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Ogun State Deputy Governor, Noimot Salako-Oyedele
The Ogun State Deputy Governor, Noimot Salako-Oyedele, on Saturday, called for increased investment in smart transportation systems, reliable power generation, and efficient water and sanitation networks to drive the country’s industrial growth.
Salako-Oyedele also challenged the nation’s engineers to lead the Fourth Industrial Revolution by leveraging smart technologies, automation, and artificial intelligence to transform the manufacturing sector.
The Deputy Governor made this call in her keynote address during the inauguration of Olumayowa Idowu as the 17th Chairman of the Nigerian Society of Engineers, Abeokuta Branch.
Speaking on “Fostering Industrial Growth and National Development: The Role of Engineering and Innovation in Driving Nigeria’s Economic Transformation,” she stressed that solid infrastructure is the foundation of industrial growth, urging the government to prioritise investment in roads, power, and digital infrastructure.
“A strong industrial sector requires a solid infrastructure backbone.
“We must invest in smart transportation systems, reliable power generation, and efficient water and sanitation networks.
“The engineering community must champion sustainable infrastructure solutions that are resilient and future-proof.
“The world is undergoing a Fourth Industrial Revolution, where artificial intelligence, automation and smart technologies are redefining industries.
“Nigerian engineers must be at the forefront of this transformation, driving the adoption of smart manufacturing, robotics, and industrial automation,” she said.
Salako-Oyedele noted that the Ogun State Government had made significant strides in fostering an industrial-friendly environment through investments in infrastructure, technology hubs, and business incentives.
She reaffirmed the government’s commitment to positioning Ogun as Nigeria’s leading industrial hub, where engineering and innovation can thrive.
Congratulating the new leadership of the NSE Abeokuta Branch, the Deputy Governor urged engineers to be problem-solvers, not just practitioners.
“Engineering is not just about technical expertise; it is about finding solutions to society’s most pressing challenges,” she added.
Speaking at the event, the National President of the NSE, Margaret Oguntala encouraged members to support their new Chairman and maintain the branch’s reputation for excellence, dedication, and vibrancy.
She highlighted the impact of engineers on society and urged the new NSE Abeokuta leadership to embark on projects that improve the lives of Ogun State residents.
Calling for increased support for the association, Oguntala reaffirmed her leadership’s commitment to ongoing discussions with the Federal Government to maintain engineers’ civil service entry level at Grade Level 10.
In his acceptance speech, the new NSE Abeokuta Branch Chairman, Idowu, pledged to lead with integrity, innovation and inclusiveness.
“Together, we will build on the achievements of our predecessors, foster professional growth, and drive impactful engineering solutions that will elevate our branch, our profession, and our society at large,” he said.
He stated that his leadership would focus on digital transformation, fostering inclusivity, and strengthening the NSE brand to empower engineers and advance the profession nationwide.
