Vision Mission

The Nigerian 1. The Nigerian Society of Engineers is

Society of dedicated to the provision of quality
Engineers shall services aimed at embracing professional
be one of the very competence and development of its
best Engineering members at all times.
professional bodies
in the world. 2. The Nigerian Society of Engineers is also
committed to focus on collaboration with,
influencing and providing quality advice to
the various arms of Government, industry,
commerce, academia and the society at
large for the purpose of upliftment of the
country as a whole.
3. The Nigerian Society of Engineers shall
make meaningful contributions to the
advancement of technology worldwide.

Editorial Board
Engr. Felicia Agubata, PhD, FNSE - Chairman
Engr. Olusegun Toluhi, PhD, FNSE - Vice Chairman
Engr. Bosede Oyekunle, MNSE
Engr. Dr. Lasisi Lawal, FNSE
Engr. Hauwa Khaleel, FNSE
Engr. Aisha Gazali, MNSE
Engr. Sharp Okorie Ugwuocha, MNSE
Engr. Abdullahi Masud, MNSE
Engr. Prof. Onawunmi Ayodele Samuel, FNSE
Engr. Laura Uhiara, MNSE
Engr. Idonreyin Udosen, MNSE
Engr. Emmanuel Idowu Ogunleye, FNSE
Engr. Dave Okeke, MNSE - Co-opted
Engr. Johnson Otitolaye MNSE - Co-opted
Engr. Imhade Okokpujie PhD. MNSE - Co-opted
Kingsley Okoli - Co-opted

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Page 2 | THE NIGERIAN ENGINEER
 Contents
COMMUNIQUÉ OF THE 56TH NATIONAL ENGINEERING
CONFERENCE, EXHIBITION AND ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING
OF THE NIGERIAN SOCIETY OF ENGINEERS (NSE), “ABUJA 2023”,
HELD AT THE INTERNATIONAL CONFERENCE CENTRE, ABUJA,
FROM 27TH NOVEMBER TO 1ST DECEMBER, 2023. 6

PRE-INVESTITURE ENGAGEMENTS OF THE 34TH PRESIDENT 10

13
SIGHTS AND THOUGHTS AT THE INVESTITURE CEREMONY
OF THE 34TH AND 1ST FEMALE PRESIDENT OF THE NIGERIAN
SOCIETY OF ENGINEERS 12

OGUNTALA’S EMERGENCE IS A TESTAMENT TO PROGRESS IN

GENDER EQUALITY - AKPABIO 15

NSE CAN HELP INEC ACHIEVE HOLISTIC ELECTRONIC ACTIVITIES

DURING ELECTIONS – AIYEDATIWA 16 23
1|Page
NIGERIA HAS A LOT TO LEARN FROM THE EMERGENCE OF
OGUNTALA AS NSE PRESIDENT - MAKINDE 17

BEING TEXT OF THE INAUGURAL SPEECH OF THE 34TH

PRESIDENT OF THE NIGERIAN SOCIETY OF ENGINEERS (NSE),
ENGR. MARGARET AINA OGUNTALA, FNSE, ON 20TH JANUARY
2024 AT THE INTERNATIONAL CONFERENCE CENTRE, ABUJA,
NIGERIA. 28
34 46
I AM DETERMINED TO NURTURE ENGINEERING TO NEW
HEIGHTS - NSE PRESIDENT 34

ENGINEERS IN POLITICS FOR SOCIAL CHANGE 40

MY GREATEST CHALLENGE IS PEOPLE’S RESISTANCE TO

CHANGE - ENGR. ABDULLAHI SULE, FNSE 46

MY ADMINISTRATION HAS PRIORITIZED NEEDS OF BORNO

STATE PEOPLE — GOV. ZULUM. 60 60 72
WHY NIGERIA NEEDS MORE ENGINEERS IN POLITICS --ENGR. COVER DESIGN
NOIMOT SALAKO OYEDELE FNSE 72

TOP ENGINEERING PROFESSIONALS: WHO IS WHERE!! 76

NOW, YOUR SOCIETY CAN RIDE ON OUR BACK…

SAYS WOMEN AFFAIRS MINISTER 85

108 117

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 Editorial

Engr. Felicia Nnenna Agubata, PhD, FNSE

Chairman Editorial Board

E
xcellent, glamourous and super, have been This is huge! Patiently read our interview with the
widely used by our publics and stakeholders to people’s President inside this edition . She shares
describe the investiture ceremony of the 34th, her views on sundry professional and strategic
and the first ever, female President of the foremost issues of enduring interest.
Engineering Institution in Africa; the Nigerian
Furthermore, we have showcased for your delight,
Society of Engineers, Engr. Margaret Aina Oguntala
the shining examples of engineers in politics
FNSE, which took place on Saturday 20th January
- de crème de la crème. Engr Prof. Babagana
2024. We were all excited about the historic event.
Umara Zulum CON, FNSE, mni and Engr
It was indeed a celebration of groundbreaking
Abdullahi Sule FNSE; Executive governors
moment in our 66-year history. Diversity in
of Borno and Nasarawa states are on parade.
Engineering leadership at the topmost level became
We also showcased Engr Noimot Salako- Oyedele
a reality thanks to Engr. Margaret Aina Oguntala’s
FNSE, the deputy governor of Ogun state.
ascendancy to the coveted position on 1st January
We are not just celebrating their engineering
2024. This significant event is not just a triumph for
pedigree; we are indeed celebrating their
gender diversity but also a herald of transformative
strides and imprints on the governance space.
journey within the engineering community and the
We entreat you to relax, read and enjoy this
nation at large. Diversity in engineering leadership
collector’s edition.
is no longer a myth ; it has become first-hand , and
a critical success factor in innovations to come .
Plural perspectives on issues , would certainly offer
us different approaches and suggestions to problem-
solving , thereby enabling us to address complex
national and global challenges more effectively.
Indeed , by aggregating diverse voices and
backgrounds, especially from underrepresented
communities and groups , we can tap into
a wellspring of creativity .This will lead to
groundbreaking advancements and sustainability.
We have every reason to be excited.
A rebirth of the society is the watchword.

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 Members of the Editorial Board

Engr. Olusegun Ayobami Toluhi, PhD, FNSE

Engr. Dr. Lasisi Lawal, FNSE
Vice Chairman

Engr. Felicia Agubata, PhD, FNSE

Chairman

Engr. Sharp Okorie Ugwuocha, MNSE Engr. Hauwa Ibrahim Khaleel, FNSE

Engr. Prof. Onawumi Ayodele Samuel, FNSE Engr. Muktar Umar Usman, FNSE

Engr. Aisha Gazali, MNSE Engr. Dave Okeke, MNSE

Co-opted

Engr Dr. Abdullahi A Mas’ud, MNSE Engr. Johnson Otitolaye, MNSE

Co-opted

Engr. Laura. Uhiara, MNSE Engr. Dr. I. P. Okokpujie, MNSE

Co-opted

Engr. Bosede Oyekunle, MNSE Engr. Idoreyin Udosen, MNSE

Kingsley Okoli, GMNSE (Co-opted)

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 Communiqué
COMMUNIQUÉ OF THE 56TH NATIONAL ENGINEERING
CONFERENCE, EXHIBITION AND ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING OF
THE NIGERIAN SOCIETY OF ENGINEERS (NSE), “ABUJA 2023”, HELD
AT THE INTERNATIONAL CONFERENCE CENTRE, ABUJA, FROM 27TH
NOVEMBER TO 1ST DECEMBER, 2023.
PREAMBLE
The 56th National Engineering Conference,
Exhibition and Annual General Meeting (AGM) of the
Nigerian Society of Engineers (NSE) tagged “ABUJA
2023” was held at the International Conference
Centre (ICC), Abuja from 27th November to 1st
December, 2023. The theme of the Conference
was "RE-ENGINEERING THE MANUFACTURING
SECTOR FOR COMPETITIVENESS AND
ENHANCED ECONOMIC GROWTH”.
The five-day event comprised variety of activities:
the Opening Ceremony, Plenary and Technical
Sessions. Panel Discussions and Poster
Presentations, Symposium by Board of Fellows,
Group Dynamics for NSE Divisions and Branches,
Students' Programme and Young Engineers Forum
were key activities observed. The conference
was enriched with other equally important social
activities that enhanced interaction amongst the
participants. These included Special Fellowship
Conferment Ceremony, the NSE Presidential
Awards, Excursions, Spouses' Programme,
Cultural and Welfare (Award) Night, the Annual
General Meeting (AGM), the Annual Dinner/Dance
and the Closing Ceremony. All activities were well
attended by Engineers, researchers, scholars from
the academia, industrialists, local and foreign
investors, policy makers, legislators, development
partners, experts and students from all walks of
life. More than 4,716 participants registered for
the conference. A total number of 18 lead papers
were discussed at 2 plenary sessions, while 71
technical papers and posters on the 10 sub-themes
were presented. International delegates from the
Ghana Institution of Engineers (GhIE), Institution
of Engineers, Kenya (IEK) and Sierra Leone
Institution of Engineers (SLIE) participated fully in
the Conference.
The Conference was supported by United Nations
Industrial Development Organization (UNIDO),
Nigeria Liquefied Natural Gas Limited (NLNG), Royal
Premium Tiles and other accredited companies and
organizations. BUA Group of Companies was our
Platinum Partner in this year's conference Most
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of the divisions of NSE also participated in the
exhibition during the conference.
RECOGNITIONS
The Opening Ceremony was chaired by the
President of the Nigerian Society of Engineers,
Engr. Tasiu Sa'ad Gidari-Wudil, FNSE, FNIM,
FNIAE who also delivered the welcome address. The
Chairman, Conference Planning Committee (CPC),
Engr. Etido Inyang, FNSE, welcomed members to
the occasion. The President and Commander-in-
Chief of the Armed Forces of the Federal Republic
of Nigeria, His Excellency, Bola Ahmed Tinubu,
GCFR, was ably represented by the Vice President,
His Excellency, Sen. (Dr) Kashim Shettima, GCON,
(FNSE). Goodwill messages were presented by
the Senate President, Senator Godswill Akpabio,
CON, (FNSE) who was ably represented by Engr.
Ikechukwu Ugwuegede, FNSE, Special Adviser on
Special Duties to the Senate President; the Speaker
of the House of Representatives, His Excellency, Rt.
Hon. Tajudeen Abass was ably represented by Barr.
Benjamin Kalu, the Deputy Speaker of the House
of Representatives; and the Governor of Nasarawa
State, His Excellency, Engr. Abdullahi A. Sule,
FNSE.
Other dignitaries at the occasion included the
Governor of Borno State, His Excellency Engr.
Prof. Babagana Umara Zulum, CON, FNSE, FNIAE,
mni, ably represented by the Deputy Governor, His
Excellency, Usman Umar Kadafur; Engr. Abubakar
Momoh, FNSE, Hon Minister of Niger Delta
Development; Engr. David Umahi, CON, FNSE,
Hon. Minister of Works ably represented; Engr.
Yusuf H. Binji, FNSE, MD /CEO, BUA Cement; the
President of COREN, Engr. Prof Sadiq Z. Abubakar,
FNSE, FNIAE, FAEng; the Chairman, NSE Board
of Trustees, Engr. Emeka M. Ezeh, FNSE, FAEng,
OFR; the President, World Federation of Engineering
Organizations (WFEO), Engr. M. B. Shehu, FNSE,
FAEng; The Chief of Defense Staff, and all Service
Chiefs of Army, Navy and Air Force, and the
Inspector General of Police were ably represented.
Engr. Jaji O. Abdulganiyu, Controller General of

Federal Fire Service was also represented. Also in
attendance were National EXCO Members of NSE,
Past Presidents, Spouses and Members of the
Society. Other dignitaries present included (Dr)
Usman Yahaya Kansila, (FNSE), FNIM, Chairman
and CEO of UYK Nigeria Limited, Alhaji Dahiru
Bara’u Mangal, (FNSE), CON, Chairman of Mangal
Group and the Founder of Max Air, Mr. Oritsedere
Otubu (FNSE), Founder of Senforce Insurance
Brokers, as well as Alhaji Usman Sule Riruwai
(FNSE), Managing Director of Competency System
Nigeria Limited.
The international delegates who attended the
occasion included a six-man Ghanaian delegation
led by the President of Ghana Institution of
Engineering (GhIE), Ing. Kwabena Bempong, the
President of West African Federation of Engineering
Organizations, Engr. Prof. Jonas Sawyer, as well
as delegation from the Institution of Engineers,
Kenya (IEK). Other dignitaries included Engr.
Chief. Emmanuel Iwuanyanwu CFR, MFR, FNSE,
Hon. Remi Oseni, Chairman House Committee on
FERMA, Hon. Taofeeq Ajalisoro, Chairman House
Committee on Science, and Hon. Mohammed
Munir, Chairman House Committee on Commerce,
amongst other distinguished personalities.
NSE Presidential award was given to fourteen (14)
distinguished individuals, which included serving
and former State Governors, Chief Executive
Officers of public and private companies.
The Opening Ceremony was concluded with the
tour of the exhibition stands, led by Barrister
Benjamin Kalu, the representative of the Speaker
of the House of Representatives, His Excellency, Rt.
Hon. Tajudeen Abbass.
OBSERVATIONS
The following observations were made at the end of
the Conference and Annual General Meeting:
1) Conference observed that the Nigerian
manufacturing sector faces challenges
including infrastructural limitations, limited
access to funds, technology, innovation and
skill gaps, policy inconsistencies, regulatory
hurdles and global market dynamics.
2) Conference recognized the transformative
potential of Industry 4.0 and the need
for increased investments in technology
adoption, digitilization and automation to
enhance manufacturing efficiency and global
competitiveness.
3) Conference observed the existing policy
framework, noting both its strengths and
Communiqué
shortcomings as it affects re-engineering of
manufacturing sector to enhance inclusive
growth and competitiveness.
4) The conference highlighted the imperative
of integrating sustainable practices into
manufacturing processes and noted the
importance of embracing green technologies,
circular economy principles, and eco-friendly
production methods to address environmental
concerns and meet global standards.
5) Conference observed the significance of human
capital development to achieve sustainable
growth and development in any economy. It
also noted the gross deficit in skilled labour
to meet the demands of re-engineering
the manufacturing sector, promoting
competitiveness and enhancing economic
growth.
6) The conference recognized the importance of
Nigeria’s integration into regional and global
markets for enhanced product penetration and
export promotion.
7) Conference observed the challenges associated
with accessing funding (high interest
rates, stringent collateral, administrative
bottlenecks, etc.), multiple taxes, instability
in foreign exchange, as factors among others
that hindered growth and investment in the
manufacturing sector.
8) While the conference acknowledged the recent
efforts of the government in the rehabilitation
of Ajaokuta Iron and Steel Complex, it
observed that the complex requires accelerated
reactivation, rehabilitation and modernization
to drive the much-needed industrialization of
the country.
9) Conference observed several favourable factors
that make rural areas in Nigeria attractive
for establishing Micro, Small, and Medium
Enterprises (MSMEs) such as abundant natural
resources, relatively low labour and overhead
costs, favourable local market demands, as
well as agricultural and other potentials.
10) Conference observed that the Micro, Small, and
Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) are well-suited
for promoting rural development through
local rooting and diversity, entrepreneurship
and job creation, local supply chains and
markets, inclusive growth through community
participation, sustainable practices/
cultural preservation, technology adoption/
customization, economic diversification and
regional development.
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 Communiqué
RECOMMENDATIONS
The following recommendations emanated from the
Conference and Annual General Meeting:
1) Conference recommends that government
and relevant stakeholders (the Manufacturing
Association of Nigeria (MAN), banks,
international development partners,
professional bodies, etc.) as a matter of urgency
should embark on comprehensive review of
existing policies, with focus on simplifying
regulatory processes, providing incentives for
innovation, infrastructural upgrade and ensure
consistency to foster an enabling environment
for manufacturing growth.
2) Conference recommends that government
in collaboration with relevant stakeholders
incentivize technology adoption, provide
subsidies for acquiring advanced machinery,
establish technology hubs to facilitate
knowledge transfer, create manufacturing
clusters and encourage synergy between
academia and industry.
3) Government should provide enabling policies
and enforcement that ensure transparency in
regulations impacting manufacturing, simplify
regulations and procedures under “Made-in-
Nigeria” products, set stable, long-term policies
on tariffs and insulate strategic industrial
policies from political interference.
4) Green energy remains the only possible way
to address both the energy shortage and at
the same time ensure sustainability. Thus,
conference urges the government and relevant
stakeholders to properly harness, manage and
commercialize appropriate energy mix as well as
develop guidelines for eco-friendly production
and the promotion of green certification for the
manufacturing sector.
5) Government (MDAs, educational institutions,
research institutes, etc.) and other relevant
stakeholders (the organized private sector,
donor agencies, civil society organizations,
professional bodies, etc.) should, as a matter
of policy, increase investments directed at
education and training programmes to equip
the workforce with the required skills needed
by the evolving manufacturing sector.
6) Conference recommends that government
should collaborate with regional and continental
bodies (e.g., African Continental Free Trade Area
(AfCFTA) on the need for strategic alliances,
trade agreements, and export diversification
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to enhance the competitiveness of Nigerian
manufactured goods on the international stage.
7) Conference recommends synergy amongst
government, organized private sector and other
relevant stakeholders for innovative financing
mechanisms, such as venture capital, public-
private partnerships, soft loan and tax
incentives for investments in manufacturing
to attract the necessary capital for sectoral
modernization, research and development, and
technology acquisition.
8) Conference recommends that the government
should make deliberate and sustainable efforts
geared towards achieving full reactivation,
rehabilitation and modernization of Ajaokuta
Iron and Steel Complex for sustainable
industrial growth and development.
9) Government and relevant stakeholders
should develop policies and incentives that
specifically target rural MSMEs, such as tax
breaks, subsidies, and grants for start-ups,
simplify and streamline bureaucratic
procedures for business registration, licensing
and compliance, encourage private sector to
collaborate with Civil Society Organization
to leverage their resources, expertise, and
networks in supporting rural MSMEs.
10) Government and relevant stakeholders should
pre-select and prioritize dominant economic
activities in designated rural areas with
comparative advantage, identify the value
chains, develop proper and sellable business
cases and plans that explicitly illustrates
financial and economic opportunities for
pursuing them and assisting with appropriate
interventions.
Engr. Joshua Egube, FNSE
Executive Secretary
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 Cover Report

PRE-INVESTITURE ENGAGEMENTS OF THE 34TH

PRESIDENT

M
adam President, Engr. Mrs. Margaret The highpoint of her first day in office was the
Aina Oguntala, FNSE officially assumed general meeting with Secretariat staff, called at her
office as the 34th President of the Nigerian instance. After another round of introductions,
Society of Engineers (NSE) on January 1, 2024.
Madam President gave an introductory presentation
The emphasis on the first two words in the opening
of her administration agenda, tagged Margaret
statement is deliberate; to sensitise Engineers on
Oguntala Presidency Strategic Agenda (MOPSA). The
the need to start getting used to the new title. As
presentation was a precursor to the formal unveiling
we already all know, Engr. Margaret Aina Oguntala,
of the agenda at the investiture ceremony. She said
FNSE, is the first female President of the Society
that the presentation was necessary as the staff of
since its formation in 1958.
the Secretariat were to be the drivers of the agenda
Preparatory to the investiture ceremony which and needed to get first and full understanding of
was scheduled for Saturday, January 20, 2024, the document. There were questions and answers
Madam President embarked on some crucial after the general interaction.
engagements with critical stakeholders for briefings
The Deputy President (DP), Engr. Ali Alimasuya
and awareness creation. The engagements include
Rabiu, FNSE, FAEng, MFR was also present at the
visitations, media appearances and interviews.
meeting, as well as Engr. Olaolu Ogunduyile, FNSE,
First Day in Office The Chairman of the 2024 Investiture Planning
Committee. In his remarks, the DP enjoined
The NSE National Secretariat re-opened for regular
members of staff of the Secretariat to brace for
operations on Monday, January 8, 2023, and
serious work as the administration was out to start
Madam President reported for duty same day. She
working towards achieving its objectives from day
was officially received by the management staff
one. He said the administration would recognize
of the Secretariat led by the Executive Secretary,
and reward diligence while indolence would be
Engr. Joshua Egube, FNSE and taken on a guided
reprimanded.
tour of the Secretariat, meeting and greeting every
staff of the Secretariat in their respective offices. However, he applauded the Secretariat for what he
described as a major improvement in operations,

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especially in the area of feedback on members'
enquiries. He cited a particular example of a
member's experience in that regard and urged to
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do more to give satisfactory service to members.
After the meeting, Secretariat staff were treated to
lunch and drinks
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 Cover Report

SIGHTS AND THOUGHTS AT THE INVESTITURE

CEREMONY OF THE 34th AND 1st FEMALE PRESIDENT
OF THE NIGERIAN SOCIETY OF ENGINEERS
Dateline: ABUJA, Saturday, January 20, 2024

The Immediate Past President, Engr. Tasiu Sa'ad Gidari-Wudil, FNSE (left) exchanging a handshake with the new President, Engr. Margaret Aina
Oguntala, FNSE, after decorating her.

I
t was a beautiful day in the Federal Capital City,
Abuja. A day that was long anticipated. A day
that a subset of history was documented in the
global history of the Nigerian Society of Engineers
(NSE). It was the day that Engr. Mrs. Margaret Aina
Oguntala, FNSE, was decorated with the insignia
of office as the 34th President of the great Nigerian
Society of Engineers.
The historic component of the investiture was that,
for the first time in the sixty-five-year existence
of the association, a female was decorated as
President thereby marking not just an exchange of
baton from the old to the new but from a male to a
female engineer. We make bold to say that we are
not just celebrating the triumphant entry of Engr
Mrs Oguntala, we are celebrating competence and
proven track record of consistent performance. Engr
Mrs Oguntala will pilot the affairs of the association
for the next 2 years.
It was therefore, not surprising that the event was
a carnival of some sort; men and women turned
up adorned in colourful attires, with spontaneous
and palpable excitement in the air. Perhaps, the
most electrifying and ecstatic moment was that
time when the medallion, the symbol of the NSE
President’s authority, was draped around her neck.
The roar from the crowd at that moment blew the
roof top . It was a sight to behold when Madam
President took to the dance floor to waltz to the
rhythm of the drums and melodious songs from the
Akoko traditional dance band. And she was joined
by the multitude of well-wishers that attended the
ceremony, especially members of the Association of
Professional Women Engineers of Nigeria (APWEN).
Talking about attendance, the Africa Hall of
the International Conference Centre, venue of
the ceremony, was packed with all categories of
members of the Society – Past Presidents, Fellows,
Corporate Members and Students – as well other
dignitaries

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 Cover Report

from different walks of life. The list of dignitaries

include Executive Governors of some States,
Parliamentarians from both the National and
State Assemblies, Ministers of the Federal
Republic, delegates from international professional
institutions of engineering, and many other
captains of industry and big players in the private
and public sectors.
The quality of attendance speaks volumes on the
charismatic personality of the celebrant.
“In the illustrious tapestry of history, today stands
as a remarkable thread, weaving its way through
the annals of time. It is a day the Lord has gifted
us, a day of profound significance that resonates
not only in my life but in the lives of all Nigerian
Engineers.
“Today, as I stand with you, I carry with me the
profound weight of the countless individuals who
have played a role in shaping my life’s trajectory.
Engineers and non-Engineers alike, your influence
has been immeasurable. It is to you, the architects Decoration of the President with the presidential medallion, the official
of my journey, that I extend my heartfelt gratitude. insignia of office
For without your support, your guidance, and your
unwavering faith, the woman who now stands in Nigeria. She further said that the document is
before you would not be. This saddle of leadership a meticulously crafted blueprint that encompasses
is a mantle that I accept with humility and purpose. five key themes, each designed to address crucial
As we take this transformative journey together, my aspects of the administration’s mission. She
mind is captivated by a single word: REBIRTHING” also told her audience that MOPSA consists of 1
Strategic Agenda, 5 Strategic Themes (Pillars), and
The quotes above were the opening statements of
34 Strategic Actions (Elements).
the impactful inaugural speech of Engr. Margaret
Aina Oguntala, FNSE, the 34th and first female By the time Madam President finished her
President of NSE. She went ahead to unveil the inaugural speech, she left no one in doubt that she
strategic agenda of her two-year administration was set for work. She demonstrated that readiness
which is code-named MOPSA (the Margaret further when she left the venue of the investiture
Oguntala Presidential Strategic Agenda). ceremony straight for a meeting with Chairmen
of NSE Branches and Divisions. The sole purpose
She described MOPSA as not just a collection of
of that meeting was to drive home the imports of
words but a manifestation of her overarching
the MOPSA document and to ensure that everyone
vision – Rebirthing the NSE for the Growth,
was on the same page in driving the vision of the
Empowerment and Advancement of Engineering
administration.

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 Cover Report

The 34th President acknowledging cheers from the audience Group photograph with international delegates

Group photograph with traditional rulers Group photograph with Past Presidents of NSE

2024 National Executive Committee members taking their oath of office

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 Cover Report

Oguntala's emergence is a testament to progress in

gender equality - Akpabio
a milestone, saying she had shattered the glass
ceiling for women in engineering.
“Today, we celebrate the progress our society has
made in promoting gender equality and inclusivity
in the field of engineering. Oguntala's appointment
serves as a powerful testament to the fact that
talent, dedication and expertise know no gender
boundaries…
“Thirty-three men have come before her serving as
Presidents of this great body. They have worked
tirelessly to make NSE the outstanding professional
organization that it is today. Let us applaud their
efforts. However, the time has come for the NSE to
enter into the labour room and give birth to a new

T
version of itself”.
he President of the Senate, His Excellency,
Sen. Godswill Obot Akpabio, CON, FNSE, He further remarked that it was only fitting that
was the Keynote Speaker at the event. In a mother, who understands the pains of giving
the keynote address delivered on his behalf by birth, should be on the saddle driving the proposed
the Deputy Senate President, Sen. Barua Jibrin, rebirth of NSE.
the Senate President described the emergence
of Engr. Margaret Oguntala as NSE President as

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 Cover Report

NSE can help INEC achieve holistic electronic

activities during elections – Aiyedatiwa

H
is Excellency, Lucky Aiyedatiwa, the
Executive Governor of Ondo State,
the home State of the 34th President
of NSE, was present at the investiture
ceremony as a Special Guest of Honour. In his
goodwill message, Mr. Aiyedatiwa expressed
joy that a female was leading the group in
a male-dominated field and highlighted
the need for all to work towards ensuring
that women got to positions of leadership
in the country, especially as many women
have proven to be worthy of handling such
responsibilities.
He also called on the leadership of the NSE
to help the Independent National Electoral
Commission (INEC) to achieve holistic
electronic registration, voting and collation
of results, as demonstrated in the NSE
electioneering processes. This, he said,
would strengthen the nation's democracy. NSE to achieve a simplified approach to elections
He urged the Commission to seek the support of management.

