Nnamdi Azikiwe University Hosts Groundbreaking Geospatial Conference
By Chukwuebuka Oguocha
The Department of Statistics, in collaboration with the National Population Commission, Abuja, and the Applied Geophysics, Geography, and Meteorology Department of Nnamdi Azikiwe University, organized a four-day Hybrid International Conference from Tuesday, November 5th to Friday, November 8th, 2024.
The event, themed “Advanced Geospatial Statistical Modelling in R With Applications in Global Health, Population Studies, Agriculture, and Weather Derivatives,” featured paper presentations and keynote speeches by experts from academia, industry, and government. These experts shared and exchanged in-depth knowledge on the role of geospatial modeling in addressing various global challenges.
In his address, Prof. H. O. Etaga, chairman of the local organizing committee, highlighted that the conference evolved from the annual seminar on geospatial statistical modeling. He emphasized the timely nature of the event, as the world increasingly recognizes the critical role of geospatial modeling in tackling urgent global issues.
Prof. Etaga noted that participants would engage with a diverse array of sub-themes, each playing a significant role in addressing today’s global challenges.
Prof. Chike H. Nwankwo, head of the Department of Statistics at Nnamdi Azikiwe University, described the event as epochal during his welcome address. He noted that it was the first time the university’s Department of Statistics had jointly organized a conference with a federal government agency and two academic departments. He emphasized that this collaboration aligns with modern research trends that encourage multidisciplinary approaches, leading to more robust outcomes.
Keynote speakers included Chiamaka Nnake, Commissioner of the Ministry of Budget and Economic Planning, Anambra State, and Hon. Nusir Isah Kwarra, Executive Chairman of the National Population Commission, among others.
During her presentation, Chiamaka Nnake discussed the topic “Exploring the Potential of Geospatial Technology in Global Health, Population Studies, and Agriculture Derivatives: Anambra, Nigeria Case Studies.” She highlighted the far-reaching implications of geospatial technology across various sectors, focusing on its importance in global health, population studies, and agricultural derivatives, particularly in Nigeria and Anambra State.
Other speakers also addressed valuable topics, presenting viable approaches to global challenges based on the conference’s theme and sub-themes, sharing their extensive knowledge and experience from diverse fields.
The International Hybrid Conference promises to foster collaboration and connections that transcend traditional boundaries, creating better opportunities for data-driven solutions.
