Ibadan: The Nigerian Society of Engineers (NSE) has called on engineers across the nation to position themselves as key drivers of national development by adopting innovative approaches, ethical practices, and committing to continuous professional growth. This appeal was made by the Chairman of NSE’s Ibadan branch, Ayokunnu Ojedele, during the 2026 Annual Dinner, which also included the induction of new corporate members, the inauguration of new executives, and a technical presentation.
According to News Agency of Nigeria, the event formed part of a week-long programme celebrating the 2026 Engineering Week for the Ibadan branch. Ojedele emphasized the critical role of competent and innovative engineers in addressing Nigeria’s challenges across various sectors, including infrastructure, transportation, power, and technology. He stressed that engineers must transition from passive roles to active problem solvers, delivering solutions specifically tailored to local environments while adhering to the highest standards of safety, quality, and ethics.
Ojedele highlighted the necessity for the engineering profession to play a leading role in bridging the nation’s infrastructure gap, enhancing productivity, supporting industrialization, and advancing technological progress. He warned that development would remain sluggish if engineers’ contributions were not effectively harnessed and guided by professionalism and accountability.
Discussing the evolving nature of the engineering field, Ojedele noted that advancements such as artificial intelligence, automation, renewable energy, and digital engineering are transforming global engineering practices. He urged members to engage in lifelong learning and professional development to remain competitive on both local and international fronts.
The newly inducted members were encouraged to maintain the dignity of the profession, uphold high ethical standards, and apply their expertise for societal advancement. Prof. Ismaila Salami, the Guest Lecturer from the Federal University of Agriculture, Abeokuta, underscored the importance of prioritizing public interest in professional conduct, emphasizing that engineering ethics are about protecting human lives rather than personal or professional reputation.
Salami noted that Nigeria possesses the necessary resources, population, and land, but urgently requires the engineering capacity to transform these resources into prosperity. Similarly, NSE President Ali Rabiu, represented by former branch chairman Ezekiel Ojekunle, urged new inductees to prioritize ethical considerations in their engineering designs and projects, reminding them that profit should not be their primary motivation.
The event also saw the inauguration of new executives tasked with leading NSE’s Ibadan Branch for the upcoming term, with a call for senior members to mentor younger engineers, aiding them in blending professional conduct with career advancement.