The Nigerian Institution of Estate Surveyors and Valuers (NIESV) has elected Muhammad Bature as its 27th President and Chairman of Council during its 56th Annual General Meeting held in Abia State. In his acceptance speech, Bature praised the outgoing administration for elevating the institution's profile and assured members that his leadership would build on this momentum through deliberate public engagement and enhanced media visibility.
Commitment to National Conversations
Bature emphasized that NIESV would become more prominent in national discussions on land administration, housing delivery, infrastructure development, valuation standards, economic planning, and development. “Our expert voice shall be heard consistently and credibly,” he stated. “We shall foster a culture of innovation and sustain strategic partnerships with government agencies, regulators, the organized private sector, and other stakeholders.”
Seven-Point Action Plan
Bature unveiled a seven-point action plan titled “Agenda for a Future-Ready NIESV,” describing it as a roadmap for transformation, impact, and sustainable growth. The plan prioritizes capacity development among members to enhance performance and service delivery, while raising professional standards through continuous, content-rich training and knowledge acquisition.
He emphasized the need for digital transformation, noting that the institution would adopt modern tools for valuation, property and facility management, data analytics, and client services. Digital platforms for communication, learning, and service delivery would be strengthened, with innovation becoming central to the institution’s identity.
Ethics and Transparency
Bature stressed that trust remains the profession’s greatest asset, pledging to reinforce ethical standards, promote transparency, and strengthen disciplinary processes. His administration would uphold fairness, accountability, and the rule of law, insisting that ethical practice would remain non-negotiable to protect the integrity of the profession and build public confidence.
Membership Growth and Youth Inclusion
On membership growth, Bature noted that the institution’s influence on legislation, government policies, and professional interests depends largely on its size and strength. Recruitment into professional membership would be prioritized without compromising standards, while more opportunities would be created for young professionals through mentorship and improved welfare support. He also announced plans to establish a Presidential Advisory Committee comprising members across all levels to enhance participation and gather feedback from credible sources, including social media.
Collaboration and Global Positioning
Bature pledged to strengthen collaboration with allied professional bodies to promote knowledge sharing, clarify professional boundaries, and curb quackery. The institution would deepen partnerships with government, private sector leaders, international organizations, academia, and the media to reinforce its authority in real estate, valuation, land economy, facility management, and advisory services.
Highlighting sustainability and global positioning, he said the institution would champion sustainable real estate practices and align with global standards. Participation in international conferences, certifications, and partnerships would be enhanced to ensure NIESV remains globally competitive. The new president also promised to restructure the secretariat for greater efficiency, accountability, and service excellence, transforming it into a responsive, member-focused administrative hub supported by technology to improve membership services, records management, communication, training delivery, and financial transparency.
