Former Minister of Works and Housing, Mr Babatunde Fashola, has urged leaders and professionals to embrace emotional intelligence and professionalism to improve wellbeing and life expectancy.
Fashola spoke on Wednesday at the 40th Annual General Meeting and Investiture of the Nigerian Institution of Surveyors, Lagos Branch, held at Ikeja, with the theme ‘Leadership and Professionalism.’
He said emotional intelligence was central to professionalism, noting society benefits when practitioners show competence, discipline and empathy.
“Leadership and professionalism are intertwined. Professionalism means politeness, responsibility and quality delivery, while leadership is service, both divine and earthly,” Fashola said.
He called for attitudinal change, warning that amateur practices often carry unquantifiable consequences for lives and property.
Fashola urged citizens and professionals to continually raise standards and deliver quality services across sectors.
Mr Ayokunnu Adesina, Lagos Governor’s Special Adviser on Survey Matters, described the theme as timely and relevant.
“Leadership determines outcomes. It drives both positive and negative developments in society,” Adesina said.
Outgoing NIS Lagos Chairman, Mr Olukolade Kasim, urged members to prioritise quality, stressing that professional standards must never be compromised.
Kasim said the electronic beacon request application had come to stay and encouraged mentorship to groom future surveyors.
Newly elected Chairman, Mr Adedeji Olanrewaju, pledged purposeful leadership anchored on professionalism and innovation.
“We are committed to advancing surveying practice through technology to foster sustainable growth and development,” Olanrewaju said.
NIS National President, Mr Pius Eze, represented by his deputy, Mr Kunle Ogunbadewa, urged members to promote innovation, mentorship and ethical conduct.
He said professional ethics and continuous capacity building were vital for sustainable national development.
Awards of Excellence were presented to dignitaries and members, including traditional ruler, Olubadan of Ibadan, Oba Rasheed Ladoja.
In a goodwill message, Oba Ladoja, represented by his Balogun Osi, Chief Kola Daisi, described surveying as the backbone of development.
He congratulated the new Lagos chairman, urging professionalism, integrity and discipline as the administration’s guiding principles.
