NIQS RETREAT IN ABUJA FOCUSES ON STRATEGIC LEADERSHIP FOR PROFESSIONAL GROWTH

The Abuja Chapter of the Nigerian Institute of Quantity Surveyors (NIQS) held a strategic retreat for its Senate members on Saturday, May 24, 2025, at the NIQS House, Mabushi, Abuja. The retreat brought together leading professionals in the field to reassess operational strategies, deepen professional collaboration, and address critical issues affecting the quantity surveying industry […]

The Abuja Chapter of the Nigerian Institute of Quantity Surveyors (NIQS) held a strategic retreat for its Senate members on Saturday, May 24, 2025, at the NIQS House, Mabushi, Abuja. The retreat brought together leading professionals in the field to reassess operational strategies, deepen professional collaboration, and address critical issues affecting the quantity surveying industry in Nigeria.

Declaring the retreat open, QS Ahmed Usman Kankia, Chairman of the NIQS Abuja Chapter, emphasized the importance of regular engagement among members of the Senate to foster innovation and sustain the integrity of the profession. He noted that retreats like this are essential in re-evaluating goals and ensuring members are aligned with the institute’s evolving vision.

The national leadership of the NIQS was also represented at the event, with the President, QS Kene C. Nzekwe, FNIQS, delivering the keynote address. In his remarks, he challenged the Senate to remain proactive in tackling pressing issues such as unethical practices, cost mismanagement in public projects, and low awareness about the role of Quantity Surveyors in national development.

“Our profession must not be reactive. We must lead the conversation on transparency, cost control, and value for money in the built environment,” Nzekwe said.

The retreat featured insightful paper presentations and technical sessions, which covered areas like legislative advocacy, capacity building, and the use of digital tools in modern quantity surveying practice. Experts and senior members of the profession shared knowledge on best practices and explored ways to support young professionals within the institute.

Beyond deliberations, the retreat also served as an opportunity to build stronger bonds among Senate members, encouraging mentorship, teamwork, and a renewed sense of professional responsibility.

In a communique issued at the end of the retreat, participants resolved to intensify efforts toward public engagement, deepen collaboration with relevant stakeholders in the construction industry, and ensure more active involvement in policy dialogue at both federal and state levels.

The Abuja Chapter reaffirmed its commitment to organizing more strategic engagements to enhance the visibility and impact of the profession.