Surveyors must embrace technology, tackle workforce gaps to stay relevant — NIS
By Zainab Olufemi Chairman of the Nigerian Institution of Surveyors (NIS), Lagos State Branch, Adedeji Olanrewaju, has urged practitioners to adapt to emerging technologies, workforce shortages, and regulatory complexities to
By Zainab Olufemi
Chairman of the Nigerian Institution of Surveyors (NIS), Lagos State Branch, Adedeji Olanrewaju, has urged practitioners to adapt to emerging technologies, workforce shortages, and regulatory complexities to remain relevant in driving economic growth.
Olanrewaju made the call at the 2026 Global Surveyors’ Day celebration held at the NIS Secretariat in Alausa, Ikeja, Lagos.
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Represented by the Vice Chairman, Olukayode Ogundare, the NIS chairman, while speaking on the theme, “Surveyors’ Challenges in Multi-Sectoral Growth,” highlighted the profession’s critical role in supporting interconnected sectors of the economy.
He explained that multi-sectoral growth is driven by the expansion of several interlinked industries rather than reliance on a single sector, stressing that surveyors are central to achieving such transformation.
According to him, the shift from conventional surveying methods to digital technologies—including 3D modelling, drones, unmanned aerial vehicles, and artificial intelligence—has created both opportunities and financial pressures for practitioners.
“The integration of Building Information Modelling with traditional survey methods remains a major hurdle, requiring continuous investment in tools and skills,” he said.
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Olanrewaju identified additional challenges confronting the profession, including workforce shortages, skills gaps, rising competition from non-surveyors and technology-driven firms, as well as regulatory and legal complexities. He also pointed to environmental risks and unsafe working conditions as persistent concerns.
He noted that an ageing workforce and the low influx of young professionals have created a “demographic bottleneck,” affecting mentorship and knowledge transfer within the sector.
The NIS chairman commended the Lagos State Government for enforcing the Land Grabbing Law, adding that the Lagos branch of the institution remains committed to partnering with authorities to curb quackery and uphold professional standards.
Also speaking, Chairman of the Association of Private Practising Surveyors of Nigeria (APPSN), Lagos State Branch, Olaoluwa Afolabi, urged practitioners to maintain ethical standards and avoid collaborating with unlicensed operators.
Represented by his Vice Chairman, Adams Olugbenga, Afolabi advised members of the public to refrain from engaging quacks, emphasising that professionalism is essential to ensuring accuracy, safety, and sustainable development.
