The National Boundary Commission (NBC) says it is entrenching the use of research technology, including drones, in boundary management.
NBC’s director-general, Adamu Adaji, stated this on Sunday in Abuja while assessing the impact of President Bola Tinubu’s administration after two years in office.
Mr Adaji told journalists that the commission had advanced from analogue systems to digital and electronic systems in boundary management.
He said that with Mr Tinubu’s support, the commission had made significant progress in managing Nigeria’s boundary issues.
“For those of us who are into the profession of mapping and surveying, we now know that we have advanced from the usual analogue system to an electronic system.
“Now, we have satellite imaging, aerial mappings and drones, and with these modern technologies, you can assess areas that ordinarily would have been difficult if you were to go on foot. So, we’re really embracing technology,” he said.
He reiterated the commission’s commitment to tapping into available technology to get adequate and real-time data for efficient definition of boundaries.
The DG also said research was significantly assisting with data gathering to support the delineation of internal and international boundaries, including maritime ones.
He added that the commission’s research and policy analysis department was equipped to provide relevant data for decision-making and effective management of the country’s boundaries.
“Going forward, we will capitalise on Tinubu’s ‘Renewed Hope Agenda’ to deepen the adoption of technology and research in the definition and demarcation of internal and international boundaries.
“This, in the long run, will bring the dividends of democracy to the people, especially those living in border communities.
“We are going to emphasise the physical definition of these boundaries, particularly those areas that we have resolved.
“Thank God, we have improved budgetary provisions that will enable us to double our efforts in boundary demarcation and organise workshops to sensitise people to how to manage boundaries,” he said.
Mr Adaji further noted the difficulty in accessing some boundary locations but expressed confidence that with modern technology, the commission would overcome some of the challenges.
(NAN)
