In a time when Nigeria faces major infrastructure and energy challenges, the country’s leading engineers are stepping up with bold ideas and practical solutions. From May 5 to 7, 2025, engineering directors from federal and state Ministries of Works gathered in Abuja for the 45th Annual Conference of Electrical and Mechanical Engineering Departments.
Themed “Application of Electrical and Mechanical Engineering Tools for Economic Growth and Sustainability,” the conference wasn’t just a talk shop—it became a strategic think tank for shaping national development.
Declaring the event open on behalf of the Permanent Secretary, Engr. David Yiltong praised the consistent dedication of Nigerian engineers. He pledged that the Ministry of Works would support the outcomes of the conference, especially those aligned with national goals.
Conference Chairman, Engr. Bukar Mohammed, emphasized that engineering in Nigeria must go beyond maintenance—it must innovate, adapt, and lead the way toward a more sustainable, self-reliant future.
One of the standout voices at the conference was Bozimo E. Joseph, who pushed for the recognition of emerging fields like Environmental Engineering and AI-enhanced systems. He called for formal CNG conversion training centers to help Nigeria hit its ambitious goal of converting one million vehicles by 2027.
Meanwhile, Engr. John Chukwuemeka showcased how solar energy—like the Ministry’s own 1.5MW microgrid project—could prevent grid collapses and power critical infrastructure without relying on the national grid.
Other speakers didn’t hold back. They addressed safety violations, gaps in regulation, and the need for stronger enforcement of COREN standards. Engr. Itodo Emmanuel even recommended mandatory inspections, local material promotion, and hands-on technical education to fight back against substandard work and poor compliance.
Absolutely. This wasn’t just another industry event. The engineers left with a unified voice calling for national recognition of emerging engineering fields, CNG training centers across technical schools, expansion of COREN’s reach and enforcement, and stronger collaboration between public agencies and engineering professionals.
As the world shifts toward cleaner energy and smarter infrastructure, Nigeria’s engineers are showing they’re ready—not just to keep up—but to lead.
