By Julian Osamoto
The Nigerian Institute of Quantity Surveyors (NIQS) has renamed its Abuja headquarters in honour of its former president, QS Segun Ajanlekoko.
According to the institute the move reflects renewed commitment to professional excellence, mentorship, and stronger institutional standards.
Speaking to journalists during the ceremony, NIQS President, Dr. Aminu Bashir, said the decision underscores the institute’s drive to strengthen professional leadership and deepen capacity development within the quantity surveying profession.
According to him, the gesture is not only symbolic but also part of broader efforts to institutionalise excellence across the built environment sector.
“The council chamber and data resource centre were also renamed after QS Shehu Lawal and QS Emmanuel Ofure respectively,” Dr. Bashir disclosed.
In his remarks, QS Segun Ajanlekoko, who was honoured with the naming of the headquarters, expressed appreciation to the institute, describing the recognition as a testament to discipline, commitment, and professional integrity.
He, however, raised concerns over the recurring cases of building collapse in Nigeria, attributing the problem largely to weak enforcement of standards and the involvement of unqualified practitioners in project execution.
Ajanlekoko stressed that quantity surveyors are primarily responsible for cost management in construction projects, noting that structural failures often stem from poor workmanship, incompetent contractors, and inadequate professional oversight.
He called for stricter regulatory enforcement in the construction industry and urged clients to insist on certified professionals at all stages of project delivery to enhance safety, accountability, and value for money.
Reiterating the importance of early professional involvement in project planning, Ajanlekoko said quantity surveyors play a critical role in cost control, waste reduction, and transparency in infrastructure development.
As part of activities marking the event, the institute also commissioned a 100 KVA solar power system at its headquarters, aimed at reducing energy costs and improving operational efficiency.
The NIQS said the initiative aligns with efforts to strengthen infrastructure cost management and support national development priorities under the administration of President Bola Tinubu.
Earlier, Chairman of the occasion, Mr. Ademola Adebise, called for stronger collaboration between government institutions and the NIQS, noting that such synergy is essential to improving project delivery and restoring confidence in Nigeria’s construction sector.
