A New Era for the Nigerian Institution of Surveyors
The Nigerian Institution of Surveyors (NIS) has made a significant milestone in its ongoing mission to promote and uphold the integrity of the surveying profession. This year, the institution has inducted no fewer than 30 new fellows, each of whom has been recognized for their exceptional contributions to the field and their commitment to maintaining the highest standards of professionalism.
This induction took place during the 2026 Fellows Investiture Ceremony, an event that not only celebrates the achievements of these individuals but also reinforces the institution’s role as a key player in Nigeria’s development. The ceremony was held at the Armed Forces Officers’ Mess in Asokoro, Abuja, and was attended by prominent figures from various sectors of Nigerian society.
Honoring Excellence and Leadership
During the event, six distinguished Nigerians who are not members of the NIS were conferred with honorary fellowships. These individuals were recognized for their outstanding contributions to national development and their support for the surveying profession. Among those honored were:
- The Speaker of the House of Representatives, Tajudeen Abbas
- The Governor of Enugu State, Peter Mbah
- The Minister of Defence, Christopher Musa
- A former Minister of Housing and Urban Development, Ahmed Dangiwa
- Chairman of Atlas Oranto Petroleum International Limited, Arthur Eze
- A distinguished scholar and renowned cartographer, Olayinka Yaro Balogun
These honorees represent a diverse range of backgrounds and experiences, underscoring the importance of collaboration across different sectors to drive progress.
The Role of Fellows in Shaping the Profession
Speaking at the event, Alabo David Charles, Chairman of the NIS Board of Fellows, emphasized the significance of the investiture. He described it as a momentous occasion to recognize professional excellence, integrity, and outstanding contributions within the surveying profession.
Charles highlighted that the 30 new Fellows-elect were admitted after a rigorous screening process, which ensured that they met the high standards expected of members of the NIS. He urged them to embrace their new roles with a sense of responsibility, noting that as Fellows, they are the conscience of the profession and custodians of its values.
He added, “Your duties, as leaders, go beyond contributing to the development of the surveying profession and promoting its good name; you must also contribute to your immediate environment and the society.”
Vision for the Future
President of the Nigerian Institution of Surveyors, Pius Chukwuemeka Eze, echoed this sentiment, emphasizing the critical role of surveying in Nigeria’s development. He described the profession as “the bedrock of every meaningful development in the country.” Eze noted that the responsibilities of surveyors have expanded beyond traditional land and tape measurement, now encompassing areas such as policy implementation, infrastructure planning, and economic growth.
However, he also acknowledged the challenges facing the profession, including security threats and technological gaps. To address these issues, Eze called for increased security measures, greater technological adoption, and stricter ethical enforcement.
A Call to Action
In her keynote address, the Head of the Civil Service of the Federation, Didi Esther Walson-Jack, urged the inductees to work towards the continuous growth and development of the NIS. She emphasized that their elevation should serve as a call to national service, encouraging them to collaborate with other surveyors across the country to ensure success in carrying out their duties.
Walson-Jack also called on the NIS to position itself as a strategic national partner in development, highlighting the crucial role that surveyors play in shaping the nation’s future.
Encouraging the Next Generation
The Royal Father of the Day, the Emir of Nasarawa, His Highness Dr. Ibrahim Usman Jibril, urged the NIS to increase support for universities and other institutions of higher learning. He encouraged the new Fellows to mentor young people and encourage them to pursue careers in surveying, ensuring a steady pipeline of qualified professionals.
Newly Inducted Fellows
Among the 30 newly inducted fellows are several notable names, including:
- Surv. Johnson Akinyele Akinsola Fagbamiye
- Surv. Chigozie Dimgba
- Surv. Malandi Umar Kura
- Surv. Isah Funtua Abdulkadir
- Surv. Bello Kayode Tajudeen
- Surv. Idris Muhammad
- Surv. Adenike Adejoke Tejuosho
- Surv. Henry Omoregbe Aghedo
- Surv. Baridi Sunday Legbara
- Surv. Ekpo Effiong
These individuals represent a new generation of leaders in the surveying profession, committed to upholding the values and standards of the NIS. Their induction marks a significant step forward in the continued growth and development of the institution and the profession as a whole.
