The Ondo State Branch of the Nigerian Institution of Estate Surveyors and Valuers (NIESV) has launched its maiden “NIESV Week,” combining celebrations of professional achievements with a call to the public to avoid unlicensed property practitioners, commonly referred to as “quacks.”

The launch took place on Monday, March 2, 2026, at the NIESV House, Alagbaka, Akure. ESV (Dr) Akintomide Joseph Akinlabi, FNIVS, Chairman of the Ondo State Branch, presided over the event, which was attended by past chairmen, branch executives, and members of the press.

Dr. Akinlabi described the maiden NIESV Week as “a celebration of our profession’s progress and a platform to engage members, the youth, and the public,” highlighting that the event combines awards, training, and mentorship initiatives.

The chairman warned that many Nigerians continue to fall victim to unlicensed operators who offer property services without proper training. 

“We urge the public not to patronize quacks. Using unlicensed operators puts your investments, properties, and finances at risk,” he stressed.

He explained that the week-long programme is built around three main objectives: professional reflection, fellowship among members, and public enlightenment about ethical practice in estate surveying and valuation.

Dr. Akinlabi emphasized the critical role of estate surveyors and valuers in Nigeria’s economy. “Our expertise underpins mortgage financing, taxation, infrastructure development, and public asset management. Accurate valuation protects investors, governments, and citizens alike,” he said.

Beyond valuation, the branch offers advisory services in property development, compensation assessment, estate agency, property and facilities management, and land administration. These services, he noted, safeguard Nigeria’s land and property systems, ensuring transparency and accountability.

Since assuming office eighteen months ago, the branch leadership has implemented structural reforms, modernized the secretariat, upgraded infrastructure, and strengthened strategic engagement with government agencies to enhance professional visibility across Ondo State.

Member welfare has been a central focus. Deliberate efforts have been made to create professional opportunities, ensure equitable access to projects, and support academic members involved in training future estate surveyors. Past chairmen and elders continue to be honored for their contributions to the branch.

Professional development remains a priority. On December 30, 2025, the branch organized a specialised training on emerging tax regulations, equipping members to remain compliant and competitive in an evolving real estate market.

Youth engagement is another highlight of the NIESV Week. Activities include a quiz competition featuring tertiary institutions, a young surveyors’ forum, and mentorship programs aimed at inspiring the next generation while discouraging them from following unlicensed operators.

The celebration also incorporates gender inclusion and physical wellness, with a women’s forum and a keep-fit exercise involving members and the public. A novelty football match between NIESV members and the Ondo State Branch of the Nigerian Institution of Surveyors will further promote camaraderie.

The week will culminate with an awards and launch ceremony at Dejavu Hotel, Alagbaka. Distinguished members and stakeholders who have contributed significantly to the profession and society will be honoured, and an 18-seater branch bus will be unveiled to boost operational efficiency. A dinner with members of the diaspora will cap the celebrations.

Dr. Akinlabi called on all members to participate fully and responsibly in each activity, emphasizing that “institutional strength is built on collective discipline, ownership, and commitment to professional standards.”

He reiterated his warning to the public and young professionals: “NIESV is the only legally recognized body regulating estate surveying and valuation. Protect your investments, do not fall prey to quacks.”

Expressing gratitude, Dr. Akinlabi acknowledged ESV (Dr) Chief Adekunle Victor Alonge, PNIVS, National President of NIESV, as well as branch elders, past chairmen, executive members, and the press for their unwavering support. “This maiden NIESV Week is both a celebration and a call to uphold professional integrity,” he concluded.

The 2026 NIESV Week in Ondo State represents a landmark moment for the branch, reinforcing its commitment to professional excellence, public education, youth engagement, and meaningful contribution to the economic development of Ondo State and Nigeria as a whole.