The Nigerian Society of Engineers (NSE), Ibadan branch, has called on engineers to drive innovation that would strengthen national security, protect critical infrastructure and promote sustainable development in Nigeria.

The call was made at a news conference held on Monday at the NSE Secretariat in Ibadan to unveil activities for the 2026 Engineering Week of the branch.

The week-long event has as its theme: “Engineering Innovation for National Security, Critical Infrastructure Protection and Sustainable Development in Nigeria”.

The chairman of NSE Ibadan branch, Ayokunnu Ojedele, said the theme was deliberately chosen to address Nigeria’s pressing developmental and security challenges.

He tasked engineers to take the lead in providing solutions that secure the nation’s assets and improve citizens’ quality of life.

Speaking on youth development, the chairman said the branch was prioritising young engineers to prepare them for emerging technologies and industry demands.

He said that this informed the inclusion of the Young Engineers Programme as a key event of the week, noting that the future of engineering in Nigeria depends largely on the quality, character, creativity and preparedness of young engineers.

Mr Ojedele said that the Young Engineers Programme has as its theme: “Empowering Young Engineers for Innovation, Leadership and Sustainable Development.”

According to him, it is designed to equip them with the skills to thrive in AI, Industry 4.0, smart infrastructure and renewable energy.

“We cannot afford to remain spectators at this stage of rapid technological transformation. Our young engineers must be innovators, problem-solvers, entrepreneurs, ethical professionals and responsible leaders,” the chairman said.

To address the gap between academia and industry, Mr Ojedele disclosed that the branch would collaborate with industries to organise a seminar for young and student members to ensure that they see practical applications of what they learn in class.

He urged young engineers to embrace continuous professional development, build strong networks, seek mentorship and develop entrepreneurial skills rather than only seeking jobs.

According to him, Nigeria needs engineers who can provide solutions to its challenges.

“Engineering must remain central to building a more prosperous, resilient and sustainable Nigeria.

“The Ibadan Premier Branch will continue to create platforms that connect young engineers with experienced professionals for national development,” he said.

Mr Ojedele said that other activities lined up for the week included a symposium and exhibition, technical visits to some critical road projects, an annual general meeting and election of new executives, induction of members, and a dinner and awards night.

The Young Engineers Programme will also feature lectures on the topic, “Engineering Leadership and Innovation for Sustainable National Development,” and a keynote speech on “Bridging the Gap Between Academia and Industry in Engineering”.

Highlights of the programme include a courtesy visit to the Olubadan, Oba Rasidi Ladoja, and a paper presentation on the topic, “The Future of Engineering Practice in the Era of Artificial Intelligence and Digital Transformation”. 

(NAN)