The Nigerian Institution of Surveyors recently commemorated its 90th anniversary in Abuja, an occasion underscored by a call to action for the reconstitution of the Surveyors Council of Nigeria by the institution’s President, Dr. Matthew Ibitoye. This urgent appeal stemmed from concerns over the current state of the regulatory body, which Ibitoye criticized for being in disarray. He questioned the merits of celebrating such a significant milestone while the institution that governs and maintains the standards of the profession is not functioning effectively. The event gathered key stakeholders, including members of the National Assembly and representatives from various professional sectors, emphasizing the critical role surveyors play in Nigeria’s socio-economic development.
During his address, Ibitoye reflected on the historical significance of surveyors in Nigeria, noting that during colonial times, they held considerable authority, second only to the governor-general. He posited that surveying transcends mere technical skills; it embodies the very essence of nation-building. Ibitoye lamented the marginalization faced by surveyors in contemporary Nigeria, especially despite their potential to contribute significantly to national initiatives such as disaster management and urban planning. He cited the recent flooding in Maiduguri as a stark reminder of the repercussions of neglecting this profession, asserting that the expertise of over 15,000 registered surveyors could have offered critical insights to prevent or mitigate such disasters.
Dr. Ibitoye called attention to the Nigerian government’s inadequate engagement with surveying professionals, particularly during crisis situations. He advocated for the empowerment of the Office of the Surveyor General and state offices to leverage their skills in enhancing mapping systems and disaster management efforts. Ibitoye stressed that Nigeria remains significantly under-mapped as of 2024, which is detrimental to national development and planning. He emphasized that accurate and timely mapping is fundamental not only for development but also for ensuring the safety and security of the nation.
The President also articulated the need for a functional Surveyors Council as an essential mechanism for maintaining professional integrity within the field. He warned of the risk that the profession faces if the council continues to remain defunct, stating that without proper regulation, the integrity that has characterized surveying in Nigeria for nearly a century could be compromised. This lack of recognition and proper structure within the profession could inhibit the contributions of surveyors towards national progress and development.
In his speech, Ibitoye implored the Nigerian government to recognize and appreciate the multifaceted roles played by surveyors, countering the common perception that they are merely map-makers. He claimed that surveyors are crucial engineers of progress, custodians of safety, and pivotal stewards of national development. Their expertise is not just limited to mapping; it encompasses a broad spectrum of skills that could greatly enhance the nation’s responses to various challenges.
The anniversary event also doubled as a fundraising initiative for the construction of a new secretariat for the Nigerian Institution of Surveyors, positioning the institution for better operational efficiency and greater contribution to the nation’s development. It served as a reminder of the milestones achieved over the years and a clarion call to refocus efforts on empowering the surveying profession in Nigeria, fostering a collaborative relationship with the government to enhance their critical role in national planning and disaster management.
