The Nigerian Institution of Estate Surveyors and Valuers has inducted 539 new members, urging them to uphold the highest professional standards in the industry.
This was disclosed at the NIESV 2020 Membership Induction Ceremony themed, “Transition To Professional Membership: Upholding Integrity And Creating Value Through Service Delivery.”
The President and Chairman of the Council of the Nigerian Institution of Estate Surveyors and Valuers, Victor Alonge, emphasised that members of the profession continue to face challenges in upholding transparency, accountability and integrity.
He said, “It is required of you more than before to be impeccable in character, to uphold the highest standard of professional ethics and conduct, and to be alert to global trends.
“In our ever-evolving world of business, where cutting-edge technology and sophisticated strategies often take centre stage, there is one thing that has always held my unwavering commitment and which I am recommending to you: knowledge acquisition, the hallmark of professionalism. For that purpose, the Council in its wisdom has put in place the Mandatory Continuous Professional Development Programme to serve as the platform for upward mobility in the profession. I urge you to take advantage of the programme to update your knowledge.
“Proper understanding of the profession is very important. This is not a trading occupation where you walk in, open a shop, buy goods and start selling. The first thing you need to understand is that you need knowledge. Our stock in trade is knowledge; we are service providers. You must practise according to ethics and standards. Don’t make sacrifices to acquire knowledge and to pay our dues, and paying your dues means expertise.”
In a similar vein, the Chairman of the day and Group Chairman of NGX, Umaru Kwairanga, said the induction reinforces three guiding principles, beginning with integrity as the foundation, stressing that evolving markets must provide fair pricing and an environment that reflects true economic value, because investor confidence begins with trust.
He said, “The induction is a commitment to a profession that will not merely serve the built environment but actively strengthen the financial basket of our nation. I commend the institution for its unwavering leadership. Through training, advocacy, and standard-setting, you provide an infrastructure that allows our bank to function efficiently.
“The clear, viable language of your standards ensures efforts are taken in price, training, and balance with confidence, reducing transaction costs and bridging the information gap for all participants.”
Corroborating this, the Executive Secretary of the Financial Reporting Council, Dr. Rabiu Olowo, urged the inductees to uphold truth and integrity as the cornerstone of their work.
He said, “As you take your professional oath today, I urge you to embrace the principles outlined in that guide. Standards evolve, regulations shift, and the world increasingly demands transparency. Equip yourselves with the knowledge, discipline, and ethical grounding to remain relevant, compliant, and credible. Avoid conflicts of interest. Document your assumptions. Be bold.
“Truth and integrity must be the cornerstone of your work. Scrutinise the information you encounter, produce reports that can withstand examination by regulators, investors, and the public, and uphold the highest standards in your judgements and interactions with your colleagues and communities.
“The path you are stepping onto is challenging, but it is also full of opportunity. The skills, transparency, and professionalism you demonstrate will enhance public trust, strengthen our institutions, and contribute to the growth of our capital markets and the resilience of our national economy. As a regulator, I assure you that your work is valued, and we are committed to supporting you in building a credible financial system. You are now partners in shaping financial integrity for Nigeria, for Africa, and for the global economy.”
Meanwhile, the guest of honour and the Chief Executive Officer of The Address Homes Ltd, Bisi Onasanya, said life teaches us that perseverance is not optional; it is necessary.
