By Peace Udugba -The daily torch media
Surveyors in Lagos State have been urged to take a more active role in politics and governance to promote value-driven leadership and support national development.
The call was made by the guest speaker, Adewusi Ademola, at the 2026 Annual General Meeting (AGM) and Luncheon of the Association of Private Practising Surveyors of Nigeria (APPSN), Lagos State Branch, held in Magodo. The event was themed, “Politics and Governance: Enhancing Value-Driven Leadership in the Professional and Political Landscape.”
Ademola emphasised that professionals must play a leading role in shaping governance, noting that leadership quality directly impacts citizens’ quality of life.
“Who gets what, when, and how hinges on leadership quality,” he said, stressing the need for value-driven governance.
He highlighted the critical role surveyors play in land administration, urban planning, and national development, urging them to move beyond passive observation and actively contribute to policy formulation through research, data-driven insights, and public advocacy.
“I encourage professional bodies to take deliberate steps to promote political awareness among their members and create platforms for engagement in governance processes,” he added.
According to him, nation-building requires collective responsibility anchored on values such as discipline, integrity, and service.
In his remarks, Chairman of APPSN, Lagos State Branch, Surveyor Afolabi Olaoluwa, described the AGM as more than a statutory gathering, noting that it provides an opportunity for reflection, dialogue, and professional growth.
He highlighted the impact of technological advancements in the profession, noting that surveyors now deliver highly precise, real-time data for projects. He also advised members of the public to engage registered surveyors before embarking on projects to avoid errors in land measurement, construction, and alignment.
Olaoluwa further urged surveyors to actively engage in politics and governance, stressing that professionals must not be excluded from decision-making processes that shape national development.
Speaking on land administration in Nigeria, he called for urgent reforms to address challenges such as land grabbing and inadequate housing distribution. He also urged government at all levels to prioritise affordable housing and ensure equitable development.
He added that transparent land management policies and the adoption of global best practices would enhance peaceful coexistence and restore public trust in governance.
Also speaking, Chairman of the Nigerian Institution of Surveyors (NIS), Lagos State Branch, Surveyor Adedeji Olanrewaju, who served as Guest of Honour, described the theme as timely and called for integrity and accountability in leadership.
He urged surveyors to uphold professional standards, mentor younger colleagues, and remain committed to the growth and excellence of the profession.
On his part, National Chairman of APPSN and Special Guest of Honour, Simepiriye Kalio, described the theme as a wake-up call for surveyors to become more competitive politically, administratively, and industrially, and to seek leadership positions at higher levels.
The event featured the presentation of awards and was attended by key stakeholders, including the Chairman of Ikorodu Local Government Area, Adedayo Ladega, represented by his Vice, Babawale Alogba; APPSN Vice Chairman, Surveyor Adams Olugbenga; the Oba Onidimu of Idimu Kingdom, Oba Sarakat Adefimihan; and other professionals and dignitaries.
