
NIQS President, Kene Nzekwe, spoke at the yearly Distinguished Lecture Series organised by the Kaduna State Chapter, themed: “Enhancing the Survival of Quantity Surveying Practice Amidst Economic Challenges and Climate Change: Strategies for Resilience, Adaptation and Industry Collaboration for Young Professionals,” in honour of Abba Ingawa, a partner in Prime and Bell Partnership, a firm of quantity surveyors.
According to Nzekwe, the theme of the lecture series is timely and critical, given the current economic and environmental challenges facing the country.
He emphasised the need for quantity surveyors to innovate, collaborate and evolve to thrive in the current era of uncertainties, warning that the construction industry is no longer just about traditional cost estimation, but also about sustainability, risk management and climate change.
He noted that the celebrant is worthy of emulation and praised him for his achievement in the field of quantity surveying, emphasising that his resilience will no doubt encourage the younger generation of quantity surveyors.
The event was chaired by Dahiru Ahmed, and had the immediate past Chairman, Bureau of Public Procurement, Mamman Ahmadu, as the special guest of honour, while the keynote speech was delivered by the Head of Department, Quantity Surveying, Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria, Dr Baba Kolo.
Earlier, the chapter’s chairperson, Dr Bukola Aluko-Olokun, described Ingawa as a “remarkable personality” whose contributions to the field of quantity surveying have been a source of inspiration to many.
“As we navigate economic uncertainties and the pressing realities of climate change, it is imperative that we, as professionals, equip ourselves with the necessary strategies to remain relevant and resilient in the industry,” she added.
Aluko-Olokun encouraged participants to actively engage in the discussions, ask thought-provoking questions, network, and take full advantage of the wealth of knowledge that would be shared.
Ingawa, who was honoured at the event, expressed his gratitude to the chapter for the recognition.