Dare Babalola
The Housing Development Advocacy Network (HDAN) has praised the Nigerian Institute of Quantity Surveyors (NIQS) for honouring veteran quantity surveyor Segun Ajanlekoko.
HDAN described the gesture as a reflection of the critical role professionals play in safeguarding public resources.
The commendation follows remarks by former Cross River State Governor, Donald Duke, who recently disclosed how Ajanlekoko’s intervention, alongside that of former President Olusegun Obasanjo, helped the state save about ₦3 billion during the Tinapa Resort project.
Duke, speaking at the unveiling of the NIQS national secretariat in Abuja, said, “A construction firm initially quoted ₦30 billion… we negotiated it down to ₦24 billion, but six months later they stopped work and insisted on reverting to ₦30 billion.”
He explained that an independent assessment by Ajanlekoko’s firm later put the project cost at ₦21 billion, a development that changed the course of negotiations.
“Armed with the new valuation, I approached my boss, President Obasanjo,” Duke added, noting that the former President’s intervention ensured the contractor continued at the revised cost.
Reacting in a statement signed by its Executive Director, Festus Adebayo, HDAN described the honour bestowed on Ajanlekoko as well deserved and symbolic.
“Recognising individuals who have dedicated their lives to advancing the built environment is critical to strengthening institutional memory and inspiring the next generation of professionals,” the statement read.
The network said Ajanlekoko’s legacy goes beyond cost consultancy, highlighting his role in promoting ethics and professionalism across the construction sector.
According to HDAN, “the decision by NIQS reflects a deep appreciation for leadership, sacrifice, and long-term impact,” adding that such recognition helps to build a culture of excellence within Nigeria’s housing and infrastructure space.
The group also linked Duke’s Tinapa account to its position, noting that it underscores the importance of quantity surveyors in public project delivery.
“Honouring icons like QS Ajanlekoko serves as a reminder that nation-building is driven by individuals who commit their expertise, time, and passion to the growth of key sectors such as housing and infrastructure,” the statement added.
HDAN further called on other professional bodies to emulate the initiative by celebrating industry leaders whose contributions continue to shape policy and development outcomes in Nigeria.
The organisation reaffirmed its commitment to promoting professionalism and sustainable housing development.
HDAN stressed that the Tinapa experience remains a strong example of how expert input can prevent cost inflation and protect public funds.
