Surveyors in Lagos State have been urged to actively participate in politics and governance as a means of promoting value-driven leadership and national development.
The Guest Speaker and Commissioner for the Environment and Water Resources, Mr. Tokunbo Wahab, represented by Mr Adewusi Ademola,
stated this at the 2026 Annual General Meeting and Luncheon, of the Association Of Private Practising Surveyor Of Nigeria, APPSN, Lagos State Branch “themed:” Politics and Governance: Enhancing Value-Driven leadership in the Professional and Political Landscape”, held at Magodo.
He emphasized that professionals in politics must steer value-driven governance, saying, “Who gets what, when, and how hinges on leadership quality, which dictates people’s quality of life.”
“The need for greater involvement in governance, noting that surveyors play a crucial role in land administration, urban planning, and national development.
He urged professionals to move beyond passive observation and become active contributors to policy formulation through research, data-driven insights, and public advocacy”
“I encourage professional bodies to take deliberate steps in promoting political awareness among their members and to create platforms for engagement in governance processes.
According to him, nation-building requires collective responsibility, driven by values such as discipline, integrity, and service.
Also speaking, the Association Of Private Practising Surveyor Of Nigeria, APPSN, Lagos State Branch, Surveyor Afolabi Olaoluwa, said the gathering was more than just a statutory requirement but the cornerstone of the collective spirit to reflect on the journey over the year urging them to seize the opportunity for constructive dialogue while fostering innovation, collaboration and professional development.
“Surveyors play a critical role in every stage of development, from planning to execution and completion.
He noted that with advancements in technology, surveyors now deliver highly precise and real-time data for projects” he said
He advised members of the public to always consult registered surveyors before embarking on any meaningful project, adding that their expertise helps prevent errors in land measurement, construction, and project alignment.
The chairman also encouraged surveyors to actively participate in politics and governance, stressing that professionals must not be left out of decision-making processes that shape national development.
On land administration in Nigeria, Surveyor Olaoluwa highlighted the need for urgent reforms, particularly in addressing issues such as land grabbing and inadequate housing distribution.
He called on the government to take greater responsibility in providing affordable housing and ensuring that development projects benefit the general public rather than a select few.
The APPSN chairman further noted that proper land management and transparent policies would promote peaceful coexistence and restore public trust in governance, saying that adopting best practices from developed countries could significantly improve Nigeria’s land administration system.
The Guest of Honour and Chairman of the Nigerian Institution of Surveyors, NIS, Lagos State Branch, Surveyor
Adedeji Olanrewaju, said
the theme was timely as integrity, accountability produce leaders while urging surveyors to promote best practices, mentor young professionals and remain committed to the growth of the profession and promote excellence in leadership.
National Chairman APPSN and Special Guest of Honour, Mr. Simepiriye Kalio, said the theme was a call for Surveyors to rise from their slumber as professionals to compete politically, administratively and industrially as well as take positions in the higher stages.
Present at the event which featured presentation of awards were Chairman of Ikorodu Local Government Area, Mr Adedayo Ladega, represented by Vice, Mr Babawale Alogba, the APPSN’s Vice Chairman, Surveyor Adams Olugbenga, Experts, Professionals, Royal father of the day, Oba Onidimu of Idimu Kingdom, Oba Sarakat Adefimihan.
Reporting by Yemisi Dada