bring tremendous opportunities, and we are committed to learning from the leadership shown by Surv. Adebomehin.”
As the Federal Government’s ambitious blueprint continues to unfold, the transformation of Nigeria’s national identity and infrastructure is gaining momentum, promising a brighter, more connected future for all Nigerians.
