The Nigerian Institution of Surveyors (NIS) has urged the Federal Government to collaborate with them to create new maps of the country, stating that the current maps are obsolete and cannot address the present realities. The NIS president, Dr. Matthew Ibitoye, made this call at the 4th NIS Lasis Ali Memorial Lecture in Ibadan.
According to Ibitoye, the maps in use were created in 1965 and are no longer relevant. He emphasized that new mapping with modern technology is crucial to help security agents tackle insecurity. “The best mapped country is the best developed country,” he said.
Ibitoye also highlighted the lack of interest in surveying among prospecting students in Nigeria, citing poor remuneration as a factor. He urged the government to deploy strong political will to control trade deficit, monetary policies, and inflation to boost the nation’s economy.
Additionally, the Guest Lecturer, Mr. Lanre Agoro, advised surveyors to sensitize the public to the dangers of outright sale of landed properties and encouraged leasing for economic development and securing the future for unborn generations.
The NIS Chairman in Oyo, Waheed Lamidi, warned citizens against accepting back-dated survey plans from quacks in the surveying profession, emphasizing that qualified members of NIS can be recognized through their unique registration number and seal.