Former President of Nigeria, Muhammadu Buhari has stated that addressing half of the challenges in the built environment sector hinges on the collective professionalism of experts within the building and infrastructure fields.
Buhari, who spoke during the courtesy visit of the Nigerian Institute of Quantity Surveyors (NIQS) President, Kene Nzekwe at his residence in Daura, urged quantity surveyors to remain focused and committed to ensuring that projects are completed within the cost, time and quality.
He assured the NIQS president of his continuous support for the institute and acknowledged the importance of the quantity surveying profession in the field of cost management in building and infrastructure projects.
The former president thanked the institute for its efforts in seeing that construction projects are executed with a high sense of probity.
He said as the President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria and Chairman of the defunct Petroleum Trust Fund (PTF) projects, he knew the value and competence of quantity surveyors in project cost administration, which informed his choice of appointing quantity surveyors as Director General, Bureau of Public Procurement (BPP) and the Lead Consultant, PTF projects.
Earlier, NIQS President thanked him for role in fostering the growth and development of quantity surveying in Nigeria, adding that his vision and foresight in recognising their expertise significantly contributed to the success of those projects, as well as solidified the importance of the profession in the field of cost management in building and infrastructure projects.
Nzekwe said: “Your influence and dedication to the growth of our great nation are irrefutable, and we believe that your voice remains an invaluable asset in advocating for the pride of place that quantity surveyors deserve, especially in the realm of cost management for infrastructure projects in Nigeria.
“The challenges and opportunities facing our profession have evolved, and we are confident that, with your continued advocacy and support, we can overcome any obstacles and continue to contribute significantly to the development of our nation.”
He urged him to be an integral part of the ongoing narrative of progress and excellence that involving quantity surveyors in delivering critical infrastructure projects will bring to Nigeria. “Your legacy is already etched in the history of our profession, and we look forward to further chapters written with your continued support,” he said.
Source: The Guardian