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 Cover Report

Nigeria has a lot to learn from the emergence of

Oguntala as NSE President - Makinde

O
n his part, the Executive Governor of Oyo
State, His Excellency, Engr. Oluwaseyi
Makinde, FNSE, also lent his voice to
praising the seamless political transition system
that the NSE practices, where a Deputy President
is elected into office to work with a sitting President
before stepping onto the seat as President after two
years in a seamless, rancour-free manner. He said
the larger society can take a lesson from that to
achieve political stability in the country.
Governor Makinde also heaped praises on madam
President for achieving the feat after working very
hard. He also praised members of the NSE Branches
in Ibadan for helping the State Government achieve
a measure of sanity amidst the explosion explosion site. As of today, they have carried out
integrity tests on 13 houses within 50 kilometres
that rocked the ancient city the week before. He
radius of the blast site and another 40 houses at
said:
100 metres radius…
“These past few days have been tough for the
“In total, about 230 houses have been checked
indigenes of Oyo State. We had an explosion and
and this effort was led by the Society”.
lost five lives and a lot of properties were destroyed.
Between Tuesday and today, the Nigerian Society His Excellency, Engr. Makinde was also a Special
of Engineers led an effort to look at the structural Guest at the investiture ceremony.
integrity of the houses around ground zero of the

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BEING TEXT OF THE INAUGURAL SPEECH OF THE 34TH

PRESIDENT OF THE NIGERIAN SOCIETY OF ENGINEERS
(NSE), ENGR. MARGARET AINA OGUNTALA, FNSE,
ON 20TH JANUARY 2024 AT THE INTERNATIONAL
CONFERENCE CENTRE, ABUJA, NIGERIA.

INTRODUCTION mantle which I accept with humility and purpose.

Protocols.
To God be the glory; great things He hath done.
Twenty-seven years ago, when I embarked on my
journey within the hallowed halls of the Nigerian
Society of Engineers, I could never have envisioned
this moment. The notion of leading our noble
society as the President, let alone becoming the
first female President in our 65-year history, was
a distant dream, cast in the realm of unexplored
possibilities.
Today, as I stand before you, I cannot but thank
God and indeed, everyone who has contributed
to shaping my life. This saddle of leadership is a
As we take this transformative journey together, my
mind is captivated by a single word: "rebirthing."
"Rebirthing" is not just a word; it is a beacon
guiding us toward new horizons. It resonates with
me as a woman and a mother, embodying the spirit
of renewal and nurturing. Just as women embrace
the responsibility of nurturing and nourishing life,
I solemnly pledge to nurture engineering to new
heights during my tenure.
Hence, I am honoured to unveil our theme for
the next two years: "Re- birthing the NSE for the
Growth, Empowerment, and Advancement of
Engineering in Nigeria." This theme underscores

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our collective mission, reflecting a commitment to

not only continue from the lofty heights to which
our Past Leaders have taken the Society but to
propel engineering to soaring new heights.

NSE'S JOURNEY OF RESILIENCE, PROGRESS,

AND TRIUMPH
Your Excellencies,
In embarking on this transformative journey, we
must acknowledge the rich history that has brought
us to this moment. Founded in 1958 by visionary
Nigerian graduate engineers and students in the
UK, the Nigerian Society of Engineers (NSE) has
evolved into a symbol of resilience, progress, and
unwavering commitment to engineering excellence.
Our history is a testament to the mission set forth
by our founders — to shift engineering from a tool
of British control to an instrument fostering self-
reliance among Nigerians. Over the years, the NSE
has weathered adversity, emerging as a beacon of
progress.
From its modest beginning with 40 members in power of engineering. As your President, I am
1959, the NSE has grown exponentially to 63,905. prepared to be a servant leader, to lead from the
With 86 branches globally and 26 professional front, and to work tirelessly to achieve our shared
institutions operating as Divisions within the NSE, goals. Let us be the architects of change, the
we have expanded our capacity for innovation and builders of dreams, and the champions of progress.
impact.
Internationally, we have represented Nigeria
through memberships in critical organisations like Together, we will usher in a new era for the NSE that
the Commonwealth Engineers Council and the future generations will look upon with admiration
World Federation of Engineering Organisations. and gratitude.
Serving as the Secretariat of the Federation of
ENGINEERING EXCELLENCE IN ACTION: OUR
African Engineering Organisations, we promote
STRATEGIC PRIORITIES
collaboration within the African engineering
community. We are on a transformative journey with a clear
mission: to lead the rebirth of the NSE and elevate
Our achievements speak to our commitment to engineering in Nigeria. Here is the strategic roadmap
excellence: outlining our priorities:
Hosting the World Engineering Conference on 1. Enhancing Mandatory Professional
Sustainable Infrastructure in 2014 Development:
Pioneering Nigeria’s Infrastructure Report Card
We are prioritizing continuous learning, training,
in 2015
retraining, and upskilling of our members. We shall
Establishing the NSE Smart Innovation Hub invest in Mandatory Professional Development,
for technological advancement ensuring access to quality training and cutting-edge
In my assumption of leadership, I carry a profound resources. Dedicated platforms will be seamlessly
sense of responsibility and an unwavering belief in integrated into NSE’s network, making professional
our collective potential. We begin a new chapter that development a cornerstone.
is inclusive, innovative, and forward-thinking. Our
2. Advancing Technological Innovation:
mission is clear: to rebirth the NSE for the growth,
empowerment, and advancement of engineering in We are embracing innovation and technological
Nigeria. advancement. We shall encourage research, support
startups, and champion engineering solutions to
Let us bridge divides, empower the youth, harness
Nigeria’s unique challenges. Our goal is to position
innovation, and advocate for the transformative
Nigeria as a hub for engineering

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3. Empowering VSTEM:
We are prioritising Vocational Science, Technology,
Engineering, and Mathematics (VSTEM) education
to empower future leaders. Strategic endowments
will support dedicated institutions, ensuring the
thriving of VSTEM education for a generation of
STEM leaders.
4. Advocacy and Collaboration:
As stewards of progress, Engineers engage with
communities and advocate for policies supporting
engineering growth. Decades ago, the 15th
President of Nigerian Society of Engineers (NSE)
, Engr Ife Akintunde , FNSE lamented in the
January, 1987 Newsletter that Engineers’ efforts
often face indifference at the all levesl of leadership.
We will continue to collaborate with government
bodies, industries, academia, and international
organisations. To this end, I hereby charge the
government to, among others,
1. Implement the GL 09 entry point for Engineers
in some of the States that are yet to effect the
enhanced entry point for Engineers in Civil
Service
2. Formulate policies for fair welfare packages/
hazard allowances for engineers.
3. Implement Executive Order 5 with sincerity of
purpose.
4. Promote Nigerian-made goods and services.
5. Nominate Engineers for the “Policy
Coordination, Evaluation, Monitoring, and
Delivery Unit which Mr. President announced
in his 1st January , 2024 speech.
6. Encourage entrepreneurship and provide
incentives for small businesses in the extractive
industry.
7. Promote STEM education for more students to
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pursue careers in engineering.
8. Create an enabling environment for
collaborations between engineering companies
and universities for developing new technologies.
No Nation can grow without an intentional
support of Research and Development.
OUR LOGO: A SYMBOL OF UNITY AND PRIDE
Ladies and gentlemen, esteemed members of
the Nigerian Society of Engineers, Our beloved
NSE logo holds profound symbolism—a circular
emblem reflecting our identity, values, and
aspirations. At its pinnacle, an airplane soars,
embodying the spirit of aeronautical engineering
and our ability to defy limitations. Beneath,
a sturdy bridge symbolises civil engineering,
connecting communities, and bridging adversities.
Two majestic masts adorned with cables represent
electrical engineering, reaching for the heavens to
illuminate our world.
The radiant cogwheel at the heart mirrors the
sun’s energy, symbolising mechanical engineering
as the catalyst of transformation.
Inscribed within, “Nigerian Society of Engineers,
Estd. AD 1958” reminds us of our enduring legacy.
Our logo is not just a symbol; it is a promise—to
uphold engineering excellence, be architects of
change, and illuminate the path of progress for
Nigeria. Let us honour our emblem, wearing it
proudly as a beacon that guides and unites us in
our quest for engineering excellence.
CHARTING THE PATH TO ENGINEERING
PROGRESS: MARGARET OGUNTALA
PRESIDENTIAL STRATEGIC AGENDA (MOPSA)
UNVEILED
Esteemed guests and cherished members of the
Nigerian Society of Engineers (NSE)
Setting clear focus areas is paramount to guiding
our collective efforts. I am delighted to introduce
you to a strategic agenda that will underpin our
mission- a roadmap which we have aptly named
the “Margaret Oguntala Presidential Agenda,” or
MOPSA for short.
MOPSA is not just a set of words; it embodies
our vision, “Rebirthing the NSE for the Growth,
Empowerment, and Advancement of Engineering
in Nigeria.” This meticulously crafted blueprint
comprises five key themes, each addressing crucial
aspects of our mission. It is not a stand-alone effort
but a result of collaborative hard work from our
team members who dedicated a year to crafting this
comprehensive agenda.
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Designed as a living document, MOPSA will guide Governor, Governor of Ondo State, Hon. Lucky
our shared journey and help achieve our collective Orimisan Atedatiwa, Ministers, Governors, Royal
goals. Fathers of the day, members of the diplomatic
Corps, President of World Federation of Engineering
APPRECIATION Organizations (WFEO), FAEO and WAFEO, the
Your Excellencies, Distinguished Guests, Ladies Association of Professional Bodies of Nigeria,
and Gentlemen, at this juncture I’d like to express leaders of other Professional Associations in Nigeria,
my deepest gratitude and appreciation. The journey Presidents of Engineering Institutions from other
we are embarking on today is a collective effort, and parts of the World, Captains of Industries, well-
I am acutely aware that it would not be possible wishers, professional women support groups our
without the unwavering support and dedication of beautiful spouses, and all those who have graced
countless individuals. this occasion with your presence, your support and
encouragement inspire us to strive for excellence.
To my mother who loved and nurtured me, thank
I do the Yoruba traditional kneeling to appreciate
you for being the strong and prayerful woman that
you all.
you are.
At this moment, I extend my gratitude to all
To my number 1 cheerleader, the best father that
Engineers and professionals present. Your
ever lived, my late father, MSE Anthony Adefaratimi
contributions to society and commitment to
Ayeni, I remain eternally grateful.
progress make our world a better place.
To my Uncle, my daddy, Rev. Afolabi Olubola,
thank you for believing in me enough to steer
me towards Chemical Engineering.
To my children and family, your love,
understanding, and sacrifices are the pillars
upon which I stand.
To my beloved husband, you have been my
rock, inspiration, and refuge. Thank you for
always standing by my side and being the
source of my strength.
To my remarkable mentors, supporters and
promoters who guided and nurtured me, your
love, commitment and belief in our shared
vision have brought us to this moment. I am
immensely grateful. Madam President (middle) with Past Presidents of the Society

To the esteemed members of Margaret

Oguntala Think Tank (MOTT), MOTT-PAC and
other numerous committees who have played
very essential roles in making this investiture
ceremony a reality, your expertise and tireless
efforts and contributions have not gone
unnoticed.
To the esteemed Past Presidents of the Nigerian
Madam President with her spouse, Engr. Theophilus Oguntala, FNSE (2nd left)
Society of Engineers, Fellows, and Council with some special digniteries at the Investiture Ceremony.
members who have graciously shared their
wisdom and guidance with me, your collective
leadership has set a high standard that I aspire to CONCLUSION
uphold. I am deeply honoured to have your support
In conclusion, I would like to share a profound
and counsel.
thought by Henry Ford: “Coming together is a
To the President of Nigeria, Asiwaju Bola Ahmed beginning. Keeping together is progress. Working
Tinubu GCFR, The Keynote Speaker, President of together is success.” As we unite, we commence the
the 10th Senate, Distinguished Senator Godswill journey to progress. Through our unity, we achieve
Akpabio, GCON, (FNSE), Speaker of the House steady progress, and by working together with
of Representatives, Hon. Tajudeen Abbas, my unwavering dedication, success is inevitable. Our

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journey is just beginning, and I am very excited to God bless The Federal Republic of Nigeria.
walk this path with all of you.
May our shared journey be marked by achievements,
Signed,
discoveries, and the boundless spirit of engineering
excellence. Engr. Margaret Aina Oguntala, FNSE, FNSChE
Thank you! President, The Nigerian Society of Engineers.
God bless The Nigerian Society of Engineers (NSE).

Group photograph with Traditional Rulers Group photograph with the Investiture Planning Committee members

Group photograph with family members

Group photograph with APWEN members

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Executive Summary
The 34th President of the Nigerian Society of Engineers (NSE) is
embarking on a transformative journey to rebirth the NSE for the
growth, empowerment, and advancement of engineering in
Nigeria. This strategic agenda is named MOPSA (Margaret
Oguntala Presidential Strategic Agenda). Altogether, there is 1
Strategic Agenda, 5 Strategic Themes (Pillars), and 34 Strategic
Actions (The Elements).
The first pillar or theme is Membership Development. This focuses
on upskilling our esteemed members, offering Mandatory
Professional Development to keep them at the forefront of
knowledge. This will involve a significant budget allocation to
ensure quality training and resources.
The second pillar will involve the NSE actively engaging with
intergovernmental bodies, industries, and academia to foster
partnerships that drive progress, innovation, and knowledge
exchange. Initiatives such as intergovernmental roundtables that
will take place under this theme will facilitate dialogue and
collaboration.
The third theme, International Relation, aims to strengthen global
ties. The NSE will collaborate with leading international
engineering organizations and foreign missions to gain access to
resources and opportunities for our members.
The fourth theme, Community Impact, underscores the
commitment to use engineering expertise to address societal
challenges. Advocating for Vocational Science, Technology,

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Engineering, Arts and Mathematics (V-STEAM) education is a key
initiative to empower future leaders.
Lastly, the NSE will reimage itself to be the voice of engineers and
the engineering profession. Initiatives such as product/services
endorsement and industry/academia project facilitation will
contribute to this objective.
Together, these strategic priorities will strengthen the NSE and
enable it to empower its members, create opportunities, and
position NSE as a formidable force for engineering progress in
Nigeria and on the global stage.
Fundamentally, MOPSA aims to fortify NSE's position as a
prominent voice for engineers and the engineering profession. It's
a roadmap that envisions unity, empowerment, and progress
within the NSE and the engineering community as a whole.
MOPSA’s full implementation will be heralded with an all-
important retreat for the new Executive Committee (ExCo) and the
Secretariat Leadership Team immediately after the President’s
investiture for alignment and commitment on the strategic
agenda.
Together, we shall engineer a brighter future.

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Introduction
The Nigerian Society of Engineers (NSE) is the umbrella
organization for the Engineering Profession in Nigeria. The
Society looks after the professional needs of members through
well-structured programmes and regular interactions among the
different cadre of membership, enhancing high professional
standard and ethical practices.

In furtherance of this objective, the 34th President of the Society,

Engr. Margaret Oguntala has derived a strategic agenda towards
rebirthing the NSE for the growth, empowerment and
advancement of Engineering, which is built on five strategic
themes of Membership Development, Inter-
governmental/Industry/Academia Collaboration, International
Relation and NSE Reimaging.
Strategic Themes

The Margaret Oguntala Presidency Strategic Agenda (MOPSA) is

structured with strategic objective themes, thematic focus areas,
measurable expected outcomes and Terms of Reference
embedded in strawman presentations and clear-cut actionable
steps with guide notes.
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10 | P a g e

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ACTION PLAN TIMESTAMP

Ratify Policy on
Carry Out Training Intergovernmental
Needs Assessment Initiate Active
Collaboration
Hold Membership Drive
Investiture Commence Secretariat Capacity
Upskilling Trainings Building
NOV. DEC. JAN. FEB. MAR APR. MAY
.
2023 2023 2024 2024 2024 2024 2024
NYSC EIDP Launch
Partnership
Hold Leadership
Initiate Media Retreat
Campaign on Set up Think Tank on
Investiture & MOP Policy/Position
Paper

Establish NSE-
Intergovernmental Inaugurate Jet Club Extractive Industry
Roundtable Competition PTGR&D
Digital Professional
Journal
Follow-up &
JUN. JUL. AUG. SEP.

2024 2024 2024 2024 Consolidation

Spouses Forum
Committee Initiate 1st EIH for
Family Support
Academia-Industry
Scheme Launch
Project Exchange

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 Interview

I am Determined to Nurture Engineering to New

Heights - NSE President

Engr. Margaret Aina Oguntala, FNSE

President of The Nigerian Society of Engineers

The first female President of the foremost Engineering Institution in Africa, the Nigerian Society of Engineers;
Engr. Margaret Aina Oguntala FNSE in this interview with Member of The Nigerian Engineer Editorial Board,
Engr. Hauwa Khaleel, FNSE speaks on her vision for the Society, also gives insights on how she intends to
create stronger ties between Nigerian Engineers and industry players and strengthen advocacies targeted at
encouraging good governance in Nigeria. Excerpts:

Congratulations on breaking the glass ceiling
and emerging the first female president of
Nigeria Society of Engineers. What does it feel
like?
Being the first female President of the Nigerian
Society of Engineers is a groundbreaking
achievement, representing a significant milestone in
the history of the engineering profession in Nigeria. I
feel so proud to have broken barriers and shattered
stereotypes, paving the way for future generations of
female engineers to pursue leadership roles within
the NSE and even beyond. It is indeed an honour
to serve as a role model and inspiration to other
women in the field, encouraging them to pursue
their dreams and aspirations without limitations.
At the same time, being the first female President
comes with a sense of responsibility to effectively
represent the interests of all NSE members,
regardless of gender. I am committed to promoting
diversity, equity, and inclusion within the
engineering profession, advocating for equal

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 Interview

opportunities and recognition for ALL Engineers,

regardless of their backgrounds.
As a woman and mother, who embraces the
responsibility of nurturing life, I am determined to
nurture engineering to new heights, by rebirthing
the NSE for the Growth, Empowerment, and
Advancement of Engineering in Nigeria.
Overall, being the first female President of the
NSE has been a profound empowering experience,
allowing me to contribute to positive change in the
engineering and inspire others to believe in the
limitless potential of women in engineering.

Is this a dream come true for you, did you ever

think in your wildest imagination that this
would be your story some day?
Becoming the President of the Nigerian Society of
Engineers is truly a dream come true for me. It’s an
honor and privilege to serve in this capacity and to
have the opportunity to make a positive impact on
the engineering profession in Nigeria.
In all honesty, while I always aspired to contribute
to the field of engineering and to advance within
the Nigerian Society of Engineers, I never could
have imagined that I would be entrusted with
such a significant leadership role. It’s a testament
to the support and encouragement I’ve received
throughout my career, as well as to the progress
that has been made in promoting gender diversity
and inclusion within the engineering community.
I am deeply grateful for this opportunity and am
committed to fulfilling my duties with dedication,
integrity, and passion.

What are some of the qualities you believe

worked in your favour and set you apart to
emerge President?
Several qualities have played a significant role in my
journey to becoming the President of the Nigerian
Society of Engineers. I have demonstrated strong
leadership abilities throughout my career, both
within the engineering profession and in various
leadership roles within the Nigerian Society of
Engineers. My ability to inspire and motivate others,
as well as to effectively communicate a vision for
the organization, has helped me gain the support of
my peers and colleagues. As an engineer, I possess
a strong technical background and expertise in my
field. This technical competence has earned me
the respect of fellow engineers and has contributed
to my credibility as a leader within the Nigerian
Society of Engineers.
In addition, I am deeply committed to upholding
the highest standards of excellence in everything
I do. This commitment to excellence has guided
my work within the Nigerian Society of Engineers
and has earned me the trust and confidence of my
colleagues.
As a female Engineer, I have been a strong
advocate for gender diversity and inclusion within
the engineering profession. My efforts to promote
diversity and to empower women Engineers
have resonated with many members of the
Nigerian Society of Engineers and have helped to
create a more inclusive environment within the
organization. I have a clear vision for the future of
the Nigerian Society of Engineers and a strategic
approach to achieving our goals. My ability to think
strategically and to develop and implement plans
for the advancement of the organization has been
instrumental in my success as a leader.

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 Interview
Overall, it is a combination of all these qualities,
along with hard work, dedication, and the support
of my colleagues, that have helped me to emerge as
the President of the Nigerian Society of Engineers.
You have obviously settled down to work.
What are you hoping to do differently from
your predecessor to make your mark?
NSE is now on a transformative journey to elevate
engineering in Nigeria and as the President of the
Nigerian Society of Engineers, I am deeply committed
to advancing the role of Nigerian Engineers in nation
building and ensuring their relevance in addressing
the challenges facing our dear country. Let me tell
you some of our strategic roadmap outlining our
priorities. We are prioritizing initiatives aimed at
enhancing the capacity, skills and competencies of
Nigerian Engineers, especially the Young Engineers
to meet the evolving needs of the industry. We have
started walking the talking, right now we are about
to conclude with our partners on international
trainings, world - class workshops and certification
program. These will commence in due course.
Also, it is our plan to champion initiatives that
foster innovation and research within engineering
community, with a focus on a developing
homegrown solution to local challenges. We are
creating platforms for collaboration between
Engineers, Researchers, and Entrepreneurs as well
as support innovative projects and start up. We
already have our engineering hub which we intend
to scale up. Our goal is to position Nigeria as a hub
for engineering.
In addition, we have started contacting government
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agencies, policy makers, and stakeholders showing
interest to work together and advocate for policies
that promote the growth and development of the
engineering profession in Nigeria. This includes but
not limited to advocating for increased investment in
infrastructure, adoption of innovative technologies,
and the implementation of sustainable development
practices. Let me also add that we are prioritizing
Vocational Science, Technology, Engineering, and
Mathematics (VSTEM) education to empower future
leaders. We are supporting dedicated institutions
with strategic endowments to ensure the thriving of
VSTEM education for a generation of STEM leaders.
For a greater Nigeria, we shall uphold the highest
standards of professionalism and ethics within the
profession, including adherence to codes of conduct,
ethics, and best practices. We shall raise public
awareness about the importance of engineering in
nation building and engage with local communities
to address their needs and concerns.
Overall, we shall harness the collective expertise,
passion, and ingenuity of Nigerian Engineers to
drive sustainable development, economic
growth, and social progress in Nigeria.
Together, we will build a brighter future for
our country and leave a lasting legacy for
generations to come.
Although the situation is gradually
changing and more women are now
embracing engineering as a career, the
number is still a far cry from that of
the men. How do you plan to make it an
attractive career choice to the young
women?
As the first female President of the Nigerian
Society of Engineers, I recognize the
importance of promoting diversity and
inclusion within the field of engineering.
While we have made progress in encouraging
more females to pursue engineering careers,
there is still much work to be done to
achieve gender parity in the field. I plan
to support the Association of Professional
Women Engineers in Nigeria (APWEN), as a division
of NSE to launch outreach programs targeted at
young girls in schools to spark their interest in
engineering from an early age. These programs
will include interactive workshops, mentorship
opportunities, and exposure to successful female
engineers as role models.
In addition, we shall advocate for scholarships and
funding opportunities specifically aimed at female
engineering students to alleviate financial barriers
and encourage more women to pursue higher
 Interview

education in engineering fields.
Also, we shall continue to campaign to highlight
the contributions of female Engineers and
showcase their achievements in various
engineering disciplines. By raising awareness of
the important role women play in engineering, we
can challenge stereotypes and inspire more women
to consider engineering as a viable career option.
By implementing these initiatives and fostering
a supportive and inclusive environment, we will
make engineering a more attractive career choice
for women and pave the way for greater gender
diversity and representation in the field.
can help Nigerian engineers acquire the necessary
skills and knowledge to leverage AI technologies
effectively in their work. By investing in lifelong
learning and professional development initiatives,
the Nigerian Society of Engineers can ensure
that Engineers remain abreast of the latest AI
advancements and trends, positioning them as
leaders in the field.
Let me summarize that AI presents immense
opportunities for Nigerian Engineers to drive
technological innovation, enhance productivity,
and address societal challenges. By embracing AI

With the coming of artificial

intelligence and society advancing as
a result of it, how do you think it can
positively influence Engineers within
the Nigerian context and to help
them remain at the forefront of this
technological advancement?
I believe that artificial intelligence (AI)
presents significant opportunities for
Engineers within the Nigerian context to
remain at the forefront of technological
advancement.
AI technologies can streamline engineering
processes, automate repetitive tasks, and
optimize resource allocation, thereby
improving efficiency and productivity
in engineering projects. This will enable
Nigerian Engineers to deliver high-quality
solutions in a timely manner, enhancing
their competitiveness on both local and
global scales. technologies and fostering a culture of innovation
and collaboration, we will empower Engineers
Likewise, AI fosters innovation by providing to remain at the forefront of this technological
Engineers with powerful tools and techniques to revolution and contribute to the socioeconomic
solve complex problems and explore new frontiers advancement of Nigeria.
in engineering design, analysis, and optimization.
By leveraging AI technologies, Nigerian Engineers Women Engineers suffer non inclusivity and
can develop innovative solutions to address are sometimes overlooked for their male
the unique challenges facing the country, from counterparts. How do you plan to change this
infrastructure development to energy efficiency and narrative and promote inclusivity?
environmental sustainability. Like I said earlier on while answering some questions,
You will agree with me that AI-enabled I am deeply committed to promoting inclusivity and
collaboration platforms facilitate communication gender equality within the engineering profession.
and collaboration among Engineers, both within To change the narrative and address the challenges
Nigeria and across borders. These platforms enable faced by female Engineers, I plan to raise
knowledge sharing, interdisciplinary collaboration, awareness about the importance of gender diversity
and collective problem-solving, fostering a vibrant and inclusivity within the engineering profession
engineering community that can tackle large-scale through advocacy campaigns, workshops, and
projects and drive socioeconomic development in seminars. Educate both male and female Engineers
Nigeria. about the benefits of diversity and the need to
create an inclusive work environment.
Unarguably, AI education and training programs

