The Nigerian Institution of Surveyors (NIS) has confirmed 39 new Fellows at its 2025 Board of Fellows Investiture Ceremony in Akure, Ondo State, calling on members to adopt modern technology and remain vigilant amid growing security threats.
In his address, NIS President, Matthew Ibitoye, stressed the indispensable role of surveyors across various sectors, from infrastructure to environmental monitoring.
He urged practitioners to embrace geospatial innovations and strengthen their presence in policymaking spaces.
“Surveyors must not only invest in technology and capacity building but also position themselves as active contributors to national development,” Ibitoye said.
Highlighting recent security challenges, including the abduction of surveyors in Akure North LGA, Ibitoye criticized government inaction in protecting professionals on field assignments.
“It is unreasonable to expect individuals to hire police escorts for routine work . “Clients do not factor in security costs, and passing that burden onto them would inflate service charges,”he said.
While rejecting suggestions that surveyors should bear personal responsibility for security, he advised caution: “Don’t work alone. Study the area, arrive at odd hours if necessary, and where possible, use technology to minimize site visits.”
He congratulated the newly confirmed Fellows, describing their induction as a call to leadership and mentorship.
“You are now ambassadors of our values, and role models to younger surveyors,” he added.
Chairman of the NIS Board of Fellows, Olusola Atilola, also charged the new inductees to uphold the highest standards of professionalism and integrity.
“The Fellowship is not just an honour but a duty to serve the profession and society,” Atilola said, emphasizing the importance of ethics, transparency, and leadership.
The NIS Fellowship Investiture is an annual event that recognises outstanding members who have shown excellence in character, knowledge, and contributions to the profession.
