Mr. Olukolade Kassim, Chairman of the Nigeria Institution of Surveyors (NIS), Lagos Branch, urged government authorities to collaborate with surveyors to tackle insecurity challenges. Kassim made this call during the association’s 90th anniversary and 39th Annual General Meeting in Ikeja, themed ‘Brain Drain and Development Growth:
Impact on the Surveying Profession in Nigeria.’ He emphasized, ‘Insecurity can be significantly reduced, as we have expertise in locational analysis.
It’s crucial to consult specialists when incidents occur at specific sites. With government collaboration, we can help mitigate insecurity challenges. A comprehensive mapping of Nigeria will be instrumental in this effort.’
He praised association members for their commitment to professional ethics and encouraged them to uphold the dedication shown by founders like Sir Herbert Macaulay.
‘While we celebrate 90 years of surveying and face challenges like poor working conditions, I am hopeful that we won’t remain at our lowest for long. We are actively working to improve our situation, and with divine favor, we will regain our former prominence,’ Kassim stated.
On brain drain, Kassim noted that cross-border knowledge and technology exchange have lessened their impact on Nigeria’s surveying profession. ‘The trend of ‘Japa’ is reciprocal. We learn from those who migrate, and they gain insights from us.
It’s an opportunity to acquire valuable knowledge from those abroad,’ he explained.
Dr. Matthew Ibitoye, NIS President, highlighted that brain drain affects more than just surveying, with economic hardships and insecurity as major drivers. ‘Opportunities abroad often lead families to relocate, creating a self-imposed bondage.
Our voluntary migration raises concerns for our future and that of our children. Every instance of brain drain in one location represents a gain for another,’ he asserted.
Mr. Ayokunnu Adesina, Surveyor-General of Lagos State, and Mr. Olufemi Daramola, Special Adviser to the Lagos State Governor on Infrastructure, also attended the event.
