In a compelling address at the World Engineering Day 2025 webinar organized by the Nigerian Society of Engineers (NSE), Lagos Branch, Prof. Oluwatoyin Ashiru, Pro-Chancellor & Chairman of Council, Olabisi Onabanjo University (OOU), emphasized the critical role of engineering in shaping a sustainable future for Nigeria.

Earlier in the program, the Branch Chairman, Olukorede Kesha, delivered a welcome address, setting the tone for the celebrations. She emphasized the significance of World Engineering Day, saying:

“As we celebrate World Engineering Day, we recognize the pivotal role engineers play in creating innovative solutions to our nation’s most pressing challenges. Today, we reaffirm our commitment to harnessing the power of engineering to drive sustainable development, improve lives, and propel Nigeria towards a brighter future. I urge all engineers to embrace this clarion call, to think creatively, and to work collaboratively towards building a better world for all.”

Speaking on the theme “Shaping a Sustainable Future Through Engineering,” Ashiru highlighted that sustainability must be the driving force behind engineering innovations, stressing that Nigeria’s development depends on the ability of its engineers to create solutions that balance economic progress with environmental and social responsibility.

Ashiru underscored the importance of engineering in addressing some of Nigeria’s most pressing challenges, including climate change, energy access, and technological resilience. He pointed out that engineers are not just builders of infrastructure but architects of a future that must be green, resilient, and inclusive.

He noted that young Nigerian engineers are already pioneering innovations that align with global sustainability goals, citing examples such as:

– Recycled Plastic Housing: Initiatives like Brickify, which use plastic waste to construct low-cost, durable homes, reducing environmental pollution.

– Smart Flood Control Systems: AI-driven drainage solutions mitigating the impact of flooding in urban areas like Lagos.

– Renewable Energy Solutions: Companies like Arnergy and Havenhill Synergy deploying solar mini-grids to power rural and urban communities.

– Waste-to-Wealth Initiatives: The upcycling of electronic waste into sustainable products, such as solar-powered lamps by startups like QuadLoop.

Ashiru also highlighted the transformative role of engineering in Nigeria’s digital economy, security, and financial technology (Fintech). He commended Nigerian startups like Flutterwave, Paystack, and Remita for using blockchain technology to drive financial inclusion and ensure secure digital transactions.

Additionally, he stressed the importance of health-tech engineering, citing LifeBank’s innovative logistics system for delivering blood and oxygen to hospitals, a solution that has saved countless lives.

Despite these promising advancements, Ashiru emphasized that Nigeria must do more to support sustainable engineering practices. He outlined key areas requiring urgent attention:

– Stronger policy frameworks to promote renewable energy, digital security, and eco-friendly construction.

– Increased funding for research and engineering startups to scale innovative solutions.

– Greater collaboration between industry and academia to bridge the gap between research and real-world application.

– Mentorship programs to nurture young engineers and drive knowledge transfer.

In his closing remarks, Ashiru posed a critical question to the Nigerian engineering community: “Are we creating solutions that protect the environment, improve lives, and drive economic prosperity?” He urged engineers to move beyond discussions and actively contribute to building a sustainable Nigeria.

“The future is not something we wait for—it is something we create,” he stated. Ashiru concluded with a powerful call to action: “Let us not just celebrate World Engineering Day—let us commit to engineering a better, greener, and more sustainable Nigeria.”

The lecture was attended by several distinguished personalities in the engineering sector, including top executives, academics, and professionals, who all lauded the initiative and pledged their support for sustainable engineering practices in Nigeria.”

The Technical secretary of the branch, Bolaji Adebajo, also gave a vote of thanks, appreciating the efforts of all participants and stakeholders.