The Hydrographer of the Federation and Chief Executive Officer of the National Hydrographic Agency, Rear Admiral Olumide Fadahunsi, has stressed the importance of modern hydrography to Nigeria’s maritime safety, ocean governance and environmental protection.

Speaking during a press briefing in Abuja ahead of the 2026 World Hydrography Day celebration, he explained that accurate hydrographic surveys and ocean data are essential for safe navigation, port development, offshore energy operations, fisheries management, submarine cable routing and coastal planning.

According to him, Nigeria must improve the way ocean information is organised, standardised and shared if the country wants to fully benefit from opportunities in the Blue Economy.Fadahunsi noted that the 2026 celebration, scheduled for June 20 in Lagos, aligns with the International Hydrographic Organisation’s global agenda.

He said the theme was intentionally presented in simple language so that policymakers, businesses, researchers, academics and the general public can better understand the relevance of hydrography.

The hydrographer also highlighted the importance of adopting S-100-based data services, including S-101 Electronic Navigational Charts and S-102 Bathymetric Surface products, which support modern international navigation standards.He explained that better ocean-data management can reduce navigational risks, improve maritime trade efficiency and contribute to safer sea routes.

A major plenary session during the celebration will bring together experts, regulators, researchers and industry stakeholders to discuss practical ways of improving ocean-data sharing and cooperation across Nigeria and Africa.

Fadahunsi added that the initiative aligns with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goal 14 and the UN Decade of Ocean Science for Sustainable Development, positioning Nigeria as an active participant in global efforts to modernise ocean-information systems for shipping, coastal communities and environmental sustainability.