The Director-General, National Boundary Commission (NBC), Mr Adamu Adaji, says the commission is set to embrace the use of satellites technology to enhance effective boundary management in the country.
Adaji said this in a statement by Mrs Ife Ovuakporie, the commission’s Head of Information Unit, in Abuja on Wednesday.
He made the disclosure when Dr Halilu Shaba, the Director-General of the National Space Research Development Agency (NASRDA) paid him a courtesy visit in Abuja.
According to him, it is increasingly becoming difficult to successfully carry out the commission’s core mandate of determining boundaries by relying only on the traditional method of data collection.
He stressed that such traditional methods of data collection were sometimes influenced by human dispositions, hence the commission had decided to flow with the tide and embrace technology.
“The use of satellite imagery will be an added impetus to boundary management, as it will help Boundary Managers to keep track of the relevant data needed for boundary determination and definition.
“With the use of satellites, we will not only be able to collect data to establish the boundary marks, but will also be able to immediately go into the field to commence demarcation, thereby restoring peace to warring border communities.
“Our goal at the commission is to ensure speedy resolutions of boundary disputes and stimulate economic growth and development in the affected areas.
“We will count on your expertise to train Boundary Managers on how best to collect data to fast track the job,” Adaji said.
He further explained that partnership with a sister agency would certainly aid in strengthening bonds and ensure lasting peace in warring communities.
The NBC boss maintained that the task of determining boundaries without the relevant data from the local and state boundary committees could be very daunting.
“It is hoped that with the introduction of the use of technology, the task will be much easier as everyone will have an idea where the boundary line starts and ends,” he said.
According to him, all government agencies and formations have equal stakes at warring against the insecurity bedeviling our society and mapping out strategies of restoring peace and bringing development to the doorsteps of all.
He further explained that this could only be achieved when all critical government agencies agree to walk together in unity.
Speaking, NASRDA boss said that he was at the NBC’s corporate headquarters with his management team to seek collaboration with the commission on boundary management.
Shaba stated that his agency had developed a satellite that could enhance effectiveness in boundary management.
According to him, aside from boundary markings, auditing, mappings and monitoring, the satellite can also help gather detailed information that will assist in the quick resolution of boundary issues.
“This will enhance your evidence in border management,” he said. (NAN)