I recently had the privilege of attending the State of the Map (SOTM) Nigeria 2024 conference in Ile-Ife, Osun State, and I am deeply grateful for the experience and the opportunities it provided. I was fortunate to receive a partial grant that covered my transportation, accommodation, and meals, allowing me to participate fully, and I am truly appreciative of this support.

The conference, centered around AI-assisted mapping, drone technology, and open geospatial tools for advancing Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), was an incredible learning experience. The sessions led by professors, doctors, and online hosts highlighted the potential of these technologies in addressing real-world challenges.

I am especially thankful to Dr. Victor Sunday, the National Coordinator of Unique Mappers Network, for his encouragement and support in making this experience possible. The distinguished speakers greatly enriched the conference. Prof. Kamorudeen Folorunso Aleem kicked off the event with an insightful session on Open Geospatial, AI Technologies, and Geospatial Data Policies in Nigeria, which set the stage for critical discussions on data governance. Prof. Lazarus Mustapha Ojigi, the Executive Director/Professor of Geomatics at the African Regional Institute for Geospatial Information Science & Technology (AFRIGIST), shared his expertise on Artificial Intelligence-Assisted Geospatial Mapping and Modelling Techniques for Achieving Sustainable Development Goals in Africa, providing valuable insights into the integration of AI in geospatial analysis.

Prof. Andrew A. Obafemi addressed the vital issue of the Availability, Quality, and Currency of Maps and its Implications for Achieving SDGs in Nigeria, emphasizing the need for reliable geospatial data. Madam Adeola Akinwal presented on Empowering Communities through Drone-Assisted Mapping: A Pathway to Women Inclusivity and Sustainable Development, showcasing how technology can drive social change. Additionally, Sena G. Adimou and Hubert O. Yadjemi led a practical session on Downloading and Streaming Data from the DE Africa Sandbox to QGIS, which enhanced our technical skills. Hajar El Ouafi introduced us to mapping with MapRoulette, a tool for tasking and improving OpenStreetMap data, which broadened our mapping capabilities. Lastly, Emmanuel PeterJay’s practical demonstrations of Land Use and Land Cover (LULC) Change Detection, Modeling, and Prediction provided hands-on experience that was particularly impactful for my research interests.

One of the highlights of the event was the opportunity to network. I got the opportunity of meeting professors who are fellow Alumni and great lions of The University of Nigeria, Prof. Aleem, and Prof. Oluwadare Olutayo MNIS of OAU who were elated, welcoming me with open arms, picking genuine interest in my research project, and giving me corrections and valuable guidelines. I also connected with other professionals and students alike, forming friendships and building contacts that I know will be valuable in my career journey. Among these were some incredible individuals who made my stay memorable. Mummy Mary Marcellonus was exceptionally accommodating and served as both encouragement and a spiritual anchor throughout the conference. Agness, who traveled from her institution in Oyo State, was the perfect companion, ensuring that my experience was anything but solitary. Henry Unchenna became a great and concerned acquaintance toward the end of the conference, enhancing my overall experience. I also met Aliou Konaré, a French-speaking student from Senegal studying at AFRIGIST, who added unique insights and fun to my stay. So, apart from the fun in gaining educational and career impacts, my stay was so far from boring.

I was also honored to present my work on Pavement Condition Analysis at the conference. This presentation allowed me to receive valuable feedback from experts, helping me refine my research approach and understand how mapping technologies, particularly drones and AI-driven analysis, could improve the accuracy and efficiency of projects like mine. I am incredibly grateful for the enlightenment and encouragement I received throughout the conference. This experience has given me both knowledge and a renewed sense of direction in my career, and I look forward to applying what I learned in future projects.

Thanks to everyone who made this experience possible, and to the organizers and speakers for a truly memorable and impactful event. Thank you, SotMNigeria2024, for a groovy experience. #SotM #SotMNigeria #SotMNigeria2024 #UniqueMappersNetwork #AFRIGIST #TomTom #SpatialMatrix #SciStarters #OSMNigeria #OSM #OSMWeekly