Embracing Innovation, Sustainability Key To Solving Nigeria’s Challenges – NIMechE
•By OYENIYI AWOJOODU
IBADAN — THE Nigerian Institution of Mechanical Engineers (NIMechE) has urged engineers in various fields to embrace innovation, sustainability, and ethics to tackle the country’s challenges.
The National Chairman of NIMechE, Dr. Babagana Tela, made the call over the weekend at the inauguration of Engr. Kabir Aminu as the 10th Chairman of the Ibadan branch, alongside other executive members, in Ibadan.
Tela added that the challenges facing Nigeria demand more than technical expertise but also require sustainability and ethical responsibility.
The event, themed “Redefining the Engineering Profession for a Changing World,” highlighted the critical role of engineers in shaping a sustainable future.
He said that redefining engineering also means enhancing professional ethics and integrity, adding that trust in engineering solutions is paramount in the current rapidly changing world.
“Today’s theme is not only timely but profoundly significant. We are living in an era marked by rapid technological advancement, climate challenges, shifting economic realities, and evolving societal expectations,” he said.
“In such a world, engineering cannot remain static. It must evolve, adapt, and lead,” he added.
According to him, engineers must first embrace innovation as a culture in order to be able to redefine engineering in the current changing world.
He added that the future belongs to engineers who can think beyond conventional boundaries—those who integrate artificial intelligence, renewable energy systems, smart manufacturing, and sustainable design into everyday practice.
“Mechanical engineers, in particular, must transition from traditional roles to becoming solution-driven innovators addressing global and local problems,” he said.
He charged the new Ibadan branch chairman to see his new position as a responsibility to inspire transformation, strengthen collaboration, and elevate the relevance of the profession in this dynamic world.
The new Branch Chairman, Engr. Kabir Aminu, in his speech, said that the new leadership of NIMechE in Ibadan would focus on fostering a cordial relationship between young and senior professionals in the profession.
He promised to sustain professionalism, promote innovation, and support the advancement of mechanical engineering practice within the chapter level and beyond.
“One of our key priorities will be membership growth and professional development. We will expand our reach by engaging artisans, young engineers, and professionals within our jurisdiction.
“Through mentorship programs, technical seminars, and professional training initiatives, we will ensure that our members continue to develop the skills and knowledge required to thrive in today’s engineering landscape,” he said.
“Our goal is to create a strong and supportive professional community where members feel connected, empowered, and inspired to contribute to the advancement of the profession.”
Another important focus will be strengthening collaboration with academia, industries, and relevant institutions.
“By building strategic partnerships, we can combine knowledge, share resources, and create opportunities that promote innovation and technological development,” he added.
“Such collaborations will also help bridge the gap between theoretical knowledge and industrial practice, thereby strengthening engineering education and professional practice, “he said.
The Royal Father of the event, the Alafin of Oyo, Oba Akeem Owoade, a mechanical engineer, emphasized that technology is redefining industries, economies are evolving, and new challenges demand innovative solutions as the world is changing at an unprecedented pace.
Represented by his wife, Queen Abiwumi Owoade, Alafin said that engineers, in the present era, must not only adapt but also lead. He added that Nigeria, with its immense potential, requires engineers who are missionaries, ethical, and forward-thinking.
“Our traditional institutions will continue to align with progress, ensuring that our heritage evolves alongside modern advancement,” he said.
“I encourage every engineer to uphold the highest standard for your profession, to embrace continuous learning, and to remain dedicated to nation-building,” he added.
The event also featured keynote speeches, lectures, awards, and the commissioning of NIMechE ambassadors, among others.