The role of satellite remote sensing data and GIS in population census and management in Nigeria: A case study of an enumeration areas in Enugu, Nigeria

Abstract

The paper examines the nature of census operations in Nigeria and identifies the contribution of satellite remote
sensing (SRS) data and geographic information system (GIS) to the contingency planning, mapping and management
of census (attributes) datasets in Nigeria. Enumeration Areas (EAs) of a site in Enugu, Nigeria was mapped. The
census datasets were modeled and presented as an ideal process. This was implemented using (IKONOS-1 m) image
data in carving out the area, to demonstrate that SRS and GIS are very useful tools in handling census datasets.
Ground reference data for carved -out area was collected using GPS hand sets. A census database was created with
various attributes, exploring certain aspects of data planning and processes. This was in terms of image (data)
compatibility, modeling, and capacity for interactiveness of database management system (DBMS) network for
spatial (query) analysis (based on user specified needs) was performed to determine the age, type or purpose of
buildings and other facilities within the mapped EAs. The scale of the challenges faced by census managers; the no
spatial credibility, crude data processing technique, socio-political tendencies, un-proportional houses, correlation,
and attribute verification often results to contention, rejection and delay of census results in some cases. The paper
concludes by suggesting new ways and means through which the Nigerian state through its agencies in census
operations should explore to tackle this menace and save the nation from the embarrassments of poor handling of
census datasets.