Aspiring estate surveyors and valuers in Nigeria have been encouraged to focus on acquiring professional skills, certifications, and integrity to succeed in the real estate industry. This call was made at the Fourth Hope Harriman Students Series, which was held as part of the 2025 Estate Week celebration of the Lagos Branch of the Nigerian Institution of Estate Surveyors and Valuers (NIESV).
The event took place at Yaba College of Technology (Yabatech) and brought together estate management students from four tertiary institutions: the University of Lagos (UNILAG), Lagos State Polytechnic (LASPOTECH), Lagos State University (LASU), and Gateway ICT Polytechnic.
Outgoing chairman of the Lagos branch, Olugbenga Ismail, said the aim of the forum was to bridge the gap between academic learning and the realities of professional practice. He stressed that the event was created to inspire and equip the next generation of estate surveyors with knowledge and values they need to thrive.
Ismail described estate surveying and valuation as a noble and demanding profession that requires continuous professional development, ethical conduct, and a deep commitment to adding value to society. He explained that success in the field comes not only from academic qualifications but from consistent learning, integrity, and relevant professional certifications.
Also speaking at the event, the new chairman of the Lagos branch, Tosin Kadiri, advised the students to identify their strengths early, focus on specialised areas of practice, and create meaningful impacts in their careers. He noted that the forum was named in honour of Hope Harriman, the first chairman of the Lagos branch, who was known for his dedication to excellence in the profession.
Kadiri highlighted the vast opportunities available within the estate surveying profession. According to him, the field offers numerous paths, including property valuation, land administration, facility management, arbitration, project development, and investment analysis. He encouraged students to explore these options and prepare themselves for the future.
Ayo Olamoju, Assistant National Publicity Secretary of NIESV, delivered a lecture on the theme “Building a Career in Estate Surveying and Valuation Profession”. He explained that the profession goes far beyond buying and selling properties. According to him, it includes land use planning, asset management, lease advisory, urban renewal, project monitoring, and legal advisory services in land and property matters.
Olamoju urged students to understand and respect the laws of nature and succession as they relate to real estate, while maintaining strong personal and professional ethics. He also advised them to use social media not just for entertainment but as a tool for professional learning and networking.
“Use platforms like LinkedIn, Twitter, and even Instagram to follow professionals, engage in industry conversations, and access learning resources,” Olamoju said. “Social media is not just for fun; it can help you grow your network and build your brand.”
Another speaker, Adebiyi Ayeni, encouraged students to develop passion and creativity in their chosen career. He advised them to seek internships and attach themselves to practicing professionals for mentorship and practical exposure.
He said: “Be open to learning new things. What you learn during your internship could change your entire career path. Never underestimate the value of hands-on experience.”
Chairman of the Lagos NIESV Education Sub-Committee, Tunde Yakubu, also addressed the students, urging them to get involved in NIESV student programs and activities. He explained that such involvement provides a solid foundation for professional development and allows students to understand the culture and ethics of the institution from early on.
Yakubu noted that the sub-committee was committed to organising more student-focused events to build the next generation of ethical, skilled, and well-informed estate surveyors.
The Hope Harriman Students Series has grown into an important knowledge-sharing platform where young students and future professionals can interact with experts in the real estate field. The 2025 edition stood out not only for its large attendance but also for the high level of engagement and interaction between students and professionals.
Participants were encouraged to continue the learning process beyond the classroom, keep their goals clear, and always uphold the highest standards of integrity in all professional dealings.
The Estate Week celebration continues with other events lined up, including site tours, professional workshops, and networking opportunities aimed at promoting best practices in the real estate and valuation industry.
