Using Public Funds Wisely: The Need for Involvement of Quantity Surveyors in Cost and Contract Management of All Infrastructure Projects and Programme

In a recent press briefing, the Minister of Work illuminated the fiscal black hole that is the current cost and contract management of road projects in Nigeria. While there are many factors contributing to this grim state of affairs, the exclusion of quantity surveyors from playing a pivotal role in the process stands out as one of the most glaring omissions. Quantity surveyors are specifically trained to ensure that every kobo spent on construction is both justifiable and provides value for money. A glance at nations with successful infrastructure track records like Australia and South Africa reveals the transformative role that quantity surveyors play.

Understanding the Role of Quantity Surveyors

Quantity surveyors undergo rigorous training that equips them with the expertise to manage construction costs, negotiate contracts, and ensure the financial viability of projects. Their role is pivotal in ensuring that public funds are used judiciously, thereby ensuring probity and accountability in construction projects. In essence, they bridge the gap between engineering precision and financial accountability, a nexus that's been sorely missing in Nigeria’s infrastructure management.

Why Engineers Alone Aren’t Enough

While engineers provide the technical know-how and can envision and execute grand infrastructure projects, their training doesn't typically cover the nitty-gritty of financial management, cost projection, and budgeting. The Minister's call for engineers to "learn from quantity surveyors" isn't a dismissal of their capabilities but an emphasis on the importance of synergy between engineering brilliance and cost-effective management. I have personally had reasons to go through the NUC and NBTE-approved BMAS for the training of engineers in Nigeria and I can boldly say that the content prepares them for design and construction not cost management of projects.

International Precedents: Learning from Other Successful Countries

Several countries have recognized the importance of quantity surveyors in infrastructure management. For instance:

Australia and South Africa, with their sprawling urban developments and infrastructure projects, have consistently demonstrated the importance of involving quantity surveyors at every stage.

Australia: Government policies promoting public-private partnerships often mandate the involvement of quantity surveyors to guarantee fiscal discipline. For instance:

·??????? Sydney Metro: This project, being Australia's most ambitious public transport initiative, needed stringent cost oversight. Quantity surveyors played a crucial role, ensuring taxpayer funds were used judiciously.

·??????? West Gate Tunnel Project, Melbourne: Given its vast scale, this project's public-private structure needed precise financial oversight, leading to significant involvement of quantity surveyors.

South Africa: National infrastructure plans often underscore the significance of quantity surveyors. Examples include:

·??????? Gautrain Rapid Rail Link: As a multi-billion Rand project connecting major cities and the airport, its successful execution within the budget showcased the quintessential role of quantity surveyors.

·??????? King Shaka International Airport, Durban: Built for the 2010 FIFA World Cup, quantity surveyors ensured the project delivered a top-tier facility while maintaining strict budgetary constraints.

Both countries have policies in place that recognize the value of quantity surveyors in maintaining budgetary discipline and ensuring value for money, making them integral to public infrastructure development.

The Road Ahead for Nigeria

For Nigeria to achieve its infrastructure ambitions and ensure that public funds are utilized optimally, embracing the practice of involving quantity surveyors is not merely beneficial—it's imperative. With countries like Australia and South Africa offering blueprints for success, Nigeria has a clear path forward.

By placing quantity surveyors at the forefront of our infrastructural projects, Nigeria can guarantee its citizens transparent, efficient, and economically sound development. As we venture into a new era of growth and development, let's do so with the confidence that every naira spent is a step towards a brighter future.

Written by : Rotimi Bola Ojelade, FNIQS, RQS, PMP, MBA