Rivers council tasks valuers on building collapse as NIESV moves to acquire land

The Chairman, Obio/Akpor local council, Rivers State, Chijioke Ihunwo, has expressed worry over the incessant reports of building collapse in Rivers State.
Ihunwo recalled that the council has recorded three building collapses in the past months, attributing the incidents to poor monitoring and supervision by regulatory bodies.

Ihunwo, while hosting a delegation from the Nigerian Institution of Estate Surveyors and Valuers (NIESV), Rivers State branch, urged them to put their training into practice. He lamented that some valuers recommend paltry sums as compensation for structures marked for demolition, and in some cases, fail to pay compensation.

“Some of your colleagues don’t obey court orders,” Ihunwo said. “We have received complaints that some of your members worked against money that was supposed to be paid to persons whose structures were destroyed for the construction of the Port Harcourt Ring Road by Julius Berger.

Despite this concern, Ihunwo urged estate surveyors and valuers to collaborate with the council in its development initiative. Earlier, the Chairman of the NIESV Rivers State branch, Nwokoma Nwankwo, said they have a significant role to play in the development of all local councils in the state.

“We know that Obio/Akpor local council is strategic as most persons reside in the councils. Based on this, we do our best to support your administration in moving the local council to new heights,” Nwankwo said.

MEANWHILE, NIESV Rivers has disclosed plans to acquire land for the construction of the Rivers State NIESV House aimed to drive professional development and growth.

Nwankwo pledged to elevate the profession, develop members, diversify income streams, and deliver community impact. He stated this at the NIESV end-of-the-year dinner in Port Harcourt. He said: “Our primary goal is to enhance and promote our professional practice, ensuring that every member feels proud of their membership. This will be achieved through strategic advocacy, strengthened engagement with stakeholders, and innovative projects to benefit branch members.”

Also, the Permanent Secretary of the State Ministry of Lands and Survey, Alozie Nwala, commended members of the institution for their vital role in driving sustainable development. He stressed the importance of their expertise in urban planning, land management, and investment attraction.

“Your profession is critical to shaping the future of Rivers State. I urge you to continue innovating and upholding high standards,” Nwala said. NIESV’s Second Vice President, Dr Emmanuel Mark, and past president, Emma Wike, commended the leadership of the Rivers State Branch and backed the call for a state secretariat.