NPC CHAIRMAN RECEIVES GEOINFORMATION SOCIETY OF NIGERIA DELEGATION

Today, 31st October, 2024 — NPC Chairman, Hon. Nasir Isa Kwarra, fnsa, welcomed Surv. Dr. Fitka Steve Bilshakka, President of the Geoinformation Society of Nigeria (Geoson), and his team at the NPC Headquarters, Abuja.

The visit was aimed at congratulating Kwarra on the NPC's significant achievements, particularly the successful nationwide demarcation using Geographic Information System (GIS) technology, which is pivotal for the upcoming census and national development planning.

During the meeting, Dr. Bilshakka expressed gratitude for the NPC’s ongoing support to Geoson and emphasized the importance of further collaboration, particularly in training and research focused on population management utilizing geospatial data. "We have witnessed numerous innovations within the Commission that enhance population management," he remarked.

In addition to discussing collaborative efforts, Dr. Bilshakka extended a formal invitation to Kwarra to serve as the Special Guest of Honour and a panel discussant at the upcoming Geoson 2024 Annual General Assembly and Conference, specifically during the Prof. Olubodun Ayeni Colloquium.

Furthermore, Bilshakka announced that the Geoson executive has decided to confer upon Hon. Kwarra the title of Fellow of the Geoinformation Society of Nigeria during the annual conference on 20th November, 2024.

In his response, NPC Chairman, Hon. Kwarra warmly received the Geoson delegation and reiterated the NPC's commitment to collaboration and the sharing of geospatial data with Geoson, other government agencies, and the private sector. He highlighted that the NPC has generated the largest volume of geospatial data in Africa and is dedicated to incorporating green initiatives into the next Population and Housing Census.

Hon. Kwarra also expressed his appreciation for the Fellowship award and pledged to encourage Federal Commissioners, Management, and staff of the NPC to register with Geoson and deepen their understanding of geospatial data.

Mrs. Nkechi Odey, Director, Data Administration Centre in the NPC’s Cartography Department, noted that approximately 30 staff members of the Commission are active members of Geoson, with one serving as the National Treasurer.

The meeting underscored the NPC's role in leveraging geospatial technology for effective population management and highlighted the importance of partnerships in achieving national development goals.