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 Interview
It is our plan to establish mentorship programs
to pair Women Engineers with experienced
mentors who can provide guidance, support, and
career advice. Create support networks and peer
mentoring groups to foster collaboration and
solidarity among female engineers and provide
them with opportunities for professional growth
and development.
We shall recognize and celebrate the achievements
of Women Engineers through awards, scholarships,
and public recognition programs. Showcase
their accomplishments and contributions to the
engineering profession to inspire the next generation
of Women Engineers and challenge stereotypes and
biases.
Of course, we shall continue to advocate for policies
and initiatives that promote gender equality,
diversity, and inclusivity within the engineering
profession. Work with government agencies,
educational institutions, and industry partners to
implement policies that support the recruitment,
retention, and advancement of Women Engineers.
Nigerians are known to be one of the most
brilliant people on a global scale. But they
suffer some drawbacks. First, what are these
drawbacks, what solutions would you proffer
for these draw backs with Engineers and
how do you plan to enhance the visibility of
Nigerian Engineers on the world stage?
While Nigerians are indeed known for their
brilliance and talent, there are some challenges and
drawbacks that hinder their full potential. Nigeria
faces significant challenges in infrastructure
development, including inadequate transportation
networks, unreliable power supply, and limited
access to clean water and sanitation facilities.
Also, Corruption and governance issues remain
pervasive in Nigeria, affecting public trust,
investment climate, and overall development
prospects. Nigeria lags behind in research and
innovation compared to other countries, limiting
opportunities for technological advancement and
economic growth.
To address these drawbacks and enhance the
visibility of Nigerian Engineers on the world
stage, NSE will advocate for increased investment
in infrastructure projects and support the
development of sustainable infrastructure
solutions. Nigerian Engineers can play a critical
role in addressing infrastructure deficiencies by
designing and implementing innovative solutions
for transportation, energy, water, and sanitation
infrastructure.
Page 38 | THE NIGERIAN ENGINEER
Also, NSE will collaborate with educational
institutions and industry partners to expand
access to quality engineering education and
training programs. This includes promoting STEM
education, offering scholarships and mentorship
programs, and advocating for curriculum reforms
to align with industry needs.
We shall not rest on our oars in advocating for
transparency, accountability, and ethical standards
in engineering practice. Engineers can serve
as advocates for good governance and integrity
in infrastructure projects, helping to combat
corruption and promote sustainable development.
As a technical Professional body, we shall
support research and innovation initiatives that
promote technological advancement and economic
diversification. We are prioritizing strengthening
partnerships and collaborations with international
engineering organizations and networks. This
includes participating in global engineering forums,
conferences, and exchanges to showcase Nigerian
engineering talent and expertise on the world stage.
What are some of drawbacks mitigating
against the growth of Nigerian Engineers?
Nigeria’s infrastructure is often inadequate and
poorly maintained, which limits opportunities for
engineers to work on large-scale projects and hinders
professional development. Nigeria allocates minimal
funding to research and development compared to
other countries. This lack of investment hampers
innovation and limits opportunities for engineers to
engage in cutting-edge research and development
projects. Let me tell you that the current high rate
of unemployment and underemployment in Nigeria
affects Engineers, leading to job scarcity, low wages,
and limited opportunities for career advancement.
Corruption and bureaucracy in government
agencies and regulatory bodies often impede the
growth of engineering projects. Bribery, red tape,
and inefficiency can delay projects and increase
costs, discouraging investment and innovation.
Many Engineers in Nigeria face challenges accessing
state-of-the-art technology, tools, and resources
needed to execute engineering projects effectively.
This hinders their ability to compete globally and
deliver high-quality results.
Were you at any point discriminated against
as a Female Engineer climbing your career
ladder? If so, please share your story.
None at any point
What was your motivation for settling for
engineering when you could have settled for
 Interview

anything else? strong analytical mind set and problem-solving

skills, which are valuable assets in any boardroom
From onset, I always want to have the
setting. BlackHouse Media, for example, thrives on
opportunity to impact society in meaningful
innovation and strategic thinking, areas where my
ways and make a different by designing
engineering background can contribute alongside
sustainable infrastructure and addressing
the creative strengths of the team. Serving on
global issues like climate change and poverty.
multiple boards allows me to leverage my diverse
Also, I am drawn into
engineering because I enjoy
solving complex problems
and finding innovative
solutions to real-world
challenges. Engineering offers
continuous opportunities for
growth and development and
attracts individuals who are
intellectually curious and
enjoy learning new concepts
and skills. All these influenced
my decision to settle for
engineering.

How has your career choice

shaped you to become who
you are today?
My career as an Engineer
often involves solving complex
problems and addressing
technical challenges. This fosters a strong problem-
solving mindset and the ability to approach issues
analytically and systematically, which are valuable
skills in leadership roles that I am holding now.
Engineers are trained to think innovatively and
creatively, seeking novel solutions to problems. Take
a strategic approach to problem solving considering
long term implication. This mindset of innovation is
what I am applying to leadership roles, driving the
organizational growth, and fostering a culture of
continuous improvement while strategic thinking
ability is essential for me to make decisions that
impact the future direction of the Society.
Overall, the engineering career choice has shaped
me to become an effective leader in the Society by
instilling valuable skills such as problem-solving,
innovation, strategic thinking, collaboration,
adaptability, and resilience. These qualities are
essential for success in leadership roles within
engineering organizations like the Nigerian Society
of Engineers.
skillset and gain exposure to different industries,
fostering well-rounded business acumen.
You are a recipient of many awards. Which of
the awards would you say is most important
to you and why?
All the awards are so important to me because all
the awards validate my hard work, achievements,
align with my personal values, reflect my impact
on society, recognize my philanthropic efforts,
advocacy work and many more. So, all the awards
are very important to me.
If you were not an Engineer, what other
profession do you think you would have
excelled in?
In a different life, I might have gravitated towards a
career in communications or storytelling. Acting in
Wale Adenuga’s movies was a fulfilling experience
that allowed me to explore creativity and connect
with audiences. These are transferable skills that
can be valuable in various fields.

You are a board member of some companies

including BlackHouse Media, a Media and
Public Relations outfit. Your role as an
Engineer and what BHM represents are two
poles apart. What is the correlation?
My background in engineering equips me with a

Page 39 | THE NIGERIAN ENGINEER

 Feature
Engineers in Politics for Social Change
Engr. Olusegun Ayobami Toluhi, PhD, FNSE
P
ermeating today’s lexicon and professional
registers are words like infrastructure,
framework and architecture – clearly, very
strong engineering terminologies which has found
lucid expressions even among unionists and
activists. It has become common place to hear, as
the clamor for change rents the air, clichés like
institutional framework, systems architecture, and
social infrastructure. Politicians and administrators
are also wont of chanting ‘social engineering’ even
as the echo of reforms rent the air in the last few
decades or so.
It appears that the dynamics of socioeconomics
demand a strong interplay between engineering
and the society. Whereas, engineering, among its
several definitions, is the carrying through of an
enterprise by skillful or artful contrivance as it
interprets the precepts of science for an enhanced
and purposeful living within the society; politics,
on the other hand, represents a total complex
relationship between people living in the society.
Clearly the connection between both – engineering
and politics – can be seen without much fuss –
people and society.
Engineering involves scientific, entrepreneurial,
and artful (diplomatic) skills, if it will be useful and
fulfil purpose just as politics require the ability to
manage complex dynamics between people and
structures within the society. To resolve complex
dynamics requires an analytical and responsive
Page 40 | THE NIGERIAN ENGINEER
mind that recognizes a need and the ability to
take responsibility for meeting that need. This is a
fundamental function of transformation and social
development that seem to have been the natural
purview of engineers and politicians. Whereas, the
engineer take simple laws of science, interprets same
for the use of man by giving these laws essence.
Politics translates laws of psychology within the
provisions of the constitution for social order. They
both play within sets of rules for the benefit of the
larger society. Both playing significant roles in the
formation of critical order; one from a scientific
standpoint and the order from the humanities. Still,
these views – the scientific and the humanities, are
Siamese twins that share only one heart – people
and society - one would be useless without the
other. To survive and be impactful therefore, both
must collaborate and speak to one another, as they
must co-exist and inter-depend.
While science make life easy for man by
providing him solutions to his many and varying
needs through the ingenuity of engineering
and manufacturing; humanities provides the
environment for science to thrive, without which,
science asphyxiates unto extinction. Whatever
science develops and manufactures, unless society
exists in tranquility under responsive rule-of-law,
the development is not optimal. Similarly, without
goods, services and products that facilitates ease
and comfortable living, life could be a drudge and
a pain. To fully grasp this principle, we take a
look at the dynamics between power (electricity),
energy (fuels and lubricants), technology (internet
connectivity), etc., and the productive lives of
individuals within society. Without the products
of engineering (power, energy, technology, roads,
marine ecology, pharmaceuticals, manufacturing,
research, etc.), societies would be primordial if not
primitively chaotic. For one to achieve purpose
it fundamentally needs the other. For society
to function, it requires that its basic need for
housing, clothing, food, health, and education; be
adequately met while the need for civilization and
progress also demand good telecommunication,
transport, energy, and comfort. These would be
met through the versatility of its engineers and
their innovativeness in providing solutions to social
needs. Without social order and rule of law however,
there would be chaos and anarchy which certainly

might preclude the manifestation of engineering
prowess. Rule of law and civil structures (another
engineering term in politics) must be established
for useful research and development, science and
technology and productive engineering, to manifest.
Simply put, engineering and politics must exist in
some quaint symbiosis if they would respectively be
of benefit to the society.
Social change on the other hand, connotes the
transformation of societal norms, behaviors,
institutions, and structures over time. This often
occur because of technology, cultural shifts,
political realignments, economic developments,
and evolution in attitudes. Historically, the world
has witnessed four (4) industrial revolutions since
the mid 18th century. The first being largely the
mechanization of production via the instrumentality
of combustion – the generation of high power
steam from water for propelling. This gave birth to
steam engines and automobiles, largely called the
‘steam engine’ revolution. This was in the mid 18th
century. The second industrial revolution relied
heavily on electricity, petroleum, and steel to drive
production and industries – it was largely deemed
the ‘steel and power’ revolution. It was between
the late 19th century and the mid 20th century.
The third industrial revolution began towards
the late 20th century and was digital, powered
by the internet from which telecommunication
and medicine benefitted greatly. Non-invasive
surgical procedures, largely accelerated during this
interregnum, facilitated rapid growth in medicine
vide widespread use of technology as driven by
software engineers and hardware manufacturers.
Still, there is yet another industrial revolution. Today,
the world is reeling from the silent but determined
incursion of nanotechnology, biotechnology, and
artificial intelligence (AI). It is the season of artificial
intelligence where there is a blatant attempt
at blurring the lines between physical, digital,
biological, and natural spheres. This is the fourth
industrial revolution. While biotechnology seeks
to redefine agriculture, robotics seeks to replace
human workforce (some say it is better seen as
enhancement), and the Internet of Things (IoT) seek
to remove privacy and obliterate proclivities. In the
middle of all of these are engineers – as they design
the hardware (machines or mechanisms) and the
software (programs) that enables scientific research
findings.
Indeed, engineers were in the middle of all the
industrial revolutions in history to date, as they
drive proceedings to make lives easy to live. Every
industrial revolution was accompanied by social
changes that required change management and
Feature
sporadic adaptations. Engineers and engineering
were in the middle of every historical account of
the industrial revolutions. They drove, manage,
and sustain the resilience, reliability, and cost-
effectiveness of every industrial era.
Everyone in society has come to the general
acceptance of the indispensability of engineers in
production. Their role in the advancement of society
is inalienable. It is therefore, strange to see that
engineers seem to be oblivious of the consequence
of the humongous impact of engineering on the
socioeconomic developments of society. Societies of
the world got classified into first, developing and
under-developed economies strictly on the back of
their technological advancements. Technology, we
know, is driven in the main by engineers, even if
they aren’t always the inventors. Every inventor
require techies (engineers) to interpret and reduce
whatever their inventions are, for cost effective
mass production. Without engineers, inventions
never get to be more than concepts. It is, therefore,
truly baffling that engineers seem impervious to the
knowledge that they are the undisputed creator of
civilization. The other name for civilization is social
change, yes?
For an effective social change, skills is pivotal,
but it must exhibit in a conducive environment if
it will become useful. It also require sustainable
funding if it will be taken to term. Consequently,
skill, network, and funds (finance) becomes the
three major drivers of social change. Engineering
must therefore, become deliberate in sustaining
each of these drivers at optimal levels for enhanced
productivity. Incidentally, engineering seem to have
capped its usefulness and significance by refusing
to become cerebral in the design of its curriculum
and training, thereby assigning itself the short
end of the stick in ‘skills’. Inasmuch as analytical
skills and nimble mind is requisite to engineering
training (as provided for by mathematics and
the physical sciences); skills of critical thinking,
entrepreneurship, and statesmanship are also
fundamental and very needful. Without these,
engineers aren’t able to manage the many and
varied contraptions of their research. These skills
can, and shall only be provided for, by a deliberate
inculcation of the tenets of Operations Research,
Business Methods, and Politics in the training of
engineers for engineering services. Engineers must
get fully involved.
As an enduring and cooperating social groupings
whose memberships have developed organized
patterns of relationships through interaction
with one another – a people with common goals,
traditions, institutions and collective activities and
Page 41 | THE NIGERIAN ENGINEER
 Feature
interests – society is becoming increasingly organic.
Peoples, cultures, and professions are finding that
they must relate, collaborate, and speak to one
another, if they would survive. To insist on isolation
or self-adulation is not only myopic, but it has also
become counter-productive. There can be no better
path to extinction today than to be isolated. Politics
is that arena where all sorts converge. To reject
opportunities to play in that arena is to limit the
chance to fully manifest.
Politics, as we all know, or must increasingly be
aware of, is that quaint art of acquisition of power to
allocate communal resources. To survive therefore,
engineers and engineering must jostle in an
increasingly busy space, for relevance, significance
and survival. This is even more so as new fields
of studies and professions are getting birthed on
a daily basis, with realistic demand for a slice of
available resources.
Few decades ago, the thespian arts was simply
for entertaining royalties, today however, it has
evolved. Even though it had always been a money
spinner, it has graduated into power broking; as
it has produced the Ronald Reagans, the Arnold
Schwarzeneggers, and the Richard Mofe Damijos
of this world, to mention a few. All of them top
movie actors turned politicians. Their involvement
in politics has undoubtedly lent credence to the
vocation. California, only a state in the United
States of America, gets spoken of as the biggest
economy worldwide, and this is a direct result of
the strides that the thespian arts have made in the
last 50-75 years. The vehicle to this enviable status
is politics! It isn’t a wonder therefore, when the
Nigerian Ex-President, Goodluck Jonathan, in his
bid to shore up national value and worth, in March
2013, announced and actually splashed a grant
of N3billion on Nollywood (the 3rd movie industry
in the world at that time, now the second), it was
a national first in many ramifications. It might
be interesting to consider how much any other
professional body have been able to attract from the
national wallet by abstaining from politics?
Relevance, significance, and growth, in an ever
bustling marketplace, dictates that informed
decisions gets taken, useful contacts gets cultivated
and prudent investment gets made. Knowledge,
network, finance have become the currency of
influence and survival for individuals, families,
organizations, and communities in any emerging
culture. Engineers and engineering would benefit
greatly, as it reconsiders, adopts, and utilizes
these dictums. These three quanta must be
acquired inclusively and in the right balance for
any meaningful impact. To revel in knowledge (as
Page 42 | THE NIGERIAN ENGINEER
is preponderant with engineers today) without
network and finance or in knowledge and finance
without network or in knowledge and network
without finance, is bound to fall short of achieving
requisite impact. The engineer, or any profession or
trade at all, must seek to imbibe and demonstrates
all three quantums appropriately, if it will make
any significant impact on the society. To drive
any social change, skill must impact its network
in a cost effective manner. Without any doubt
whatsoever, there is only one platform known to
man, where skill, network and finance cohabits and
collaborates – Politics!
If Engineers shall social change; then it is imperative
that engineers become involved in politics, at as
many levels available and realizable. Refusal to
participate or to prepare for participation, is not only
naïve, it is myopic. Engineers need become deliberate
in the development and adoption of acceptable
curriculum for engineering training, participative
in practice and impactful in professional legacy.
They need to become objective in the mentoring of
generation next during every era. Regulations and
certifications within the engineering industry need
also be fumigated. Professional development hours
(PDH) need be continually and consistently logged
in an independent and transparent manner that
alienates mediocrity and nepotism. The language
within the industry need become professional
capability rather than political correctness.
Professional development hours need become the
‘lingua franca’ in the practice of engineering in
Nigeria. Finally, Gender issues and discrimination
in engineering practice and politicking, need also
be ventilated.
When a people whose intent is cohesive and
informed, refuse every tendency to be fractured
or distracted, they become a pressure group. The
best weapons for social change has always been
powerfully focused pressure groups. Engineers,
through informed and organized engineering
training and practice, can very easily become
a potent pressure group for meaningful social
change. If the Nigeria Bar Association (NBA) can
do this, the Nigerian Society of Engineer (NSE) can
very well do this, even more. Engineers, through
contemporary training curriculum and programs,
thoughtful political involvements, pointed
continuous education discourses, and mindful but
advised interventions in the national socioeconomic
landscape, may very well become that pressure
group for impactful social changes in Nigeria.
I am unable to see why not.

ENGINEERS IN POLITICS FOR SOCIAL CHANGE
Engr. Otitolaye Ayodele Johnson, FNSE
T
he choice of the topic: “Engineers in politics
for social change” is both deliberate and apt
for the current state of affairs of our social-
political development as a country which still
presents plethora of societal ills to grapple with.
The Nigerian Society of Engineers (NSE), a critical
stakeholder in the development of the society,
through this topic provides avenue of discussion
on the roles of engineers in politics that should
engender social transformation and enhance the
wellbeing of the populace.
It is a fact that many people are into party politics
to make some impacts in the anal of the society,
but it is equally true that training and professional
background do play significant roles in defining
policy direction and could also hasten achievement
of set goals during implementation. This article
focus primarily on how the professional training of
engineers in party politics can be applied to create
positive social change in the society.
First of all, I believe it is necessary to provide basic
definitions of the three key words in the topic of
discussion that is; Engineers, Politics and Social
change, in order to gain insight to the context of
their usage in this article.
Feature
Engineers: Engineers apply scientific principles to
analyze, design, invent, code, build, and create to
solve all sorts of problems and make the world a
better place (National Academy of Engineering). By
training, engineers innovate to solve both basic and
complex problems using the knowledge of math,
science and technology. As problem-solvers, every
potential solution engineers devises to solve human
problems must be weighed against the realities of
the physical world (human existence) and other
concerns such as public safety, requirements,
regulations, available materials, and a finite budget.
Most of the things that make our lives safer, more
enjoyable, and more productive are products
of engineering. From computer machines to
modern essentials such as smartphones, digital
media players, and digital cameras. What about
great engineering advancements in healthcare
like X-rays, ultrasound, magnetic resonance
imaging (MRI), computerized axial tomography
(CAT), positron emission tomography (PET), and
other techniques which now allow doctors to
diagnose and treat injuries and diseases far more
effectively than before. Other areas of engineering
impact on the society includes communication,
transportation, housing, infrastructure, military
Page 43 | THE NIGERIAN ENGINEER
 Feature

wares, entertainment, etc. Engineering and society by the “engineers”, it more often than not
Engineers makes every segment of human existence galvanized into disruptive social change. From
safer and more enjoyable. historical perspective however, introduction of
new technologies and/or engineering processes
Politics: A simple definition of politics as it relate to
had never been without opposition which are very
our topic of discussion will suffice for our purpose,
stiff in some cases and come from sections of the
because there are numerous different definitions
political class that do not believe such technologies
of what is politics depending on the point of view
or engineering processes are the best for the society
of individuals. In this article, I like to adapt this
at the time of their introduction. The reasoning of
definition that identify Politics as the way that
opposition to technology and engineering innovation
people living in groups make decisions that affects
is usually not a question of whether it will bring
their wellbeing. In everyday life, the term “politics”
about social change but rather the fear of sudden
refers to the way that countries are governed, and
disruption to an old order which they perceived
to the ways that governments make rules and laws
may lead to loses rather than gains.
to manage the human society properly.
We recall the events that followed the turn of
Party politics on the other hand is defined as a
the millennium when computer machines were
process of competitive claims-making by rival
becoming ubiquitous in Nigeria, there were serious
parties, with the aim of mobilizing support to put
postulations by some politicians and labour
their programmes into action (Professor Christina
movement that introduction of computer machines
Boswell, 2020). On this view, politics is essentially
in government offices will lead to loss of jobs by some
about settling contestation over equitable
categories of workers. There were intense agitations
distribution of material goods, services and
to reject the use of computers in government offices
amenities amongst various segments of the society.
in order to protect the jobs of these government
It is all about making policies and agreements on
workers (copy typists, precisely). The agitation by
how to enhance the living standards of the citizens
the opposition camp and the debates that ensued
of a country or a group of people. In a multi-party
almost over-shadowed the disruptive social change
democracy, winning an election enables rival-claims
the technology brought to bear. Due to this type of
to be translated into implementable policies. Based
attitude, a section of politicians would rather fight
on the processes involved, Politics can be seen as
for rejection of a new technology or engineering
a social activity – an activity we engage in together
solutions instead of changing to catch up with
with others, or one through which we engage
technology. By their professional training, engineers
others. Essentially, the end products of politics
in politics are able to creatively persuade such
are expected to bring about social transformation
pessimists and alley their unfounded fears because
(change) in the society.
they have understanding of engineering and also
Social Change: Simply put, social change is the game of politics at the same time. This is one
introduction of a new fashion or mode that either of many reasons engineers are needed in politics
modify or totally replace the old order, in the life to engage democratically with groups that may
of a people or in the operation of a society. It is have diverse opinions about new technologies or
the alteration in the norms or rules by which engineering solutions that would bring about social
individuals act. Social change requires deliberate change in the society.
effort and commitment to a cause for it to happen.
A review of the explosive industrial revolution
It often happen through progressive process (which
in England that took place between 1760 and
takes some time) or through disruptive sudden
1860 AD, shows there were strong oppositions
transformation. When the transformation is positive,
to the introduction of industrial technologies by
it is known as positive social change. The greatest
pessimists who preferred the old order of manual
avenue for social change in the modern society is
labour and low workers income because of what
politics which allow consensus building to initiate
they called job insecurity due to introduction of
and implement policies that engender progressive
machines. The opposition came specifically from
or disruptive social change in the society.
the Marxists political groups. While the proponents
Drawing from the above basic definitions of the key of the industrial revelation saw it as one of the most
words of the topic of discussion, we can already infer important events in human history, marking the
that positive interaction of politics and engineering rapid transition to the modern age (disruptive social
will catalyze social change in any society. From change), the pessimists on the other hand saw it as
history of human race, whenever a new technology the dark, satanic mills, with “capitalists” squeezing
or engineering process was introduced into the more surplus value out of the working class with

Page 44 | THE NIGERIAN ENGINEER


each passing year. The conversation on whether
the industrial revolution was good or not sharply
divided England politics into two opposing sides;
the Marxists on one side and the supporters of the
industrial revolution on the other side. Argument
of the pessimists was that the industrial revolution
has brought negative “social change” because
according to them factory workers were losing
jobs (machines were performing their roles). They
could not see the positivity of the disruptive social
change in mass production of goods that resulted
into availability of more affordable goods to the
populace and bringing more prosperity. They were
beclouded by the narrow thought of a few that may
temporarily lose their jobs. Such is the politics that
surrounds social change. The debate lingered for a
considerable period but finally waned around 1946,
when the “engineers in politics” and the like-minded
supporters of the industrial revolution literally
worn the debate (this is curled from the account of
Clark Nardinelli: Industrial Revolution and Standard
of Living). Let us pause a little and imagine that
engineers were not adequately represented in
the political space to defend their invention and
technology, the pessimists would have worn and
the world would have been the worst for it today.
Involvement of engineers in politics is a driver of both
progressive and disruptive social change.
Another historical example in the global arena is
introduction of the 5G mobile telecommunication
technology as recent as in 2018 or there about. The 5G
technology is a revolution in the telecommunication
sector bringing with it disruptive social change
that advertise larger and faster data exchange at
incredible speed to make life better. This engineering
innovation could make happen remotely in real
time and at a global scale, sensitive activities like
performing medical operations, intelligent military
campaign, e-learning, etc. As usual, this revolution
did not pass without stiff oppositions coming this
time from advanced economies in the West. The
rumoured contention of the opposition was that
radiation from the 5G antenna was frying people
to dead on the street. Advocacy (campaign) against
adoption of 5G technology spread in the global arena
like wild fire. People and governments believed this
insinuation (particularly in Africa) because of the
source(s) it came from. While this campaign was
gaining ground fast, COVID-19 suddenly appeared
on the scene and the blame game changed sharply.
This time around, the incident of Corona Virus
(COVID-19) was rumored to have emanated from
Feature
radiation of 5G systems (how incredible this is!!).
Local politics heated up in many countries against
the adoption of the “killer 5G” technology. The
campaign by opposition against this disruptive
social change agent (5G tech) almost subsumed the
positivity of the technology. To maneuver through
this kind of high level, thick cloud of opposition
against the revolutionary 5G technology certainly
require deep involvement of those that understands
engineering and high level politics as well – a role
fitting for Engineers in politics. Although, culture
and tradition can also bring about social change
in a society, the effect often happens progressively
over time. Engineering solutions introduced in any
generation of human existence from the Stone Age
till the present have always resulted in disruptive
social change with immediate positive impact on
the wellbeing of the society.
Haven established so far that bringing about social
change involves intense political maneuverings,
it is therefore a positive for engineers who are
the originators of solutions for disruptive social
change to be involved in party politics so as to
drive home social change agenda needed by the
society. Combination of engineering knowledge
and political power will position an engineer to
make great and immediate positive impact on the
society. A cursory look at some states and public
departments in Nigeria where engineers in politics
were/or are currently in-charge should corroborate
this statement.
It should be clear to engineers and the engineering
family in Nigeria that research, innovation, and
design of solutions are not enough to bring about
the expected social change in the society but
active involvement in party politics or at least
participation in political activities in the country
is equally essential. As this will enable engineers
to be involved at policy initiation levels as well as
implementation stages of solutions that brings
about positive social change to the society. The
higher the level of participation of engineers in party
politics and political activities in the country, the
faster the society should experience disruptive social
change that makes life better for all.
I close with this adage in local parlance that says, “If
you refuse to be present when it was being shared,
you don’t ask how it was shared afterwards”
Page 45 | THE NIGERIAN ENGINEER
 Interview

My greatest challenge is people’s resistance to

change - Engr. Abdullahi Sule, FNSE

Engr. Abdullahi Sule, FNSE

Executive Governor of Nasarawa State

Since 1999 that democracy took the centerstage, Nigeria has witnessed the emergence of many Engineers in the
governance space. As part of efforts at showcasing the achievements so far, a team of our Editorial Board namely,
Engr. Dr. Lawal Lasisi Salami, FNSE, Engr. Idoreyin Udosen, MNSE and Henry Terseer Iortim visited the
Executive Governor of Nasarawa State, Engr. Abdullahi A. Sule, FNSE at the government House, Lafia to interview
him specially on how his engineering knowledge has come to bear in governing the young State grappling with
lean revenue resources. Governor Sule tells our team his efforts which has seen the State rising to join the top three
most economically viable States in Nigeria. He uses the opportunity to provide a guide to our Young Engineers
Future Leaders who will take over the mantle of leadership in the years ahead both in the industry and politics.

