Deputy Governors Kadri Hamzat of Lagos State and Noimot Salako-Oyedele of Ogun State have called on consulting engineers nationwide to uphold integrity, embrace innovation, and lead sustainable infrastructure development in Nigeria.
The appeal was made on Thursday in Lagos during the investiture of Engr. Kunle Adebajo as the 21st President of the Association for Consulting Engineering in Nigeria (ACEN).
Stakeholders at the event highlighted the pivotal role of engineering in driving national growth and long-term economic transformation. Hamzat, represented by Olufemi Daramola, emphasized that engineers bear immense responsibilities that must be approached with “gratitude, humility and a deep sense of duty.”
“Nigeria’s infrastructure deficit remains a major barrier to economic growth, with millions lacking reliable electricity, safe water, and efficient transportation,” Hamzat said. “Engineering must go beyond technical execution to become thoughtful, ethical, and people-centred. The development of our country depends on quality engineering products and processes.”
He urged engineers to adopt global safety standards, digital innovation, and position themselves as trusted policy influencers. “We have the talent in Nigeria. When Nigerians go abroad, they don’t just thrive; they lead. With focus, standards, and innovation, the nation’s development is in our hands,” he added.
Salako-Oyedele stressed that consulting engineers sit at a critical intersection of procurement standards, project governance, cost discipline, and long-term asset performance. “The advice you give today determines whether infrastructure stands the test of time or becomes a burden on future generations,” she said. She encouraged ACEN to defend professional standards, prioritise mentorship, and ensure continuous professional development.
Engr. Kunle Adebajo, in his acceptance speech, pledged to strengthen ACEN’s policy influence, promote digital transformation, and expand opportunities for young engineers. Immediate past President, Engr. Kam-Selem Alhaji Bukar, recounted achievements including advocacy for procurement reform, capacity building for smaller firms, and expanded international partnerships.
Keynote speaker Engr. Bamboo Adebowale warned that engineering failures erode public trust and safety, urging the profession to lead strategically and proactively in shaping procurement frameworks and policy design.
The investiture brought together government officials, industry leaders, and academics, reaffirming ACEN’s role in advancing Nigeria’s infrastructure development and reinforcing public confidence in the engineering profession.
