Ladi Olubowale has received the Geospatial Impact Award at the Geospatial Builders Conference (GBC) 2.0 in recognition of his contributions to the advancement of Nigeria’s geospatial and maritime sectors.

The award was presented during the conference held on May 11, which brought together geospatial professionals, technology innovators, policymakers, researchers and industry stakeholders to discuss emerging trends, innovation and the future of geospatial technology.

Although Olubowale was unable to attend the event, organisers said his contribution was reflected through a keynote presentation delivered on his behalf by the Chief Executive Officer of Ocean Helm, Miss Ugochi.

Titled “Transportation and Shipping in Nigeria: Coastal Shipping within the Blue and Green Economy Framework,” the presentation examined the strategic role of maritime transportation within Nigeria’s evolving geospatial and economic landscape.

Presenting the award, the organisers commended Olubowale for his leadership and enduring contributions to the industry.

“Although you were unavoidably absent, your presence was strongly felt through the insightful session delivered on your behalf by Miss Ugochi, CEO of Ocean Helm,” the organisers said.

They noted that the presentation provided clarity and strategic insight into a critical sector of the economy, demonstrating the importance of integrating maritime systems into broader geospatial and economic frameworks to improve efficiency, sustainability and national development.

According to the organisers, the session generated meaningful discussions among participants and contributed significantly to conversations on the future of Nigeria’s geospatial industry.

“It was also our honour to recognise your impact with the Geospatial Impact Award. This recognition reflects not only your professional achievements but also your role in advancing the intersection of geospatial intelligence and maritime development in Nigeria,” they added.

The organisers also thanked Olubowale for his continued support of the conference and his commitment to driving innovation within Nigeria’s blue economy, expressing optimism about future collaboration.

They explained that the Geospatial Impact Award recognises individuals whose work has made significant contributions to the development, adoption and promotion of geospatial technologies across multiple sectors.

Olubowale’s recognition highlights his efforts to advance geospatial innovation through initiatives that strengthen the profession while promoting sustainable technological development in Nigeria.

The Geospatial Builders Conference has become one of the industry’s leading platforms for collaboration, knowledge sharing and professional development, providing stakeholders with opportunities to exchange ideas, showcase innovation and explore the role of geospatial technology in national development.

Industry experts say awards such as the Geospatial Impact Award encourage continued innovation in areas including Geographic Information Systems (GIS), mapping, remote sensing, environmental management, urban planning and maritime intelligence.

As geospatial technologies become increasingly important in infrastructure development, disaster management, agriculture, transportation, coastal planning and smart city development, recognition of outstanding professionals is expected to stimulate greater investment, innovation and collaboration across the sector.

Olubowale’s recognition at GBC 2.0 also underscores the growing role of geospatial intelligence in supporting sustainable economic development, particularly through its integration with Nigeria’s maritime and blue economy initiatives.