The Minister of Housing and Urban Development, Ahmed Dangiwa, has attributed Nigeria’s ongoing housing deficit to ineffective implementation of past policies and underperformance in housing delivery. Speaking at the 90th anniversary and fundraising event for the Nigerian Institution of Surveyors (NIS) secretariat in Abuja, Dangiwa highlighted several challenges, including an underdeveloped housing market, an untapped secondary mortgage system, and broader macroeconomic issues.
He commended the NIS on reaching this significant milestone and stressed the vital role surveyors play in construction, infrastructure development, and resource management across Nigeria.
“From land surveys to geospatial analyses, surveyors provide crucial data and insights that guide decision-making processes,” Dangiwa said. “Your enduring commitment to professionalism and excellence has driven Nigeria’s growth over the years, making surveying essential for land administration and urban planning.”
Dangiwa further stressed that surveyors are critical in ensuring the precise execution of construction projects and effective land management, which can prevent conflicts and promote sustainable urban development.
“Our country faces a severe housing shortage, and this challenge obstructs our goal for integrated and sustainable urban development. Tackling this issue must be a priority for everyone involved in the built environment,” he stated.
Earlier, the President of NIS, Dr. Matthew Ibitoye, reflected on the celebration theme, “90 Years of Mapping Progress: Celebrating the Past, Shaping the Future,” underscoring the indispensable contributions of surveyors to Nigeria’s growth.
“Our journey began in 1934 with five eminent surveyors, including Herbert Macauley and Bengan Benjamin, uniting under the Association of Licensed Surveyors (ALS),” said Ibitoye. “Surveyors have been at the forefront of defining land boundaries, guiding infrastructure projects, and shaping policies that lay the foundation for new towns, cities, and transportation networks across Nigeria.”
