Dare Babalola
The Nigerian Institute of Quantity Surveyors (NIQS) has officially unveiled its newly completed national secretariat in Abuja, naming the facility after veteran quantity surveyor, J. Segun Ajanlekoko, in honour of his decades-long contributions to the profession.
The event, which brought together key stakeholders including the President of NIQS, QS Dr. Aminu M. Bashir; Governor of the Central Bank of Nigeria, Olayemi Cardoso; and the Minister of Housing and Urban Development, Ahmed Musa Dangiwa, also coincided with the Executive Council Meeting of the African Association of Quantity Surveyors (AAQS) and a Tripartite Assembly involving the NIQS, AAQS and the Quantity Surveyors Registration Board of Nigeria (QSRBN).
Chairing the ceremony, the keynote speaker described the unveiling as a milestone in the institute’s history, noting that the edifice represents growth and institutional strength.
“This headquarters is more than a physical structure. It is a symbol of the Institute’s growth, resilience, and commitment to professional excellence,” he said.
He added that the institute has consistently strengthened standards and ethical practices within Nigeria’s construction sector, stressing that the profession remains critical to national development.
“At a time when Nigeria is investing in infrastructure, housing, and economic transformation, the role of Quantity Surveyors has become even more critical. They ensure cost discipline, promote transparency, and deliver value,” he stated.
The chairman also paid tribute to Ajanlekoko, describing him as a figure whose impact transcends personal achievement.
“There are professionals who practise their craft and there are those who elevate the entire profession. QS J. Segun Ajanlekoko belongs firmly in that second category,” he said.
In his acceptance speech, Ajanlekoko expressed deep gratitude to the institute, describing the honour as both humbling and unexpected.
“To have one’s name etched into a building of such significance in our nation’s capital is an honour beyond my wildest dream which I never sought. It is indeed very humbling,” he said.
Reflecting on the moment, he revealed his initial reaction to the decision.
“When it was first mooted to me that our secretariat is going to be named in my honour, I was initially totally disorientated I had a sleepless and restless night because I know honours are usually given posthumously,” he said.
The veteran quantity surveyor credited his achievements to the support of mentors, colleagues and family, noting that his journey in the profession was shaped by guidance and opportunities both in Nigeria and abroad.
“My status to date was not achieved alone. I have had to walk this journey with a lot of support and guidance pointing the way to go to me over the past half century,” he stated.
He used the occasion to emphasise the importance of professionalism and ethical standards, particularly for younger practitioners.
“Excellence is not happenstance it goes beyond skill, title or recognition when our actions are driven by sincerity, integrity and genuine service, excellence becomes more than performance—it becomes an offering,” he said.
Ajanlekoko also urged professionals to embrace leadership responsibilities, describing leadership as a service-driven endeavour.
“Leadership is not a walk in the park. Leadership is earned, not demanded it is about adding value, lifting others and showing a path worth walking,” he said.
He expressed hope that the newly named “QS J. Segun Ajanlekoko House” would serve as a hub for innovation and professional growth.
“My prayerful wish is that this house may inspire all quantity surveyors to uphold the highest standards of professionalism, service and integrity. This building must be a statement of the arrival of the profession to take charge of its duties,” he added.
The unveiling ceremony highlighted the growing role of quantity surveyors in Nigeria’s development, with stakeholders calling for greater investment in human capacity and stronger collaboration across the public and private sectors to address housing and infrastructure challenges.
