Space-based monitoring capabilities for the evaluation of inland water resources: Application to Nigeria

This work presents the results of satellite imagery analysis to evaluate the quantity of inland water bodies in Nigeria. The current experience of space monitoring of the surface water is also discussed — the complex environmental situation in the Lake Chad region is acknowledged. Google Earth Engine platform was selected as the main tool for water monitoring at national scale, as it provides web-based access to an extensive catalog of imagery in a ready-to-analyze format. This theme is proposed to become the subject of an International Academy of Astronautics study group to investigate and recommend actions against the degradation of Lake Chad and more generally to make recommendations about paths towards better protection of our planet water land and all ecosystems attached. © 2020, Univelt Inc. All rights reserved.