Rivers State Governor, Sir Siminalayi Fubara, has called on the Surveyor-General of the Federation to address issues surrounding the alleged issuance of Federal Certificates of Occupancy within Rivers State, saying such actions undermine state authority and contradict the Land Use Act, which vests all land in the governor as trustee for the people.
Governor Fubara made the call while speaking at the National Conference of the Association of Private Practicing Surveyors of Nigeria (APPSN), a subgroup of the Nigerian Institution of Surveyors (NIS), held at the Obi-Wali Cultural Centre, Port Harcourt, on Thursday. He was represented at the event by the Secretary to the State Government, Dr. Benibo Anabraba.
He described surveyors as pivotal to the growth, development, peace, and orderly governance of society, emphasizing their roles in land administration, infrastructure development, environmental management, and conflict resolution. “Surveyors play indispensable roles in government ministries, departments, and agencies, ensuring adherence to best practices,” he said.
The governor also raised concerns about unprofessional practices in the profession, particularly in the acquisition of Rights of Way and seismic operations, which he said hinder the state’s development.
He urged surveyors to uphold professionalism, fairness, and ethical standards, especially in matters of land acquisition and compensation for oil and gas exploration projects.
Fubara highlighted the significance of the conference theme, “Mapping the Future: The Vital Roles of Surveyors in the Nigerian Oil and Gas Industry,” noting Rivers State’s strategic importance in Nigeria’s hydrocarbon sector. He further called on surveyors to promote sustainable planning practices, including the protection of green spaces, marine areas, and forest reserves.
