An Assessment of the Relevance of Quantity Surveying Profession in Infrastructure Development in Kano State

The quantity surveying profession plays a critical role in ensuring value for money across infrastructure projects, yet its relevance remains poorly understood by public sector clients in many Nigerian states. This study assesses the relevance of quantity surveying services in infrastructure development in Kano State, focusing on road, drainage, and public building projects executed by the Kano State Ministry of Works between 2020 and 2024. A mixed-method approach was adopted, combining structured questionnaires with key informant interviews involving 70 respondents drawn from government agencies, contracting firms, and consulting practices. Data were analysed using mean scores and content analysis. Findings reveal that while quantity surveyors are acknowledged as important in cost estimation and tender documentation, their involvement in post-contract cost control and project closeout phases remains limited. The study identifies institutional gaps, insufficient budget allocation for professional services, and low awareness among government clients as barriers to full utilisation of quantity surveyors. Recommendations include capacity-building programmes for public sector procurement officers, the enactment of state-level legislation mandating quantity surveying involvement in all capital projects above a defined threshold, and engagement of the Nigerian Institute of Quantity Surveyors (NIQS) in policy dialogue. This research highlights the need for a paradigm shift in how infrastructure clients in North West Nigeria perceive and procure professional services. Keywords: quantity surveying, infrastructure development, Kano State, public sector, cost control