The Lagos State chapter of the Nigerian Institution of Surveyors (NIS) has called on the state government to collaborate more with the association, in order to build a sustainable community.
The institute made the call on Friday in Lagos at the commemoration of the 2025 Global Surveyors Day with the theme: “Shaping the New World on the Wisdom of Surveying”.
Speaking at the ceremony, Mr Olukayode Kasim, Chairman of the chapter, said that such collaboration would foster deeper understanding and enhance fruitful work relationship.
Kasim, represented by the Institution’s Vice-Chairman, Mr Olukayode Ogundare, said there was the need for members to upgrade themselves, as builders of the society, by acquiring more knowledge that would engender transformation.
“There is the need to align with the rest of the world to improve on surveying education and competence, upkeep the standards of professional practice and provide a platform for sharing the latest technological advancements, among survey professionals globally.
“I must add, that surveying is the bedrock of any sustainable development programme, hence all meaningful development must mandatorily have its roots in surveying.
“We, therefore, urge the state government to put in place, the apparatus to enforce the anti-land grabbing law. The insanity of thugs harassing people is unacceptable.
“Also the Federal Government should as a matter of urgency, put in place, measures to alleviate the sufferings of Nigerians,” he said.
Giving an insight on the issue of building collapse, he explained that one of the ways to bring an end to it was to ensure that the foundation was sturdy.
“The frequent, constant and often collapse of various infrastructures across the length and breadth of the country could be attributed to not having the foundation right.
“We must realise that surveyors are better equipped to ensure that the right foundation is put in place.
“In NIS Lagos, we envision a well-planned and efficient Lagos, with adequate housing and infrastructure.
“Also, there is need for universal access to employment and basic services, such as water, energy and sanitation.
“We have consistently promoted socially and environmentally sustainable human settlement development and have played an important role in shaping our state,” Kasim said.
He then lauded his members for maintaining standard and not dropping the ball.
“Today, we join the rest of the world to contribute our voices to the global transformation, thank you all for working passionately.
“I must declare that we support the government’s vision of a greater Lagos, Africa’s model smart city and we shall continue to respond to the challenges of urbanisation and the aspiration of residents,” Kasim said. (NAN)