Your Excellency, our dear Engr. Sule, we here
seize the opportunity of this rare privilege
to thank you most sincerely for acceding to
our request for this interview with you, we
also thank you immensely for your quality
representation of the engineering family in
politics and service to our fatherland. Can
you tell us how your engineering background
has shaped your approach to governance and
leadership?
First, I thank you for the opportunity you have given
me to be part of this progress you are making, it is
very important as you are focusing on engineering
in totality, on Engineers in politics, Engineers in
business, and Engineers in the industry generally.
I am elated to inform you that tomorrow I am going
to be in Jos, at the Government Technical College,
Bukuru which is my alma mater where I was given
the foundation for my engineering career. I will be

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joining a huge number of other professionals who people to a prosperous level was solely as a result
also graduated from the school before proceeding of my engineering ingenuity.
to tertiary institutions. We are celebrating the 70th
year of establishment of the college. Earlier, that
renowned school started as Government Technical
Training School (GTTS) before metamorphosing
into Government Technical College. I am eternally
grateful to all my teachers for the painstaking
mentorship right from my primary school, at
GTC Bukuru and through to the University
where I eventually qualified as an Engineer upon
Graduation.
Now going back to your question, generally,
training prepares an Engineer because of the
aspect of engineering that concerns with adequate
groundwork ahead of tasks. Everything you do What I can tell you in a nutshell is that, I came
has to be well marshalled; everything has to be on board to govern our State well equipped and
sketched and the final drawing has to be taken into focused principally to attract development for my
account. So, there is intense amount of planning people to heave a sigh of relieve from hardship.
in engineering and this has to be considered by
any Engineer who wishes to be successful in Can you let us into some of your
any endeavour. Well, because I have been in the administration’s key infrastructure projects
industry and applied the method successfully, and policies you believe are aimed at driving
social change and fostering development?
I have deployed same in governance and it has
helped me enormously. The biggest challenge that confronted me on
assumption of office was the conspicuous
Also, against the backdrop of the required planning,
backwardness in the area of education. One, School
immediately I made up my mind to contest election,
enrolment of children was very poor at the time.
win and govern our State, I engaged Consultants
An inventory showed we needed to quickly improve
who visited our communities and identified
our teachers in every way just as we needed to
the gamut of challenges and came up with the
strengthen their capacity and equip them to deliver
knowledge and the strategies for me to deal with
on their mandate. There was the need to update the
such challenges and provide quality leadership to
curriculum in tandem with global best practice and
my people. The Consultants were able to identify the
ensure schools were properly located and accessible
resources that could be explored and used to turn
by pupils, we conducted what we call the baseline
the fortunes of the State favourably and how the
survey of these institutions. We ascertained the
economic wellbeing of my people can be improved.
number of public schools in the State taking into
Also, as part of the planning, the Consultants came
consideration the ration of teachers to students
up with the document referred to as Nasarawa
as well as the ideal tools required, we were able to
Economic Development Strategy (NEDS), this vital
put that all together and based on that we started
document gave me in-depth idea of the comparative
addressing them one after another.
advantages of the State.
Sadly, we had very high unemployment rate in the
The areas the document highlighted prominently
State compared to the national average. A study
included agriculture, mining and the crucial
showed us there was the need for us to retool our
abundant manpower that the State has. The
educational system because it was clear that some
Consultants took into cognizance the State’s sources
courses studied by our children could not enable
of Internally Generated Revenue (IGR). Similarly,
them access job easily. Consequently, we adopted
they pointed out the gaps in various sectors such
vocational and technical education. We built our
as Finance, Education, Health and the poor state
first skills acquisition centre. We equally upgraded
of infrastructure. The Consultants were frank in
our Polytechnic which was not really a Polytechnic
their submissions by giving me holistic information
because the word Polytechnic comes from the world
on both the miserable reality and the professional
of many technical courses. We had a polytechnic
way to build an economically viable State that my
that didn’t have accreditation of any course, so we
people could be proud of. I wish to clearly state here
had to work on that and today, we have a Polytechnic
that the foresight of assembling a team to draw a
with fully accredited courses which comprises
masterplan for me ahead of my ambition to lead my

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of Information and Communications Technology
(ICT), Mechanical, Electrical Engineering, Building
Technology and Agriculture.
So, those who had academic backgrounds in other
programmes that were not able to get employment,
the State government has now taken it upon itself
to give them skills acquisition in our institutions
established for the purpose. Skills are acquired
there in electrical installation, fabrications, motor
mechanics, agricultural mechanisation, welding,
carpentry, refrigeration and in many other areas.
The good news here is the fact that many of our
young men who were hitherto unemployed after
undertaking the respective programmes have
graduated with profitable skills, they are now
practicing and have even become employers of
labour. By the time we graduate them they no
longer look for jobs, but establish their businesses.
That is one area of education that I can disclose
here my administration has recorded successes
massively.
Unfortunately, on assumption of office, I noticed
an unacceptable level of economic loss in our post-
harvest. This was occasioned by the deficiency in
roads network, technically this challenge hindered
our people from being able to transport their yields
to markets and other commercial centres to sell and
use their hard-earned money to improve their lots
economically. In a move to tackle this frontally,my
administration embarked on roads construction
which helped to link our agriculture producing
areas with the markets. Some of the major roads
include the Sinsi Baki-Farin Ruwa road, Gudi-
Moro, Mararaba-Udegie, Idadu-Agwashi road.
They are numerous and our people are elated at
the opportunities these roads network have availed
them for their businesses to flourish.
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One of my administration’s key policies is the
urban renewal project. We have transformed Lafia,
the State Capital with numerous township roads.
We have attracted major players in the industry to
our State and they have done great investments
and jobs have been created. I can also disclose to
you that Nasarawa under my watch has witnessed
tremendous investments and given the health
sector a boost. What I have done is to ensure the
full delivery of democratic dividends to my people
as part of the fulfilment of my campaign promises.
In time past, the offices of our Ministries and
Agencies were in different locations with some
occupying buildings that were unfit for purpose.
This will change upon completion of our magnificent
State Secretariat Complex which is on the verge of
completion and centrally located.
The idea also is to create the appropriate ambience
that will enable our officials to work conveniently
and effectively for us to achieve our goal in the
direction of top leader in ease of doing business in
all its ramifications.
Your Excellency, Nasarawa State is
cosmopolitan in nature, with its diverse
population and unique socio-economic
challenge. How do you manage this and ensure
improvement in the lives of your people?
Well, administering Nasarawa has not been a tea
party. However, the simple logic of wide consultation
with our people usually results to respite where
difficulty is envisaged in some knotty and complex
situations. The study by my consultants prior
to my assumption of office reminded me of the
peculiarity of all our ethic nationalities and various
socio-political and cultural bodies. In fact, my
consultants simulated different scenarios and
arrived at the conclusion that my adoption of the
policy of inclusive governance was the way to go.
So, I took the step of galvanizing our royal fathers,
religious leaders, and all Stakeholders and very
importantly our women and youth leaders whom
I meet with routinely to discuss pertinent issues
where we arrive at the point of understanding and
we make progress. We did this mainly in the area
of security from the beginning and gradually we
delved into other aspects of development. However,
security was our key concern because coming from
the private sector I knew that no industrialisation
or economic activities can take place without
tightening security network and for us to have a
peaceful condition for business to thrive for the
prosperity of my people.
Engineers play crucial roles in sustainable
development; how do you ensure that

engineering principles are integrated into
the state’s development agenda to promote
sustainable long-term growth?
You know one of the greatest challenges in the
whole country is the inability of our officials to
adopt policies that could guarantee continuity
and sustainability. Again, a typical example is the
inability of our officials to adhere to quality and
standards, this brings us to the point of cutting
corners whereby infrastructure is compromised. We
awarded a contract for the construction of a storey
building in a school, and the project was so dear
to me and I was eager to see the timely completion
for us to put the structure
into use, therefore, I decided
to go to the site for inspection
and to my disappointment, I
noticed that basic engineering
rudiments were not observed,
the pillars were poorly erected
with ordinary blocks without
fortification. Painfully, one
of the buildings had earlier
collapsed. There was no
reinforcement, no steel in
it, nothing whatsoever to
strengthen the pillars. We had
no choice but to also demolish
some of the structures we
inherited.
So, I brought in my engineering
know-how into some of the
projects with strict supervision to ensure what we
are doing is sustainable and stand the test of time.
I have introduced maintenance culture in all the
things that we are doing, I explain to the people
the purpose for which we are procuring a particular
structure and equally emphasize the need for the
protection of such structures.
Your Excellency, can you at this point
reveal some of the methods adopted by your
administration in order to attract development
for the people of Nasarawa State?
I have placed value on competencies above
whatever consideration. This is the golden rule
under my watch and the appointed officers know
this, therefore, they help me scrutinize and so
far, I have recorded success due to this type of
policy. This is one thing that I have learnt not
necessarily engineering but in my management of
other institutions. You give ownership of projects
to certain people. In Dangote, what we learnt when
I was there everywhere we were going to have a
project, we made sure that we have a total buy
Interview
in of the host community and then we give the
community total ownership of the business so
that’s how we get it secured.
I will now give you a good example, like you
mentioned with the Azman Rice area, 14,000
hectres was acquired. First, the people have been
given full compensation; two, we still carved
out certain areas to say you can go and do your
agricultural activities here; three, we said you have
automatic employment, you will be the out growers,
you will be given seedlings, you produce the rice,
we would buy the paddy. With that you give them
the full ownership and then you have total security
The Interview session
of the area. So that is the inclusivity that I earlier
mentioned in the course of our discussions.
As a leader with a background from one of
the world’s largest corporations with best
practices, how have you been able to transmit
that culture of impeccability to the State
governing apparatus?
Working with some of those institutions you are
talking about successfully was what motivated me
to seek for elections to use the same principles to
add value and attract development to my home
State. Coming from the background of where due
process is deeply enshrined, I have translated that
laudable style into the culture of administration
in Nasarawa State and I am happy everything is
working fine.
The big companies I worked for have structures,
they have their processes, they have a standard
way of doing things. They have due process most
importantly, they have transparency. Those were
the cultures that I brought into Nasarawa State.
On arrival, we set up our Treasury Single Account
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(TSA) and blocked leakages, we consolidated all to pay back and you are not sure of the resources
our revenues so that they will be transparent and you have to do that.
everybody will see it. We enacted a law through
Security was also a challenge, like you mentioned
the facilitation of the State House of Assembly that
the kind of approach God helped us to come with
established the Bureau for Public Procurement so
this ideas to ensuring that we invite everybody we
that all contracts go through the Bureau to check
to ensure they are in line with the due process and
the law before it comes back to me to sign.
We have made bidding for jobs competitive even
if you get the one that you like or you know you
will still allow quotations by other contractors. This
enables you to make comparisons. There are one
or two instances I remember when we had already
zeroed our mind on a particular contractor, but with
this openness another contractor came with better
things to do and we changed. We went to that one
with better presentation, the first contractor was
not happy but when he came back to have a chat
with us, we explained our reasons. So, these were
the kind of things I brought back here in Nasarawa
State. So far, we thank God, a lot of them are
working.

Your Excellency, what are the major challenges

you have faced so far, and how have you been
able to overcome them to enable you remain
focused to drive meaningful social change?
Well, we have had so many challenges, if you go
back into psychology to the McGregory’s theory
of change you will come to realise that people
generally don’t like change even if it is for the
better. You know there are certain people that are
used to particular ways of doing things and would
resist change, I have heard this statement several
times from some of my top officials who say Sir,
this is the way we use to do it. I had that resistance
to change. That is one of the greatest challenges
because of the different concept and way of doing
things, especially for somebody like me I have never
worked in government before, so I just came in from
my private sector to effect changes in government.
Certainly, you should know that you will have
problems. So that is one.
Secondly, you know the biggest challenge in
Nasarawa State was scarce resources. It is a State
with the least resources. It is always the second
or third to the last when it comes to the sharing
formula of allocation of revenue resources. So with
all the ideas we had we had inadequate resources
to execute or support them and I also came with my
own big problem of not wanting to go and borrow
because I hate borrowing from the high interest
paying banks in order to come and invest it into
a non-revenue service. So you will take the money
and put it in projects where there will be no revenue
include everybody so at the end of the day we had
security, and the State have been stable.
Looking ahead, what are your priorities, vision
and legacy projects for the future of Nasarawa
State?
The Nasarawa people have already heard them.
My very first year in office in 2019, when we set
up the Nasarawa State Advisory Council chaired
by Prof. Kunle Ajayi, we also drew their terms of
refence and we set up our targets because at the
time we would say Nasarawa is this number on the
chart in this area and by this time we would want
to be number this on the chart. We wanted to move
to the top three most competitive States in the
federation. At that time we were number thirty or
so, all we wanted was to be amongst the top three
and we looked at our indices; what does it mean for
competition? It means is a State where investors
are comfortable to go to do business. We needed to
provide all the infrastructure that is needed for the
investors to show interest. So far, you know, two
or three years later we have been able to achieve
that because today, as I am talking to you, after our
first economic summit that we had in 2022, we had
massive investment that came into the State and
when they were showing it in the news compared
with the money received by many States are
supposed to be getting especially with investment
by Foreign Direct Investment (FDI), Nasarawa was
listed among the top three that came. And so today,

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when you go in you will see that because of the level
of our work that we have done in the oil and gas, in
mining, agriculture, you will see that we are one of
the most sought State that investors are trying to
come in and that is the target that we have set for
ourselves so far.
We set up targets in IGR, Nasarawa State is about
27/28 when it comes to the IGR we were raising
about N7 billion naira for the whole year that is
what Lagos State will raise in three days. So that
is what Nasarawa State was raising for the whole
year and at the end of the day we worked very hard
towards that and today we are generating over
N20 billion. We are not there yet but because of
all these new discoveries we have, in the next two
weeks we are going to work on the commissioning
of the very first lithium mining processing plant in
whole of Nigeria. It is going to come up on May 10,
2024 in Nasarawa Local Government Area and it
is going to produce about 4000 metric tonnes of
lithium per day. This is something we came up with
saying that we do not just want people to come to
our State and mine and take the material away
without processing it here. So, we are going to get
that processed here and we are going to continue to
get more and more discoveries. After the discovery
of lithium deposits, it has been estimated to have
the largest deposit in the whole country.
What is Nasarawa State under your watch doing
to see to the protection of the interest of the
populace within the communities where the
Federal Government is now coming to exploit
petroleum resources?
We have constituted a Technical Committee on Oil
and Gas and we have appointed a gentleman with
vast knowledge in oil and gas as Chairman, he has
worked for Chevron in Huston Texas he is already
Interview
in the country for inauguration of the Committee
tomorrow. We have populated the Committee with
industry background who can assist the State, we did
not bring in politicians but restricted membership
to oil and gas industry experts who are going to
guide us. Your question with regards the interest
of our people in the operating areas are taken care
by the terms of reference to the Committee. But
from what we have been doing so far, we have been
constantly engaging the contractors who are doing
the drilling operations in the area, we know the
challenges they are facing. Before the decision to
do the drilling we were constantly in touch with
those acquiring the seismic when it was sent for
processing we followed up and made sure the
processing was done and after the processing,
the interpretation, we followed up, so that is the
advantages of some of the companies you earlier
mentioned come handy.
I never worked with Haliburton but I knew most
of the top people there, I also knew most people
in Schlumberger, Benhamou and so many others.
How did I come to know many of them? I worked
in the industry, so when you work in one of
those companies, you will have colleagues and in
Halliburton in western part of Houston, I go there,
when I come on visit to my friends we get to meet
each other. That is what is happening so it gives
me the opportunity to be able to monitor and to
find out what is happening step by step as far as
our oil and gas operations are concerned. So when
they were having serious challenges and they even
lost well heads in the process of drilling and they
were looking for efficient tool it will shock you to
know that I was talking to the company that I was
going to supply efficient tools they didn’t have one
immediately and said I told them I understand
there was one in a particular location, why don’t
you go get and use to fish the drilling head and
continue with operations. That is how I get into it
because I am passionate to ensure that this oil and
gas operations become a reality.
How were you able to attract investors that
willingly invested in the State in spite of the
infrastructure deficit and lastly, what advice
would you give to Young Engineers aspiring to
enter politics and contribute to social change
in their communities?
There were two completely questions, on one hand
how have we been able to get investors that are
not illegal miners that will take away our mineral
resources but genuine investors and now building
the industries here. It is a combination of so many
things, I mentioned to you how active we are in the
ease of doing business. So, we set up an institution
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called Nasarawa Investment Development Agency lithium we have no way of saying yes or no. So
(NASIDA) and they are mandated to drive ease these are the kind of innovations we have brought
of doing business. We have engaged very young in so that is one of the biggest challenges we have
people to operationalise the agency there, motivated so many people who criticize and have no idea of
competent people full of energy and they are poised what is going on but they just criticize because they
to bring in investments into the State. Some want to criticize. We have plenty of them in this
time they make mistakes because of the lack of
experience or youthful exuberance but by and large
they are working well to the best of their ability.
Then we have the bigger hammer, we came up with
an Executive Order and said that we don’t have the
power to stop mining in our State because it falls
in the exclusive list so it is the right of the federal
government to give license to whoever they wish to
give but we have a right to say also that whoever
that is taking minerals out of our State should
also mine the mineral there. When you go mining
lithium, indirectly you are mining all the associated
minerals that come with it. Anywhere you find
lithium you likely to find nickel and copper so if you
don’t separate them, then the miner will take the
associated products without your knowledge as far
as he is concerned, he is in the site to mine lithium
but he has succeeded in taking your nickel and
copper away. For us that’s the driving force about
State and I don’t know whether majority of them
setting up that Executive Order and it helps, so now
were sent from other States and a lot of them are
the first one that established and is really doing
from my Local Government Area.
well is a company called Kenyya. Just yesterday,
he came to say they had hitherto been doing this You also asked me what is word of encouragement
wrongly, they are now happy with the new system, to the Young Engineers that want to join politics.
they have set up the company well and that they I think the first thing is majority in Nigeria see
are also happy with the host community they have politics as business as a way of making money. The
built a clinic for them and the community in turn is moment you have that kind of concept then your
also happy with them. So, I said that was the exact success will be different from what I am talking
thing that I wanted to hear, and now they have even about. You can make the money but you might get
brought in their bigger managers from China and into trouble. You can be in trouble without making
brought them to come and introduce them to me. the money but you can be in bigger trouble when
you go in with the purpose of making money. I
We have about five companies right now that are
will advise them to go into politics one with the
all going in the same direction. They are all setting
intention to serve, two, with the intention to impart
up one factory or the other for processing, but let
your knowledge of what you have learnt in your
me not brag too much because they are engaged
engineering field, whatever background, into the
in first stage processing for now, you know in
politics and you will make the desired impact. You
Nasarawa State we have so many critics, everything
are not going to make everybody happy no matter
you say people will criticize, now that we have done
what you do so many people will be unhappy in
that somebody will tell you that is just first stage
politics but do things that your conscience will
processing there are doing . Yes, it is a step into
vindicate you and you will be happy with what you
the right directions, in the past you never even had
are doing. For me, this is my advice to the Young
the first stage processing. So now if any company
Engineers who undoubtedly have so much value to
takes our sand and processes it may be he takes
add in governance and into our polity but for me it
100 tonnes of lithium and they are able to get 10%
must be done truly, sincerely in line with the ethics
which is what they are getting and they get 10 tonne
of engineering.
of lithium so we know 10 tonnes out of our original
lithium has been taken. But they have taken 100
tonnes of lithium sand and without processing
if they go and say their extraction is only 10% of

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Completed and On-Going Projects in Nassarawa State

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Completed and On-Going Projects in Nassarawa State

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Completed and On-Going Projects in Nassarawa State

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Completed and On-Going Projects in Nassarawa State

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Completed and On-Going Projects in Nassarawa State

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Completed and On-Going Projects in Nassarawa State

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Completed and On-Going Projects in Nassarawa State

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My administration has prioritized needs of Borno

state people — Gov. Zulum
Developed a 25 years strategic plan

Engr. Prof. Babagana Umara Zulum, CON, FNSE, mni

Executive Governor of Borno State

Our Editorial Board in this special edition has focused on His Excellency, the Governor of Borno State, His
Excellency, Engr. Prof. Babagana Umara Zulum, FNSE, CON, mni who has thrilled political watchers leading
to the acknowledgement that he is truly our Star Governor and the Shinning Light of Engineers globally.
Engr. Prof. Zulum became the Governor at the time the State suffered setback in every sphere due to the notoriety
of insurgency, yet, he has been able to defy the situation and attracted development to the amazement of the
people of Borno State, Nigerians generally and people beyond the shores of our land. The team that interviewed
this Icon of engineering are Chairman of the Editorial Board, Vice President of the Nigerian Society of Engineers
in charge of Corporate Services, Engr. Dr. Felicia Nnenna Agubata, FNSE, Director of Corporate Services Mr. Aliyu
Abdulkadir, Member Editorial Board, Engr. Idoreyin Udosen, MNSE and Assistant Director, Media Mr. Henry
Terseer Iortim. He delved into his engineering training and how he is driving social change in the state among
other issues. Excerpt:

Your Excellency, Sir. Many Nigerians would
like to know more about you as a person, your
background, ideals, and values. Secondly,
is there a nexus between these values and
how you approach your work including your
politics at the State and National levels?
My name is Babagana Umara Zulum. I was born in
Mafa, in Mafa Local Government Area, in 1969. I
completed my Secondary Education in 1985, First
Degree in 1994. Before my First Degree, I did my
Diploma in Communication Engineering. My First
Degree was in Agricultural Engineering. My Masters

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 Interview

was in Agricultural Engineering, and my PhD was tell you it’s not easy. It’s a very cumbersome task.
in Soil and Water Engineering. I began my career
Above all and also very crucial too, management of
by working in the Borno State Civil Service as an
huge finance here comes to the fore. Before now,
Assistant Technical Officer in the State’s Ministry
as a Lecturer, I was teaching my students and
of Agriculture and later moved to the State’s
imparting knowledge. But now as a Governor of a
Unified Local Government System as Senior Field
State, there are many issues to tackle therefore the
Overseer and later Principal Water Engineer, then I
challenges are enormous.
joined the University of Maiduguri as an Assistant
Lecturer in 2000.
I was appointed Rector of
Ramat Polytechnic Maiduguri in
2011, I was Commissioner for
Reconstruction Rehabilitation
and Resettlement in 2015 –
2018. I became the Flag Bearer
of our party, the All Progressives
Congress (APC) in 2019.I have
served my first term in office as
the Executive Governor, I am now
in my second term by the grace of
God.

Your Excellency, I would

also like to know if there
are any challenges you have
encountered being an Engineer
turned-politician, in the course
of your governance of Borno
State?
Yes, it is a very challenging job when you look back
at my background especially when you take into
cognisance where I came from being the academia,
you know there is a marked distinction between
what is obtainable in the University and what is
obtainable in politics. In the University, we teach,
we respect commandments, we respect promises,
time, and what have you.
Coming to politics, it is a different ball game
all together, where we meet a lot of people with
different characters. I was not used to this kind of
orientations. It is a very difficult scenario. I think,
because I was not used to this particular life style
of politicians.
In the University system if I set out for my lectures,
normally I would start my lectures at 9 a.m., then
by all means, I have to be in the class with my
students at exactly 9 a.m. being the scheduled
time. Again, in the University system, we clearly
distinguished between white and red. But here in
politics, this is not the case. It’s never the case. So,
the challenges are so enormous. Also, in my case
where I had few engineering students who were in
most cases about 64 or about 100 in number only,
I now find myself in office as a Governor interacting
with a population of six (6) million people. So, I can
As a Governor I have national matters to attend to
as well as confronted frontally with the judicious
management of the funds of the State which you
will agree with me that it is not easy. Another
challenge is my interaction with the respective
trade unions. Again, I wish to make you understand
that as Governor I have to ensure cordiality with
the Legislative Arm of Government being the
State House of Assembly and the Judiciary. The
Legislative Arm of the Local Councils are there
and it is essential I work with them harmoniously.
Similarly, I have to ensure a conducive relationship
between my administration and my people who
have voted me into office to govern them and provide
them with dividends of democracy accordingly,
here numbering about seven (7) to eight (8) million
people. So, it’s a very huge challenge compared to my
previous experience in the academia. Interestingly,
I have also come to realize that managing both
human and material resources as a Governor is
not an easy task after all. These are some of the
challenges that I’m currently facing, but they are all
surmountable by the application of wisdom.
Your Excellency Sir, what can you point to
as the legacy projects of your administration
that are driving social change and fostering
development in your State.

