Stakeholders across government, industry, and academia have identified Geo-AI and drone-enabled mapping as critical tools for addressing Nigeria’s development and security challenges, as experts gathered in Lagos to examine how geospatial intelligence can strengthen planning, infrastructure protection, and data-driven decision-making.
The position was reinforced at the GeoInfoTech Innovation Summit 2025, organised by Geoinfotech Resources Limited, which brought together technology professionals, geospatial experts, policymakers, and private-sector players to assess the growing role of intelligent mapping systems in national development.
Held under the theme “Fusing Geo-AI and Drones for Smarter Mapping,” the summit focused on how artificial intelligence, unmanned aerial vehicles, and advanced spatial analytics can support smarter urban planning, environmental monitoring, asset protection, and security operations across Nigeria.
Participants noted that Geo-AI and drone mapping offer governments faster access to accurate location-based data, enabling better infrastructure development, improved emergency response, and enhanced security planning. For businesses, the technologies were described as vital for protecting assets, reducing operational risks, and supporting informed investment decisions.
Temitope Makinde, the managing director and chief executive officer of Geoinfotech Resources Limited, at the event, said the integration of artificial intelligence with drone technology represents a major shift in how geospatial data is collected and transformed into actionable intelligence.
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According to Makinde, the synergy between AI and unmanned aerial systems allows organisations to move rapidly from data capture to insight, reducing human exposure to hazardous environments while improving accuracy and lowering operational costs.
He explained that the applications of Geo-AI and drone mapping extend across critical sectors, including power and pipeline inspection, disaster response, agriculture, and urban security, describing the technologies as scalable solutions to real-world industrial and public-sector challenges.
Makinde added that the GeoInfoTech Innovation Summit was designed as a capacity-building platform, aimed at equipping professionals, institutions, and young talents with the skills and knowledge required to meet the evolving demands of Nigeria’s geospatial ecosystem.
The summit recorded strong participation, with over 1,000 attendees drawn from government agencies, academia, and the private sector. Institutions represented included the State Surveyor General’s Office, Lagos State Environmental Protection Agency (LASEPA), Ministry of Works and Infrastructure, and Lagos State e-GIS, alongside students and industry practitioners.
While the event focused on technical innovation, discussions were framed against Nigeria’s growing need for reliable, data-driven systems to support national planning, infrastructure management, environmental protection, and security operations—areas where geospatial intelligence is increasingly seen as essential.
Technical sessions at the summit delivered insights into emerging tools, regulatory considerations, and practical applications of Geo-AI and drone technology. Speakers included Mercy Akintola, CEO of Merczcord Technologies; Ebenezer Olugbenga, GIS Team Lead at Geoinfotech; and Precious Egbo-Egbo, representing Integrated Aerial Precision.
A panel discussion titled “Fusing Innovation and Policy: Building Nigeria’s Smart Mapping Future” examined issues around policy alignment, data governance, infrastructure readiness, and skills development, with stakeholders stressing the need for collaboration between regulators, technology providers, and end users.
A major highlight of the event was the launch of three software solutions developed by Geoinfotech’s research team—GGIS App, DRONESXY, and GEO-AI—designed to enhance spatial intelligence, automation, and analytical capabilities for both public and private-sector applications.
The summit also featured the Geo-Innovation Map Challenge, which recognised innovative mapping solutions from emerging professionals. Due to the quality of submissions, the N150,000 prize was jointly awarded to Benedicta Uba and Ayoola Timileyin, underscoring the organisers’ commitment to talent development.
Stakeholders at the summit averred that as Nigeria grapples with infrastructure gaps, security concerns, and climate-related challenges, the adoption of Geo-AI and drone-enabled mapping will be central to building resilient systems and supporting sustainable national development.
