Former Minister of Works, Babatunde Fashola has called for professionalism and quality service deliveries from surveyors in order to uphold the credibility of the profession.
Fashola spoke as a guest speaker on Wednesday in Lagos at the 40th Annual General Meeting Luncheon and Investiture of the Nigerian Institution of Surveyors, NIS, Lagos State branch, with the theme ‘Leadership and Professionalism.
According to the former minister, professionalism and leadership are intertwined as both are required for the development of a nation and the surveying profession.
Fashola noted that the difference between a developed and developing nation is entrenched in the type of leadership it has and professionalism of its workforce in every sector.
“Leadership and professionalism are connected. Service is what lies at the heart of leadership. The difference between professional and unprofessional behaviours is the same difference that enables nations to be categorized as developed and developing,” Fashola said.
He spoke further: “ As institution, you should not settle for less in that way we can raise standard. Quality performance as should not be oveelooked . We should render quality service for national development. So the question is are we as private citizens offering the best services?
Speaking, the President of the institution,Surv Pius Eze represented by the Deputy President of the Kunle Ogungbadewa also advocated for professional behaviours among practitioners. He also commended the Lagos State branch for being ‘the pride ‘ of the national body.
Pic 4963. From left, Past President Nigerian Institution of Surveyors (NIS), Prof. Francis Fajemirokun; Assistant Secretary NIS Lagos State Branch, Mr Apatira Abolade; Chairman NIS Lagos State Branch, Mr Kolade Kasim and Former Minister of Works, Mr Babatunde Fashola receiving an appreciation award as Guest Speaker during the 40th Annual General Meeting, Luncheon and Investiture of the Nigerian Institution of Surveyors Lagos State Branch in Lagos on Wednesday (17/12/25)
“The Lagos State branch continues to be the pride of the national body. The theme of this year’s meeting is important at this time as one of the challenges confronting us is leadership. I charge the new executive to foster innovations and promote professionalism. Our profession demands we remain abreast of the use of technology, “ the president said.
The outgoing chairman, Nigerian Institution of Surveyors, Lagos branch, Surv. Olukolade Kasim in his remarks urged surveyors to compliance with standards in the profession.
Pic 4967. From left, Representative, Olubadan of Ibadan Land, Oba Biodun Daisi; Chairman Nigerian Institution of Surveyors (NIS), Lagos State Branch, Mr Kolade Kasim and Former Minister of Works, Mr Babatunde Fashola receiving an appreciation award as Guest Speaker during the 40th Annual General Meeting, Luncheon and Investiture of the Nigerian Institution of Surveyors Lagos State Branch in Lagos on Wednesday (17/12/25)
“ The future of our profession is indeed bright and promising with young and vibrant minds joining our ranks. However, we must proceed with caution as quality must always take precedence over quantity.
With advancements in instrumentation making surveying more accessible, we must put stronger measures in place to safeguard professional standards. Our senior colleagues need to continue to lead by example. Our younger members are at a critical stage where guidance and mentorship are essential and they will naturally follow the paths we set before them.”
The Special Adviser on Survey Matters to Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, Surv. Ayokunnu Adesina also noted that leadership and professionalism are essential qualities needed in the profession adding that “when leadership outgrows professionalism, a perfect match will emerge.’
The newly elected Chairman of the branch, Adedeji Olanrewaju, pledged his commitment to providing quality leadership, professionalism and the advancements of surveying practices in the state while leveraging on technology to further foster sustainable growth and development.