Surveyors urged to participate in governance, seek reforms
By Zainab Olufemi Surveyors in Lagos State have been urged to take active roles in politics and governance to promote value-driven leadership and accelerate national development. The Commissioner for Environment
By Zainab Olufemi
Surveyors in Lagos State have been urged to take active roles in politics and governance to promote value-driven leadership and accelerate national development.
The Commissioner for Environment and Water Resources, Tokunbo Wahab, made the call at the 2026 Annual General Meeting and Luncheon of the Association of Private Practising Surveyors of Nigeria (APPSN), Lagos State Branch, held at the Funplex Event and Resort Centre.
Represented by Adewusi Ademola, Wahab said professionals must move beyond passive observation and participate actively in governance to influence policy direction and development outcomes.
“Who gets what, when, and how hinges on leadership quality, which dictates people’s quality of life,” he said.
He stressed that surveyors, given their strategic roles in land administration, urban planning, and infrastructure development, are well-positioned to contribute to policy formulation through research, data-driven insights, and public advocacy.
Wahab also urged professional bodies to foster political awareness among their members and create platforms that encourage participation in governance processes, noting that nation-building requires discipline, integrity, and a commitment to service.
Chairman of APPSN, Lagos State Branch, Afolabi Olaoluwa, described the gathering as an avenue for reflection, innovation, and professional growth. He emphasised that surveyors play a critical role at every stage of development, from planning to execution, adding that advancements in technology have improved precision and real-time data delivery in the profession.
Olaoluwa advised the public to engage only registered surveyors for projects to avoid errors in land measurement and construction. He also called for greater involvement of professionals in governance, stressing that their expertise is vital to informed decision-making.
On land administration, he advocated urgent reforms to address issues such as land grabbing and uneven housing distribution, urging the government to ensure equitable access to affordable housing.
According to him, transparent land policies and the adoption of global best practices would strengthen public trust and promote social stability.
Chairman of the Nigerian Institution of Surveyors (NIS), Lagos State Branch, Adedeji Olanrewaju, described the meeting’s theme as timely, highlighting integrity and accountability as essential pillars of leadership.
He urged practitioners to uphold professional standards, mentor younger colleagues, and remain committed to excellence.
