The Nigerian Institute of Electrical and Electronic Engineers (NIEEE) has blamed the rising incidence of quackery in the engineering profession on the growing disconnect between academic qualifications and practical competence.

The institute’s National Chairman, who spoke at the inauguration of Engr. Obasi Sam Ojah as the third chairman of the NIEEE Calabar Chapter, said the over-reliance on paper qualifications had created room for unqualified practitioners to thrive.

He said although academic certificates might secure employment, practical skills remain the true measure of professional relevance and competence, stressing that professional bodies must continue to uphold standards through regular training, certification and enforcement.

The national chairman urged engineers to prioritise continuous professional development, while charging the newly inaugurated leadership to strengthen professional standards, expand membership and sustain collaboration with academic institutions and industry stakeholders.

In his acceptance speech, Ojah described his election as a call to service and pledged to lead the chapter with integrity, transparency, competence and accountability.

He identified the widening gap between academic certification and practical competence as one of the biggest challenges facing the profession.

He noted that many graduates possess the required qualifications but lack industry-relevant skills, while experienced technicians are often excluded because they do not hold professional certification.

According to him, the chapter will focus on encouraging professional registration, promoting continuous technical training and creating opportunities for engineers to acquire globally competitive skills.

Ojah said the chapter would embark on an aggressive membership drive through stronger engagement with student chapters in the University of Calabar and the University of Cross River State to ensure a smooth transition from student membership to graduate and corporate membership.

He also announced plans to institutionalise quarterly professional training programmes over the next two years.

As part of the initiative, the chapter has signed a Memorandum of Understanding with Jervis Smart Solutions Limited to organise practical training on ETAP power system analysis software at a subsidised fee of N50,000.

The new chairman disclosed that discussions were also ongoing with the Industrial Training Fund to expand technical training opportunities for members through strategic partnerships.

He commended the immediate past chairman, Engr. Kassim Ojiebe, for strengthening the chapter through the establishment of student chapters and closer collaboration with tertiary institutions.

The inauguration attracted fellows of the institute, senior engineers, academics, industry stakeholders, government officials and students.