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 Interview

Well, this is one crucial area where my engineering benefits of my investment in this irrigation system,
background has helped. Infact, engineering is all my investment is in sprinkler irrigation.
about measurement, evaluation, conceiving ideas,
One area of focus for us is security, there is a nexus
designs and exploiting the potentials of this very
between peace and security, where there is no peace,
important ideas that could be transformed into
nothing can be achieved in terms of development.
a final output which is key for the growth and
I have done my best to ensure peace, security of
development of the nation. The initiatives cannot
lives and properties. The cardinal objective of any
be isolated from my engineering background
government is to achieve the protection of lives
because many of our projects embarked upon
and properties. I can tell you Borno State is safe,
are successfully executed because of the in-depth
Maiduguri is now safer than Abuja. This is a serious
knowledge of effective pricing as well as the
achievement that we have. We have achieved this
knowledge of very good design and indeed the
not through kinetic means alone, but by non kinetic
ability to decipher and prioritise projects.
methods. We have used conflict resolutions above
My administration has prioritised the needs of all we have tried and curbed, crime and criminality.
Borno State government. I
recall on assumption of office,
we developed a twenty-five (25)
years strategic development
plan. You know, engineering
is about conceiving an idea,
designing and implementation.
So, this has really helped me a
lot in ensuring that quantum
of projects are implemented for
my people. Some of the legacy
projects that my administration
has embarked upon and
advanced include a 650-bed
hospital. This is a very huge one,
it is a new generation teaching
hospital that is intended to
develop our State’s University
Teaching Hospital. The project
has reached an advanced
stage we have procured almost
We have also invested heavily in technical and
all the equipment needed in this hospital and if
vocational education; this has helped our youths
finally established it will cater for the healthcare
to be gainfully employed. We have established five
needs of not only the people of Borno State but
(5) big technical and vocational institutes. We have
also the entire communities within the North-East
procured equipment for training our youths in
geo-political zone.
these institutions worth billions of naira and today
Another remarkable project embarked on our we are proud to say that many of them that have
effort in irrigation because the achievement of food successfully passed through these institutions are
security for our people is very important. Food gainfully employed.
insecurity is the worst form of insecurity. Borno
Above all, I am glad that we have reduced the
State under my administration is determined to
number of out of school children from well over
achieve this. I can now confidently tell you the State
a million to about six (6) hundred thousand and
has emerged as a reference point with regards to
we are still working tirelessly to ensure we record
the matter of food security for our people.
more in taking our children of the streets. We have
As a first step, we resolved to enhance crop constructed many mega schools. So I think this
production using irrigation system due to low commendable.
rainfall. We have invested heavily in irrigation
Again, we have shifted from just providing short
farming. The irrigation system has the objective
term humanitarian services to our displaced
to boost crop production. Yes, the full potential of
people to a more permanent solution by settling
these projects might not be noticed now but in the
them back in their localities. We have expanded
next one to two years, people will agree with the

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the scope of agriculture. Land cultivation has
increased over 600%. The situation of our people
have been improved dramatically. I was the pioneer
Commissioner for Rehabilitation and we saw
what happened to our people and we tightened
the security, created jobs, ensured food security
through agricultural development, reconstruction,
rehabilitation and resettlement. Education, climate
action, and most importantly the promotion of
commerce. We have also invested heavily in urban
renewal. Hitherto we had scattered settlements. We
have invested heavily in digital training which is
key to the development of the nation. Also due to
the incidence of insurgency most of our children
did not have access to education so, we have
constructed many informal education schools, we
have decided to streamline, the informal education
sector from the formal education sector. We have
invested heavily on literacy programmes digital and
vocational education systems.
But last of them is good governance, we have
established our laws to guide our tax systems. We
also have the Livestock Development Agency, we
have the Borno Security Development Fund. From
the inception of my administration to date I have
accented to more than 60 bills, many of them have
emanated from my humble
self. My administration has
reduced the backlog of arrears
of the salaries of our Civil
Servant and areas of pensions.
We have established a strong
financial system. Trained our
Teachers and Civil servants
generally, so, I think these
are very important things we
did and I am so sure we have
done our best. Also those
structures that were destroyed
during insurgency by Boko
Haram today are been built
back better.
The last thing that I want to
tell you is about sustainability,
well sustainability projects
were also establish. We
have strong institutional
arrangement for sustainability of all these projects
that we have as sustainability is something that
is so important to us. What about energy? we are
investing heavily in renewable energy. I need to say,
I think Borno state is the first to use electric cars,
we are using electric vehicles now for our mass
transit. We are reducing carbon emission and most
importantly, we are reducing cost.
Interview
Sir, how has having many Engineers in your
cabinet and as advisers helped in achieving
the giant developmental strides that the whole
world acknowledges?
This very important, the Commissioner for Water
Resources is an Engineer So it is easier for him
to manage the water sector. He came in from the
private sector and also a Nigerian. He knows what
he is thinking about. The government is not that
difficult for him. If I choose somebody, who will save
the water, who will get the water resources and so
on. So this reduces my burden. Likewise, Works.
Because they are experts. they bring some expertise
and knowledge. Two, we are saving a lot of money by
reducing expenses. I have appointed Engineers as
Commissioners in these technical areas, otherwise
if we have lay men we are going to spend a lot of
money because of knowledge gap, Again, even
the Commissioner for Education , Commissioner
for agriculture and the Commissioner for
Rehabilitation, Reconstruction and Resettlement
are all Engineers. Borno Maintenance Agency is
also an Engineer. Borno State Information agency
is headed by an Engineer also. They are properly
placed according to their area of specialization.
Good governance at its peak in Borneo State. We
are getting value for money.
What is the level of cooperation that you have
received or you are receiving from the people
as well as other stakeholders in the course of
delivering your administration development
goals as Your legacy projects are simply out of
this world.?
Excellent, because of the commitment that we
have displayed. Because of the political will that we
have. When the trust deficit is reduced between
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 Interview
the government and the people then the issue of
non-cooperation will never arise. People should
have confidence in their government. In our case
we are doing what our people expects from us. My
administration has focused on the provision of
dividends of democracy in quantum. Simply because
of this the citizens of Borno State have decided to
give my administration the desired cooperation.
We have decided to attract development, we
have provided schools for our children. We have
constructed flyovers for them and embarked on
massive roads construction with the view of easing
vehicular movement. Above all security, people do
not have access to their agricultural land before, we
decided to support them gradually, we are getting
them out of this mess now as we are locating them
back to their land.
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One of the reasons why my government has an
overwhelming support of the grassroots is derived
from my community driven approach, I visit the
rural areas very often, while on such visits, I
interact with our people get their views on matters
and discuss the solutions with them, I engage them
directly and obtain first hand information on their
needs and requirements rather than sitting in the
office and sending other officials to them.
Your Excellency Sir, we have seen
you visit Internally Displaced
Persons camps, hospitals and
even remote villages, what is
your motivation for this style of
leadership?
Service to humanity! I have been
looking at my background, I was born
and brought up in the village. I am
so proud that I am a villager, where
we had no electricity as at the time
I was very young. Pipe borne water
was a luxury way back then. Luckily
enough, through the public funds
i did my Primary and Secondary
school, supported by my parent. So,
I eventually secured a scholarship to
further my studies. So looking back
to my humble background, I see no
reason why I will not contribute my
quota to the rural areas. Our people in
the rural areas have suffered so much
from the activities of the insurgents.
They had their properties destroyed,
so many of them were displaced. About
2.5 million people were displaced.
By 2016, we started resettling them.
Capital accumulation is not the
solution to life’s problem. If you finish
your tenure as Governor and you have
not done anything so what have you
achieved. But legacy left behind will
impact generations yet unborn. Why
will you not serve them when God has
given you such an opportunity. I was
one of them are a tender age.
What is your advice to Engineers
with regards to active participation in
politics, particularly, the Young Engineers as
Future Leaders?
It is not only an Engineer that can deliver dividends
of democracy to the people. You might be an
Engineer, have a PhD, you might know every thing,
and if you don’t have the commitment you cannot
lead the people. But your engineering background
 Interview

can enhance one with the desired commitment on

how to impact positively. This is very important,
because, as an Engineer, people may not cheat
you. An Engineer with the interest in politics must
develop himself. Technical know -how is very
important. Scientific thinking is very important.
For somebody who can distinguish between his
left and right , so as a Young Engineer I will advice
you to be more focused. Think about those that
are behind you think about those that are ahead
of you, you have to be honest above all you must
develop your engineering skills for governance, time
management is also very important. Conceiving an
idea is very important likewise, planning, designing
is equally crucial, take these five points I have given
you, if you fail to plan you then plan to fail.
HE, Engr. Zulum holding a copy of the Nigerian Engineer Magazine

L-R: Engr. Idoreyin Udosen, MNSE; Abdulkadir Aliyu; HE, Engr. Zulum, CON, FNSE; Engr. Dr. Felicia Agubata, FNSE and Henry Iortim.

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 Interview

Newly constructed Tashan Bama Motor Park and

Market, Jere LGA.

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 Interview

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 Interview

10km Custom-Muna Express Raod

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 Interview

Mara Central Market, Mafa LGA

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 Interview

865 low-cost houses in Ngarannam, Mafa LGA

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 Interview

One of the Mega Primary Schools constructed by

Zulum in Buratai, Biu LGA.

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 Interview

Why Nigeria Needs More Engineers in Politics --Engr.

Noimot Salako Oyedele FNSE

Engr. Noimot Salako Oyedele, FNSE

Deputy Governor of Ogun State

The Deputy Governor of Ogun State, Engr Noimot Salako-Oyedele in this interview with Engr. Laura Uhiara
explained how she had led various projects and initiatives aimed at supporting women and why it is
imperative for more engineers to be involved in politics so that their skills can be put to full use. Excerpts

The focus is engineers in politics for social
change. As the deputy governor of Ogun
State, you bring a unique blend of expertise
in engineering and public health to your role.
How do you leverage your diverse background
to collaborate effectively with the governor and
other stakeholders in driving social change and
development initiative across the state?
Thank you very much. As engineers, we are very
versatile and a lot of work that goes on in government
is not particularly engineering based. Just like the
fact that one of the major Jobs of government is
infrastructure development. But the versatility
that we enjoy as engineers makes us quite open
and able to look at several initiatives of government
and blend our view to the development of such
programs. Usually, when things come up I’m able
to look at it from a very pragmatic point of view and
ask myself, is it doable, how quickly we can do it,
and is it something that will benefit the people in a
short term or perhaps a long term. And just looking
at it from that eye of being able to bring something
from nothing, which is what engineers do.

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 Interview

Your career spans both engineering and real scheme in Nigeria. And based on the success of
estate management before venturing into this scheme in Ogun State, amongst other state,
politics. How did your professional experiences the scheme is now being extended right across the
prepare you for the challenges of
government and policy making in
Ogun State?
That’s a very interesting one. No experience
is wasted and having the engineering
background like I mentioned earlier has
given us this opportunity to work with
all sorts of people, different professions
and essentially being developmental
in our trade. And this has always been
very helpful for me as a politician now,
because I’m able to look at things from
the professional point of view and also
from the policy making point of view.
Basically as an engineer, the
government is also one of our biggest
client because we have to work right
them to develop infrastructure. So,
there’s always been some synergy
between engineers and the government. country. But on the engineering and technical side,
But now, being at the other side, I can also I do offer my opinion on things as necessary to the
understand the constraints that government do relevant agencies that do the execution on behalf of
have sometimes which you will not understand the state government.
when you’re on the private sector side, but now
being in government, one can now see both sides Given your background in engineering,
of the same coin and that helps a lot in driving what role do you see engineers playing in
addressing the socio-economic challenges
initiatives.
facing Ogun state, particularly in areas such as
infrastructure development and environmental
Could you share specific examples of initiative
sustainability?
you have spear headed or been involved in that
demonstrated your commitment to leveraging I don’t think it is engineers that have to address
engineering principles for social impact and that specific field, I think what I advocate for is more
sustainable development within Ogun State? engineers to be involved in politics and therefore,
My role as deputy governor is not on the delivery side, be given roles in government where their skills can
I’m not commissioner for works or commissioner for be put to the full use. In Ogun State, we have a
any infrastructure ministry but a lot of times, I’m able very competent team leading; the commissioner
to bring my own view in helping to implement things. for works, the special advisor for works, they are
And like I said, skills that I acquired in engineering very well respected, experienced engineers and
are not limited to engineering related projects. they do their bit to make sure that the initiative of
I’ve supervised a lot of projects on behalf of His His Excellency, the Governor are carried out. But
excellency since I’ve been in office, I’ve also led a generally, I think that we need more engineers to
lot of very strategic teams. For instance, I led the still participate in politics, so that they are on the
COVID 19 team in Ogun State in 2020, this was driving side of policy in all aspects. Once they are
something that we had to learn as we were going involved in politics and in leadership, their skills are
along, and nobody had the fact sheet for COVID. not limited to engineering but like you said in your
We had to work and successfully, I was able to do question, the whole socioeconomic development of
that because of this versatility we’re talking about the state are then put at the doorstep of engineers
I also led the Nigeria for women project, which was who are very competent by nature of their training
a World Bank initial project which is supporting to be able to deliver.
women rights across the state. And as the Deputy
Governor of Ogun State, and for someone with no Integrating engineering principles into
political decision-making processes can pose
finance background, I led that team successfully
challenges. What strategies have you employed
that Ogun State is the prime mover state for that to overcome these challenges and ensure that

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 Interview
engineering considerations beyond governance
particularly in delivering of people-oriented
infrastructure are adequately addressed at the
state level?
Like I said earlier, we have a very unique and versatile
background as engineers and we can continue to
demonstrate that if given the opportunity. However
in a political framework, the opportunities are not
handed to you, you have to work towards it, strive
and get engaged in the political space to be able to
demonstrate your capacity and when you get there,
you can now see that engineers have this capacity.
You can see right across the country that Governors
who have this kind of background show it in
their leadership style and plans in their different
countries.
Collaboration between engineers, policy
makers and local communities is essential
for effective governance. How do you foster
and facilitate such collaboration to address
pressing developmental and climate change
issues in Ogun State?
This is not peculiar to Ogun state. I think one of
the things I have said is that the institution, the
Nigerian Society of Engineers should continue
to advocate that engineers, should be given the
opportunity to carry out their roles, right across
all steps of government, from the local government,
the state government, and the federal government.
Engineering works should be left to engineers to
execute so that that way, we can get the value for
whatever investment the government has put into
different project and I think if we do that, then we
can maximize the infrastructure development of
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this country. We have seen in recent times where
people that are carrying out projects, do not have
the capacity to carrying out those projects out and
people who are supervising also do not have the
capacity to do that and at the end of the day, the
people suffer for it because the limited resources
that we have are not been used judiciously. We
have to spend again on the same project or not get
the desired result for our people. So, there has to
be advocacy as well on our parts as engineers, not
necessarily engineers in politics now, but to make
sure that work with engineers, work with trained
engineers, who have demonstrated capacity, and
who we know will deliver on the projects that we
want because at the end of the day, the unfortunate
reality is that the only way that we know that an
engineer does not have the capacity
is after the project fails. So, the best
thing to do is to give the project to
people who have the capacity to do
it so that we can have value for our
people.
Q: As a female leader in politics
and engineering, what advice
would you give to aspiring young
engineers especially girl child and
women, who aim to make impact
in engineering and/or politics as
part of their contribution to social
change and development?
A: I will love to see more women in
engineering. When I started out, there
were few women in engineering and I
can’t wait to see more of them and I
hope that I stand as an example of
a woman who can have a successful
career in engineering and it will
encourage more girls to be engineers and not just
engineers who graduate and leave the university
but engineers who remain in the profession and
carry out engineering career in their lives.
I think that the work place is getting more favorable
for women. There›s been a lot of advocacy in the
last 10-20 years about gender equality and this is
increasing the retention of women in careers like
engineering, and having people like me who can
go into politics so you have more feasibility for the
profession and for women in profession. Finally, we
have a woman as president of the Nigerian Society
of Engineers. So all of this, making, creating good
role models for our girls. And I just want them to
stay with it, go for it. It’s a fantastic profession and
I don’t see that they’ll regret been engineers. And
also, once you have your engineering degree, you
can do so many things with it. So, I’ll just say to
 Interview

them go with it, stick with it, nothing is

easy, you don’t get handed a fantastic
career on a platter of gold. You’re to
work for it but the results are fantastic.

As a way of following up, what can

be done in ensuring that we have
more girl child, get interested in the
course of the field of engineering,
so that we have a sort of balance. It
appears that the course of the field
of engineering is more of a male
dominated field of study. So, what
can be done to ensure that we have
more girl child get attracted to the
field?
I think generally, first of all to study
engineering you have to be a science
student, that’s where it starts and that
teachers must support girls very early in
I do and this is because as engineers, we have to
their education in secondary school and help them
look out for those tiny details because our projects
not to see science as something to be scared of or
must not fail. So, it’s a training that I have and it’s
a course for boys. Then once they decide to have
working well for me in my day-to-day job.
a career in engineering, it now behooves on their
employers to make the work place comfortable and Now that you’ve faced the business of
convenient for them as women, with their peculiar government, engineers are known to be rigid,
needs in the work place so that they can stay in the how do you relax?
profession.
It’s tough having to balance the unpredictable
A lot of women who graduated in engineering demands of governance, you wake up on a
will leave the profession if the work place is particular day and don’t know what the issues are.
not convenient for them. So, employers have a But I do take time off, spend time with my family,
responsibility to ensure that they take care of and just try and relax because all work and no play
the girls and women in the work place and make makes jack a dull boy. I don’t want to burn out, I
them continue. Because at the end of the day, still want to do so much after I leave this job. So, I
the employer will lose if you alienate this group of make myself look for time and try to spend quality
people from the work place, and they have to make bit of time with my family, my husband and my
sure there›s gender equality in the work place, and children, just to make sure that I get a sense of
that the work place is not toxic to the women and balance.
there are policies that enables women to give their
best, while being able take the necessary time off In closing, what will be your message to the
that they need perhaps to start a family, or for leadership of the NSE?
whatever personal needs that they have. Again, I wish them well. To the President, my
message to her when she stepped into her new
Balancing the demands of governance
with professional responsibilities can be role was that I hope in the end of the 2 years,
challenging. How do you manage and prioritize the question on everyone’s lips will be why
your duties as deputy governor while also we waited so long to get a female President.
drawing upon your engineering expertise and I wish them the very best and I can assure
professional commitment to drive positive them of my support at all times in any way.
change in Ogun State? We have to advocate more for engineers, increase the
prestige of this profession, it is a noble profession,
Now that I’m Deputy Governor, I do not practice
it is a profession that will take this country where
engineering on a day to day basis, but the
it needs to be because it’s infrastructure that can
engineering has supported me all my life and the
drive our economy strongly and you cannot drive
experience is being used in my day to day job. A
infrastructure without engineers.
lot of people who work with me, know that I’m very
thorough, diligent in what I do and I’ve been known
to pick nitty gritty, minute details in things that

