NIQS urges involvement in projects for cost control

Members of the Nigerian Institute of Quantity Surveyors (NIQS) have urged the government at all levels to leverage their expertise for cost-effective projects.

They emphasised the importance of quantity surveyors in ensuring cost-effective project management in the country. They spoke at the Investiture Ceremony & Dinner for the official inauguration of Rilwan Balogun, as the 17th Chairman of the Lagos State chapter and the inauguration of a new executive in Lagos.

Leading the call, the immediate past chairman of NIQS Lagos chapter, Olanrewaju Farotimi, stressed that quantity surveyors play a crucial role in managing resources and ensuring value for money. He noted that the construction industry, which is one of the largest in terms of labour, has been severely impacted by inflation and fuel subsidy removal.

He advised quantity surveyors to mitigate the impact on projects and advised the new executive to work towards an all-inclusive leadership and prioritise the needs of members.

On his part, Balogun reiterated the need for the government and individuals to recognise the importance of quantity surveyors in achieving value for money.
He emphasised that quantity surveyors are not limited to construction alone but can also work in other aspects of the economy, such as budget planning, project monitoring, and cost control.

Also, NIQS’s past president, Segun Ajanlekoko, highlighted the significance of quantity surveying in cost management, stating that anyone who wants to manage their business, project, and resources must consult quantity surveyors.

Ajanlekoko noted that the government has not been utilising the services of quantity surveyors maximally and urged for greater involvement in projects to ensure cost control and value for money.

The Lagos Chapter’s General Secretary, Azeez Ayodabo, emphasised the need for the government to include quantity surveyors in projects to cut costs and achieve value for money.

Ayodabo stated that the new administration aims to help members utilise their full potential, expand the association, and bring closer upcoming quantity surveyors to navigate the profession.