***Celebrate Legacy of Founding Figures
The Nigerian Institute of Quantity Surveyors (NIQS) has renamed its National Headquarters in honour of a former president of the institute, Segun Ajanlekoko, in recognition of his outstanding contributions to the profession.
The facility, now known as “QS J. Segun Ajanlekoko House,” was unveiled in Abuja during a ceremony that also featured tributes to the institute’s founding figures and pioneers. As part of the event, the institute commissioned a 100kVA solar power project at the Secretariat, underscoring its commitment to sustainability and renewable energy.
Speaking at the ceremony, Ajanlekoko expressed deep appreciation for the honour bestowed on him, describing it as a reflection of the collective progress of the profession over the years.
“As a young professional body, we were born in 1969, and today we have a building in Victoria Island, and now this one in Abuja. It is a testament to what professionals can achieve when they are committed, as we, the Quantity Surveyors, have demonstrated,” he said.
Addressing concerns over the persistent issue of building collapses in the country, Ajanlekoko clarified that Quantity Surveyors are not responsible for structural failures, emphasizing their role as cost managers within the construction process.
“The major cause of collapsed buildings is not attributable to Quantity Surveyors. The problem often lies with incompetent contractors or engineers who are entrusted with such projects,” he stated.
The current President of the institute, Aminu Bashir, said the decision to rename the headquarters was driven by Ajanlekoko’s exceptional service and dedication to advancing the profession both locally and internationally.
“Today marks the symbolic renaming of our head office to QS Segun Ajanlekoko House. He is one of the most illustrious sons of the Quantity Surveying profession this country has produced,” Bashir said.
He also highlighted the significance of the newly commissioned solar power project, noting that rising energy costs and environmental concerns informed the institute’s decision to invest in alternative power solutions.
“The cost of energy is increasing, and we believe it is important to go green while reducing our carbon footprint. This multi-million naira project stands as a testament to our commitment to renewable energy,” he added.
Former Cross River State Governor, Donald Duke, who was among the dignitaries at the event, shared insights into Ajanlekoko’s professional impact, revealing how his expertise helped save the state billions of naira during the development of the Tinapa Resort.
Duke advocated for a more prominent role for Quantity Surveyors in government financial planning, suggesting that they should be involved in reviewing and approving budget estimates of Ministries, Departments, and Agencies before submission to the National Assembly.
Also speaking, a former Director-General of the Bureau of Public Enterprises, Emeka Eze, described Ajanlekoko as a symbol of integrity and professionalism.
“We are not only celebrating a man, we are celebrating character and integrity,” he said, while urging Quantity Surveyors to assert their relevance in national development and take their rightful place in the country’s policy and project implementation processes.
The event brought together professionals, policymakers, and stakeholders in the construction industry, highlighting the growing recognition of Quantity Surveyors as key players in Nigeria’s infrastructure and development agenda.