Nigeria to host West Africa’s first International Centre for Electronic Navigational Charts
By Kunle Sanni –
The Federal Government has announced plans for Nigeria to host West Africa’s first International Centre for Electronic Navigational Charts (ENC), marking a significant milestone in the region’s maritime development.
The initiative is being championed by the Minister of State for Defence, Bello Muhammad Matawalle, and driven by the National Hydrography Agency (NHA) under Rear Admiral Ayo Olugbode, with support from the International Hydrographic Organization (IHO) and the Maritime Organization of West and Central Africa (MOWCA).
Once operational, the centre will serve as a regional hub for the production, validation, and distribution of ENCs for Nigeria and other MOWCA member states. These charts are vital for safe maritime navigation, infrastructure development, and advancing the Blue Economy.
Dr. Matawalle said the project reflects Nigeria’s commitment to maritime safety, environmental protection, and regional economic integration through hydrographic modernization.
Rear Admiral Olugbode disclosed that over 26 ENC chart cells have already been completed, covering Nigeria’s key ports and maritime corridors, underscoring progress towards full operational readiness.
He noted that the centre is poised to become a global model for best practices in hydrography, offering services that meet international standards.
The ENC Centre is expected to improve maritime safety, reduce risks of accidents in under-charted waters, and support port and coastal development across the sub-region.
