The Nigerian Cartographic Association (NCA) paid a courtesy visit to the Mining Cadastre Office (MCO) on 26th August 2025, to explore potential collaboration and support for their upcoming 46th Conference, scheduled to take place from September 8th to 12th, 2026, in Abuja.
This was contained in a statement issued by the Mining Cadastre Office on Tuesday, signed by Patrick Chika Osuji, Head of Press.
The NCA delegation, led by its President, Prof. M.L. Rilwan, met with the Director-General of the MCO, Engr. Obadiah Simon Nkom, to explore avenues for partnership in advancing the application of geospatial data in mineral exploration and mining operations. Prof. Rilwan explained that the forthcoming conference is not just an annual gathering but a platform to bridge academia, government, and industry in sharing ideas and innovations. According to him, the conference will emphasize the growing importance of geospatial technologies in transforming mineral title administration, strengthening decision-making, and supporting sustainable economic growth.
In his response, Engr. Nkom expressed enthusiasm about the collaboration, describing it as a timely initiative that aligns with Nigeria’s broader development agenda. He stressed that accurate geospatial and mining data remain essential for efficient resource management, environmental sustainability, and the attraction of foreign investment. He further affirmed the Mining Cadastre Office’s readiness to support the conference, noting that the NCA has been instrumental in promoting geospatial sciences and technologies in Nigeria.
The 46th Annual Conference of the NCA is expected to bring together hundreds of professionals, researchers, policymakers, and private-sector stakeholders. The theme will focus on the role of geospatial data in mineral exploration, mining efficiency, and sustainable development. Highlights of the event will include technical paper presentations, panel discussions, exhibitions of new geospatial and mining tools, and networking opportunities for participants. Prof. Rilwan also disclosed that experts from within and outside Nigeria are expected to attend, creating a rich platform for knowledge exchange and collaboration.
With over four decades of existence, the Nigerian Cartographic Association remains a recognized professional body dedicated to promoting the science and art of cartography in Nigeria. The association has consistently played a leading role in advancing geospatial knowledge, advising government agencies on geospatial policies, and encouraging the adoption of mapping technologies to address national development challenges.
The courtesy visit to the Mining Cadastre Office marks an important step toward building a stronger partnership between both organizations. By working together, the NCA and MCO hope to leverage geospatial intelligence to strengthen Nigeria’s mining sector, drive economic growth, and promote sustainable national development.
