By Harriet Tornguvan
The Minister of Defence, General Christopher Gwabin Musa (retd), has been conferred with an Honorary Fellowship by the Nigerian Institution of Surveyors (NIS), in a recognition widely described as a historic milestone.
The prestigious honour was bestowed on General Musa at a ceremony held at the Ministry of Defence headquarters, Ship House, Abuja. The award acknowledges his outstanding leadership, dedicated service, and notable contributions to national security in his role as Minister of Defence.
According to the NIS, the conferment, initially scheduled for December 2025, was brought forward due to pressing service commitments, ensuring timely recognition of the minister’s exceptional performance.
The institute noted that the award is only the second of its kind in its history, underscoring the rarity and significance of the honour.
In a statement, the Ministry of Defence described the fellowship as a testament to General Musa’s unwavering commitment, professionalism, and the collective efforts of the Armed Forces of Nigeria in safeguarding the nation’s territorial integrity and promoting national development.
The ministry further reaffirmed its commitment to strengthening collaboration with professional bodies such as the Nigerian Institution of Surveyors, acknowledging their critical role in national growth and development.
The Nigerian Institution of Surveyors, one of the country’s oldest professional bodies, traces its roots to 1934 when it was founded as the Licensed Surveyors Association under the leadership of nationalist Herbert Heelas Macaulay. It later evolved into the Land Surveyors Association of Nigeria in 1960 before adopting its current name.
