THE FUTURE OF SURVEYING IN NIGERIA

The future of Surveying in Nigeria holds immense potential, driven by the increasing demand for accurate geospatial data, technological advancements, and the country’s focus on infrastructure development and urbanization.

Below are key trends and projections for the surveying profession in Nigeria:

1. Increased Adoption of Advanced Technologies

The use of Drones, UAVs, LiDAR, 3D Scanning, Artificial intelligence, and Machine Learning for surveys is expected to grow.

2. Integration with Smart Cities and Infrastructure Development

With Nigeria’s urban population rapidly increasing, surveying will play a critical role in developing smart cities.

3. Expansion of Geospatial Applications

Surveyors will be involved in creating sustainable solutions in areas like; Environmental Monitoring, Disaster Management, and Agricultural Development.

4. Growth of National Spatial Data Infrastructure (NSDI)

Surveying professionals will play a pivotal role in collecting, managing, and analyzing spatial data for NSDI.

5. Enhanced Role in Policy and Decision-Making

Surveyors will have a stronger voice in national and regional policymaking, influencing decisions on land reform, urban planning, and sustainable development.

How Can Young Surveyors Prepare for the Future of Surveying in Nigeria?

The future of Surveying in Nigeria is promising, but it demands that Young Surveyors equip themselves with the right skills, tools, and mindset to thrive in an evolving profession.

Below are some actionable steps Young Surveyors can take to be prepared for the future:

1. Embrace Lifelong Learning

✅ Stay Updated with Technological Trends:
Learn about modern tools such as drones, GNSS, LiDAR, GIS, and Building Information Modeling (BIM).

✅ Take online courses, attend workshops, and participate in professional training programs to stay current with global surveying practices.

✅ Master Software and Programming Skills:
Learn geospatial software like AutoCAD, ArcGIS, QGIS, and Pix4D.
Gain basic programming knowledge in Python, R, or MATLAB for data analysis and automation.

2. Invest in Professional Development

✅Join Professional Bodies: Actively participate in organizations like the Nigerian Institution of Surveyors (NIS) and the Young Surveyors Network (YSN). These platforms provide mentorship, networking opportunities, and access to resources.

✅ Pursue Certifications:
Obtain internationally recognized certifications in GIS, drone operation, or geospatial data analysis to enhance your employability and credibility.

3. Build Practical Skills Through Internships and Projects

✅ Seek internships with established Surveying firms or participate in community mapping and development projects. Practical experience is crucial for mastering new technologies and techniques.

✅ Volunteer for national and international projects that provide hands-on experience with advanced equipment and innovative methods.

4. Develop Entrepreneurial Mindsets

✅ Identify Market Needs:
Explore niche areas in surveying, such as Environmental Monitoring, Real Estate Mapping, or Precision Agriculture.

✅ Start Small Businesses:
Young surveyors can establish startups offering specialized services like drone mapping, cadastral surveying, or geospatial analysis.

5. Focus on Digital Transformation
Collaborate with software developers to create or improve digital tools that address local surveying challenges.

6. Cultivate Soft Skills:
E.g: Communication and Presentation Skills, Critical Thinking and Problem Solving, Leadership Skills, etc.

Written By: Joy JOHN
Secretary: Education Committee YSN-FCT