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 Top Engineering Professionals: Who is Where!!
Engr. Prof. Babagana Umara Zulum, CON, FNSE, mni
ZULUM: GREATNESS DERIVED FROM RELENTLESS ENDEAVOR
FROM CRADLE.
Born on Monday, August 25, 1969, Babagana Umara Zulum is
from a hard-working farming family in Loskuri village of Mafa Local
Government Area in central-Borno State.
At a tender age, Zulum joined his late father in tilling the ground in
Loskuri, trekking seven kilometres daily from home to farm.
Combining child-farming with primary education in Mafa (1975
-1980), Babagana later proceed to Government Secondary School,
Monguno (1980 -1985.} On graduating from Secondary School at 16
years of age, Zulum began to generate fund and for his education
while at the same time, supporting his younger ones.
In 1986, he entered Ramat Polytechnic in Maiduguri, for National
Diploma in Irrigation Engineering. As a student, he trekked eight
kilometers from Kofa Biyu ward, where he stayed with relations, to
school and back due to paucity of funds.
As a matter of fact, he could not afford daily transport fares. Post-
graduation with National Diploma in 1988, Zulum joined Borno State
Civil Service in 1989 as an Assistant Technical Officer at the Ministry
of Agriculture.
In 1990, he began his Bachelor’s Degree in Agricultural Engineering
at the University of Maiduguri and graduated in 1994.
Between 1984 and 1999, covering the periods he was a student both
at the Polytechnic, the University, and afterwards, Zulum eked out
a living as a commercial taxi driver, intermittently driving buses,
switching later to commercial pickup, and ferrying firewoods.
In these 16 years, Zulum learnt how to repair his vehicles.
At a point, he combined driving vehicles with operating a commercial
grinding machine while spending weekends at his native Mafa,
In 1997, Zulum proceeded to the University of Ibadan and graduated
in 1998 with MSc in Agricultural Engineering. In 1998, he joined
the University of Maiduguri as an Assistant Lecturer. In 2005, he
began his PhD in Soil and Water Engineering, graduating in 2009.
Zulum became a complete academic, rising through the ranks, at
some point becoming Deputy Dean, and Acting Dean of the Faculty of
Agricultural Engineering.
In 2011, then Governor of Borno State, Kashim Shettima, who had
known Zulum’s potentials for years, appointed Zulum as Rector of
Ramat Polytechnic, which Zulum was very familiar with as a student.
However, even as rector, Zulum preferred to retain lower salary as
lecturer in University of Maiduguri.
In other words, he served the state for free as a Rector. That wise
and selfless decision enabled Zulum to continue lecturing at the
university while overseeing the polytechnic.
At some point, Zulum enrolled and studied at the National Institute
for Policy and Strategic Studies,
In four years, Zulum brought impressive changes at the Ramat
Polytechnic, so much so that in 2015, Governor Kashim Shettima,
stunned by Zulum’s rare incorruptibility and competence, appointed
Zulum as Borno’s pioneer Commissioner for Reconstruction,
Rehabilitation and Resettlement. Despite controlling billions of naira
for Reconstruction works, Zulum, neither bought a personal house
nor a personal car for himself, as testified by Governor Shettima.
He oversaw the reconstruction of over 30,000 re-settlement homes,
schools, hospitals and other vital public-services which facilitated the
Page 76 | THE NIGERIAN ENGINEER
Executive Governor of Borno State
gradual restoration of civil authority in local government areas and
sustained the return of IDPs to communities in 14 LGAs.
While rebuilding communities, Zulum sustained his teaching and
research at the University of Maiduguri, and his passion was crowned
in 2016, when the University elevated Dr. Zulum, to become Professor
Zulum, a specialized in Soil and Water Engineering.
In October 2018, the time came to choose who was best positioned to
become candidate of the ruling APC ahead of the 2019 governorship
elections The then Governor Kashim Shettima came up with what
became a nationally referenced article, which comprehensively
advocated the choice of Professor Zulum as Borno’s natural Governor
in the midst of daunting challenges. In Shettima’s article, he predicted
so honestly, humbly and generously unusual, that Zulum was going
to outperform his own achievements, for the benefit of Borno people.
Zulum, who was a best seller to Borno’s electorates, won the 2019
governorship with more than one million votes. It was a rare feat!
Since his swearing-in on May 29, 2019, Zulum wasted no time, in
confronting the many challenges facing Borno State. Combining
approaches to tackling Boko Haram and humanitarian outcomes.
He allocated hundreds of vehicles and logistics to Nigerian armed
forces, increased monthly allowances of volunteers like the Civilian
JTF, recruited thousands of hunters and vigilantes. Zulum also
became Borno’s chief humanitarian officer, touring communities to
supervise livelihood support. Zulum employed the style of undertaking
numerous surprise visits to hospitals at midnight, schools’ early
morning, and public establishments at any time, to get firsthand
information. With that unusual approach, Professor Zulum in his first
one hundred days, executed 120 projects. In his first year, Zulum
delivered 326 physical projects which included more than 6,000
urban and low-cost houses for resettlement of internally displaced
persons and refugees who fled from attacks by Boko haram. In his
second year, Zulum delivered over five hundred capital projects and
amid these, he launched a 25-year recovery and development plan for
Borno State. The 10-Year phase of that plan is being implemented. In
his three and half years in office, Zulum has delivered over 600 capital
projects across Borno State. In his fourth year, Zulum has executed
about 700 capital projects delivered across the 27 local government
areas.
Impressed by his astonishing achievements, Zulum has won different
awards. He was among other recipients, conferred with Nigeria’s
national honour as commander of the order of the Niger, by President
Muhammadu Buhari in 2022. Prior to this , President Mohammed
Bazoum of the Republic of Niger in 2021, had decorated Zulum, with
the country’s Second-Order of National Honour, “de Grand Officer
Dans I`Ordre”, which is the equivalent of Grand Commander of the
Order of the Niger, GCON, in Nigeria’s ranking of national honours.
Zulum had won NUJ’s most promising first term governor in 2019,
Muslim personality of the year, 2019,Tell Magazine’s governor
of the year, 2020,Vanguard Newspapers’ personality of the year,
2020,Leadership Newspapers’ personality of the year 2020, Zik
prize for leadership, 2020, Silverbird’s special award, 2020, Igbere
TV’s Governor of the year, 2020,Community Development Pillar
Award, 2020, Blueprint Newspaper, Nigeria’a Person of the Year
2020, BusinessDay Newspapers governor of the year, 2021,
Winner of the University of Ibadan’s alumni of the year and most
distinguished alumni award 2020, Leadership Person of the Year
Award 2021, National Post Graduate College Fellowship Award
2021,Niger Republic’s Second-Order National Honour, “de Grand
Officer Dans I`Ordre”, Nigerian Institute of Agricultural Engineers
Fellowship Award 2021,Community Development Institute (CDI)
2020 Community Pillar Award, Fellowship Award, Nigerian Institute
of Architects 2021, Vanguard Newspapers’ personality of the year,
2021, New Telegraph Newspapers’ Governor of the Year, 2021, The
Sun Newspaper’s Governor of the Year, 2022,Human Rights Governor
of the year, 2021,National Honour Award of the Commander of the
Order of the Niger (CON), 2022,Anglican Church Leadership Award,
2022,Hallmark of Labour Foundation Award of Excellence, 2022,The
National Agricultural Land Development Authority, NALDA Governor
of the year 2022,the Exemplary Leadership Award 2023 by Naija
Diaspora, Nigerian Medical Association 2023 Award of Honour, NUJ’s
2024 Good Governance Award on Education among others.
 Top Engineering Professionals: Who is Where!!
E
ngineer Abdullahi A. Sule was born on December
26th, 1959 in Gudi Station, a small but multi-
ethnic and multi-religious village in Akwanga-west
Development Area of Nasarawa state. It is worthy of note
that Abdullahi sule’s grandfather is the first traditional
ruler of Gudi station while his father, Alhaji Sule is the
current traditional ruler of the area.
Engr. Sule started his education in the Roman Catholic
Mission (RCM) Primary school, Gudi station in 1968. He
then went to Zang secondary commercial school, Bukuru
in 1974. In 1977 he proceeded to Plateau state polytechnic,
Barkin Ladi. Having come from a strict Islamic home, his
early background in Catholic schools, exposed him to
understand basic teachings of the world’s most prominent
religions. Abdullahi Sule is versed in Christian knowledge
as he is versed in Islamic jurisprudence.
Abdullahi Sule studied Mechanical Technology from
Indiana State University, USA and later obtained M.Sc in
Industrial Technology from the same university.
In the field of engineering he has proven to be a versatile
Mechanical Engineer with multilevel portable skills
displayed over a period of 35 years in the oil & gas, steel
production and sugar industries of the united states and
Nigeria.
He is an outstanding and much sought after business
mogul who has added value in all the companies he has
worked in. A classical example is the historic achievement
in African Petroleum, AP plc. As Managing Director/CEO
in 2006 he turned around the ailing fortunes of AP plc,
from a company with a negative balance of 22 million naira
to a surplus share capital of 5 billion naira.
In the US, Engr. Sule worked for Lancer corporation, san
Antonio OEM components, Houston Houston engineer,
Houston Morgan performance, Houston Dril-Quip
incorporated, Houston Osyka corporation, Houston.
He joined Tetra International, an American Multi-national
oil service company in July 2006 as a Director of Business
Development / Country Manager.
Engr. Abdullahi Sule returned to Nigeria in the year 2000
and made an inroad into the nation’s oil and gas sector
holding key positions in several companies.
In between he has participated in several private and public
projects in Nasarawa State. The man has also invited and
funded prospective foreign investors to come and take a
look at the prospects of Nasarawa state. He has participated
and or single handedly renovated and built schools, clinics,
houses of worship, security posts and many more.
He was appointed Managing Director of Dangote Sugar in
November 2007 and in ten years rose to become the Group
Engr. Abdullahi A. Sule, FNSE
Executive Governor of Nassarawa State
Managing Director in June of 2018.
Fast forward to the 29th of May 2019, When Engr. Abdullahi
Sule was sworn in as executive Governor of Nasarawa
state. His principal focus has been to chart a path to
shared prosperity in Nasarawa state, remove hindrances
to doing business by leveraging on global best practices to
woo investors and drive the implementation of economic
activities geared towards the industrialisation of the state.
In the short period he has occupied the seat of executive
governor, Engr. Sule has left no one in doubt regarding
his love for the state and its development. It is evident
right from the onset that he is bringing his reputation and
experience as a big time private sector player, to bear in
running the affairs of Nasarawa State.
Recognizing the pressing need to place Nasarawa State on
the path of sustainable development, Engr. Sule unfolded
his blueprint, as encapsulated in the Nasarawa State
Economic Development Strategy (NEDS), aimed at not
only turning around the fortunes of the state, but to place
Nasarawa among top three most competitive states in the
country.
With the cornerstones of his administration being security,
education, agriculture, and industrialization, Engr. Sule
has so far made inroads in the areas of wooing investors to
the state. Security takes a pride of place in the governor’s
development agenda.
An area where Engr Abdullahi Sule is making the difference
and towering over many of his contemporaries is in
completing projects left behind by his predecessors. This
feat is uncommon in our democratic setting, where the
tradition is to start new projects on assumption of office,
leaving uncompleted projects that had already gulped
millions of Naira in public funds.
In an address he delivered in June this year, Engineer Sule
said: “I see no reason why I should start many new projects
where there are many uncompleted ones. These projects
are being done with public funds. So the ideal thing to do
is to complete them irrespective of who takes the credit.”
Some of the projects completed so far by Engr. Sule include
a multipurpose Banquet Hall named after former governor
Late Aliyu Akwe who started the project, as well as the New
Presidential Lodge initiated by his immediate predecessor,
Senator Umaru Tanko Al-makura. Other projects at the
verge of completion are the Lafia Cargo Airport, as well
as the intracity roads initiated by the Senator Al-makura
administration.
This decision to break away from the norm and to embark
on completing the projects initiated by his predecessors,
has stood Engineer Sule apart and is endearing him more
to the people of the state.
Engr Sule’s contributions to Nasarawa State and the
country at large have been acknowledged and applauded
by many.
He is a recipient of many awards including the Zik Award
for leadership and the President’s award for productivity
Engr. Abdullahi Sule is a Fellow of Nigerian Society of
Engineers,
Fellow of Nigerian Institution of Mechanical Engineers, a
Member of COREN as well as Member of American Society
of Automotive Engineers
Page 77 | THE NIGERIAN ENGINEER
 Top Engineering Professionals: Who is Where!!
E
ngr. Noimot Salako- Oyedele was born on
the 8th of January, 1966, to late Prof. Lateef
and Mrs. Rahmat Salako in Ota, Aworiland,
Ogun West Senatorial District of Ogun State.
For her Secondary Education, She attended the
prestigious Queen’s School, Ibadan, between 1976
and 1978 and proceeded to International School,
Ibadan between 1978 and 1981 for her GCE
O’Level/WASCE Certificate. She thereafter gained
admission into the University of Lagos, where she
studied Civil Engineering between 1983 and 1987
bagging a Bachelor of Science Degree.
In her quest for further knowledge, the Deputy
Governor enrolled for a Master’s degree in Public
Health Engineering from the Imperial College of
Science & Technology London, UK. While at the
United Kingdom, she served as a Graduate Engineer
and Project Manager at Ove Arup & Partners
between 1989 and 1995.
She served as Managing Director, NOS NIGERIA
LIMITED between 1995 and 2014, where she
engaged in the construction of numerous projects
ranging from offices, commercial, industrial and
residential buildings for the Federal Ministry of
Health, Lagos State and Ogun State Governments.
This highly multi-talented professional with over
3 decades of proven records of experience in
Consulting, Contracting and Real Estate Sectors is
cerebral goal- getter with wide range of experience
in developing and implementing effective strategies
in project management, she was also former
Managing Director/Chief Executive Officer between
Page 78 | THE NIGERIAN ENGINEER
Engr. Noimot Salako-Oyedele, FNSE
Ogun State Deputy Governor
2014 and 2015 at Glenwood Property Development
Company Limited while equally serving as its
General Manager Business Development.
She became the Acting Managing Director,
GRENADINES Homes Limited in 2015, a position
she held till she ventured into politics and emerged
as the Ogun State Deputy Governor, making her
the only female Deputy Governor in the South West
States of Nigeria as well as the first female Deputy
Governor from Aworiland.
Engr. Noimot Salako- Oyedele is blessed with
wonderful children and married to Alhaji Bode
Oyedele, an APC chieftain who retired as Permanent
Secretary in the Lagos State Civil Service.
Her Excellency is a devout Muslim, a socialite,
the Centenary Matron of the Nigeria Girl Guides
Association, Matron, Nigeria League of Women
Voters Ogun State Branch, Patron International
Federation of Women Lawyers Ogun State Branch,
Matron of the Ogun State Trade Union Congress
and an active member of Lions Club.
She is also the Grand Matron of the State PCRC
Women Committee, receiver of the Woman of
the Year award National Youth Council Ogun
State Chapter, receiver of the Award for Quality
Representation in promoting women Visibility and
Empowerment in Nigeria by the All Progressive
Congress (APC), Grand Matron OGUNCCIMA
and Matron of National Council of Muslim Youth
Organization (NACOMYO), Ogun State Chapter.
 Top Engineering Professionals: Who is Where!!
Engr. (Dr.) Emeka M. Ezeh, OFR (F.AEng, FNSE, FASCE , FNIM, F.AES)
Chairman, Federal Capital Territory Service Board.
E
ngr. Emeka M. Ezeh, OFR, is a seasoned civil
engineer and procurement expert with over
40 years of distinguished service in both
public and private sectors. His career spans various
leadership roles, including serving as Director-
General of the Bureau of Public Procurement under
four different presidents of Nigeria. His expertise lies
in civil engineering practice, procurement policies,
and supply chain management. Born in Anambra
State, Engr. Emeka’s journey in civil engineering
began at the University of Nigeria, Nsukka, where
he graduated with a Bachelor of Engineering (Hons)
in Civil Engineering in 1983. His commitment to
professional development led him to obtain a
Master of Science in Structures from the University
of Lagos in 1990.
Throughout his career, he has pursued continuous
learning, completing several certificate courses
in international procurement and infrastructure
development from institutions such as Harvard
University, John Kennedy School of Government
and the likes. Engr. Emeka’s leadership in public
procurement reform is unparalleled. He served as
the Acting Director-General of the Bureau of Public
Procurement (BPP) from 2007 until assuming the
role of DG BPP in January 2009, where he continued
his tenure until 2016 playing a pivotal role in
establishing and implementing federal procurement
policies in Nigeria. His tenure saw significant
achievements, including the development of
standard bidding documents, the establishment of
procurement cadre in federal institutions, and the
implementation of a comprehensive e-procurement
ICT infrastructure in
collaboration with the UNODC. His efforts resulted
in substantial cost savings of over $4.1 billion
from project reviews and a marked improvement
in transparency and accountability in public
procurement processes.
In addition to his role in public service, he is a
respected educator and consultant. He has served
as a facilitator and associate professor at various
institutions, including the University of Lagos
Business School Online Stream and the Centre
for Innovation in Procurement, Environmental &
Social Standards (CIPESS), a World Bank project.
Engr. Emeka’s commitment to capacity building
extends to his leadership as Chairman of the Board
of Trustees of the Nigerian Society of Engineers,
where he oversees initiatives aimed at promoting
excellence and professionalism in engineering
practice. His contributions to the engineering
profession have been recognized through numerous
awards and honors, including the Officer of the
Order of the Federal Republic (OFR). In recognition
of his significant contributions to procurement
reforms in Nigeria, he was
conferred with an Honorary Doctorate Degree
(D.Sc.) by the Federal University of Science
and Technology, Owerri, in 2010. He is a fellow
of prestigious engineering and management
associations, reflecting his standing as a leader in
his field. Beyond his professional accomplishments,
he is actively involved in national development
initiatives, serving on various committees and
boards aimed at driving policy reforms and
infrastructure development.
His passion for engineering excellence and
dedication to public service continue to inspire
future generations of engineers and procurement
professionals in Nigeria and beyond. Engr. Emeka
M. Ezeh’s legacy as a transformative leader in
civil engineering and procurement shows his
commitment to excellence and integrity in all
endeavors.
Page 79 | THE NIGERIAN ENGINEER
 Top Engineering Professionals: Who is Where!!
ENGR. FAROUK AHMED UMAR, FNSE, FNINechE, FCIA, NPOM
Managing Director/Chief Executive, Nigerian Airspace
Management Agency
E
ngineer Farouk Ahmed Umar, Managing Director
and Chief Executive of the Nigerian Airspace
Management Agency, is not just an astute aviation
professional, but a visionary Engineer shaping the future
of air travel. With a relentless dedication to safety and
efficiency, Umar’s leadership is sculpting a skyline of
safety, efficiency, and boundless exploration, propelling
the industry towards new horizons of innovation and
reliability.
As a Fellow of the Nigerian Society of Engineers (FNSE)
and the Nigerian Mechanical Association of Engineers
(FNiMechE), Engineer Umar stands shoulder to
shoulder with the titans of engineering, recognized for
his exemplary contributions and expertise in the field.
His journey is a saga of innovation, dedication, and
unwavering commitment to excellence that has shaped
the very fabric of the aviation industry.
Engineer Umar’s quest for engineering brilliance
commenced with a solid educational foundation at
prestigious institutions, where he honed his skills in
mechanical engineering and management. His academic
pursuits were complemented by his membership in
esteemed organizations such as the Nigerian Society of
Engineers and the Nigerian Mechanical Association of
Engineers, reflecting his dedication to advancing aviation
engineering standards.
Driven by an insatiable thirst for knowledge, Engineer
Umar has actively sought out opportunities to expand his
expertise through a diverse array of courses, seminars,
and workshops both local and international. From
mastering the intricacies of Air Traffic Safety Electronic
Personnel Licensing to delving into the complexities of
Aviation Management and ICAO CNS/ATM workshops,
his commitment to staying abreast of industry
advancements is unwavering.
Engineer Umar’s engineering prowess is evident in his
groundbreaking contributions to the aviation sector.
From pioneering advancements in Safety Electronics
to spearheading transformative projects as the General
Manager of Special Projects, his innovative spirit has
Page 80 | THE NIGERIAN ENGINEER
propelled the industry forward, shaping the future of air
travel.
Engineer Umar’s storied career in aviation spans decades,
marked by significant contributions and leadership roles.
From his tenure as Chief Engineer at Abuja Airport to
his leadership positions within NAMA, including Airspace
Manager in Minna and General Manager of Procurement,
his comprehensive understanding of aviation
infrastructure and operations has been instrumental in
shaping the trajectory of the industry.
As the helmsman of NAMA, Engineer Umar’s leadership is
characterized by a transformative vision and a steadfast
dedication to excellence. Under his guidance, NAMA
has emerged as a beacon of innovation and efficiency in
the aviation sector, setting new standards of safety and
reliability that have garnered global acclaim.
His illustrious career has been adorned with a
plethora of esteemed accolades, both domestically and
internationally. Engineer Farouk Ahmed Umar stands
proudly as a recipient of numerous distinguished awards,
including the prestigious Fellowship Award from the
Nigerian Institution of Mechanical Engineers (NIMechE)
and the coveted National Productivity Merit Award, among
a host of others. These honors are a testament to his
outstanding contributions and unwavering commitment
to excellence in the field of aviation engineering.
In the heart of his achievements, Engineer Farouk Ahmed
Umar’s professional memberships serve as beacons of
his expertise and unwavering dedication. They echo his
commitment to uplift engineering standards, not only in
Nigeria but across borders.
As we celebrate the remarkable achievements and
visionary leadership of Engineer Farouk Ahmed Umar, we
are reminded that his legacy transcends the boundaries
of engineering excellence. His unwavering commitment to
innovation and safety continues to inspire and propel the
aviation industry towards new heights of achievement.
In the vast expanse of the skies, Engineer Umar’s name
shines bright as a guiding star, illuminating the path
towards a future where the possibilities of aviation
engineering are boundless.
Umar Ahmed Farouk has meticulously crafted his
career trajectory, navigating through the core realms of
aeronautical engineering to emerge as a well-rounded
expert in the intricacies of air transportation. Leveraging
his profound engineering acumen, he has propelled NAMA
to the forefront, positioning it among the elite ranks of
the world’s premier Air Navigation Service Providers.
His strategic vision and unwavering dedication have
transformed challenges into opportunities, establishing a
legacy of excellence in the dynamic landscape of aviation.
With visionary leadership and an unyielding pursuit
of excellence, Umar shapes the trajectory of aviation
engineering, inspiring others to soar to greater heights of
innovation and accomplishments.
 Top Engineering Professionals: Who is Where!!
D
r Agbasi is a Civil Engineer and holds MSc/DIC
(Concrete Structures) and PhD (Civil Engineering)
degrees from Imperial College, London and
University of London respectively and a post graduate
certificate in Engineering Management from University of
Bath Management School, UK. He obtained his BEng
(Civil Engineering) and MEng (Materials & Construction)
degrees from University of Nigeria, Nsukka. He is a
UK certified PRINCE 2 practitioner, APMG certified PPP
Professional, and has attended several courses including
management and leadership course at Sloan School of
Management, Massachusetts Institute of Technology
(MIT), USA.
Previously a Director and Head, PPP, Multilateral & Special
Duties Department at the Federal Roads Maintenance
Agency (FERMA) where he is leading and pioneering
development work on mainstreaming asset management,
deploying new strategies for maintaining the road
network and integrating climate change resilience, and
managing the interface of the Agency’s programmes with
DFID/FCDO, USAID, ECOWAS, JICA, Government of
Japan, World Bank, AfDB amongst others.
Prior to joining FERMA, he was a Senior Structures
Advisor and Project Sponsor at the Highways Agency
(HA), an executive Agency of the UK Department of
Transport. Other engineering roles in the UK built
environment and construction sector were with Kvaerner
Technology (part of Kvaerner Construction Group, now
Skanska Construction), and WhitbyBird (now part of
Ramboll Group). He has been engaged as a research
associate at Imperial College London, and Loughborough
University where he executed fixed term commercial
research contracts. His early career was in Nigeria where
he worked as a civil/structural engineer in a consulting
engineering practice and a Researcher/Lecturer at the
University of Nigeria, Nsukka.
Dr Agbasi has over 30 years local and international
engineering and management (consulting and contracting)
and applied research experience spanning design and
Emeka Agbasi, PhD, DIC, FNSE, FNIHTE
MD/CEO, FERMA
construction, structural investigation, condition survey
and assessment, on-site troubleshooting, materials
testing at macro and micro levels, product development,
and project management.
He has developed and implemented strategies and
methodologies for repair and maintenance regimes for
civil infrastructure and advised on serviceability issues
to ensure adequate in-service performance, particularly
for structures procured under Private Finance Initiative
/ Design Build Finance Operate route with long term
concession period. He has maintained an interest in
whole life management of structures including IT tools
for asset management and integrated project delivery
processes. He has authored several technical reports/
papers and has presented papers at international
conferences in Africa, America, Asia, and Europe.
He has served on several local and international committees
and working groups on construction excellence, project
delivery, transport and trade facilitation, national
development plan, highway structures, road infrastructure
and sub sector reforms amongst others. Some of the
committees and working groups include Project Advisory
Group, TRL UK Overseas Road Note 31, NBRRI Committee
on Impact of floods on road infrastructure, Anambra
State Transition Committee, Anambra State Vision 2070
(Economic Transformation Sub-Committee), Transport
Technical Working Group (TTWG), Nigeria Medium Term
National Development Plan (2021-25), Project Delivery
Team FMWH Highways Development & Management
Initiative (HDMI), US Transportation Research Board
(TRB) Committees, Advisory Panel, Annual Africa Road
Infrastructure Investment Congress, FGN Nigerian
Road Safety Strategy (2019 – 2023) TWG, FGN Inter-
Ministerial Committee of Stakeholders on Road Haulage,
African Continental Free Trade Area Agreement Technical
Committee, FGN Senate Technical Advisory Committee
on Federal Roads Authority, Consultation Committee
(Nigeria), Abidjan Lagos Corridor Management Authority
(ALCoMA), Focal Point Public Works (Nigeria), Abidjan
– Lagos Corridor, LAKAJI Corridor Management Group
(LCMG), National Facilitation Committee for Trade and
Transport, HMW Committee on Road Sector Reform, HMW
Highways Specification Review Committee, NSE National
Infrastructure Scorecard and Cost Indices Committee,
NSE Codes and Standards Committee & Bureau Services
Board, and NSE Presidential Task Force on Road Sector
Reform.
Others include 2nd Benue River Crossing PPP Advisory
/ Feasibility Study Team, UK Office of Government
Commerce (OGC) Gateway Reviewer, Construction
Ambassador, UK Construction Industry Training Board,
Technical Project Board for UK DMRB Standards
BD02 and BA55, and Highways Agency Eurocodes
Implementation.
Page 81 | THE NIGERIAN ENGINEER
 Top Engineering Professionals: Who is Where!!
E
ngr. Abiola Muniru Adejare, born in Ilobu
Osun State, but in resides in Lagos, Nigeria
commenced his educational journey at Ojo/
Aro Baptist Day School, Ojo, where he obtained a PSLC
‘A’. He attended The Polytechnic, Ibadan, from 1980 to
1982, where he received an Ordinary Diploma in Civil
Engineering. He later earned a B.Sc. (Hons) in Civil
Engineering from the University of Ife (now Obafemi
Awolowo University) in 1987 and further enhanced his
expertise with an M.Sc. in Civil Engineering from the
University of Ibadan in 2007.
Professional Qualifications and Affiliations Engr.
Adejare has been a proactive member of the engineering
community in Nigeria, holding significant memberships
in several professional bodies. He is a registered member
of the Council for Regulation of Engineering in Nigeria
(COREN) since 2004 and has been a corporate member of
the Nigeria Society of Engineers since 2002.
He also achieved the status of a Fellow at the Institute
of Corporate Administration of Nigeria in 2019. Career
Achievements Engr. Adejare’s professional journey is
distinguished by a series of escalating roles within the
Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN), where he
started as a Civil Engineer II in January 1989. Over
the years, he climbed the ranks, achieving positions
such as Senior Civil Engineer, Assistant Chief Civil
Engineer, and eventually the General Manager of Project
Implementation and Evaluation. His career is marked
by significant contributions to airport infrastructure
development, including design and supervision of
numerous engineering projects across various airports in
Nigeria. His role extended to being a crucial advisor on
engineering projects to the
Page 82 | THE NIGERIAN ENGINEER
Engr. Abiola Muniru Adejare, MNSE
Director Engineering Services
Federal Airport Authority of Nigeria (FAAN)
Managing Director/CEO of FAAN. He was further
appointed as the Director of Engineering at the Federal
Airports Authority of Nigeria on the 21st of December
2023 due to his exceptional abilities.
Contributions and Recognitions Throughout his career,
Engr. Adejare has been recognized for his hard work and
dedication. In 1992, he was awarded a special promotion
from GL 9 to GL 10, and in 1999, he was named the most
productive staff member of the Engineering Directorate.
His commitment to continuous professional development
is evident in his participation in various international
training programs, including courses on airport master
plan development (IATA Beijing, China, 2018), Project
Management Essential, (IATA Miami, USA, 2018), Project
Management Essential, (IATA Miami, USA, 2018),
airfield pavement design, and effective service delivery
in the aviation sector conducted in global locations like
Rwanda and Kigali.
Current Role and Responsibilities After retiring from
active service in FAAN in 2019, Engr. Adejare took on
the role of Special Adviser (Engineering Projects) to the
Managing Director/CEO on a contract basis. This role
capitalizes on his extensive experience and knowledge
in planning, designing, and implementing complex
engineering projects, ensuring ongoing contributions to
the aviation sector’s growth and efficiency in Nigeria.
Engr. Abiola Muniru Adejare’s career exemplifies
a dedicated and effective engineer whose work has
significantly impacted the aviation industry in Nigeria. His
ongoing commitment to professional development and his
advisory role continues to contribute to the advancement
of airport infrastructure in the country.
 Top Engineering Professionals: Who is Where!!
ENGR. MRS OLUKOREDE KESHA
(HND, BSc (Hons), MSc, FNSE, MNICE, MNIHTE, MAPWEN, MSWE)
Controller of Works, Federal Ministry of Works
E
ngr. Olukorede Kesha is a distinguished
engineer and dynamic leader with a rich
educational background and extensive
experience in the field of Civil and Environmental
Engineering. She embarked on her engineering
journey at the Federal Polytechnic, Ilaro, where
she earned a Higher National Diploma in Civil
Engineering. Her passion for learning led her to the
University of Lagos, where she obtained a Bachelor’s
degree in Civil and Environmental Engineering
and later pursued a Master of Science in Civil
and Environmental Engineering, specializing in
Highways and Traffic.
With a commitment to continuous growth, Engr.
Kesha has actively participated in local and
international workshops and training programs.
Her expertise encompasses a wide range of areas,
including Road Management, Pavement Condition
Analysis, and Health, Safety, and Environment
(HSE) practices.
Engr. Kesha holds prestigious memberships in
several professional organizations, including:
• Council for the Regulation of Engineering in
Nigeria (COREN)
• The Nigerian Society of Engineers (NSE)
• Nigerian Institution of Civil Engineers (NICE)
• Association of Professional Women Engineers
of Nigeria (APWEN)
• Society of Women Engineers, worldwide (SWE)
• Nigerian Institution of Highways and
Transportation Engineers (NIHTE)
Engr. Kesha is an innovative civil engineer with
proficiency in planning and execution, excellent
blueprint interpretation with good project
management skills. With over three decades of
dedicated service in the civil service, Engr. Kesha
currently serves as the Federal Controller of Works
with the Federal Ministry of Works. Her exceptional
performance and leadership abilities have
propelled her to oversee a multitude of significant
Federal Highway projects. Notable projects under
her supervision include the Rehabilitation and
Expansion of Lagos-Badagry Expressway in Lagos
State, Rehabilitation of Gbaji-Apa Owode road in
Badagry, Reconstruction of Lekki Deep Sea Port
Access Road, Rehabilitation of Apapa-Tincan-
Oworonshoki road, Reconstruction of Apapa -
Wharf Road, Replacement of expansion joints &
general rehabilitation of the Third Mainland Bridge.
Engr. Kesha is a visionary and dedicated member
of the Nigerian Society of Engineers (NSE). She
currently holds the position of Vice Chairman at the
NSE Lagos branch, where she actively contributes
to the preservation of engineering values and the
advancement of society. Her core beliefs in personal
development, philanthropy, mentorship, and
promoting women’s participation in the engineering
profession continue to inspire those around her.
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 Top Engineering Professionals: Who is Where!!
E
ngr. Mohammed Ahmed Kabir Wanori is a
distinguished engineer with over 25 years of
experience spanning various fields, starting
from his graduation with a Bachelor of Engineering
in Electrical/Electronic from the University of
Maiduguri in 1990. His illustrious career highlights
include pioneering projects such as the design and
installation of multi-unit conference discussion
systems in esteemed government institutions,
and the reactivation of large-scale conference and
language interpretation systems, as part of his
key career achievements. In his roles within the
Borno State Government, he played pivotal roles
in environmental management, climate change
adaptation, and infrastructural development. As
the Commissioner for Environment from 2019 to
2020, he championed initiatives such as monthly
sanitation exercises and the construction of
drainage systems, significantly improving the
environmental landscape of the state.
His tenure as the Commissioner for
Intergovernmental Affairs and Special Duties
from 2021 to 2023 saw him facilitate strategic
partnerships with national and international
agencies, mobilizing funds for critical projects aimed
at improving the standard of living in Borno. His
commitment to community development is evident
through his extensive engagement in training
and empowerment programs for less privileged
individuals, as well as his support for educational
initiatives through scholarship programs, which he
initiated. He has been instrumental in providing
Page 84 | THE NIGERIAN ENGINEER
Mohammed Ahmed Kabir Wanori (Engr)
Executive Secretary, Borno State Information and
Communication Development Board
policy direction and strategic leadership in various
capacities, including serving as a Special Adviser
to the Governor on Engineering Services from
2011 to 2015 and as Chairman of the North East
Rehabilitation and Development Committee of the
Nigerian Society of Engineers from 2018 to 2023.
A highly esteemed member of professional
associations, Mohammed has received numerous
awards and honors for his exceptional contributions
to engineering and societal transformation. He
holds fellowships with esteemed organizations
such as the Nigerian Society of Engineers, the
Nigerian Institution of Electrical and Electronics
Engineers, and the Institute of Polymer Engineers
of Nigeria. His commitment to continuous learning
and professional development is evident through
his participation in workshops, conferences, and
stakeholder engagements focused on sustainable
development, renewable energy, and engineering
education. Currently serving as the Executive
Secretary of the Borno State Information and
Communication Technology Development Agency,
Mohammed continues to drive innovation and
technological advancement in the region, leveraging
his expertise to foster digital inclusion and
economic growth. With a steadfast dedication to
excellence and a passion for serving humanity, he
remains a beacon of inspiration in the engineering
community, leaving an indelible mark on the
landscape of engineering and technology in Nigeria.
 News

Now, Your Society Can Ride On Our Back… says

Women Affairs Minister

The President of the Nigerian Society of Engineers, Engr. Margaret Aina Oguntala, FNSE (Left) with the Honourable Minister
of Women Affairs and Social Development, Barrister Uju Kennedy-Ohanenye

T
he Honourable Minister of Women Affairs proudly and say to him 'Do you know that a woman
and Social Development, Mrs. Uju Kennedy- is now leading the Association of a male-dominated
Ohanenye, has said that the Nigerian Society profession?'. The President will be happy and he
of Engineers (NSE) is assured of the full support of may send for you people”.
the Ministry to get the latitude and recognition that
She went further to poke a joke at the male EXCO
it deserves from government. The Minister made
members in the NSE President's delegation:
the declaration on Thursday, February 1, 2024 at
the meeting during the NSE President's courtesy “Imagine how long it took you guys to give us a
visit to the Ministry. chance… 65 years! We shouldn't be applauding you
While responding to the speech delivered by the
NSE President, Engr. Margaret Aina Oguntala,
FNSE, the Honourable Minister was visibly elated
at the news that 34th President of NSE was the
first female to be elected as President since the
establishment of the Society nearly sixty-six years
ago. She said:
“I congratulate you sincerely. We must work together
because your administration is ours. I will make sure
that you achieve a lot for the Society. So, I suggest
that you do a letter seeking audience with the First
Lady at the Presidential Villa and I will personally
take it to her. It's important, this is ours. I equally
want you to write for recognition, I will take that to
the President for him to know. I will walk in there NSE President presenting a souvenir to the Honourable Minister

Page 85 | THE NIGERIAN ENGINEER

 News
NSE President, presenting the investiture brochure to the Honourable
Minister
people. You should have done that a long time ago.
But trust me, now that you have decided to allow
us, we will prove to you that that you will see a
difference. We are proud of you anyway”.
Mrs. Kennedy Ohanenye further urged Nigerian
Engineers to prioritise local production of machinery
instead of allowing Nigerian businesses to import
made-in-China products, especially farming tools.
She advised that the 2024 NSE conference should
be organized in a way to showcase the capabilities
Right to Left: Engr. Ushiki Danladi Adamu, FNSE, Vice President,
Assets Management; Engr. Ademola Agoro, FNSE, Vice President,
Professional Development; and Engr. Rachel Ugye, FNSE,
National EXCO Member
Page 86 | THE NIGERIAN ENGINEER
of Nigerian Engineers in the area of local
manufacturing, and that indigenous fabrications
should be on conspicuous display. She also said
that given ample notice she would be able to
persuade President Bola Tinubu, GCFR to attend
the conference.
“Since we are already collaborating, we can put
something together during your conference under
the Nigeria for Women project, also known as
– President BAT Cares. The President will be
naturally attracted to attend the conference if he
knows that NSE and the Ministry are collaborating
on the project”, she said.
Earlier, the NSE President gave the Minister a
briefing on the programmes outlined for the two-year
tenure of her administration. She highlighted the
five-pillar agenda of the administration which
include Membership Drive, Improved International
Relations, Intergovernmental/Industry/Academia
Collaborations, Re-Imaging of NSE and Improved
Community Impact.
Specifically, the NSE President requested the
Honourable Minister to support the MOPSA Agenda
by granting approval for the following:
1. The composition of a joint working group
to draw up a framework for collaborations
between the Ministry and NSE.
2. Honour invitations to attend some NSE
programmes and activities as the Minister's
schedules permit.

