Margaret Aina Oguntala is the 34th and first female President of the Nigerian Society of Engineers (NSE) in its 66-year history. A graduate of Chemical Engineering from the University of Benin, she is a Fellow of the Nigerian Society of Engineers (NSE), Nigerian Society of Chemical Engineers (NSChE), Nigerian Institution of Environment Engineers (NIEE) and Nigerian Institution of Safety Engineers (NiSafetyE). Oguntala is the MD/CEO of Bamsat Nigeria Limited, which is specialised in environmental consultancy, oil and gas services, fire and safety. She is also the Executive Director of Kenol Nigeria Limited. Her service has been exemplary throughout her membership of the NSE for over 29 years, rising through the ranks to her current position. She has earned over 57 awards and presented more than 35 papers, demonstrating her unwavering commitment to advancing knowledge in her field. In this interview with IJEOMA THOMAS-ODIA, Oguntala shares her transformative journey, resilience and commitment to advancing the engineering profession and society as a whole.
Take us through your journey into becoming an engineer?
I graduated as a Chemical engineer from the University of Benin. My professional journey as an engineer began with my service as a Corps Member at North Brewery Limited in Kano, where I served as an Operator and Assistant Process Supervisor. This initial experience provided me with practical insights into the engineering field and helped shape my career aspirations.
Subsequently, I joined Afro International Enterprises Ltd in Matori, Lagos, in 1988 as a Chemical Sales Executive. I steadily ascended through the ranks to become the Marketing Manager. These years honed my skills in sales, marketing and business management, which proved invaluable when I later ventured into entrepreneurship.
In 1992, I founded my own company, Bamsat Nigeria Limited. Initially a chemical sales outfit, Bamsat Nigeria Limited, under my leadership, has experienced significant growth and diversification. We expanded into environmental consultancy, oil and gas services, and fire and safety.
With your impressive skills and accomplishments, how were you able to defy all odds and constantly remain at the top?
To say that I have always remained at the top will be far-fetched. I have been in valleys and have some struggles in my life. My story has been a journey of continuous learning, dedication and a deep commitment to professionalism.To get to the top, I have always prioritised staying updated with the latest developments in engineering and technology. This involves not only continuous education and professional development but also actively engaging with industry trends and innovations. To stay on top, I keep a strong network of colleagues; collaborating with talented professionals and learning from their experiences. One may be blessed with innate skills but you need people to assist in honing these skills further. Additionally, being passionate about whatever you are doing will help drive your dreams and efforts. So, whether I am advocating for policies that benefit my beloved profession, mentoring young engineers or leading initiatives that promote sustainability and innovation, passion has helped me a lot to overcome obstacles and remain relevant. Lastly, providence and the support of my husband and family are also crucial to staying focused and achieving what I am today.
As the first female president of the NSE in its 66 years of existence, what would you say helped you break this jinx?
I do not want to use the word ‘jinx’ because it wasn’t a jinx that NSE has never had a female president in the last 66 years. It wasn’t bad luck but rather a natural turn of events. At the beginning, engineering had mostly been a male-dominated profession unlike the teaching, legal and nursing professions. What has helped is the corporate belief of the majority of members of the Society that the time is ripe for a female to lead. It could have been any of the equally competent and suitable female engineers ahead of me in the profession, but God has chosen to honour me to become the first female president. It is a great honour and I’m grateful for the opportunity given to me by my colleagues to lead them at this crucial time in the affairs of the country.
Other factors that might have made them pick me are: My unwavering dedication and hard work to any assignment given to me. From the early stages of my career, I committed myself to excellence in all my endeavours, continuously seeking to improve my skills and knowledge. Secondly, support from colleagues, both male and female, played a crucial role. Throughout my career, I have been fortunate to have mentors, promoters and supporters who believe in my potential and provide guidance and encouragement. Another critical factor has been resilience and determination. Overcoming barriers and biases require perseverance and a strong belief in my capabilities. In a nutshell, and as I mentioned above, the collective, progressive and evolving mindset within the NSE and the broader engineering community has been instrumental in my being elected president.
You are also a serial entrepreneur running your firms. What has stood out in your entrepreneurial journey?
I appreciate the recognition and being labelled as a “serial entrepreneur.” However, I prefer to be viewed as someone with an entrepreneurial mindset, who has continuously experimented with various ventures to test their viability. My journey has been an ever-evolving and rewarding experience, characterised by several pivotal factors that have significantly contributed to my achievements. For any entrepreneurially minded person to succeed, the standout factors are a clear vision, adaptability, a strong team, continuous learning, customer-centricity and strategic partnerships. These elements have not only contributed to the growth of my firms but have also provided a fulfilling and enriching entrepreneurial experience for me.
