In a powerful call to action, former Minister of Works, Babatunde Fashola, alongside other key figures in the surveying profession, has strongly urged Nigerian surveyors to elevate their game. The message is clear: uphold unwavering professionalism and consistently deliver top-quality services to maintain and enhance the credibility of this vital sector. This significant address took place at the 40th Annual General Meeting Luncheon and Investiture of the Nigerian Institution of Surveyors (NIS), Lagos State branch, a gathering focused on the crucial themes of ‘Leadership and Professionalism.’
- Babatunde Fashola emphasized the direct link between leadership, professionalism, and national development.
- The NIS President highlighted the importance of embracing technology and fostering innovation within the profession.
- The outgoing chairman stressed the need for strict adherence to professional standards, especially with new talent joining.
- A special advisor underscored the synergy required between leadership and professionalism for optimal results.
The Heart of the Matter: Leadership and Professionalism
Fashola didn’t mince words, stating that the fundamental difference between a nation that’s developed and one that’s still developing often boils down to the quality of its leadership and the professionalism of its workforce. “Leadership and professionalism are connected. Service is what lies at the heart of leadership,” he explained. He challenged the surveyors, asking, “Are we as private citizens offering the best services?” This question hits home, urging a self-assessment of their commitment to excellence.
NIS President Echoes the Call for Excellence and Tech Savvy
Represented by his Deputy, Kunle Ogungbadewa, the President of the Nigerian Institution of Surveyors, Surv. Pius Eze, threw his weight behind the push for professional conduct. He lauded the Lagos State branch as the “pride” of the national body and stressed the theme’s relevance in addressing current leadership challenges. “I charge the new executive to foster innovations and promote professionalism. Our profession demands we remain abreast of the use of technology,” he urged. In today’s world, staying updated with the latest surveying technologies, like advanced GPS systems and drone mapping, is not just a plus but a necessity.
Guarding the Future: Mentorship and Standards
The outgoing chairman of the NIS Lagos branch, Surv. Olukolade Kasim, shared his thoughts on safeguarding the profession’s future. He acknowledged the influx of young, energetic professionals but cautioned that quality must always trump quantity. “With advancements in instrumentation making surveying more accessible, we must put stronger measures in place to safeguard professional standards,” he stated. Kasim also emphasized the crucial role of senior surveyors in leading by example and providing essential mentorship to younger members. This intergenerational knowledge transfer is vital for maintaining high ethical and technical benchmarks.
The Synergy of Strong Leadership and Professionalism
Adding his voice, the Special Adviser on Survey Matters to Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, Surv. Ayokunnu Adesina, reinforced the idea that strong leadership and robust professionalism are not just desirable but essential. He articulated a vision where “when leadership outgrows professionalism, a perfect match will emerge,” suggesting a dynamic and symbiotic relationship between the two. This outlook implies that effective leadership should inspire and enable higher levels of professional practice, creating a virtuous cycle of improvement.
Why This Matters for Nigeria
The surveying profession plays a pivotal role in national development. Accurate land surveys are critical for infrastructure projects, property ownership, urban planning, and resource management. When surveyors operate with the highest levels of integrity and technical competence, it directly contributes to:
- Reduced land disputes and property conflicts.
- Efficient and cost-effective execution of construction and infrastructure projects.
- Improved land administration and revenue generation for the government.
- Sustainable urban development and resource allocation.
The commitment to professionalism ensures that the data provided is reliable, aiding in informed decision-making across various sectors of the Nigerian economy. It’s a bedrock upon which trust and progress are built. Even with cutting-edge technology, human expertise and ethical conduct remain irreplaceable.