Abuja: The Nigerian Society of Engineers (NSE) has inaugurated its Ibeju-Lekki Branch to enhance professional development and offer engineering support to Nigeria’s rapidly expanding industrial corridor. The President of NSE, Mrs. Margaret Oguntala, highlighted the branch’s significance during the inauguration, noting it as a step to integrate engineers from various parts of Lagos and beyond.
According to News Agency of Nigeria, this branch, marked as the 91st of NSE, aims to address the professional needs of engineers in the area, offering convenience and accessibility. The event also witnessed the launch of a N500 million fund for the construction of the branch’s secretariat and the purchase of a bus. Additionally, awards were given to notable personalities for their contributions to the field.
Oguntala emphasized the strategic importance of Ibeju-Lekki, describing it as an area undergoing rapid urbanization and industrial growth. The new branch will serve as a platform for local engineers to engage in professional development and collaborate on projects vital for the engineering profession’s growth. It will also foster innovation and inspire young engineers by providing localized and efficient means to stay at the forefront of industrial growth.
The Chairman of Ibeju-Lekki Local Government, Mr. Abdullahi Olowa, remarked on the branch’s timely inauguration, given the area’s strategic importance in Nigeria’s industrial landscape, notably with the establishment of the Lekki Free Zone and the Lagos Free Zone. Olowa expressed confidence in the branch’s leadership to grow its membership and provide valuable services to uplift the profession.
Mr. Olufemi Dare, the pioneer Chairman of the Ibeju-Lekki Branch, described the branch’s establishment as a strategic response to the area’s transformation into an industrial hub. Dare highlighted the branch’s achievements over the past year, including technical visits and membership campaigns, emphasizing the role of engineers as strategic enablers in development.
Dare also pledged to collaborate with the branch’s members to ensure excellence and innovation while working closely with host communities to support infrastructure and youth empowerment. Mr. Kunle Adebajo, Chairman of Ovie Arup and Partners Nigeria Ltd., emphasized the need for engineers to leverage technology for sustainable development and urged for a circular approach in design and planning.
The NAN reports that 25 individuals, including business mogul Alhaji Aliko Dangote, received awards for their contributions to engineering and Nigeria’s development. Dangote was honored with a global award for industrial leadership and economic development, while other notable awards were given to figures like Mr. Demola Aladekomo for innovation and mentorship, and Mrs. Margaret Oguntala for transformational leadership.