NSE Ibadan charges young engineers on driving innovation

Nigerian Society of Engineers (NSE) Ibadan Branch has called on young engineers to embrace innovation, leadership and entrepreneurship to tackle Nigeria’s infrastructure and development challenges.

The Chairman of the Branch, Ayokunnu Ojedele, made the call on Monday, 17th, during a press briefing /2026 Young Engineers Programme held in commemoration of the 2026 Engineering Week at the NSE Ibadan Secretariat, in Ibadan.

Speaking on the theme “Empowering Young Engineers for Innovation, Leadership and Sustainable Development,” Ojedele said the future of engineering in Nigeria rests largely on the quality, character, creativity and preparedness of young engineers.

He noted that rapid advancements in Artificial Intelligence, Industry 4.0, smart infrastructure, automation and renewable energy are creating enormous opportunities, but also demand that engineers continuously upgrade their knowledge and skills.

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Ojedele urged participants not to limit themselves to job seeking, but to position themselves as job creators, consultants, researchers and leaders.

The Chairman said the programme was designed to create a platform where young engineers can learn from experienced professionals, build networks and develop the confidence to contribute meaningfully to national development.

“As engineers, we cannot afford to remain spectators in this technological transformation. Our young engineers must be prepared to think beyond conventional engineering practice. They must be innovators, problem-solvers, entrepreneurs, ethical professionals, and responsible leaders.

“Nigeria needs engineers who can design and maintain reliable infrastructure, improve energy access, strengthen transportation systems, develop sustainable water solutions, advance manufacturing, improve digital infrastructure and contribute to national security and economic development,” he added.

Speakers at the event included Engr. Professor Abdulwasiu Ajagbe, who spoke on “Engineering Leadership and Innovation for Sustainable National Development,” Dr. Saheed Akolade, who made a presentation on “The Future of Engineering Practice in the Era of Artificial Intelligence and Digital Transformation,” and Engineer Adekunle Adejumo, who spoke on “Bridging the Gap Between Academia and Industry in Engineering.”

Ojedele assured that the NSE Ibadan remains committed to mentorship, professional development, networking and leadership training for young engineers and students.

Earlier, at a press briefing held shortly before the commencement of the programme, Ojedele appealed to government, corporate organisations and stakeholders to support the construction of a befitting NSE Ibadan Secretariat Complex.

He said the proposed complex would serve as a centre for engineering conferences, technical training, research, exhibitions, and collaboration among engineers, academia, industry and government.

“This is not simply a project for engineers. It is an investment in Nigeria’s engineering future. A well-equipped Secretariat will provide a permanent platform for professional development, innovation, mentorship and technical engagement for generations of engineers,” he stated.

Ojedele further stressed the critical role of engineering in national development, from roads, power and water to manufacturing, telecommunications and environmental sustainability.

He called on the media to partner with the Society in educating the public on infrastructure safety, electricity, construction and technological development.

“As engineers, we must move beyond complaining about the problems confronting our country. We must increasingly become part of the solution. Nigeria requires engineers who are innovative, ethical, patriotic, entrepreneurial and prepared to work collaboratively.

“Let us build not only a Secretariat, but a lasting institution for engineering excellence. Let us build engineers. Let us build infrastructure. Let us build innovation. And ultimately, let us build Nigeria,” Ojedele concluded.

One of the speakers at the event, Professor AbdulWasiu Ajagbe, declared that Nation-building is fundamentally an engineering problem, adding that policy provides the intent, but engineering provides the execution.

Speaking on the topic “Engineering Leadership and Innovation for Sustainable National Development,” Professor Ajagbe said Nigeria faces critical gaps in energy access, industrial output, and resilient infrastructure amidst rapid technological shifts globally.

He noted that solving these challenges requires more than traditional design routines, stressing that it demands proactive technical intervention.

Professor Ajagbe, however, charged young engineers to embrace self-leadership and mastery through technical discipline and continuous upskilling.