In a major step towards advancing Nigeria’s energy sector, the Office of the Surveyor General of the Federation (OSGOF) and the National Centre for Hydropower Research and Development (NACHRED), under the Energy Commission of Nigeria, have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to drive hydropower development across the country.
The agreement, which followed a successful presentation at a United Nations Industrial Development Organization (UNIDO) event, was formalized today, 29th September, 2025 at the OSGOF Headquarters in Abuja.
Speaking at the signing, the Director of Geodesy at OSGOF, Surv. Duniya Magaji, who stood in for the Surveyor General of the Federation, Surv. Abduganiyu Adeyemi Adebomehin, described the partnership as a long-awaited synergy.
“Most challenges arise due to lack of collaboration, with ith this MoU, we believe both institutions will achieve great results. We have reviewed the document thoroughly, and we all agreed on its importance,” Magaji said.
In his remark, the OSGOF Director of Photogrammetry and Remote Sensing/Mapping, Surv. Azeez Afeez, praised UNIDO’s initiative on small hydropower projects, stressing the centrality of survey and mapping data in ensuring the success of such projects.
“From conceptualization to implementation and monitoring, you need survey and mapping. Everyone at the UNIDO event agreed OSGOF’s role is indispensable. Our data, much of which is free, will support universities, research institutions, and hydropower projects to improve power supply and boost agriculture,” Afeez noted.
The Deputy Director, NACHRED, Dr. Toyin Olugbemi signed the MoU on behalf of the organization while emphasizing that the collaboration is key. “No man is an island. This partnership was born out of our meeting at UNIDO, and we knew we needed OSGOF to succeed in our mission,” Olugbemi stated.
While speaking, the Chief Research Officer, NACHRED, Engr. Dr. Ladokun Laniyi, said that access to accurate data had been a major challenge in hydropower feasibility studies, opined that “This collaboration will bridge the gap in topographical and geospatial data, enabling us to deliver on our mandate more effectively,” he explained.
The MoU is expected to provide the Federal Government with vital geospatial services and research-driven insights that will transform hydropower development nationwide, thereby enhancing electricity supply, supporting agriculture, and fostering socio-economic growth.
