The Lagos State branch of the Nigerian Institution of Surveyors has emphasized the importance of conducting a census to properly plan the city.
Speaking at a press conference to mark World Surveyors Day 2025, the state chairman, Olukolade Kasim, highlighted the need to know the exact population of Lagos for effective urban planning.
“We envision a well-planned and efficient Lagos with adequate housing, infrastructure, and universal access to employment and basic services,” Kasim stated. He added, “We look forward to the conduct of a census to determine the actual number of people living in the state.”
Kasim’s message was conveyed by his vice, Moses Olukayode, who also pointed out that the frequent collapse of infrastructure across the country could be traced to poor planning foundations.
He urged the government to prioritize involving professional surveyors in national development.
“We have been working with the government to establish strong links between planning, urban laws, and sustainable development to shape Lagos’s future growth,” Olukayode explained.
The institution has also been focusing on building the capacity of its members to ensure the use of best practices in the development of the built environment.