SGCG Concerns Over Data Hoarding in Nigerian Geoscience

The Challenge of Data Hoarding in Nigeria’s Geoscience Sector

The Society of Geophysicists and Computational Geoscientists (SGCG) has raised concerns about the issue of data hoarding within Nigeria’s geoscience sector. This practice is reportedly hindering research efforts, discouraging innovation, and limiting the contributions of young geoscientists to national development.

At the SGCG’s second yearly international conference and exhibition, Geo-Spectrum 2025, which was themed “Advancing Geophysics and Computational Geosciences for a Sustainable Future,” Prof. Aaron Enechojo Auduson, the president of SGCG, emphasized the importance of access to reliable data for resource exploration, analysis, and characterization.

Auduson pointed out that unlike in Europe, where companies often collaborate with universities, Nigerian researchers face significant restrictions when it comes to accessing data. He shared his personal experience of studying in Europe, where companies provided software, data, and laboratories to support research. However, upon returning to Nigeria to apply these tools to studies on the Niger Delta, he found the data inconsistent and unreliable, forcing him to rely on overseas data instead.

He also revealed that some hydrocarbon data withheld in Nigeria is freely accessible at foreign institutions such as the University of Aberdeen. This disparity highlights the need for better data accessibility within the country.

Auduson called on the National Assembly to introduce legislation requiring International Oil Companies (IOCs) and independent operators to release data for academic use. He argued that confidentiality does not necessarily threaten research efforts.

“Confidential data can be protected, but no one can start drilling because they know field coordinates. Without data, Nigeria loses economically because our strength lies in the resources beneath the earth,” he stated.

In addition to the challenges of data access, Auduson highlighted the broader applications of geophysics. These include detecting subsurface resources, predicting natural disasters such as tremors and landslides, studying groundwater, monitoring pollution, and even supporting forensic investigations.

Calls for Modernization and Unified Data Management

Malami Uba Saidu, president of the Geological Society of Nigeria (GSN), echoed similar concerns and called for a unified national data depository. He stressed the need for better data governance and the adoption of artificial intelligence (AI) and digital platforms to modernize geoscience practices.

Saidu pointed out that the National Geological Survey and the Nigerian Upstream Petroleum Regulatory Authority (NUPRC) hold vast amounts of data, but these remain scattered and underutilized. He emphasized the importance of developing a clear national data policy and ensuring centralized access to these resources.

Furthermore, Saidu urged partnerships with telecom operators to reduce data costs for research purposes. This initiative could significantly enhance the ability of researchers to access and analyze critical geoscientific data.

The Path Forward

Addressing the issue of data hoarding requires a multifaceted approach. It involves not only legislative changes but also the establishment of collaborative frameworks between industry players, academic institutions, and government agencies. By creating an environment where data is more accessible and utilized effectively, Nigeria can unlock its full potential in the geoscience sector.

The benefits of such an approach extend beyond just economic gains. Improved data access can lead to more accurate resource exploration, better disaster prediction, and enhanced environmental monitoring. These advancements can contribute to sustainable development and improve the quality of life for communities across the country.

As the geoscience community continues to push for change, the focus must remain on creating a transparent, inclusive, and innovative ecosystem that supports both current and future generations of geoscientists.