NIQS 2024 AGM to Tackle Construction Cost Challenges
By: Julian Adetinuyo
The Nigerian Institute of Quantity Surveyors (NIQS) has announced its 2024 Annual General Meeting (AGM), set to take place in Port Harcourt from November 26 to 29.
Speaking at a press conference, the NIQS President, QS Kene Nzekwe, emphasized the critical importance of this year’s theme: “Strengthening Quantity Surveying Practices and Processes for Growth and Sustainability in a Turbulent Economy.”
The theme underscores the profession’s vital role in addressing Nigeria’s economic challenges, particularly in optimizing resource allocation and ensuring cost efficiency in capital projects.
“In these challenging times, quantity surveyors are indispensable in promoting effective resource management and cost control to support national development,” Nzekwe stated.
The AGM will focus on reinforcing professional standards, fostering innovation, and encouraging the adoption of modern techniques to enhance project delivery and sustainability. It will also highlight the need for global best practices and advocate for the engagement of qualified quantity surveyors in all construction and infrastructure projects.
Professional Advancements and Initiatives
NIQS has made significant strides in advancing the profession through several key initiatives aimed at improving efficiency and accountability:
- Comprehensive Cost Databank:
The institute is developing a cost databank to provide accurate benchmarks for construction projects, supporting evidence-based decision-making in project planning and implementation. - Building and Engineering Standard Method of Measurement (BESMM 4R):
The BESMM 4R standardizes measurement practices to promote consistency and transparency in cost estimation. NIQS urges professionals and stakeholders to integrate this framework into their processes to enhance project quality and accountability. - Resource Scheduling for Small-Scale Projects:
Recognizing the importance of inclusivity, NIQS has introduced a Standard Method of Resource Scheduling tailored to small-scale and informal sector projects. This initiative aims to support resource allocation and improve project outcomes at grassroots levels.
Call to Action
QS Nzekwe emphasized the need for practitioners to adopt these tools and strategies to improve service delivery and align with evolving industry demands. He also called on the government to enforce procurement regulations, ensure project designs are separated from cost management functions, and involve qualified quantity surveyors in all stages of construction and infrastructure projects to ensure efficiency and sustainability.
The AGM will serve as a platform for assessing the institute’s progress over the past year, discussing challenges, and charting pathways for further growth and development.
In his concluding remarks, QS Nzekwe reaffirmed the NIQS’s commitment to professional excellence and national development.
“The Nigerian Institute of Quantity Surveyors remains dedicated to advancing best practices and contributing to a sustainable future. This AGM offers an opportunity for meaningful engagement as we work towards these shared goals,” he said.
The 2024 AGM is expected to be a significant event for the quantity surveying profession, addressing critical industry challenges and setting the tone for future advancements.
