The Nigerian Institute of Quantity Surveyors (NIQS) has called for an increased presence of quantity surveyors within the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Civil Service Commission to enhance cost control, procurement efficiency, and overall project management.
The institute believes that by integrating more professionals in key roles, the commission can ensure that public infrastructure projects are executed transparently and with optimal value for money.
During a visit to the commission’s headquarters in Abuja, NIQS President Kene Nzekwe led discussions with Chairman Emeka Ezeh, emphasizing that quantity surveyors play a critical role in ensuring proper cost estimation, contract administration, and financial accountability in construction projects.
He pointed out that many government-funded projects face challenges such as inflated costs and delays due to a lack of proper financial oversight. By employing more quantity surveyors, the commission can prevent these issues, streamline procurement processes, and foster better financial planning in project execution.
Nzekwe further underscored the institute’s commitment to promoting best practices in cost management, ensuring that all public sector projects adhere to strict financial discipline.
He noted that NIQS members are equipped with the expertise needed to assess project feasibility, mitigate financial risks, and guide government agencies toward more sustainable infrastructure development.
He urged the commission to consider employing quantity surveyors as procurement and planning officers, given their unique skills in ensuring transparency and efficiency in public spending.
Responding to the proposal, Chairman Ezeh acknowledged the vital contributions of quantity surveyors to Nigeria’s construction and infrastructure sectors.
He provided insights into the commission’s operations, explaining that although the enabling Act establishing the FCT Civil Service Commission was signed into law in 2018, it only became fully functional under the present administration.
The commission currently oversees a workforce of approximately 32,000 employees, and recruitment is carried out based on declared vacancies from relevant government agencies.
Ezeh assured the NIQS delegation that their request would be given due consideration whenever opportunities arise. He reaffirmed the commission’s commitment to hiring skilled professionals to improve project management efficiency, stressing that all recruitment processes would be conducted transparently and in line with government policies.
As Nigeria continues to expand its urban infrastructure, experts agree that strong cost management and effective procurement strategies will be key to ensuring sustainable development.
The NIQS remains optimistic that its advocacy will lead to an increased presence of quantity surveyors in the public sector, ultimately resulting in better project execution and greater accountability in government spending.
