Estate surveyors task 637 new members on professional ethics

The Nigerian Institution of Estate Surveyors and Valuers (NIESV) has urged 637 new inductees to be ambassadors of the profession and maintain the highest ethical standards in their dealings with clients.

The institution also charged them to keep upgrading and expanding their professional prowess, through training, if they must remain useful and relevant in the ever-changing world.

NIESV President, Sir Emmanuel Wike, who made the call last week, during an induction ceremony in Abuja, noted that the emergence of new technologies has brought a dire need for professionals, who would manage the rapidly emerging technological innovations and structures.

He said, “We are living in a time of great changes. This is an age of amazing and intense technological breakthroughs, a time also of enlargement and transition in innovative ideas, methods and opportunities. It, therefore, suffices to imply that demand for knowledge and certification of professionals in all fields of endeavour will help to accelerate optimal utilisation of resources for the development of the society.”

Wike implored the inductees to abide by the rules and regulations of the institution as contained in its constitution and code of ethics, saying, “Loyalty to the institution is a major part of your obligation. Decorum and strict adherence to professional ethics and conduct are also required of you, as your actions and conduct will affect the entire membership, positively or negatively. Discipline and good conduct is the hallmark of every professional body.

The NIESV president called for unity of purpose among members and warned against unhelpful, unproductive and regressive dichotomy between members of the institution.

Earlier, the Chairman of the occasion and a member House of Representatives, Gaza Gbefwi, lamented that “corrupt officials now use properties to launder money and our commonwealth,” adding that the inductees have the moral burden to uphold ethical and moral principles to the highest standards.”

He said: “You are expected to be trustful and honest at all times. When a property is given to you for sale or rent, you aren’t to increase or reduce the price for personal gain. When rent is paid to you, you are to inform the client immediately and remit the same. It is not for you to help the client invest the money without his consent. ”