Governor Dapo Abiodun’s housing development initiatives have drawn high praise from the Nigerian Institution of Estate Surveyors and Valuers (NIESV), as the institution acknowledged the state’s efforts in reducing the housing deficit through the provision of multiple affordable housing schemes across Ogun State.
The commendation was delivered during the weekend in Abeokuta, the state capital, at the formal inauguration of Adeolu Adejimi as the 12th Chairman of the Ogun State branch of the NIESV. The event also witnessed the swearing-in of new executives who are set to pilot the affairs of the professional body for the next two years.
Delivering his keynote remarks at the event, Abiodun Samuel, who served as the Chairman of the occasion, praised Governor Abiodun for what he described as a deliberate and people-oriented housing policy. He noted that the administration’s focused interventions in the housing sector have not only provided much-needed shelter but also significantly improved the standard of living for many residents in the state.
Samuel stated, “Governor Dapo Abiodun’s unwavering commitment to addressing the housing deficit and enhancing the living standards of our citizens is not only commendable but also essential. His vision to transform Ogun State into a hub of affordable housing and infrastructure development has not gone unnoticed. His actions are making a clear difference, and we believe such bold policies are what the nation requires at both state and federal levels.”
He added that the NIESV fully supports the state government’s housing agenda and looks forward to further collaboration aimed at achieving more milestones in the real estate and urban development sectors. Samuel also called on estate surveyors and valuers to remain active partners in national development, stressing the importance of the profession in building sustainable urban centers and contributing to economic growth.
In his inaugural speech, the newly elected chairman, Adeolu Adejimi, expressed deep appreciation to the members of the institution for entrusting him with leadership. He pledged to build on the solid foundation laid by his predecessors, while unveiling the administration’s roadmap for the next two years.
“Our key focus will be on professional development, greater stakeholder engagement, adaptation to technological innovations, and strengthening internal unity,” Adejimi said. “I am particularly excited about fostering stronger partnerships with government agencies, academic institutions, and other professional bodies. These collaborations will enable us to generate fresh insights and create meaningful opportunities that not only benefit our members but also extend real value to the wider public in Ogun State.”
Adejimi emphasized the importance of teamwork, urging all members of the state branch to become more involved in programmes and policy discussions. According to him, the collective strength and unity of the institution would serve as a catalyst for achieving its goals and extending its influence across various sectors of society.
He also issued a rallying call for ethical conduct and high professional standards, noting that the trust and credibility of the profession depended heavily on the integrity of its members. “As we embark on this new chapter, I encourage every member to hold fast to the principles of integrity, diligence, and innovation. Together, we can make a substantial difference,” he added.
The event was also graced by the National President of NIESV, Adekunle Alonge, who used the platform to charge the new state executives to align their policies and actions with the strategic direction of the national body. Alonge stressed the importance of unity across the various branches of the institution and encouraged the Ogun chapter to pursue innovation while consolidating on past gains.
He said, “The success of the institution lies in the consistency and creativity of its branches. I urge the new leaders to stay committed to growth, collaboration, and professional excellence. Let us continue to set examples that future professionals will be proud to emulate.”
In a moment of reflection, the outgoing chairman, Bola Orekoya, took stock of the achievements recorded during his tenure. He listed the acquisition and development of a permanent site for the branch as a key milestone, along with the successful induction of 31 new members—comprising both fellows and associate members.
Orekoya described his time in office as rewarding and expressed confidence that the new leadership would elevate the institution to greater heights. He thanked members for their unwavering support and for believing in the collective vision that guided the past administration.
The colourful ceremony drew participants from across the surveying and valuation profession, government representatives, and members of civil society. It marked not only a celebration of new leadership but also an opportunity to deepen conversations around affordable housing, urban planning, and the evolving role of estate professionals in nation-building