In your almost three decades of practice and impact in the field of engineering, what are some of the changes that have occurred and how can they get better in this time and age?
That’s a tough one because in the last three decades, numerous and significant advances have taken place in the world that have impacted the field of engineering.
The engineering field is a dynamic profession and we as engineers mirror happenings in the larger society to design, innovate and generally make the world a better place to live. The world has seen remarkable technological advancements, from the rise of Computer-Aided Design (CAD) and simulation software to the integration of Artificial Intelligence (AI) and the Internet of Things (IoT). These technologies have revolutionised how engineers design, analyse and manage engineering projects. Mostly, digital transformation has streamlined project management, data analysis and communication within engineering teams. The adoption of digital tools has increased productivity and reduced errors. Further integration of the well-known digital twins, Augmented Reality (AR) and Virtual Reality (VR) has enhanced project visualisation and planning. Additionally, investing in cybersecurity measures is essential to protect sensitive engineering data and that is why our first upskilling training for young engineers is on ethical hacking and cyber security.
However, these advancements and innovations are improving every day at such a rapid pace that there is a concern they may spiral out of control. The focus should now be on utilising these advancements for positive purposes rather than for destruction and war. As a mother, I feel a sense of urgency about addressing this issue. I am absolutely confident that engineers will continue to enhance the use of renewable materials and integrate comprehensive sustainability assessments into every project, which is incredibly exciting. There’s a growing emphasis on sustainable practices and green engineering, driving the push for renewable energy sources, energy-efficient designs and sustainable materials, all of which are at the forefront of modern engineering.
I believe that women like you are helping other young women believe it is possible. What advice do you have for a young woman who wants to study engineering?
It is indeed a privilege to inspire and support young women who aspire to enter the field of engineering. For a young woman aspiring to embrace engineering, the first step is to follow your passion. Engineering offers numerous specialisations, so find what excites you and pursue it with dedication. Your passion will help you overcome challenges and achieve success. Alongside this, seeking mentorship is crucial. Connect with mentors who can provide guidance and support. Their experiences can help you navigate your career path and stay motivated. Building a strong foundation is equally important. Focus on understanding the fundamentals of engineering, as a solid educational background is essential for success. Embrace lifelong learning by staying curious and committed to continuous education through workshops and courses to keep your skills up to date. Networking actively is another key aspect. Join engineering societies, attend conferences, and participate in industry events. Networking can open doors to new opportunities and provide valuable insights.
In addition to technical expertise, balance your skills by developing soft skills like communication, teamwork and problem-solving. These are crucial for effective engineering and leadership. Cultivate resilience, as engineering can be demanding. Developing resilience helps you navigate obstacles and setbacks, and every challenge you overcome builds your strength.
Finally, focus on making a positive impact through your work. Engineering has the power to make a significant positive difference; so work on projects that contribute to society and the environment.
Share with us some of your key initiatives in the field of engineering?
Thank you very much for this question. Engineers work in teams to achieve set objectives, recognising that a tree does not make a forest. In the engineering family, the hierarchy starts with the engineer at the apex, followed by engineering technologists, technicians and artisans. Each role is essential, and even with a strong initiative, an engineer needs the support of the entire team to bring projects to fruition.
My commitment to teamwork is evident in my advocacy for sustainable engineering solutions. I have spearheaded numerous projects aimed at addressing environmental challenges, focusing on renewable energy, energy efficiency and sustainable infrastructure. These initiatives reflect my dedication to integrating environmentally responsible practices into engineering. My advocacy extends to gender diversity within the field, exemplified by the establishment of the Margaret Aina Oguntala Capacity Development Academy (MAOCADA). Through MAOCADA, I have initiated mentorship programmes, scholarships for female engineering students, and workshops designed to build confidence and skills in young women aspiring to enter engineering. My dedication to high standards in infrastructure development is evident in my active involvement in inspection teams, ensuring that projects comply with engineering standards and regulatory requirements, ultimately contributing to community well-being and safety. Engaging with local communities to address their specific needs through engineering solutions has been a particularly fulfilling aspect of my work, showcasing the role of engineering in enhancing the quality of life.
Transitioning from hands-on projects to leadership roles, I have also made significant contributions within professional engineering organisations. In these roles, I have influenced policy, advocated for the profession and driven strategic initiatives. Rising through the ranks to become the first female Chairman of the NSE Ikeja Branch from 2009 to 2011, I led my team to complete the first phase of the permanent secretariat building, the Ralph Alabi Engineering Centre. As Vice President of the NSE from 2014 to 2016, I successfully attracted partnerships and external support, notably with Samsung, bringing significant benefits to NSE members. My commitment to enhancing the NSE’s physical infrastructure included facilitating the donation and installation of solar street lights at the NSE secretariat by Kenol Nigeria Limited. Throughout my career, I have led efforts to promote professional development, research and collaboration among engineering professionals, reflecting my unwavering dedication to advancing the field of engineering.