3. Sponsor activities of the Spouses' Programme
of NSE and host the Spouses during the 2024
National Engineering Conference.
The Honourable Minister granted immediate
approval for all the requests.
The NSE President's delegation on the courtesy visit
include the Vice President, Assets Management,
Engr. Danladi Adamu Ushiki, FNSE, Vice President,
Madam President
The Executive Secretary, Engr. Joshua Egube, FNSE (right) and
Director, Corporate Services, Mr. Abdulkadir Aliyu
Group Photograph after the Meeting
News
Professional Development, Engr. Ademola Agoro,
FNSE, National Executive Committee member,
Engr. Rachel Ugye, FNSE, the Executive Secretary,
Engr. Joshua Egube, FNSE, the Director, Corporate
Services, Mr. Abdulkadir Aliyu, the Deputy
Director, Legal Services, Mr. Thomas Egbele, and
the Ag. Head, Membership Services, Mr. Adewale
Oluwalade.
Meeting Session
The NSE President and the Honourable Minister
Page 87 | THE NIGERIAN ENGINEER
 News

NSE President takes Condolences to Past President

Engr. Dr. Ajayi
condolences to you and the entire family”,
Oguntala solemnly said.
“Her demise has definitely created a
big vacuum, not only for your family
and immediate community, but also for
humanity. Rest assured that memories of
her selfless and benevolent disposition in
her lifetime will linger for a long time. As
we celebrate her fulfilled life, we pray God
Almighty to grant her eternal rest and give
you and the entire family, the fortitude to
bear this irreparable loss”, the President
added.
In response, Engr. Dr. Ajayi thanked the
President for her prayers for the repose of
his beloved wife’s soul. He equally thanked
all those were able to come along with the
President to condole with him in this time
of his grief.
The President was accompanied on the
visit by Vice Presidents, Engr, Dr. Felicia
Agubuata, FNSE, Engr. Rose Madaki,
FNSE, Past President, Engr. Isaac
Ademola Olorunfemi, FNSE, FAEng, Past
Madam President presenting the Official Condolence Letter to the berieved Past President of the Association of Professional
President, Engr. Dr. Olusegun Ajayi, FNSE, FAEng Women Engineers in Nigeria (APWEN),

T
he President of the Nigerian Society of Engr. Patricia Odili, FNSE, Also on the
Engineers, Engr. Margaret Aina Oguntala, entourage was the Chairman of NSE Ikeja Branch,
FNSE, last week led a team of Engineers to Engr. Adedotun Femi John, MNSE, Chairman of
the residence of Past President, Engr. Dr. Olusegun NSE Lagos Branch, Engr. Adekunle Bello, MNSE,
Ajayi, FNSE, FAEng to condole with him on the Chairman of NSE Apapa Branch, Engr. Babatunde
demise of his beloved wife, Mrs. Olufunmilayo Ajayi. Awode, MNSE, and the Vice Chairman of Victoria
Mrs. Ajayi died peacefully on Friday, February 23, Island Branch, Engr. Babatunde James, MNSE.
2024 in Lagos. The entire NSE Lagos Branch Executive Committee
Members were also present.
Engr. Oguntala said news of the
passage of Mrs. Ajayi came to the
entire engineering family as a shock.
She reminisced Mrs. Ajayi’s valuable
support to Engr. Dr. Ajayi all through
his career as an accomplished
academic and in his service to the
Society as President. She further
highlighted Mrs. Ajayi’s immense
contribution to the Spouses Forum
saying it is unforgettable.
“On behalf of the Council and entire
membership of the Nigerian Society
of Engineers, I here express our deep

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 News

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 News
NIGERIA JOINS GLOBAL COMMUNITY TO CELEBRATE
WORLD ENGINEERING DAY
Madam President delivering her speach at the event
T
he President of the Nigerian Society of
Engineers (NSE), Engr. Margaret Aina
Oguntala, FNSE yesterday at the World
Engineering Day (WED), celebration ceremony
declared that NSE stands firmly as a beacon of
excellence as it has continually empowered its
members to tackle complex challenges and drive
sustainable development across the country.
Oguntala made the assertion against the backdrop
of the knowledge that engineering is the catalyst
for transformative change, enabling progress
via the construction of vital infrastructure and
development of life-saving technologies.
“With 86 Branches cutting across Nigeria and
diaspora and 26 Divisions cutting across various
Engineering disciplines, the NSE continues to
lead the charge in fostering innovation and
driving progress in the engineering field”, the
President said.
Describing the essence of the celebration, Engr.
Oguntala said, “At its 40th General Assembly
in 2019, UNESCO recognised the importance of
engineering to humanity and, in response to a
proposition from the World Federation of Engineering
Page 90 | THE NIGERIAN ENGINEER
Organisations (WFEO), declared March 4th of every
year as World Engineering Day (WED) for Sustainable
Development. The first observance of this day took
place in 2020, and today, we are here to participate
in this worldwide event”.
Earlier in the day, Madam President, the President
of the Council for the Regulation of Engineering
in Nigeria (COREN), Engr. Prof. Sadiq Zubair
Abubakar, FNSE, FAEng and Past President of
NSE, His Royalty, Engr. Otis Anyaeji, FNSE, FAEng
featured live on the Nigerian Television Authority
(NTA), flagship programme Good Morning Nigeria.
They discussed pertinent engineering matters and
answered questions regarding the contributions
of engineers to Nigeria’s development as well the
involvement of engineers in governance. They also
highlighted the challenges of formulation of wrong
policies, and sometimes non-implementation
of good policies on the side of government, as
the major factors hampering the progress of the
country, especially with regards to infrastructure
delivery.
At the National Engineering Centre (NEC), Abuja
venue of the celebrations, the President acknowledged
the Keynote Speaker, the Honourable Minister of
Works, His Excellency, Engr. David Umahi, FNSE,
CON was represented by former Minister of State
for Health, Hon. Barr. Joseph Ekumaka, and the
other distinguished Invited Speakers, namely Engr.
Prof. Abubakar S. Sambo, FNSE, FAS, OON, the
President-elect of the Nigerian Academy of Science;
Engr. Dr. Ikotun Adewale, FNSE, MD/CEO of
Automation and Engineering Academy Limited;
Alice Radley, Programme Manager, Africa Prize
for Engineering Innovation, United Kingdom; and
Fatou Juka Darboe, Founder/CEO Make3D from
The Gambia. Madam President said their presence
at the occasion underscored the significance of the
event and she further appreciated their unwavering
commitment to the engineering profession.
The President went further to solemnly declare, “As
we celebrate this auspicious occasion, let us pause
to reflect on the visionaries who laid the foundation
for the Nigerian Society of Engineers (NSE) 66 years
ago, their bold vision and unwavering dedication
have paved the way for us to advance engineering
excellence in Nigeria. Today, we pay homage to
their enduring legacy and reaffirm our commitment
to upholding the highest standards of our noble
profession”.

In her welcome address, the Vice President,
Corporate Services, Engr. Dr. Felicia Agubata,
FNSE noted that it was with profound respect
and immense pleasure that she stood before
the distinguished audience to extend a heartfelt
welcome to each one at the auspicious occasion.
“This year, we are gathered under the inspiring
banner, Engineering Solutions for a Sustainable
World, a theme that resonates deeply with our
collective mission and the essence of our profession,
I warmly welcome participants from diverse sectors
and disciplines within our esteemed engineering
community, who have come together from various
parts of the globe to mark this significant occasion”,
Engr. Agubata said.
The Vice President reminded the Engineers that
the World Engineering Day was a celebration of the
indomitable spirit of innovation, creativity, and the
relentless pursuit of progress that is the hallmark
of the engineering profession.
The President of the Federation of African
Engineering Organisations (FAEO), Eng. Papaias
Representative of the Keynote Speaker, Hon. Barr. Joseph Ekumaka
The Vice-President, Corporate Services, Engr. Felicia Agubata, FNSE
giving the welcome address
News
Kazawadi Dedeki sent his goodwill message
virtually. He congratulated Nigeria for the elaborate
programme this year.
Exhibition was a component of the World
Engineering Day event. Students from Government
Science and Technical College, Garki, Abuja,
Government Day Secondary School, Dutse and
Government Secondary School, Kubwa were on the
exhibition stands to display their innovative works
of engineering which include conversion of waste
animal bones and palm kernel shells into efficient
break pads, conversion of waste banana trunk
into carbon-neutral building material, 3D printing
augmented reality and invention of automated
spraying machine. The exhibition was organised
in collaboration with Odyssey Educational
Foundation.
The celebrations climaxed with the launch of NSE
specialized skills training for Young Engineers which
is sponsored by the Nigerian Content Development
and Management Board (NCDMB).
Earlier at the NTA Network studios with NSE Past President, His
Royalty, Engr. Otis Anyaeji, FNSE, FAEng (3rd left) and the President of
COREN, Engr. Prof. Sadiq Abubakar, FNSE, FAEng (4th right).
Madam President (middle) in a group photograph with the Deputy
President, Engr. Ali Alimasuya Rabiu, MFR, FNSE, FAEng (4th left) and
other senior members of the Society
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 News

Madam President at Good Morning Nigeria studio of NTA

The NSE Executive Secretary, Engr. Joshua Egube, FNSE giving the
Vote of thanks

Cross-section of secondary school students Inpection of one of the Exhibition stands

Page 92 | THE NIGERIAN ENGINEER

 News

Unveiling of the NSE Specialised Skills Training for young Enginners

sponsed by the Nigerian Content Development and Management
Engr. Linda Bitrus, FNSE, the Director of Programmes Board (NCDMB)

Presentation of Certificate to Engr. Prof. Abubakar Sambo, OON, FNSE, Presentation of Certificate to Engr. Dr. Ikotun Adewale, FNSE, one of
FAS, one of the invited Speakers the invited Speakers

Page 93 | THE NIGERIAN ENGINEER

 News

SPECIALISED SKILLS TRAINING FOR YOUNG

ENGINEERS: DIVISIONS’ RESPONSE TO CALL FOR
NOMINATIONS FALL SHORT OF EXPECTATIONS
- PRESIDENT

President of the Nigerian Society of Engineers, Engr. Margaret Aina Oguntala, FNSE with the Chairman of the Nigerian
Institution of Civil Engineers (NICE), Engr. Virgilus Chukwudi Ezugu, FNSE

T
he President of the Nigerian Society Madam President’s administration. MOPSA has five
of Engineers (NSE), Engr. Margaret strong pillars as listed below:
Aina Oguntala, FNSE has expressed
1. Membership development
disappointment over the NSE divisions’ poor
response to the Secretariat’s call for nominations 2. Improving Intergovernmental/Industry/
for the planned training programme named Academia collaborations
Specialised Skills Training for Young Engineers. 3. Re-enforcing international relations
The President spoke at the National Engineering mechanisms
Centre (NEC) Headquarters, Abuja, when she
received the Chairman of the Nigerian Institution 4. Re-imaging the NSE for better publicity and
of Civil Engineers (NICE), Engr. Virgilus Chukwudi governance structure
Ezugu, FNSE and other officials of the division on 5. Improved community impact
Tuesday, March 5, 2024. Engr. Ezugu singled out membership development
The NICE Chairman informed the President that as the pillar that excites the division the most,
the purpose of the visit was to congratulate her on asserting that capacity building is the key to
her investiture and to pledge full support for all the ensuring the engineer’s relevance and ability to
initiatives espoused in the strategic agenda of her solve developmental challenges in any society.
administration, which he said was well conceived. Amongst other issues, the NICE Chairman suggested
Recall that MOPSA which stands for “Margaret the restructuring of the Society saying that the
Oguntala Presidential Strategic Agenda move will minimise rivalry amongst divisions. He
(MOPSA)” is the document developed to guide also requested the appointment of NICE members

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into boards and committees of the Society and the
invitation of NICE to be part of advocacy visits to
government agencies. The Chairman informed
the President that plans were underway for NICE
to host a Housing Expo which will be attended by
stakeholders in the built environment, pledging to
extend invitation to the President when the date is
fixed.
Responding, Madam President decried the seeming
loss of focus of NSE Divisions’ on their key mandate,
which is professional development. According to
Madam President, information such as the call
for nominations for the specialised skills training
for their Young Engineers ought to excite the
Divisions’ leadership and jolt them into immediate
action. She lamented that what is rather seen is
that many of the Divisions are exerting energies in
organising ceremonies such as honorary fellowship
conferment.
She admonished the leadership of NICE and, indeed,
all NSE Divisions to prioritise capacity building
which is the hallmark of NSE and urged that the
branches should be left to do the ceremonies and all
that is needful for community impact. She cited the
News
example of Nigerian Society of Chemical Engineers
(NSChE) which has continued to focus on building
capacity for their members.
The Specialised Skills Training Programme was
launched on Monday, March 4, 2024, during the
World Engineering Day (WED) celebrations at the
NEC Headquarters. It is planned to be a year-long
programme targeted at building the capacity of
Young Engineers across the six geo-political zones
of Nigeria. It is also a multi-modular training that
would start with a course on Cyber Security and
Ethical Hacking.
The Chairman of NICE was accompanied on the visit
by the Vice Chairman, Engr. Olumoh Sharafadeen,
FNSE, the Acting Executive Secretary, Engr. B. T.
David, FNSE and Administrative Officer, Mr. Bright
Ochiabub. On the side of the President was the
Executive Secretary of NSE, Engr. Joshua Egube,
FNSE, Director of Membership Services, Engr.
Babatunde Odunlami, FNSE, Deputy Director/
Head Legal Services, Mr. Thomas Egbele, Head
of Information Technology, Mr. Yisa Ibrahim and
Assistant Director, Information & Public Relations,
Mr. Henry Iortim.
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 News
INTERNATIONAL RELATIONS: NSE, USA Government
Agree on Symbiotic Relations
T
he Nigerian Society of Engineers (NSE)
and the Government of the United States
of America (USA), through its Embassy
in Abuja have agreed to work together on several
projects. The move is in tandem with MOPSA Pillar
3, which is about strengthening the international
relations mechanisms of the Society.
MOPSA - “Margaret Oguntala Presidential
Strategic Agenda” - is the document developed to
guide Madam President’s administration.
The NSE President, Engr. Margaret Aina Oguntala,
FNSE, received the Acting Ambassador of the
USA to Nigeria, Mr. David Greene, at the National
Engineering Centre (NEC) Headquarters, Abuja
on Tuesday, March 12, 2024. At the meeting,
the President made many requests from the USA
Government, all geared towards advancing the
interest of NSE members. In return, Madam
President pledged the Society’s assistance to
American firms introduced officially by the
Embassy.
Madam President told the US top diplomat that
upon ushering a new administration in January
this year, the Society came up with a carefully
crafted document that requires the Society to
collaborate with friendly international partners like
the US Embassy in Nigeria, in order to fast-track
Page 96 | THE NIGERIAN ENGINEER
achievement of set objectives.
Also in focus, she said, is the NSE Entrepreneurship
Development Programme (EDP), which is conceived
to considerably stem the tide of emigration by
professionals. She urged that the US Embassy
should consider lending assistance to the Society
in the area of administration of the programme.
Madam President told the Acting Ambassador that
NSE also looks forward to assistance for its teeming
Young Engineers to benefit from capacity building
and access to funding of innovative projects and
agricultural activities.
Engr. Oguntala also seized the opportunity to make
case for the TechWomen programme by asking for
the allotment of slots to the Nigerian Society of
Engineers (NSE), specifically for female Engineers,
to enhance gender inclusivity and empowerment.
“Recognising the US Embassy’s focus on women
development, we are keen on collaborating with the
embassy to ensure more female Engineers benefit
from this initiative”, she said.
She also requested the Ambassador to link NSE
with the United States Agency for International
Development (USAID). “With your assistance, we
aim to collaborate with USAID to secure grants
and aids for Nigerian Engineers, towards fostering
innovation and sustainable development”, she said.

On facilitation of visa issuance, the President made
a case for expedited visa processing for members
of the Society who will be attending the upcoming
Offshore Technical Conference (OTC) holding in
Houston, Texas from May 6 - 9, 2024.
News
Madam President assured the Diplomat of NSE’s
willingness to keep to its own part of the relations
by constantly inviting the Embassy as Special
Guest at all of its event. Similarly, she promised
that American companies officially introduced will
enjoy listing on the Society’s website.
Ambassador Greene, after thanking Madam
President for the warm reception accorded him and
his team, acceded to all the requests she made.
He promised to link NSE with key US agencies
with vast interest in engineering for partnerships,
particularly in the areas of financing, networking
and capacity building. He specifically mentioned
that professional civil engineering institutions will
be available to share knowledge and help Nigerian
Civil Engineers strengthen capacity. According to
him, the move will help on the delivery of enduring
infrastructure and stop building collapse in the
country.
Mr. Greene assured Engr. Oguntala of the
Embassy’s support in the area of facilitating visas
for all Engineers, especially those travelling for
businesses, conferences and academic related
matters.
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 News
MOPSA: NEWS ENGINEERING EMBRACES NSE
STRATEGIC AGENDA DOCUMENT, PLEDGES
PARTNERSHIP
President of the Nigerian Society of Engineers, Engr. Margaret Aina Oguntala, FNSE with the Managing Director/CEO News Engineering
Nigeria Limited, Mrs. Josephine Nwaeze (FNSE)
C
onstruction giant, News Engineering Nigeria
Limited has announced alignment with the
Nigerian Society of Engineers (NSE) strategic
focus document which is referred to as MOPSA.
MOPSA which stands for “Margaret Oguntala
Presidential Strategic Agenda (MOPSA)” is the
document developed to guide Madam President’s
administration. It has five strong pillars as listed
below:
1. Membership development
2. Improving Intergovernmental/Industry/
Academia collaborations
3. Re-enforcing international
mechanisms
4. Re-imaging the NSE for better publicity and
governance structure
5. Improved community impact
The Managing Director/CEO of the organisation,
Mrs. Josephine Nwaeze (FNSE) made the
declaration when she led a team from the company
to pay a courtesy call on the President of NSE,
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Engr. Margaret Aina Oguntala, FNSE. Mrs. Nwaeze
said her organisation is throwing its weight behind
the MOPSA initiative because of the conviction that
its implementation will lead to the rebirth of the
Society.
“It is a meticulously crafted blueprint,
comprising five key themes meticulously
designed to address crucial aspects of our
mission, moreover, as a woman myself, I find
great resonance in your historic appointment
as the first female President of the Nigerian
Society of Engineers. It underscores the
undeniable truth that gender is not a barrier
relations to leadership or success but rather a source
of strength and diversity. I wish to assure
you of our unalloyed dedication to the noble
cause of rebirthing the NSE for the growth,
empowerment, and advancement of engineering
in Nigeria”, Mrs. Nwaeze said.
The News Engineering CEO said that the company’s
pledge to NSE is not merely a lip service as records
abound to show that the company has been
 News

supporting and participating in programmes of the President told her visitors that there have been calls
NSE, especially that the company takes pride in by many Divisions of the Society for the stepping
being a Corporate Firm member of the Society. up of actions on the MOPSA document hence the
decision by the Executive Committee to take it
The company chief executive disclosed that it will
to the Council of NSE to be adopted for strategic
continue to partner with NSE in areas such as
implementation.
training, research, innovation and fostering stronger
industry-academia relationships, as inundated the Madam President commended the active role of
existing memorandum of understanding (MoU) the company in STEM programmes saying that
with the Society. She further pledged dedication her administration is passionate about capacity
to engineering education and the promotion of building for technological advancement which
STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and is why a collaboration with the Nigerian Content
Mathematics) fields. Development Management Board (NCDMB) was
initiated to train about 6000 Young Engineers in
President of NSE, Engr. Margaret Aina Oguntala,
the six geopolitical zones of the country. She said
FNSE in her response, thanked Engr. Nwaeze
capacity building is the hallmark of NSE.
copiously for the solidarity visit and for the
symbiotic relationship that has flourished between
the company and the Society. She equally thanked
her for the support of News Engineering Nigeria
Limited to NSE National Engineering Conference
in 2022 and for the generous sponsorship of the
spouses programme during the 2023 Conference
again.
Madam President also expressed happiness at
the mention of the relevance of MOPSA to the
advancement of NSE. She disclosed that the
document was developed by a think tank of
Engineers with diverse backgrounds who shared
in her vision of moving the Society forward. The

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 News
NASENI TO PARTNER NSE ON ENGINEERING CAREER
FOR GIRLS
T
he National Agency for Science and
Engineering Infrastructure (NASENI), has
approached the Nigerian Society of Engineers
(NSE), for a partnership targeted at wooing young
girls into the engineering profession. The team from
NASENI known as Presidential Implementation
Committee on Technical Transfer led by Ameena
Abubakar visited the President of NSE,
President of the Nigerian Society of Engineers, Engr. Margaret Aina Oguntala, FNSE with the Presidential Implementation
Committee on Technical Transfer Team Leader, Ameena Abubakar
Page 100 | THE NIGERIAN ENGINEER
Engr. Margaret Aina Oguntala, FNSE at the
National Engineering Centre Headquarters, Abuja,
Friday, March 1, 2024 to discuss the proposal.
Mrs. Abubakar said her organisation has a vision
in the direction of inspiring school girls to take
special interest in pursuing career in engineering
at the tertiary level of education. As a first step to
achieving the goal, she said they thought it fit to
come and discuss with the NSE President to get the
Society’s buy-in on the initiative.
The NASENI official commended Engr. Oguntala’s
resilience and focus which has led to her emergence
as the first woman to be President of the Society.
She said they were desirous of the President’s
support by the nomination of outstanding Women
Engineers that could come onboard their project to
inspire school girls.
In response, the President thanked the officials
from NASENI for making frank effort to get more
girls into the noble profession of engineering. She
told her visitors that she will link them up the
Association of Professional Women Engineers of
Nigeria (APWEN) whom she said have the primary
objective of wooing young school girls to pursue
career in engineering.
 News

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 News

3M GETS 90 DAYS TO PRESENT DRAFT ON CODES,

STANDARDS

T
he President, Engr. Margaret
Aina Oguntala, FNSE,
has charged the Nigerian
Institution of Metallurgical, Mining
and Materials (3MMM) to produce
its first draft of codes and standards
and present same to her within
ninety (90) days. Madam President
threw the challenge to the Institution
on Thursday, March 7, 2024, when
the Chairman of 3MMM Engr. Prof.
Abdulrahaman Asipita Salawu,
FNSE led members of the Executive
Committee on a courtesy call to the
President.
Engr. Oguntala said in view of the
pivotal position of the Institution
to the larger economy, there is the
need for it to expedite action on the
codes and standards to benefit the
relevant players. She went further to
give the ultimatum for submission of
the first draft of codes and standards
document from the Institution for
Friday, June 7, 2024.
Madam President thanked the
Chairman for the visit, felicitations,
prayers and pledge to key into Earlier, Engr. Prof. Salawu stated that the visit
the focus of her administration. She therefore was majorly to congratulate the President on her
encouraged the Institution to ensure active role assumption of office and the pledge the commitment
in the MOPSA initiative. MOPSA which stands of the Institution to the focus of her administration.
for “Margaret Oguntala Presidential Strategic She thanked the President for the appointment of
Agenda (MOPSA)” is the document developed to members of the Institute into committees. He also
guide Madam President’s administration. extended an invitation to Madam President to grace
Engr. Oguntala seized the opportunity and granted his inauguration ceremony as the Chairman slated
a waiver to the Institution to forward names of for June 17, 2024, which is to be held at the NEC
Young Engineers that will be considered for the Headquarters, Abuja.
training on ethical hacking and cyber security for The Director of Membership Services, Engr.
which entries had closed a couple of days ago. Babatunde Odulanmi, FNSE, who on behalf of the
She said the chance was given to accommodate Executive Secretary, Engr. Joshua Egube, FNSE
them due to her desire to boost capacity which she gave a vote of thanks at the end of the brief visit, told
expects Divisions to prioritise. the 3MMM Chairman that the role of the extractive
Madam President congratulated Engr. Prof. Salawu industry was conspicuous in the MOPSA document,
on his new appointment as the Vice Chancellor of therefore there is the need for the Institute to take
Confluence University of Science and Technology a cursory look at the document to enable them
(CUSTECH). She prayed God to grant him the perfectly take part in the implementation adding
necessary steadfastness to take the University to that the NSE Headquarters eagerly awaits their
higher altitudes. input.

