The Rising Threat of AI and Geospatial Technology Gaps
Nigeria faces a mounting national security challenge due to significant gaps in artificial intelligence (AI) geospatial technology, according to leading surveyors.
Experts warn that without immediate investment, capacity building, and strategic planning, the country risks losing its ability to monitor critical resources, respond to emergencies, and safeguard national interests.
At the recent Biennial General Meeting of the FCT Branch of the Nigerian Institution of Surveyors (NIS), the theme “Artificial Intelligence and Geospatial Technology: For Mapping of Earth Resources and National Security” highlighted the urgency of addressing technological and skill deficits in the geospatial sector.
Layi Arinola, a surveyor who addressed the conference, pointed out longstanding issues in Nigeria’s geodetic and spatial frameworks.
“Cursory observations on beacons in Ibadan and Lagos using single-frequency GPS reveal substantial errors in our geodetic networks.
This is not due to the inefficiency of our forebears, who painstakingly conducted multiple rounds of angular observations, but the limitations of outdated equipment and methodologies,” he explained.
Arinola emphasised that the time is ripe to leverage state-of-the-art technology to establish a robust, homogenous control network.
The goal is to create reliable geospatial data infrastructure that strengthens environmental monitoring, resource management, and national security.
Modern Challenges in Geospatial Mapping
Surveyors highlighted inconsistencies in current geospatial data management, citing examples where coordinates from different Continuously Operating Reference (COR) stations produced conflicting results.
“The Ogun State and Oyo State COR stations present a classic case study of discrepancies that undermine accurate mapping,” Arinola noted.
He stressed that the integration of AI into surveying practices can enhance accuracy, efficiency, and predictive capabilities.
“Artificial intelligence should be viewed as a powerful ally rather than a threat.
Those who embrace AI tools are better positioned to thrive, whether in environmental monitoring, urban planning, or disaster response,” he said.
The surveyors underscored that high-resolution satellite imagery, smart AI algorithms, and cloud-based analytics form the “three pillars of environmental intelligence.”
If harnessed properly, these tools can transform Nigeria’s ability to anticipate risks, optimise resource management, and respond swiftly to emerging security threats.
AI and Geospatial Technology: Strategic Imperatives
Abel Oyedotun, National Chairman of the Young Surveyors Network, reiterated that geospatial intelligence is a critical enabler of national development and security.
He explained that advanced surveying technologies can guide decision-making in infrastructure development, smart cities, transportation planning, disaster mitigation, and combating insecurity.
“AI and geospatial technology empower the government to make informed, data-driven choices,” Oyedotun said.
“Without these tools, policymakers risk relying on incomplete or inaccurate information, which could compromise national safety and economic growth.”
Experts warned that failure to invest in AI and geospatial capacity not only threatens security but could also erode Nigeria’s global competitiveness in technology-driven sectors.
As geospatial and AI innovations transform other nations’ strategic capabilities, Nigeria risks falling behind unless it prioritises technological adoption and skill development.
Bridging the Gap: Investment and Capacity Building
Surveyors urged the government and private sector to commit resources toward developing local expertise, upgrading equipment, and integrating AI-driven geospatial analytics into national security frameworks.
The focus should be on:
Establishing uniform COR stations nationwide to eliminate data discrepancies.
Building AI-driven predictive analytics for disaster response and resource management.
Creating open, shared geospatial databases accessible to relevant agencies and stakeholders.
Encouraging public-private partnerships to accelerate technological deployment and adoption.
Arinola stressed that democratizing access to AI and satellite data is crucial.
“If we hoard these resources for profit or limited usage, we risk building a surveillance system that serves narrow interests rather than the public good. Our priority must be national resilience and environmental intelligence,” he said.
Experts Warn of Growing Security Risks
Without urgent action, Nigeria could face severe security vulnerabilities, particularly in border monitoring, natural resource management, and urban planning.
Analysts argue that AI and geospatial tools are essential for anticipating threats, optimising logistics, and enhancing emergency response effectiveness.
“The coming decade will be defined by environmental intelligence,” Arinola concluded.
“We must move beyond merely seeing the Earth more clearly. Smarter AI, scalable cloud analytics, and high-resolution imagery are essential for understanding and responding to complex national challenges.”
Oyedotun added that training programs, research investments, and technology transfers are pivotal.
“Nigeria cannot afford to lag in AI and geospatial technology. Every delay increases the potential cost to national security and development,” he warned.
A Call to Action
The surveyors’ warnings highlight an urgent need for Nigeria to strengthen its AI and geospatial technology capabilities.
With threats ranging from environmental hazards to security breaches, strategic investment in technology, data infrastructure, and human capital is no longer optional but essential.
Experts agree that embracing AI and geospatial intelligence will not only safeguard national security but also enhance economic planning, infrastructure development, and disaster resilience.
For Nigeria, the time to act decisively is now—failing to close these gaps could undermine decades of progress and compromise national safety.
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