It was an epoch-making event in Oyo State as the Office of the Surveyor-General received first-class modern equipment and additional operational vehicles, marking the first major upgrade in over two decades.
The last time such sophisticated equipment was procured dates back to the administration of Governor Rashidi Ladoja in 2004, while the last operational vehicle was acquired during the tenure of late Governor Adebayo Alao-Akala. Today, the office proudly boasts two functional vehicles and state-of-the-art equipment, symbolizing a new era of efficiency and professionalism.
Speaking at the event, the Surveyor-General of Oyo State, Surveyor Olusoji Adeyemi Adeoye, described the moment as historic and transformative. He applauded the Honorable Commissioner Ministry of Lands Housing and Urban Development Mr Akin-Funmilayo Williams, describing him as a man of integrity and vision, particularly for facilitating the recruitment of 27 professional surveyors into the state system under the leadership of Governor Seyi Makinde FNSE Dsc GSSRS.
Surveyor Adeoye commended the HC’s administrative acumen and even encouraged him to consider a PhD in professional management. He, however, reminded the government of the long-standing assurance to rebuild the office complex, expressing optimism that improved infrastructure would further enhance productivity. According to him, the new equipment would eliminate stress, ensure accuracy, and make efficiency the new standard, while praising Governor Makinde for continuously raising the bar of governance.
The Chairman of the Nigerian Institution of Surveyors (NIS), Oyo State Branch, Surveyor Raheem Abiodun Lamidi, also lauded Governor Makinde for changing the narrative and giving the Office of the Surveyor-General a renewed identity. He applauded the Mr Akin-Funmilayo for his dedication and hard work, noting that his depth of wisdom, knowledge, and understanding of surveying deserved special recognition, even suggesting an honorary award.
Representing His Excellency, Engineer Seyi Makinde, the Honorable Commissioner , Mr. Akin-Funmilayo Williams, commended the Surveyor-General, outgoing and incoming NIS executives, and all professionals and staff present. He described the occasion as monumental, appreciating the state government for approving new staff, vehicles, and equipment, which he noted were critical for productivity, efficiency, and timely service delivery. He revealed that with the support of the Ministry of Lands, Housing and Urban Development, the Office of the Surveyor-General, and related agencies, the state’s Internally Generated Revenue (IGR) from the sector had risen to about ₦7 billion.
Mr. Williams charged staff and directors to make judicious use of the new equipment and encouraged continuous mental and professional development to keep pace with evolving knowledge and technology. Emphasizing inclusive leadership, he declared that the era where junior staff could not access the of the Honorable Commissioner was over, urging everyone to see themselves as legacy builders.
In a major highlight, he announced the approval by Governor Makinde for the digitalization of survey operations in Oyo State, a move expected to significantly improve efficiency, accuracy, accessibility, and service delivery by transitioning from analog to technology-driven systems.
E-signed:
Mr Akin-Funmilayo Williams
Honorable Commissioner Ministry of Lands Housing and Urban Development Oyo State
