Mahama in his keynote presentation as a Special guest at the 53rd Annual Conference of the Nigerian Institution of Estate Surveyors and Valuers held in Ilorin, Kwara State Capital on Thursday said that corruption is a cankerworm that retards the progress of a nation.
The former President spoke on the topic: Asset Valuation As A Global Anti-Corruption Tool:- The Nigeria Experience.
According to him, Corruption must be fought headlong whether it occurs in the public or private sector adding that corruption grows as a result of the failure of the instructions that are established to fight it.
“Corruption is a global challenge that hinders economic development, diverts investments from infrastructure, institutions, and social services, and undermines efforts to achieve other country-specific development goals and targets.
The former Ghanaian President explained that those who signed contracts documents that produce bad infrastructures have contributed to the destruction of the economy.
He urged all stakeholders in Nigeria and the African sub-region to rise and defeat corruption in all its ramifications.
He also urged Nigerians to support government efforts and ensure transparency in the fight against corruption in all sectors of the economy.
He also called for the use of the asset declaration mechanism to fight corruption.
“The international community has embarked on a global anti-corruption fight across several sectors, including real estate.
“Real estate asset and property valuation are a critical factor in asset investment decision-making and a vital tool for the global fight against corruption.
“Considering the enormity of the consequences of perversely attributed values to assets, asset valuation deservedly demands and requires increased attention from critical actors, such as the Nigerian Institution of Estate Surveyors and Valuers.
“Our fragile financial intermediation systems’ security and growth face significant risks from poorly done asset valuation.
“To remain relevant in pursuing economic and social progress and distributive justice and equity, you as professionals must rise to the occasion and create a more responsive regime to aid Africa’s renaissance and growth. You must work to build Africa as a centre of excellence in the asset valuation space.” he charged.
In his remarks, Kwara State Governor, AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq who was represented at the event by his deputy, Mr Kayode Alabi, lauded NIESV and the theme of the conference said “The Nigerian Experience, is apt as it keys into the main focus of the current APC led administration to fighting corruption which is an endemic problem confronting our corporate existence as a nation.
“It is also a testament to the commitment of NIESV as a worthy partner of the Nigerian government in the quest to enthroning a corrupt-free society through active citizen’s participation and engagement Surveyors, including Estate Surveyors and Valuers, are experts, professionals /consultants helping citizens of a particular country understand what space there is and how it can be best developed in order that all people can live happy and productive lives.”
Earlier in his opening speech, President and Chairman of Council, Nigerian Institution of Estate Surveyors and Valuers, ESV Johnbull Amayaevbo disclosed that the theme of the Conference ‘Asset Valuation As A Global Anti-Corruption Tool: The Nigeria Experience’ said the topic was carefully picked, stating that governments alone cannot succeed in preventing and fighting corruption and corrupt practices without the cooperation and collaborative efforts of the private sector.
He said the institution will collaborate with government agencies to reduce corruption to the minimum.
