The Nigerian Society of Engineers the society held a tribute night in Abuja to honour its past president, Engr Charles Mbanefo. FNSE. Mbanefo, died on October 27 in Abuja.
NSE President Engr. Tasiu Gidari-Wudil led the tribute when he said Mbanefo would be remembered for his contributions to the development of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) through his legendary engineering prowess.
Nigerian Society of Engineers
“Among other things, he will be remembered for establishing the Nigerian Society of Engineers, Abuja Branch in 1984, where he became the pioneer president while I served as secretary
Federal Capital Development Authority
On his return to Nigeria from Canada, Mbanefo joined the Federal Capital Development Authority (FCDA) service as a Principal Engineer in 1982. During his working career, Mbanefo was in charge of the design.
He conducted the research and approval of structural plans and supervised the construction of some main districts and monumental buildings in the FCT. They include the Presidential Villa, the National Assembly, the Supreme Court, the National Secretariat and the National Mosque.
National Stadium
Others are the National Stadium, Transcorp Hilton, International Conference Center, Garki 11 and Jabi districts.
Gidari-Wudil described Mbanefo as an epitome of humanity and a father to all.
“He was always getting to know us on a personal and family level. He was full of wisdom and never lacked for advice,” he said.
“Eng. Mbanefo was loved for the strong benevolent spirit of him. He is going to miss us,” he said.
Regulation of Engineering in Nigeria
Similarly, the Council for the Regulation of Engineering in Nigeria (COREN) described him as thoughtful, intellectual, bold and strong.
Engr Ali Rabiu
According to Engr. Ali Rabiu, President and Chairman of the COREN Council, Mbanefo contributed greatly to the development of his profession and community.
“He was a hard-working person, who directed his energy at the service of God and the interests of humanity.
“`His belief in helping family and community was strengthened to serve selflessly.
“To his credit, he mentored many engineering professionals,” Rabiu said.
Chief James Agubalu
Chief James Agubalu, speaking on behalf of the Anambra State Town Planners Association, described Mbanefo as a man who promoted his culture and educated people to appreciate the culture of other peoples.
Christopher Chigboh
Mr. Christopher Chigboh, former Transport Secretary of the FCDA, expressed his sadness at the death of the Pioneer Chairman of NSE, Abuja Chapter.
Great Man
Chigboh, in his tribute titled “A Great Man and a Mentor,” commiserated with NSE on the death of the structural engineer.
According to him, Mbanefo lived a purposeful life in the service of humanity and his leadership qualities in the engineering sector were extraordinary and worth emulating.
Chigboh said: “Mbanefo was a great man, a mentor and a complete race engineer.
“This tribute is very difficult for me, my heart is heavy. The idea of not seeing you again hurts a lot.
“This is especially when I remember how we met in 1982 and worked together all the time.
Mabuchi Ministerial Complex
“Mbanefo also led the team that designed the Mabuchi Ministerial Complex and in that team I was the coordinator.
Our Lady Queen of Nigeria Catholic Church
“It did not end there, as a structural engineer, he played an important role in the construction of Our Lady Queen of Nigeria Catholic Church, Garki and Holy Family Catholic Church, Life Camp, Abuja.
“These contributions were indelible and reflected Mbanefo’s qualities as a well-rounded, solid breed and an excellent engineer,” Chigboh said.
In addition, he described the deceased as a man who was watched while managing some of the projects in Abuja.
“I will not fail to remember that Mbanefo’s purpose in establishing the NSE, Abuja chapter, then was to secure more input from local citizens.
“In fact, he was a role model and we celebrated him for a fulfilling life.
“Mbanefo remains in our hearts as we bid farewell and may God graciously grant him eternal rest in his bosom,” Chigbo said