By Abdullahi Mukhtar Algasgaini
The Federal Government has announced that work will soon begin on an ambitious project to construct what it describes as Africa’s first underground tunnel, connecting Victoria Island to Badagry in Lagos State.
The announcement was made by the Surveyor General of the Federation (SGOF), Surv. Abuduganiyu Adebomehin, during a visit from the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) chapter of the Nigerian Institution of Surveyors (NIS) in Abuja.
Adebomehin revealed that the project was discussed during a recent coastal tour with the Minister of Works, Engr. David Umahi.
He stated that the tunnel would represent a major milestone for infrastructure development in Nigeria and across the continent.
In a related development, the Surveyor General defended the recent move to place the Office of the Surveyor General of the Federation (OSGOF) under the direct supervision of the Presidency.
He advised those considering legal action against the decision to “perish the thought,” stating that challenging the move equates to “fighting presidential orders.”
He explained that President Bola Tinubu had shown keen interest in a national mapping project, noting that the last comprehensive survey of Nigeria was done in the 1970s.
Adebomehin believes the new administrative structure will improve funding and efficiency for the office.
The visiting surveyors from the NIS expressed support for the move, stating it would bring positive development to the surveying profession in Nigeria.