Embrace innovation, collaboration, NSE Lagos urges engineers

Embrace innovation, collaboration, NSE Lagos urges engineers 

By Dada Jackson

 

Chairman of the Nigerian Society of Engineers, Lagos Branch, Engr Olukorede Keisha, has stressed the need for every engineer to embrace innovation and collaboration in order to achieve maximum success in all their projects to improve the lot of the society.

This, she said, was particularly required in addressing impact of climate change, inadequate infrastructure and other challenges being faced in megacity like Lagos.

She said this in a goodwill message delivered to mark the 2025 World Engineering Day.

In embracing innovation, Keisha said, “We must champion cutting-edge technologies and solutions that promote resource efficiency, reduce environmental impact, and enhance the resilience of our infrastructure.

“We must encourage and support our younger engineers to be at the forefront of this innovation.”

She urged engineers to prioritise sustainability, adding that this should be integrated into every aspect of their work, from design and construction to operation and maintenance.

“We must adopt sustainable practices that minimise waste, conserve energy while protecting our environment.”

She noted that engineering solutions require collaboration across disciplines, sectors, and communities.

“We must forge strong partnerships with government, industries, academia, and civil societies to achieve our shared goals.”

 

She also said, “In Lagos, a vibrant and rapidly growing megacity, the imperative for sustainable development is more critical than ever.

“We face unique challenges, from managing our increasing population viz-a-viz not enough infrastructure to mitigating the impact of climate change and ensuring equitable access to resources. As engineers, we are at the forefront of addressing these challenges.”

She said, “On this auspicious occasion of World Engineering Day, i.e March 4th, 2025, a day recognized by UNESCO, I stand before you as the Chairman of the Lagos Branch of the Nigerian Society of Engineers, with a profound sense of purpose and a renewed commitment to our profession’s vital role in shaping our future.”

Commenting on the theme, she said that the World Federation of Engineering Organisations had chosen a theme that resonates deeply with the challenges and opportunities of our time: “Shaping our sustainable future through engineering.

“This theme is not merely a slogan; it is a call to action, a mandate for every engineer to embrace innovation, responsibility, and foresight in all our endeavours.

According to her, engineers must hold a position of trust and responsibility; uphold the highest ethical standards in their work, ensuring that solutions are safe, reliable, and beneficial to the society.

She said, “To meet the demands of a sustainable future, we must invest in the education and training of our engineers, equipping them with the knowledge and skills necessary to address complex challenges.”

Keisha expressed the commitment of the Lagos Branch of the NSE in playing a leading role in shaping a sustainable future for the city and the nation.

She said, “We will continue to advocate policies and initiatives that promote sustainable engineering practices, and we will work tirelessly to empower our members to make a positive impact.

“Let us use this World Engineering Day as a catalyst for action, a moment to reaffirm our commitment to building a better future for all.

“Let us work together to ensure that the legacy we leave behind is one of innovation, sustainability, and progress.”