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 News
ECN Visit: NEC Headquarters to Get Boost to Solar
Power Installations
Madam President, Engr. Margaret Aina Oguntala, FNSE delivering her
speech
T
he President of the Nigerian Society of
Engineers (NSE), Engr. Margaret Aina
Oguntala, FNSE has recorded a milestone
with a direct positive response to the fifth pillar
of the NSE Strategic Agenda, being Improved
Community Impact, as the Energy Commission of
Nigeria (ECN) pledges support in achieving green,
zero-carbon-emission environment at the National
Engineering Centre (NEC) Headquarters, Abuja.
During a courtesy visit to the Director General of
ECN, Dr. Abdullahi Mustapha, on Thursday, April
4, 2024, Madam President invited the Commission
to be part of efforts of the Society in expanding the
renewable energy project already commissioned
at the NEC Headquarters. The visit was in part
fulfilment of the objectives of NSE, to engage in
collaborations with government agencies with a
view to contributing to the holistic development of
the country.
It will be recalled that the NEC Headquarters
Phase II is currently equipped with 100KVA
solar installations as alternative source of power.
With this partnership arrangement secured,
the installation is expected to be upscaled with
additional installations. This is one of the items
amongst several which Madam President presented
to the DG, ECN for consideration for collaboration,
all of which she received endorsement for.
In her speech, Madam President explained that
her administration has a five-pillar agenda that it
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is running with. She said, “…the fifth pillar, being
Improved Community Impact, has direct correlation
with the mandate of the Energy Commission of
Nigeria, this is why I am seizing this opportunity
to express my utmost appreciation, on behalf of
the Council of NSE, to the management of ECN for
acceding to the request made by NSE during the
tenure of the last administration, for a collaborative
venture between NSE and ECN, the initiative was set
towards actualising our dream of achieving a green,
zero-carbon-emission environment at the National
Engineering Centre (NEC) Headquarters.”
The President also requested for collaborations
on the NSE Smart Innovation hub adding that
this was crucial especially that NSE is spear-
heading the adaptation of curricula and teaching
methods to ensure that engineering professionals
and students are innovative. Additionally, she said
that training programmes were being created and
developed to upskill and reskill NSE members to
meet the demands of the 4th Industrial Revolution
(4IR), noting that the NSE Smart Innovation Hub
was established to meet those set goals.
According to her, the project is a model for
engineering innovation which comprises of an
Engineering Laboratory; Artificial Intelligence
(AI)/Internet of Things (IoT) Laboratory; Virtual
Offices, SMART Physical offices, e-library and
other training facilities. “This project will create
an enabling environment for innovations, research,
product development, business development, as
well as entrepreneurship training for engineers and
other stakeholders”, she noted.
Similarly, Engr. Oguntala requested partnership
from ECN on the 2024 National Engineering
Conference. She emphasized on the importance
of the annual event saying “one of the special
purpose vehicles for achieving the objectives
of our organisation, especially with regards to
NSE President and the Director General/Chief Executive Energy
Commission of Nigeria
 News

acquisition and improvement of technology as Engineers in the top management. During the
well as incubating innovations in engineering, is session, the President elucidated on the matter of
the Annual National Engineering Conference and
Exhibition, Workshops and Seminars, as well as
publication of Technical Journals.
“I am pleased to inform you that the theme for the
2024 edition of the National Engineering Conference
and Exhibition is “Sustainable Engineering Solutions
to Food Security and Climate Change”, the Council
of NSE carefully considered and approved the
theme for the conference to reflect the yearning of
the President and Commander-in-Chief to achieve
sustainable food security for Nigeria in his tenure”.
Director General of ECN, Dr. Abdullahi Mustapha,
in his response, assured Madam President of the
commitment of the Commission on collaborating
with NSE in the areas mentioned and in many other
areas in future. He thanked NSE for the various
symbiotic arrangements with NSE in the past and
appreciated NSE for the confidence reposed in ECN.
He said: “Madam President, there is no NO in my
dictionary. Part of our mandates at ECN is to promote
energy efficiency and to upscale the use of renewable
energy in every part of the country. I’m happy that you
mentioned that you have 100KVA already installed.
Our aim is to go completely net zero. So, when we
hear about an organisation already moving towards
net zero, we are left with no option than to support.
I am also happy that you mentioned that there has
been an arrangement between ECN and NSE in that
regard before I came in. I will demand a report from
the Director, Renewable Energy on the status of the
discussions. Once we know that, we will ensure that
we upscale and complete that project quickly”.
Dr. Mustapha went further to say: “For the
conference, we will be there. We are not just
going to be there; we will be there to support you.
Maybe we will require another letter detailing the
specific aspects of support that you need, whether proper placement of Engineers in the civil service.
in the areas of facilitation, paper presentation and
Similarly, the Deputy President explained the issue
monetary support. In fact, we want ECN logo to fly
of engineering curriculum update in the country’s
conspicuously as one of the Strategic Partners or
citadels of learning, noting Nigeria’s efforts on the
Sponsors of the conference”.
quest for international level recognition, including
On the team of Madam President was the Deputy ensuring that the country was at parity with other
President of NSE, Engr. Ali Alimasuya Rabiu, advanced countries like the provisional membership
FNSE, MFR; Vice President, Collaborations and of the Washington Accord.
Linkages, Engr. Bemigho Ofoeyeno, FNSE; Engr.
Also, the management of ECN expressed their desire
Wilson Ali; Director of Membership Services, Engr.
for NSE to take special interest in the development
Babatunde Odunlami, FNSE, and Engr. Emmanuel
of Solar Water Heaters being undertaken by ECN
Ejika, MNSE.
at their Nsukka and Sokoto research outlets. The
After the exchange of speeches by the two CEOs, job creation aspect and economic benefit of the
the ECN DG paved way for a brief interaction project to the national economy were eminently
session between Madam President and the ECN highlighted.

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 News

FG Inaugurates NSE President, Others on Team to

Plan Continental Irrigation Event

Group Photograph

T
he President of the Nigerian Society of
Engineers (NSE), Engr. Margaret Aina
Oguntala, FNSE, has been inaugurated as
a member of a task team set up by the Federal
Government with the mandate to plan and host the
6th African Regional Conference on Irrigation.
NSE President, earlier last week, received a letter of
nomination from the Honourable Minister of Water
Resources and Sanitation, Engr. Prof. Joseph
Terlumun Utsev, FNSE, to join the team that will
plan the hosting of the event in Abuja.
The African Regional Conference (ARC) is an initiative
of the International Commission on Irrigation and
Drainage (ICID), meant to bring together experts
from the African sub-region, with specialisation in
the field of irrigation and drainage, to brainstorm
on ways to tackle the present day as well as
futuristic issues relating to irrigation and drainage
through several of its network and working groups.
The conference is mandated to deliberate and bring
forth useful publications that set guidelines for
improved performance of irrigation systems and for
optimal productivity across irrigated areas.
The Federal Government, through the Federal
Ministry of Water Resources and Sanitation,
is a signatory to the ICID charter. ICID brings
together various stakeholders and experts from
various disciplines on an international platform to
deliberate on technical, agronomic, socio-economic,
environmental and managerial complexities for
the development, management and operation of
irrigation, drainage and flood management works.
The aim is to attain sustainable agriculture water
management through exchange of experiences,
ideas, good practices and promoting them widely
among the member countries and stakeholders.
The task team for planning the 6th African
regional Conference which Nigeria is hosting, was
inaugurated by the Honourable Minister of Water
Resources and Sanitation on Thursday, April 5,
2024, at the Ministry ‘s Board Room, Old Federal
Secretariat Complex, Area 1, Garki, Abuja.
During the inauguration, the Homourable Minister
said: “I believe that with your expertise and
capabilities, you will be able to rise to the
occasion and render very impactful service to
humanity. I pray for God’s guidance for you
during your deliberations towards a remarkable
and successful ARC”.

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 News

ACADEMIC TECHNOLOGISTS NOMINATES MADAM

PRESIDENT FOR EXCELLENCE AWARD

T
he National Association of Academic
Technologists (NAAT) has disclosed plans
to honour the President of the Nigerian
Society of Engineers (NSE), Engr. Margaret
Aina Oguntala, FNSE. According to the body,
the award presentation to Madam President
will be one of the high points of activities at the
organisation’s national delegates conference
slated to hold between April 24 – 26, at the
University of Abuja (UniAbuja), Federal Capital
Territory.
President of NAAT, Comrade Ibeji Nwokoma
who was accompanied by some officials spoke
during a courtesy visit on Madam President
at the National Engineering Centre (NEC)
Headquarters, Abuja, on Wednesday, April 17,
2024, said the Executive Committee of the
body arrived at the decision to honour the NSE
President for her noticeable professionalism,
astuteness and exemplary leadership.
Comrade Nwokoma who commended the input
Deputy President, Engr. Ali A. Rabiu, FNSE, FAEng, MFR, with the President
of the Society to the economic development of of NAAT, Comrade Ibeji Nwokoma
the country by way of tireless advocacies urged
the Society to continue on such noble path. He and research in the country.
said NAAT was desirous of forging closer ties with
He thanked the NAAT President for their
the NSE in capacity building activities as well as
thoughtfulness in nominating the NSE President as
other areas of mutual benefit. He also made an
a recipient of the association’s Award of Excellence.
appeal for NSE to, in conjuction with the Council
for the Regulation of Engineering in Nigeria Engr. Rabiu further acknowledged the special
(COREN), eliminate hinderances or soften the rules interest of the NAAT President by his request to
that may cause hinderances to the registration NSE with regards to liaising with COREN in order
of some of the association’s members who are to get some of his members with engineering-
Polytechnic graduates of engineering-based related qualifications registered. On that, he told
disciplines. The association’s President further him that NSE has been eager to admit graduates of
requested professional and financial assistance engineering-related courses, highlighting that there
from NSE to enable it advance work on the ongoing is sufficient publicity which has created awareness
construction of their national Secretariat complex for the benefit of the holders of such qualifications.
building within the precincts of the University of He therefore told Comrade Nwokoma to urge
Abuja. holders of such qualifications to immediately swing
into action by ensuring that the meet up with the
The visitors were received by the Deputy President,
stipulated bridge courses to become registrable as
Engr. Ali A. Rabiu, FNSE, FAEng, MFR on behalf
bonafide Engineers. Finally, the Deputy President
of Madam President. In responding to the visitors,
assured the visitors of NSE’s readiness to provide
the DP said their visit was indeed a testament to
professional advice that will aid the Association
the spirit of collaboration and partnership which
in the construction of their secretariat complex
underpins NSE’s mandate in its commitment
expeditiously.
to advancing engineering and professionalism
in the country. He further said that NSE values The Executive Secretary of NSE, Engr. Joshua
collaborations with organisations such as NAAT Egube, FNSE, was with also present at the meeting.
as NSE recognises the critical role of academic
technologists in shaping the future of education

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 News

EXCO, Staff Mark Madam President’s 60th Birthday

Anniversary

T
he Executive Committee members and tremendously with your unique style of leadership
members of staff of the Nigerian Society of since assumption of office as the 34th President of
Engineers (NSE), have separately celebrated the Nigerian Society of Engineers. There is no doubt
with Madam President on her attainment of sixty that your vision, resilience and dedication over
(60) years. the years have deservedly brought you the good
fortune of becoming the first female President of the
On Monday, April 15, 2024 being the exact date
Society. Your emergence has shattered the glass
that Madam President, Engr. Margaret Aina
Oguntala, FNSE turned sixty (60) years, members
of the National EXCO took a full-page colour
newspaper advertorial to express their felicitations.
The advertorial, signed by the Deputy President,
Engr. Alimasuya Rabiu, FNSE, FAEng, MFR on
behalf of all EXCO members, conveyed a message
that eulogised her as a true a visionary leader and
change maker.
Similarly, on Monday, April 22, 2024, the Executive
Secretary, Engr. Joshua Egube, FNSE led the
National Secretariat staff members on a celebratory
visit to Madam President’s office. A special birthday
card was presented to her during the visit, bearing
a special message as follows:
“Our Dear Madam President, we the entire NSE
Secretariat staff extend our heartfelt felicitations
to you on this occasion of your 60th birthday
anniversary. Madam President, you have inspired us

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 News

ceiling and opened doors of endless opportunities
for women in the engineering profession in Nigeria”
The statement further read: “Today, as we celebrate
with you, we express our deepest appreciation for
your loving and motherly disposition which has left
indelible marks on our hearts and minds. May this
special day be filled with joy and cherished moments
for you. As you reflect on the journey behind you
and look forward to the adventures ahead, know
that you have the admiration, respect and gratitude
of the entire staff of NSE, Warmest regards”.
Also, NSE Branch Chairmen in the Federal Capital
Territory led by the Deputy President on behalf of
the Council of NSE were at the National Engineering
Centre (NEC) Headquarters to felicitate with Madam
President. They made a presentation of a befitting
Birthday cake to Madam President.
Visibly thrilled, Madam President wholeheartedly
thanked all members of the Society for the warm
felicitations and prayed for God to prosper everyone
abundantly .

Front row- Middle, Madam President, Engr. Margaret Aina Oguntala, FNSE. On her Left, Deputy President, Engr. Ali A . Rabiu, FNSE, FAEng,
MFR, next is Chairman of NSE Bwari Branch, Engr. Ijirotimi Olanrewaju. MNSE, on Madam President’s right, Executive Secretary of NSE,
Engr. Joshua Egube, FNSE, Director of Membership Services, Engr, Babatunde Odunlami, FNSE Rear, From left, Chairman of NSE Giri
Branch, Engr. Dr. George Okpanachi’s, MNSE, Chairman of NSE Abuja Branch, Engr. Ben Osy Okoh, FNSE and Chairman Maitama Branch,
Engr. Henry Okoye, FNSE

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 News
SHELL ASSURES MADAM PRESIDENT OF MORE
FRONTIERS OF COLLABORATION
President of NSE, Engr. Margaret Aina Oguntala, FNSE
M
anagement of Shell Nigeria has assured
the President of the Nigerian Society of
Engineers (NSE), Engr. Margaret Aina
Oguntala, FNSE that the company will open up
more areas of collaboration with the Society under
her administration. Representatives of the oil
major noted that the move was inspired by Madam
President’s audacious plan to rebirth of the Society.
Referring to the NSE Strategic Agenda document
hitherto called the Margaret Oguntala Presidential
Strategic Agenda (MOPSA), the Shell Nigeria
officials said the company will back NSE on every
step taken to actualise the agenda.
Speaking on behalf of the top officials that paid
Madam President a courtesy call at the National
Engineering Centre (NEC), Headquarters on
Wednesday, April 24, 2024, the company’s
Engineering Manager, Engr. Olabanji Raimi,
FNSE, said the Shell Nigeria shares in the vision of
Madam President in all the areas articulated in the
strategic document. Engr. Raimi also acknowledged
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the encouragement that the company’s Engineers
receive by their admission as corporate members of
NSE. He also said Shell Nigeria was appreciative of
the Fellowship conferment on some of their senior
Engineers, admitting that both honours have, to a
large degree, boosted the morale of the Engineers
in the company. He promised that Shell Nigeria
will support NSE on the forthcoming National
Engineering Conference and Annual General
Meeting.
The identified areas of cooperation between the
NSE and Shell Nigeria include capacity building
for optimal performance, increased admission of
Shell Nigeria Engineers as NSE members as well as
increased admission of deserving senior Engineers
into the Fellowship cadre of NSE.
In her response, Madam President thanked the
team from Shell Nigeria for the visit and assured
them of NSE’s commitment to the areas requested
for collaboration. She particularly thanked the
Engineers in the employ of Shell Nigeria for

upholding hard work and excellence thereby
showing to be true ambassadors of the Society.
Engr. Oguntala commended the management of
Shell Nigeria for the sponsorship of Engineers to
the annual conference and AGM and urged them
to work towards increasing the number of their
delegates to the conference this year. She invited
the company to subscribe to a quality partnership
News
while NSE on its part will promote the company
widely. The team from Shell Nigeria which was
ably led by Engr. Raimi included, Project Manager,
DOMGAS & Terminals, Engr. Chris O. Ubane,
FNSE and Head of Capability Management, SPDC,
Engr. Emem Abasiattai, FNSE
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 News

Compodet Invites Madam President to Innovation

Prize-giving Ceremony

President of NSE, Chairman of COMPODET

Engr. Margaret Aina Oguntala, FNSE Engr. Dr. Dauda A. Folarin, FNSE

T
he Committee of Deans of Polytechnics and also requested NSE through Madam President to
Colleges of Technology (COMPODET) has support the body morally and financially.
officially invited the President of the Nigerian
Madam President welcomed the Chairman and
Society of Engineers to the 2024 edition of their
members of the body warmly and commended them
innovation price giving ceremony. The event will
on their resilience and commitment to research
hold on August 5, 2024, at the National Engineering
and development even in the face of paucity of
Centre (NEC) Headquarters, Abuja.
funds. She commended the team for the valuable
The Chairman of COMPODET, Engr. Dr. Dauda A. mentorship that they provide for the students.
Folarin, FNSE led the officials and members of the
Also, Madam President told them that their
body to the NEC Headquarters on Wednesday, April
decision to hold the event at the NEC Headquarters
24, 2024. After felicitating with the President, Engr.
signified their commitment to boosting the image of
Margaret Aina Oguntala, FNSE on her assumption
the Society. She therefore pledged that the Society
of office as the 34th and 1st Female President, he
will expect them to source for ways of patenting the
gave information that prize-giving event which has
respective innovations. She assured them that NSE
been exclusively designed for presentation of award
though at its lowest ebb will assist them by talking
to students with the best innovation projects will
to other agencies to see how they could help them
this year give awards to Lecturers that have also
financially.
distinguished with innovative projects. He said
that there were very unique innovative projects
that are set to be presented on the said day. He

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 News

Standing, Executive Secretary of NSE, Engr. Joshua Egube, FNSE giving

vote of thanks at the end of interactions between Madam President and
the COMPODET Officials.

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 News

Director General of ECN Takes Tour of NEC Phase II

T
he Director General of
Energy Commission
of Nigeria (ECN), Dr.
Abdullahi Mustapha, on
Wednesday, April 24, 2024 took
tour of the Phase 2 complex of
the NEC Headquarters. Shortly
after a Presidential interview
conducted as a route to enable
the ECN Chief Executive become
a Corporate Member of NSE, he
was conducted round the facility
by the President of NSE, Engr.
Margaret Aina Oguntala, FNSE
and Deputy President of NSE,
Engr. Alimasuya A. Rabiu, FNSE,
FAEng, MFR.
Dr. Mustapha commended
Engineers for the initiative of
coming up with such a magnificent
Visit to the Power Room
edifice. He commended the effort
by the Society on the deployment expanding the renewable energy was crucial especially that NSE is
of solar energy in powering the project already commissioned spear-heading the adaptation of
building and re-echoed the at the NEC Headquarters. The curricula and teaching methods
pledge by ECN to support NSE to visit was in part fulfilment to ensure that engineering
boost the solar installations and of the objectives of NSE, to professionals and students are
increase the capacity. engage in collaborations with innovative. Additionally, she said
It would be recalled that during government agencies with a view that training programmes were
a courtesy visit to the Director to contributing to the holistic being created and developed to
General of ECN, on Thursday, development of the country. upskill and reskill NSE members
April 4, 2024, Madam President to meet the demands of the 4th
The President also requested for
invited the Commission to be Industrial Revolution (4IR).
collaborations on the NSE Smart
part of efforts of the Society in Innovation Hub adding that this

Tour of NEC Phase II

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 News

Middle, President of NSE, Engr. Margaret Aina Oguntala, FNSE, on her Immediate left, Deputy President of NSE, Engr. Ali A. Rabiu, FNSE, FAEng,
MFR, next is Executive Committee Member in Charge of Membership Services Engr. Abraham Aghadike, FNSE, Madam President’s Immediate
Right, Director General of ECN, Dr. Abdullahi Mustapha, 3rd on Madam President’s left, Executive Secretary of NSE, Engr. Joshua Egube, FNSE, 3rd
on Madam President’s right, Director of Membership Services, Engr. Babatunde Odunlami, FNSE, Engr. Osunde Collins, FNSE next to the Executive
Secretary,Assistant Director Media, Mr. Henry Terseer Iortim, First left, Sectional Head, Membership Services, Mr. Oluwa Joshua Adewale.

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 News

NSE, Women Organisation to Deepen Women

Involvement in Infrastructure Development

Madam President, Engr. Margaret Aina Oguntala, FNSE and Dr. Olajumoke Akiode President WICA

P
lans are underway by the Nigerian equally commended her efforts and advocacy role in
Society of Engineers (NSE) and Women in mentorship of young professionals in the field and
Infrastructure Community Africa (WICA) to efforts at wooing more women into the industry.
work towards the elimination of gender imbalance
Madam President further assured of the Society’s
within the infrastructure development chain. This
willingness to partner with organisation to
was the thrust of discussions between the President
vigorously promote women participation in
of NSE, Engr. Margaret Aina Oguntala, FNSE
infrastructure development activities.
and the convener of WICA, Mrs. Olajumoke M.
Akiode, Wednesday, April 3, 2024, at the National WICA is an advocacy platform that seeks to connect
Engineering Centre (NEC) Headquarters, Abuja. all women actors in the infrastructure sector in
one place and build a network among experts,
Mrs. Akiode told Madam President during the
employers and organisations to enable them to be
courtesy call that more women needed to be
more productive and successful. This, according
encouraged to play active roles in infrastructure
to Mrs. Akiode, will contribute to the creation of
development in the country. She said that
an inclusive infrastructure plan for Nigeria and the
involvement of a larger number of women in
African continent.
activities will have concomitant impact accelerated
development of Nigeria and the entire Africa.
She said: “We are needed in engineering; the
world is suffering because women are left
behind and the world will move faster if more
women are part of the development efforts.
“We want NSE to be a partner to collaborate
with us in our advocacy for the involvement
of more women in infrastructure development
holistically.”
Madam President welcomed Mrs. Akiode warmly and
commended her for devoting quality time in tracking
women involved in infrastructure development. She

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 News

NSE Ready to Assist FG Revitalise Iron, Steel

Industry, says Oguntala

T
he Nigerian Society of Engineers (NSE) has top echelon of the Institution has been marked by
reaffirmed its commitment to supporting the dint hard work and relentless pursuit of excellence.
Federal Government to achieve success in She congratulated the new Chairman and his EXCO
its efforts at revitalising the iron and steel industry. for the leadership roles that they were assuming by
The pronouncement was made by the President of the inauguration.
the Society, Engr. Margaret Aina Oguntala, FNSE,
Engr. Prof. Salawu, while delivering his address
on Wednesday, April 17, 2024, at the occasion of
thanked members of the Institution for the
the inauguration of the 12th National Chairman
confidence they have reposed in him by giving him
of the Nigerian Institution of Metallurgical, Mining
and Material Engineers (3M), Engr. Prof.
Abdulrahman Asipita Salawu, MNSE.
It could be recalled that in January
2024, the current administration of
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu made
a major move towards reviving the
iron and steel industry by setting up
a Ministerial committee to work out
modalities for bringing that policy
direction to fruition.
The NSE President, Engr. Margaret Aina
Oguntala, FNSE, who was represented
Deputy President, Engr. Ali A. Rabiu, FNSE, FAEng, MFR, with the President
at the 3M event by the Deputy of NAAT, Comrade Ibeji Nwokoma
President, Engr. Alimasuya A. Rabiu,
FNSE, FAEng, MFR, stated that the Deputy President, Engr. Ali A. Rabiu, FNSE, FAEng, MFR, Discussing with the Chairman of 3M
Society is ever poised for full support for Engr. Prof. Abdulrahman Asipita Salawu, MNSE
the Federal Government’s initiative by
working closely and providing professional advice
the opportunity to provide leadership.
to the constituted Ministerial Committee so as to
help the committee succeed on the assignment in “First and foremost, I extend my heartfelt
the interest of the larger economy. gratitude to each and every one of you for
entrusting me with this great responsibility.
“We are all aware that the current
administration of His Excellency, President Bola I am very much aware of the profound
Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, has made a commitment challenges and opportunities that lie ahead
towards revitilising the iron and steel industry and I am committed to leading our Institution
in Nigeria by setting up a Ministerial committee with integrity, vision and dedication”, the
for that purpose in January. Chairman said.
This is the reason why it is imperative now, Engr. Prof. Salawu stated that top on the agenda
more than ever before, that this Institution, of 3M under his watch was to foster collaborations
the 3M must reposition itself for higher and partnerships with stakeholders in government,
responsibilities. The National Secretariat industry and the academia. “By harnessing the
will reach out to you more often for informed collective expertise, the resources of our diverse
advices that we shall be dishing out to the membership, we can address the complex
government as necessary”, she said. challenges facing our industries and unlock
opportunities for growth and development”, he
Madam President also told guests at the event
added.
that Engr. Prof. Salawu has proven himself to be
a focussed professional in the field of engineering,
adding that his credentials, experience and passion
for advancing the profession are evident in his
works. She said, the 3M Chairman’s journey to the

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 Branch/Divisions

The NSE Maitama Branch to officially install a

unique Standard Solar Powered Bus stop shelters/
Street lights in FCT.

I
t was another breakthrough for the Nigerian
Society of Engineers Maitama Branch and
indeed the Nigerian engineering personnels
at the FCTA Transportation Secretariat after a
wonderful unique design presentation on solar
powered bus stop shelter/street light project by
the Chairman Engr Dr Okoye Ugochukwu Henry
FNSE FNIEE and his team were given approval for
immediate implementation within the FCT.
Indeed, the Director, Traffic Management
Department of the FCTA transportation Secretariat
ALHAJI Wadata was impressed by the detailed
design of the bus stop shelter community
engineering project of the society/Branch, stating
that it’s of great quality and will be surely adopted
by the FCTA Transportation Secretariat moving
forward.
The high delegates from the Dignity Branch during
the visit includes the executive committee and
the community engineering/innovation committee
members as shown in the pictures below for your
delight.
Engr. Kenedy Iko-Ojo MNSE
Publicity Secretary
NSE Maitama Branch.

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