UNDERSTANDING-GEOGRAPHIC AND-MARITIME-FRAMEWORKS

UNDERSTANDING GEOGRAPHIC AND MARITIME FRAMEWORKS

By Papa Enamhe, Biogeographer and Environmental Expert/February 19, 2026

The following article outlines the fundamental concepts of spatial positioning, maritime jurisdiction, and hydrographic analysis essential for environmental management and biodiversity conservation.

1. Geographical Coordinates

Geographical coordinates are a standardized system of numerical values used to determine the precise location of any point on the Earth's surface. This system utilizes a spherical grid comprised of two primary components

Latitude: These are horizontal lines that run parallel to the Equator (0^\circ). They measure the angular distance of a location North or South of the Equator, ranging from 0^\circ to 90^\circ at the poles.

Longitude (Meridians): These are vertical lines extending from the North Pole to the South Pole. They measure the angular distance East or West of the Prime Meridian (0^\circ), which passes through Greenwich, London.

Example: The coordinates for Abuja, Nigeria, are approximately 9^\circN, 7^\circE. This indicates the city is located 9 degrees North of the Equator and 7 degrees East of the Prime Meridian.

2. Maritime Boundaries

Maritime boundaries represent the legally defined limits of a coastal nation’s sovereignty and jurisdictional rights over adjacent sea areas. These zones are established under international law, specifically the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS):

Territorial Sea: Extends up to 12 nautical miles from the baseline (coastline).

Contiguous Zone: Extends up to 24 nautical miles from the baseline, allowing for limited enforcement of customs, fiscal, and immigration laws.

3. The Continental Shelf

The Continental Shelf refers to the submerged prolongation of a country's landmass under the ocean. This area is of significant economic and ecological importance, as it is primarily utilized for the exploration and extraction of seabed resources, such as minerals and hydrocarbons.

4. Hydrographic Surveying

A hydrographic survey is the scientific process of measuring and mapping the physical features of underwater terrain and bodies of water (rivers, lakes, and oceans). It is fundamental for understanding:

Bathymetry: The measurement of water depth.

Seafloor Topography: The shape and composition of the underwater surface.

Dynamic Variables: Monitoring tides, currents, and shoreline positions.

Navigation Hazards: Identifying underwater obstacles.

Primary Applications:

Development of nautical charts for safe maritime navigation.

Offshore oil, gas, and renewable energy exploration.

Infrastructure engineering (ports, harbors, bridges, and dams).

Environmental impact assessments and marine habitat studies.

5. Estuaries

An estuary is a dynamic coastal ecosystem where freshwater from rivers or streams meets and mixes with saline water from the ocean. These "brackish" water bodies are partially enclosed by land but maintain a permanent connection to the open sea, serving as critical nurseries for biodiversity.

6. Calibration

In the context of scientific measurement, calibration is the rigorous process of verifying and adjusting an instrument’s accuracy. This is achieved by comparing the device’s readings against a known reference standard to ensure data integrity and minimize measurement error.

About the Author:

Papa Enamhe is a distinguished Biogeographer, Environmentalist, and Biodiversity Expert. He is the visionary behind the Think Cross River initiative.