Abuja: The Nigerian Institution of Surveyors (NIS) has identified inadequate land data and skill gaps in sustainability as key limitations faced by surveyors while discharging their duties in Nigeria. The institute also listed poor public recognition and lack of multi-sectoral growth for robust practice among the challenges faced by practitioners. Pius Eze, NIS President disclosed this on Saturday in Abuja at a rally to commemorate the 2026 Global Surveyors’ Day with the theme, ‘Surveyors’ Challenges in Multi-Sectorial Growth’.
According to News Agency of Nigeria, surveyors’ work defines locations, boundaries, builds infrastructure, and drives progress. This is achieved by providing data for planning purposes and decision-making at all levels by governments and industry leaders for sustainable development. In addressing the challenges, Eze advocated capacity building and multi-sectoral collaborations for development.
‘The multi-sectoral approach in our profession is the only way to guarantee robust practice, achieve the intents of the Survey Coordination Act, and create a National Survey Data Bank, to be called ‘The Survey of Nigeria’. This is for planning, decision making, and national development,’ he said. Despite the challenges, Eze emphasized NIS’s commitment to creating technology and service delivery that not only meets today’s demands but also sets the stage for future possibilities.
Eze urged all surveyors to regularly equip themselves with the necessary intellect and tools to empower them, simplify workflows, and maximize productivity. ‘Be assured, NIS is committed to building the foundation for the next generation of surveying excellence,’ he said. He explained that the Global Surveyors Day, celebrated annually every March 21st, aims to recognize the vital contributions of surveying and geoinformatics to society. Initiated in 2018 by the International Federation of Surveyors (FIG), the day highlights the profession’s role in shaping communities, pioneering technologies, and tactical security response.
The celebration also underscores the importance of academic research, maritime and blue economy initiatives, oil and natural resources, digital mapping, and supporting sustainable development worldwide. Yakubu Atanda, Chairman of the NIS Federal Capital Territory branch, noted that NIS contributes to national security and development through mapping and data generation.
Atanda stressed the importance of collaboration between citizens and government in land management and acknowledged improvements in the enabling environment for surveyors. He emphasized the need for greater cooperation between stakeholders to enhance national development. Atanda highlighted that surveyors operate across multiple sectors, including the military, security agencies, and civil institutions, contributing significantly to national planning and security architecture.
He expressed optimism that ongoing mapping and geospatial initiatives would address developmental challenges and improve decision-making processes across the country. Atanda also called on citizens to respect land use regulations, warning that encroachment on designated lands delays development and complicates government projects.
Dr. Charity Olla, a fellow of the institution, praised surveyors as unsung heroes behind Nigeria’s infrastructure and security systems. Olla noted that their work ensures land ownership security, disaster mitigation through floodplain mapping, and precision in military and aviation operations. ‘Behind every road, every building, and every navigation system are surveyors whose efforts often go unnoticed. Without proper land titles and accurate mapping, development and security would be impossible.’
Olla raised concerns about the safety of surveyors in the field, citing incidents of harassment, assault, and theft of equipment. She called for improved security measures and insurance coverage for professionals operating in high-risk environments. She also addressed gender inclusion in the profession, noting that women surveyors were increasingly making significant strides.