The Nigerian Society of Engineers (NSE) has called on professionals to develop indigenous smart engineering solutions to tackle Nigeria’s energy deficits, urban congestion, flooding, and infrastructure gaps, while reducing reliance on imported technologies.
Speaking at the 2026 World Engineering Day celebration held virtually on Wednesday, Prof. Hilary Owamah, Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Academic) of Delta State University, Abraka, described Nigeria’s development challenges as opportunities for innovation.
“Nigeria faces energy shortages, urban congestion, waste management pressures, and water supply gaps. Yet these challenges present enormous engineering opportunities,” Owamah said. He noted that Nigeria generates over 32 million tonnes of solid waste annually, much of which remains underutilised.
He urged engineers to leverage technologies such as waste-to-energy systems, renewable energy, smart transportation networks, and digitised construction processes to develop intelligent, sustainable infrastructure tailored to local realities.
“Smart engineering is not merely automation or digitisation for prestige. It integrates engineering science, digital intelligence, data-driven systems, and sustainability. It predicts, adapts, and optimises,” Owamah added. He highlighted that AI, predictive modelling, and smart sensors can transform static structures into resilient infrastructure capable of mitigating flooding and environmental risks.
On digitalisation, Owamah advocated for the use of Building Information Modelling for system simulations, Geographic Information Systems for spatial planning, and predictive maintenance to extend infrastructure lifespan.
The NSE President, Ali Rabiu, reinforced the call for practical, innovative solutions. “The theme of this year’s celebration, ‘Smart Engineering for a Sustainable Future through Innovation and Digitalisation,’ is timely. Engineers must help the government address insecurity, improve infrastructure sustainability, and strengthen economic growth,” he said.
Rabiu encouraged young engineers to be creative, uphold professionalism, and contribute to national development, stressing that Nigeria’s future infrastructure will reflect the competence and vision of its engineers.
The NSE’s participation in the global event for the seventh consecutive year demonstrates its commitment to knowledge enrichment, capacity building, and aligning the engineering profession with global development trends.
