By Reportcircle-Abuja
In a major push to expand Nigeria’s energy mix, the Office of the Surveyor General of the Federation (OSGOF) and the National Centre for Hydropower Research and Development (NACHRED) have signed a landmark Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to drive hydropower projects nationwide.
The agreement, sealed at OSGOF headquarters after a joint presentation at the United Nations Industrial Development Organization (UNIDO), will see both agencies pool expertise in geospatial data, mapping, and hydropower research to accelerate small and large-scale hydro projects across the country.
Representing the Surveyor General of the Federation, Surv. Duniya Magaji, Director of Geodesy, hailed the pact as a breakthrough for synergy in Nigeria’s energy sector:
“Most of the challenges agencies face stem from lack of collaboration. Today’s MoU is a step towards solving that. With this partnership, we are confident of real progress.”
Backing the initiative, Surv. Azeez Afeez, Director of Photogrammetry, Remote Sensing, and Mapping at OSGOF, stressed that hydropower development depends on accurate survey data:
“From conceptualization to feasibility, design and monitoring—surveying and mapping are central. Everyone at UNIDO recognized that OSGOF’s data is vital to make this work.”
NACHRED officials echoed the optimism. Dr. Toyin Olugbemi, who signed on behalf of NACHRED, said collaboration was the missing link:
“No agency can succeed in isolation. By joining forces with OSGOF, we can finally bridge the data gap that has stalled hydropower development.”
Chief Research Officer Engr. Dr. Ladokun Laniyi added that the partnership will supply the topographical data and technical support needed to unlock Nigeria’s hydropower potential.
With the MoU, the Federal Government aims to use OSGOF’s geospatial resources to power rural communities, strengthen the grid, and boost agriculture through energy-driven irrigation.
The deal marks a fresh chapter in Nigeria’s bid to diversify its power sources, reduce reliance on the national grid, and deliver sustainable energy for growth and development.
