President Bola Tinubu has called on Members of the Nigerian Society of Engineers (NSE) to serve the nation with their sharp minds and skilled hands to make the country great in the areas of infrastructure and industrialisation.
Director, Press and Public Relations of the Federal Ministry of Works, Mohammed Ahmed disclosed this in a statement on Wednesday, November 20, 2024.
Ahmed explained that President, represented by the Minister of State for Works, Mohammed Goronyo, made the call at the 2024 International Engineering Conference, Exhibition and Annual General Meeting (AGM) of the Nigerian Society of Engineers (NSE) held in Abuja on Tuesday, 19th November, 2024.
The President said the theme of this year’s conference, “Sustainable Engineering Solutions to Food Security and Climate Change reflects the shared belief that, with skilled hands, sharp minds, and a strong sense of purpose, “we can engineer a better, more prosperous Nigeria.”
He reinstated his administration’s commitment and determination to strengthen infrastructure and industrial growth in the country.
He listed his Administration’s goals to include, strengthening infrastructure, and industrial growth as a foremost priority, so as to build and sustain resilient infrastructure that meets the demands of a growing population and a dynamic economy, promoting sustainable energy solutions.
“I urge you to continue striving for excellence, to embrace innovation, and to contribute your skills and talents to the Nigeria of our dreams”.
In his Remarks, the Minister of Agriculture and Food Security, Senator Abubakar Kyari, emphasised the critical role of engineering in achieving sustainable food systems, which align with the Government’s priority to combat food production challenges, highlighting factors like insecurity, vagaries of the weather and economic distributions that have impacted food security.
He reiterated the need of expertise and the importance of collaboration between Engineers and the Agriculture sector toward implementing practical solutions. The theme of the event succinctly captures the Administration’s commitment under the “Renewed Hope Agenda” to ensure food security, also tackle climate challenges.
In a Welcome Address, the President, NSE, Engr. Margaret Oguntala, highlighted the relevance of the theme, “Sustainable Engineering Solutions to Food Security and Climate Change” and detailed the society’s initiatives and achievements.
Engr. Oguntala dwelled on the role of Engineers in the national challenges, particularly those of food security and renewable energy, she outlined NSE’s efforts to empower young engineers through training in areas such as data analytics, software development, and smart farming. She also revealed plans for an engineering village and demonstration farms to showcase modern agriculture techniques and renewal energy Mohammed A. Ahmed.
She advocated for better recognition and remureration for engineers, seeking for reforms to improve starting salaries for public sector engineers.
