The International Hydrographic Organization (IHO) Eastern Atlantic Hydrographic Commission (EAtHC), alongside the Nigerian Naval Hydrographic Office (NHO), has conducted a pivotal technical visit to the International Maritime Institute of Nigeria (IMION) as part of an ongoing assessment for the establishment of a Regional Hydrographic Centre of Excellence in West Africa.
The delegation, led by Rear Admiral GE Kwetishe, Director of Hydrography at the Nigerian Navy, was warmly received by Rear Admiral Thaddeus Udofia (Rtd), Director General of IMION. The IHO team included Capt Henri Dolou (Rtd) and Lt Cdr Gabin Sogorb, Capacity Building Coordinator of the EAtHC.
Rear Admiral Kwetishe underscored the significance of the visit, noting that IMION’s strategic position as a maritime think tank makes it an essential partner in Nigeria’s push to host the English speaking West African Hydrographic Centre of Excellence. He emphasized the importance of integrating IMION in regional capacity building discussions, given its critical role in advancing maritime education and policy development.
Lt Cdr Gabin highlighted the urgent need to enhance regional expertise by training hydrographers, oceanographers, and cartographers locally. He noted that, beyond West Africa, Egypt remains the only African country with a dedicated hydrographic training institute underlining the strategic opportunity Nigeria now holds.
In response, Rear Admiral Udofia expressed appreciation for the visit and reiterated IMION’s mandate as a research and policy hub supporting Nigeria’s Blue Economy and sustainable ocean governance. He emphasized the central role of hydrography in achieving these goals and applauded the Nigerian Navy Hydrographic Department (NNHD) for its consistent leadership in maritime charting and mapping.
Udofia also signaled IMION’s readiness to forge strategic partnerships with international institutions, including French maritime academies, to further deepen regional knowledge exchange.
The visit concluded with a facility tour and exchange of commemorative souvenirs, symbolizing a shared commitment to strengthening hydrographic capacity across the Gulf of Guinea and beyond.
This engagement marks a significant milestone in Nigeria’s ambition to lead hydrographic advancement in the region and solidifies its role as a critical stakeholder in international maritime development.