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
MY EXPERIENCE AT THE SOTM 2024 CONFERENCE NIGERIA

It’s that time of the year again, and once more, I find myself sharing my experience from State of the Map Nigeria 2024. Unlike last year, when we didn’t have workshops, this time we were spoiled with multiple workshops, covering various topics that kept participants actively engaged. Plus, for those who missed any sessions, we now have everything recorded and uploaded to our YouTube channel to revisit at any time!

Unfortunately, as the Programs Lead, I missed many of the live sessions myself. But during the few times I could sneak into a session, I was blown away by the depth and engagement. This conference had that special vibe, the kind that makes you wish it lasted longer. I’m confident that everyone who joined will be excited to return next year.

One of the things that stood out this year was the diversity in our participants. We had people coming from across the north, south, east of Nigeria, and even Ghana! Meeting new faces, like my new friend Calvin Menttor from Ghana, was an absolute pleasure. By the way, I finally got to see the Ghana cedi in person 😄.

To my Tech Crew, Joshua, and Justice, I must confess that I still mix your names up sometimes 😅, but it was a fantastic experience working with you both! Together, we made the media coordination a breeze (though, Justice, you did leave me to freeze by taking the duvet 😂).

Shout-out to my Logistics HoD, Olurunkosebi, and Welfare HoD, Titi. You both made my job so much easier! You ensured that meals arrived on time and that all the participants had a comfortable experience.

And I can’t forget Hajar from TomTom, who supported us with the mapping project used during the conference. Your contributions were invaluable, and we’re incredibly grateful.

Lastly, but by no means least, to the Chair of the Conference, Dr. Victor Sunday—thank you for not giving up on this journey and for leading us through it all. From the months of planning to the final delivery, you were the driving force that kept everything moving forward.

The last time I updated my OSM diary was after last year’s conference, and here I am again. I honestly can say that SotMNigeria2024 was a blast! I can’t wait for next year’s edition—whether it’s SotMGlobal2025 or SotMNigeria2025. Stay tuned for more updates in my next diary entry!

I also want to extend my heartfelt appreciation to AFRIGIST for hosting us. The experience was so inspiring that I hope to return to your school soon for my MSc. Fingers crossed!

Thank you to everyone who made this possible. The journey, the planning, the execution—it’s been an unforgettable experience.

Thank you, SotMNigeria2024, for a fantastic experience. #SotM #SotMNigeria #SotMNigeria2024 #UniqueMappersNetwork #AFRIGIST #TomTom #SpatialMatrix #SciStarters #OSMNigeria #OSM
Kingsley AMANKWE's Diary | Reflecting on SotM Nigeria 2024: A Memorable Experience!

Reflecting on my experience at the SOTM Nigeria 2023 conference in Abuja, I can only describe it as an extraordinary blend of education and inspiration. The paper presentations were nothing short of eye-opening, shedding light on various facets of mapping, including cartography and geography. What made this experience truly enriching was the opportunity to interact and obtain ideas with distinguished professors, seasoned cartographers, accomplished geographers, and fellow mapping enthusiasts. Moreover, I had the privilege of contributing to the conference’s success by joining the volunteer team. I extend my heartfelt gratitude to Dr. Victor Sunday the coordinator of Unique Mappers for his organizing and chairing the conference, I sincerely appreciate the organizers, partners, sponsors, both for the conference in creating an amazing and enlightening event, and for the grant, as I await the promised refund to the entire volunteer team who came from Enugu State to Abuja for the conference, Obasanjo Space Centre, Municipal Area Council, Federal Capital Territory, Nigeria. #SotM2023 #HOTopensummit #TomTom #UMT #LionMappers #AfriGist #NASRDA #SciStarter #WNHub #MiyaAcademy #OSM #OSMNigeria
SunshineIDR's Diary | MY EXPERIENCE AT THE SOTM2023 CONFERENCE NIGERIA | OpenStreetMap

My reflection on the SotM Nigeria 2023 conference, lots of experience gained, meeting new people, learning new skills and sharing knowledge about OpenStreetMap, Open source data, local community inclusion and a lot more about the geospatial industry in Nigeria and the globe were incredible and amazing. regardless of challenges pose we overcame and conference was a success.

Lesson Learnt: The SotM 2023 has triggered my passion for OpenStreetMap volunteerism, local community inclusion & development and humanitarian response to open mapping, it has connected me to geospatial experts from different location of Nigeria and across, indeed it was privilege to meet with Mentors geospatial industry, each bit of conversation was an opportunity for learning, inspiring and collaboration for me.

Knowledge Gained: the knowledge gain was really mind – blowing. presentation made by different participants, were absolutely inspiring, well-tailored. With the likes Prof. Joseph Oloukoi, (AfriGist), Maron Mikel (OSM foundation), Letwin Pondo (SciStarter), Geoffrey Ketaregga (HOT Community project Lead) and others presenters has deepened the knowledge of open mapping and local community inclusion.

Challenge pose: Inadequate fund to support the conference was the major challenge of SotM 2023 conference, which has disbalance the logistical planning and other arrangement but I saw resilience, commitment, tirelessness of the Local organizing committee towards the success of the conference.

Future Hope SotM 2024: I look forward to SotM 2024 regardless of financial constraints posed at SotM 2023, that will not underscore relevant of open mapping and geospatial infrastructure in Nigeria. I believe in collaborative efforts of all individuals, as I was fortunate to witness the commitment and tireless effort of the organizing team, I look forward to SotM 2024, were we all work, meet and share knowledge and the trending happening of Open source and geospatial field.

In conclusion, it is an opportunity to be part of this remarkable event. my Appreciation also goes to the Conference chair, Mr. Victor N. Sunday for his tireless effort and other team member working behind the scene.

Akor, Daniel Enechojo

Thank you. SotM Nigeria 2023, for this mind - blowing event. #SotM2023 #HOTopensummit #TomTom #UMT #AfriGist #NASRDA #SciStarter #WNHub #MiyaAcademy #OSM #OSMNigeria
Dannyoung's Diary | My SotM Nigeria 2023 conference, A Mind – blowing experience and Knowledge gained | OpenStreetMap