Professionals Asked To Join Politics, Governance To Tackle Challenges In Construction Sector

Professionals, particularly surveyors, have been urged to join politics and play an active role in governance as a strategic step toward addressing persistent challenges such as land grabbing, housing deficit and poor infrastructure planning in Nigeria.

The call was made yesterday by the chairman of the Association of Private Practising Surveyors of Nigeria (APPSN), Lagos State Branch, Afolabi Olaoluwa, during the association’s 2026 annual general meeting and luncheon held at Magodo.

Olaoluwa stressed that the involvement of trained professionals in political and decision-making processes is critical to ensuring value-driven leadership and sustainable national development.

According to him, surveyors possess the technical expertise to address issues in land management, urban planning, and housing delivery.

He noted that challenges such as land grabbing, the high cost of land, and inequitable housing allocation continue to hinder development, urging the government to implement reforms to make housing more accessible and affordable.

Highlighting the role of surveyors, Olaoluwa explained that their input is vital from the conception stage of any project through to completion, ensuring accuracy, proper planning, and adherence to professional standards.

He also advised members of the public and developers to engage only registered surveyors in their projects to avoid costly errors and ensure compliance with regulatory requirements.

Speaking on the theme, “Politics and Governance: Enhancing Value-Driven Leadership in the Professional and Political Landscape,” the Lagos State Commissioner for the Environment, Tokunbo Wahab, said the reluctance of professionals to participate in politics has contributed to systemic failures in governance.

Represented by management consultant Ademola Adewusi, Wahab observed that many professionals shy away from politics due to the perception that it is unethical or unprofitable.

He warned that this has created a vacuum often filled by individuals lacking the discipline and expertise required for effective leadership.

According to him, the consequences of this gap are evident in the country’s housing deficit, recurring flooding, poorly designed infrastructure, and abandoned projects.

Wahab emphasised that integrating professionals, such as surveyors, into governance, particularly in land administration, geospatial data management, and infrastructure planning, would significantly improve project execution and reduce inefficiencies.

He further called for urgent reforms in Nigeria’s land administration system, noting that challenges related to land access, high charges, and weak regulatory frameworks continue to impede development.

Both speakers agreed that greater professional participation in governance would help address systemic issues such as land grabbing and housing shortages, while promoting transparency, accountability, and sustainable development nationwide.