In these dynamic times, what should women do differently to stay at the top of their chosen fields?
The time is indeed dynamic so women should be ready to take the bull by the horn through taking several strategic steps to stay at the top of their chosen fields. Because a woman has to do more than their male counterparts to be recognised, I offer the following suggestions:
To keep pace with the rapidly changing technological and industry advancements, a woman must continuously update her skills and knowledge through formal education, online courses, workshops and certifications. She must stay abreast of the latest trends and innovations in her field to remain competitive and relevant. Networking is crucial for career advancement. Attend industry conferences, join professional associations and connect with peers and mentors. A robust network can provide support, opportunities and valuable insights. Find mentors who can offer guidance, advice and support based on their experiences. Equally important is to mentor others; this not only helps build a supportive community but also reinforces your own knowledge and leadership skills. Focus on cultivating leadership skills such as strategic thinking, decision-making and effective communication. Taking on leadership roles in projects or professional organisations can provide practical experience and enhance your visibility. Utilise the latest technologies and digital tools to enhance productivity and efficiency. Staying proficient with new tools and platforms can give you a competitive edge and streamline your workflow. Maintaining a healthy work-life balance is essential for long-term success and well-being. Set boundaries, prioritise self-care and make time for activities that rejuvenate you. A balanced life contributes to sustained productivity and job satisfaction. Be open to change and adaptable to new situations. The ability to pivot and embrace new opportunities, even in the face of uncertainty, is a valuable asset. Flexibility and resilience can help navigate the challenges of a dynamic professional landscape. Develop a strong personal brand that reflects your expertise, values and professional goals.
For example, I am known as the ‘Erelu of the world’. That is a well-crafted personal brand that has enhanced my reputation and opened doors of opportunities for me. Women should not be afraid to innovate and take calculated risks. Pioneering new ideas, approaches or projects can distinguish you as a leader and a forward-thinker. Embrace the challenges that come with risk-taking as opportunities for growth and advancement. By adopting these strategies, women would not only stay at the top of their chosen fields but also drive significant change and progress within their industries. It’s about combining continuous improvement with strategic action, fostering a supportive network and advocating for oneself and others.
How are you able to combine your many portfolios as an entrepreneur, mentor, leader, scholar, family woman and still be at your best?
Interesting question! Do you know that it is when questions like this are put to me that I also ask myself; “Margaret, how are you able to do this?”
Balancing multiple portfolios as an entrepreneur, mentor, leader, scholar and family woman while striving to be at my best in each role is indeed challenging but incredibly rewarding. One of the most crucial skills I’ve developed is the ability to prioritise tasks and manage my time efficiently. Before becoming president, I used various tools and techniques, such as to-do lists, calendar scheduling and time-blocking to ensure that I allocate time effectively to each of my responsibilities. This helps me stay organised and focused on what matters most. Nowadays, I have a personal assistant that does my appointment scheduling. Setting clear, achievable goals for each area of my life helps me stay aligned and motivated. Whether it’s business objectives, academic milestones, personal growth or family commitments, having specific goals allows me to measure progress and stay on track.
As a judge of good character, I recognise brilliance and hard work in people. I delegate tasks and responsibilities to capable team members and trust them to execute their roles effectively. Building a reliable team and fostering a collaborative environment ensures that work gets done efficiently, allowing me to focus on strategic decision-making and mentorship. Having a strong support system, both professionally and personally, is invaluable. My husband, family, friends, colleagues and mentors provide the emotional and practical support needed to balance my various roles. Their encouragement and understanding make it possible to manage multiple commitments effectively. Taking care of my mental and physical well-being is essential for sustained success. I practice mindfulness, exercise regularly and make time for activities that rejuvenate me. Self-care ensures that I remain energetic, focused and capable of handling my diverse responsibilities. Clear and effective communication with my team, family and colleagues helps in managing expectations and ensuring smooth operations. Regular check-ins, transparent discussions and feedback loops are crucial for maintaining harmony and productivity across all areas of my life.
Ultimately, passion and a strong sense of purpose drive me. I am deeply committed to my entrepreneurial ventures, mentorship, leadership roles, scholarly pursuits and family. This intrinsic motivation keeps me dedicated and enthusiastic about my work and personal life.
What is your life mantra?
My life mantra is: Empower, Innovate and Inspire. This mantra encapsulates my core values and serves as a guiding principle in everything I do.
