Sir: The most persistent challenge confronting Nigeria has been that of nation-building. Melding our diverse and heterogeneous society—comprising varying values, sentiments, and interests—into a cohesive and functional nation has been an arduous task.

What was described in 1914 as a “mere geographical expression” has yet to be transformed into a truly integrated, prosperous polity. Despite our abundant natural and human resources, Nigeria continues to struggle with economic stagnation and structural underdevelopment.

The task of nation-building requires visionary leadership that prioritises national interest and promotes social democracy. It calls for bold and strategic decisions aimed at driving people-centred economic growth. At the heart of this is policy—the starting point of all practical action.

However, sustainable economic development cannot be achieved in the absence of professionals’ input. In advanced economies, governments consistently engage professionals to formulate policy and catalyse development. Professionals are problem solvers—they offer innovation, integrity, competence, and the strategic insight required to address real-world challenges.

Governments need actionable solutions to pressing problems and a clear roadmap toward national prosperity. Professionals bring the strategic guidance necessary to create and implement policies that enhance governance, strengthen economies, and improve human development. 

In the context of Nigeria, a nation teeming with potential and poised for greatness, the role of Estate Surveyors and Valuers in national development cannot be overstated. As a leading professional body within the built environment sector, we possess the expertise and vision to help reshape the national narrative.

Established in 1969 to champion the interest of the land and property profession, members of the Nigerian Institution of Estate Surveyors and Valuers (NIESV) are trained and registered under Nigerian law. They provide professional services in land administration, valuation of properties and assets, infrastructure and facility management, property taxation and rates, project feasibility studies, and project management, among others.

These services have direct implications for public policy, government decision-making, and national development—especially in the areas of funding public infrastructure and wealth creation.

Most Nigerian states are financially dependent on federal allocations yet face significant capital development needs. Strategic partnerships with professionals—especially Estate Surveyors and Valuers—can help bridge this gap by leveraging land-based taxation mechanisms such as tenement rates, ground rents, and property registration fees. Additionally, our expertise ensures the efficient management and utilisation of public real estate assets at all levels of government.

Another key area where Estate Surveyors and Valuers can support national development is through advisory and consultancy services. These include advising on real estate investments, providing valuation reports for land, buildings, machinery, and fittings, and managing both public and private real estate assets.

When it comes to valuation, whether for public institutions, corporate organisations, or individuals—Estate Surveyors and Valuers remain the only professionals trained and legally empowered to carry out this function. As such, we are best positioned to provide accurate, credible, and strategic valuations necessary for sound decision-making.

Infrastructure investment is a major determinant of a country’s economic performance and social well-being. As the government intensifies its infrastructure agenda, Estate Surveyors and Valuers continue to provide critical input, including location analysis for different land uses (residential, commercial, agricultural, etc.) and urban planning guidance based on population needs. We are well-prepared for this responsibility, having been trained in both the theory and practice of land economics—rural and urban.
 
Olukunle Alani Adeniji is an estate surveyor and valuer based in Lagos.