WORLD HYDROGRAPHY DAY: Nigerian Navy Outline Significance Of Specific Marine Data.
* Navy To Mark World Hydrography Day June 14 th-19th June.
By Helen Udoh, Outlook Media ABUJA.
The Nigerian Navy said it is set to join the rest of the world to celebrate this year’s World Hydrography Day on 14th to 19th June 2024, also
highlighted the role of hydrography for safe navigation, streamlined operations, and fostering sustainable practices in the maritime sector.
He made this known to newsmen at the kick-off of 2024 World Hydrography Day on Friday 14th June 2024 in Abuja, the Chief of Naval Staff, Vice Admiral Emmanuel Ikechukwu Ogalla, said the significance of hydrographic surveys conducted on the Lagos Channel and Bonny River.
According to him “The theme for the 2024 World Hydrography Day is “Hydrographic Information: Enhancing Safety, Efficiency, and Sustainability in Marine Activities.” This theme resonates deeply with the core principles of hydrography, He said.
“Safety is paramount for all maritime stakeholders, and it hinges on accurate hydrographic data. This data allows seafarers to navigate confidently, mitigating risks associated with navigation hazards and ensuring the safety of lives and property at sea, He said.
“Today, we formally kick off the 2024 World Hydrography Day celebration in Nigeria. From June 14 to June 19, we will deliver awareness lectures on hydrography to selected secondary schools in Abuja, Enugu, Lagos, and Port Harcourt. These lectures aim to inspire young minds to consider careers in hydrography, ensuring we have the human capacity to provide quality hydrographic services to Nigeria’s policymakers and mariners alike, He said.
” On June 21, we will host a plenary session at the Nigerian Air Force Conference Center in Abuja. This session will bring together stakeholders and government officials for a one-day seminar to exchange knowledge and foster collaboration. Subject matter experts will present papers on the critical role of hydrographic data in promoting maritime safety and sustainable practices, aligned with this year’s theme, He said.
He revealed that “these surveys identified and mitigated underwater hazards, resulting in a significant reduction in maritime accidents.
The CNS, represented by Rear Admiral AO Olugbode, Hydrographer of the federation and chief executive officer of the National Hydrographic Agency highlighed the activities line-up for the celebration.
He stated that the year’s event will feature awareness lectures in selected secondary schools, a plenary session at the Nigerian Air Force Conference Center in Abuja, and an exhibition showcasing hydrographic products and services.
“Experts will meet to share knowledge on hydrographic data’s role in maritime safety and sustainability. They’ll discuss how accurate data helps, He said.
“This event will promote hydrographic data management, boosting Nigeria’s Blue Economy and maritime safety while stakeholders will showcase products and services, sharing knowledge and ideas, He said.
“The Navy will also unveil a new charting scheme, making navigation safer and more accurate, They’ll also launch a catalogue of charts, helping mariners access resources, He said.