The Association of Private Practising Surveyors of Nigeria (APPSN), Akwa Ibom State Branch, has commended the Akwa Ibom State Government for forwarding an Executive Bill on Geographical Information to the State House of Assembly.
The newly elected Chairman of APPSN in the state, Surv. Abraham Beelor, gave the commendation while speaking with journalists shortly after the joint inauguration of the executives of APPSN and the Nigerian Institution of Surveyors (NIS) in Uyo.
Beelor noted that the proposed bill had already undergone a public hearing at the State House of Assembly, providing stakeholders and members of the public with the opportunity to understand its objectives and relevance.
He expressed optimism that once passed into law and assented to by the governor, the legislation would strengthen the surveying profession by eliminating the activities of quacks, promoting ethical standards, and ensuring that all land-related approvals comply with established professional requirements.
According to him, the law would also provide a comprehensive database of registered surveyors across the state, making it easier to identify and sanction individuals who encourage or patronise unqualified practitioners.
“We must ensure that those promoting quackery are identified and discouraged in order to protect the integrity and image of the surveying profession,” he said.
Also speaking, Chairman of the Nigerian Institution of Surveyors (NIS), Akwa Ibom State Branch, Surv. Udeme Fred Ukpong, MNIS, described surveying as a profession that remains at the forefront of national development.
He said surveyors, as custodians of geospatial information and land resources, play a critical role in land administration, infrastructure development, environmental sustainability, urban planning, national security and economic growth.
Ukpong stressed that the evolving demands of the profession require innovation, collaboration, continuous professional development and strict adherence to ethical standards.
He pledged that the branch would continue to advocate policies and initiatives that would advance surveying practice and protect the interests of its members.
“The success of these goals cannot rest on the shoulders of the Executive Committee alone. It requires the collective commitment, wisdom and active participation of every member,” he said.
He urged members to embrace unity, mutual respect and shared responsibility in building a stronger and more impactful branch.
Ukpong also appreciated members for their impressive turnout at the inauguration, describing it as a demonstration of their commitment and passion for the profession. He assured members that his administration would operate an open-door policy and carry everyone along in advancing the objectives of the institution.
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