WORLD ENGINEERING DAY: NSE Advocates Smart Engineering Adoption to Accelerate National Development

The President of the Nigerian Society of Engineers (NSE), Engr. Ali Alimasuya Rabiu, FNSE, F.ASCE, FAEng, MFR, has called for the adoption and deployment of smart engineering solutions to accelerate Nigeria’s development.

Smart engineering involves the application of advanced technologies and innovative design approaches to create systems, products, and structures that are efficient, sustainable, and interconnected. It represents a combination of creativity and cutting-edge tools designed to solve real-world challenges and promote national progress.

Engr. Rabiu made the call on Wednesday, March 3, 2026, during the Society’s webinar organised to commemorate the World Engineering Day for Sustainable Development (WED). He described the 2026 theme, “Smart Engineering for a Sustainable Future through Innovation and Digitalisation,” as timely and appropriate, noting that it aligns with Nigeria’s pressing development needs.
“I warmly welcome this theme and I am confident that our deliberations will generate valuable insights. I also believe that at the end of our submissions, there will be abundant benefits for our country, recommendations which government is expected to consider and implement for national development,” Engr. Rabiu said.
He urged members of the Society to utilise the platform to generate innovative ideas capable of helping government provide practical solutions to the persistent insecurity challenges facing the nation. He stressed that addressing insecurity is essential to improving trade relations with other countries and attracting investments from major global corporations.
“Today provides an opportunity for us as engineers to reflect on the vital role our profession plays in shaping society and driving sustainable development. Across the world, engineering continues to provide solutions that improve infrastructure, strengthen economies, and enhance the quality of life of people,” he added.

In his welcome address, the NSE Vice President (Corporate Services), Engr. Dr. Ben Osita Okoh, FNSE, noted that the theme of this year’s celebration reminds engineers that the future will increasingly depend on their ability to harness technology, embrace innovation, and apply digital tools in solving complex development challenges. He further stated that NSE’s participation in the celebration reflects members’ shared commitment to continuous learning, collaboration, and professional growth.
The keynote address was delivered by Engr. Prof. Hilary Owamah, FNSE, Deputy Vice Chancellor (Academics), Delta State University, Abraka. The webinar was moderated by Engr. Prof. Joseph Akanmu, FNSE, of the Faculty of Engineering, University of Lagos.
Other discussants included Engr. Thankgod Itua Egbe, FNSE, Technical Director, Cyber Crescent Ltd; Engr. Hauwa Ibrahim Khaleel, FNSE, Director, Power and Infrastructure, Ministry of Public Procurement, Kano; and Engr. Olumayowa Ayodeji Idowu, FNSE, Nigerian Representative, Young Engineers Future Leaders, WFEO.
Engr. Muilli Nimot, FNSE, Chairman of NSE Ikeja Branch, and Engr. Dr. George Okpanachi, FNSE, Past Chairman of NSE Giri Branch, served as rapporteurs, while Engr. Bosede Oyekunle, FNSE, served as the Programme Director.