BEING TEXT OF THE INAUGURAL SPEECH OF THE 34TH PRESIDENT OF THE NIGERIAN SOCIETY OF ENGINEERS (NSE), ENGR. MARGARET OGUNTALA, FNSE, ON 20TH JANUARY 2024 AT THE INTERNATIONAL CONFERENCE CENTRE, ABUJA, NIGERIA.
Protocols.
To God be the glory; great things He hath done.
Twenty-seven years ago, when I embarked on my journey within the hallowed halls of the Nigerian Society of Engineers, I could never have envisioned this moment. The notion of leading our noble society as the President, let alone becoming the first female President in our 65-year history, was a distant dream, cast in the realm of unexplored possibilities.
Today, as I stand before you, I cannot but thank God and indeed, everyone who has contributed to shaping my life. This saddle of leadership is a mantle which I accept with humility and purpose. As we take this transformative journey together, my mind is captivated by a single word: “rebirthing.” “Rebirthing” is not just a word; it is a beacon guiding us toward new horizons. It resonates with me as a woman and a mother, embodying the spirit of renewal and nurturing. Just as women embrace the responsibility of nurturing and nourishing life, I solemnly pledge to nurture engineering to new heights during my tenure.
Hence, I am honoured to unveil our theme for the next two years: “Re- birthing the NSE for the Growth, Empowerment, and Advancement of Engineering in Nigeria.” This theme underscores our collective mission, reflecting a commitment to not only continue from the lofty heights to which our Past Leaders have taken the Society but to propel engineering to soaring new heights.
NSE’S JOURNEY OF RESILIENCE, PROGRESS, AND TRIUMPH
Your Excellencies,
In embarking on this transformative journey, we must acknowledge the rich history that has brought us to this moment. Founded in 1958 by visionary Nigerian graduate engineers and students in the UK, the Nigerian Society of Engineers (NSE) has evolved into a symbol of resilience, progress, and unwavering commitment to engineering excellence.
Our history is a testament to the mission set forth by our founders — to shift engineering from a tool of British control to an instrument fostering self-reliance among Nigerians. Over the years, the NSE has weathered adversity, emerging as a beacon of progress.
From its modest beginning with 40 members in 1959, the NSE has grown exponentially to 63,905. With 86 branches globally and 26 professional institutions operating as Divisions within the NSE, we have expanded our capacity for innovation and impact.
Internationally, we have represented Nigeria through memberships in critical organisations like the Commonwealth Engineers Council and the World Federation of Engineering Organisations. Serving as the Secretariat of the Federation of African Engineering Organisations, we promote collaboration within the African engineering community.
Our achievements speak to our commitment to excellence:
- Hosting the World Engineering Conference on Sustainable Infrastructure in 2014
- Pioneering Nigeria’s Infrastructure Report Card in 2015
- Establishing the NSE Smart Innovation Hub for technological advancement
In my assumption of leadership, I carry a profound sense of responsibility and an unwavering belief in our collective potential. We begin a new chapter that is inclusive, innovative, and forward-thinking. Our mission is clear: to rebirth the NSE for the growth, empowerment, and advancement of engineering in Nigeria.
Let us bridge divides, empower the youth, harness innovation, and advocate for the transformative power of engineering. As your President, I am prepared to be a servant leader, to lead from the front, and to work tirelessly to achieve our shared goals. Let us be the architects of change, the builders of dreams, and the champions of progress. Together, we will usher in a new era for the NSE that future generations will look upon with admiration and gratitude.
ENGINEERING EXCELLENCE IN ACTION: OUR STRATEGIC PRIORITIES
We are on a transformative journey with a clear mission: to lead the rebirth of the NSE and elevate engineering in Nigeria. Here is the strategic roadmap outlining our priorities:
- Enhancing Mandatory Professional Development:
We are prioritizing continuous learning, training, retraining, and upskilling of our members. We shall invest in Mandatory Professional Development, ensuring access to quality training and cutting-edge resources. Dedicated platforms will be seamlessly integrated into NSE’s network, making professional development a cornerstone.
- Advancing Technological Innovation:
We are embracing innovation and technological advancement. We shall encourage research, support startups, and champion engineering solutions to Nigeria’s unique challenges. Our goal is to position Nigeria as a hub for engineering
- Empowering VSTEM:
We are prioritising Vocational Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (VSTEM) education to empower future leaders. Strategic endowments will support dedicated institutions, ensuring the thriving of VSTEM education for a generation of STEM leaders.
- Advocacy and Collaboration:
As stewards of progress, Engineers engage with communities and advocate for policies supporting engineering growth. Decades ago, the 15th President of Nigerian Society of Engineers (NSE) , Engr Ife Akintunde , FNSE lamented in the January, 1987 Newsletter that Engineers’ efforts often face indifference at the all levels of leadership. We will continue to collaborate with government bodies, industries, academia, and international organisations. To this end, I hereby charge the government to, among others,
- Implement the GL 09 entry point for Engineers in some of the States that are yet to effect the enhanced entry point for Engineers in Civil Service
- Formulate policies for fair welfare packages/hazard allowances for engineers.
- Implement Executive Order 5 with sincerity of purpose.
- Promote Nigerian-made goods and services.
- Nominate Engineers for the “Policy Coordination, Evaluation, Monitoring, and Delivery Unit which Mr. President announced in his 1st January , 2024 speech.
- Encourage entrepreneurship and provide incentives for small businesses in the extractive industry.
- Promote STEM education for more students to pursue careers in engineering.
- Create an enabling environment for collaborations between engineering companies and universities for developing new technologies. No Nation can grow without an intentional support of Research and Development.
OUR LOGO: A SYMBOL OF UNITY AND PRIDE
Ladies and gentlemen, esteemed members of the Nigerian Society of Engineers,
Our beloved NSE logo holds profound symbolism—a circular emblem reflecting our identity, values, and aspirations. At its pinnacle, an airplane soars, embodying the spirit of aeronautical engineering and our ability to defy limitations. Beneath, a sturdy bridge symbolises civil engineering, connecting communities, and bridging adversities. Two majestic masts adorned with cables represent electrical engineering, reaching for the heavens to illuminate our world. The radiant cogwheel at the heart mirrors the sun’s energy, symbolising mechanical engineering as the catalyst of transformation.
Inscribed within, “Nigerian Society of Engineers, Estd. AD 1958” reminds us of our enduring legacy. Our logo is not just a symbol; it is a promise—to uphold engineering excellence, be architects of change, and illuminate the path of progress for Nigeria. Let us honour our emblem, wearing it proudly as a beacon that guides and unites us in our quest for engineering excellence.
CHARTING THE PATH TO ENGINEERING PROGRESS: MARGARET OGUNTALA PRESIDENTIAL STRATEGIC AGENDA (MOPSA) UNVEILED
Esteemed guests and cherished members of the Nigerian Society of Engineers (NSE)
Setting clear focus areas is paramount to guiding our collective efforts. I am delighted to introduce you to a strategic agenda that will underpin our mission- a roadmap which we have aptly named the “Margaret Oguntala Presidential Agenda,” or MOPSA for short.
MOPSA is not just a set of words; it embodies our vision, “Rebirthing the NSE for the Growth, Empowerment, and Advancement of Engineering in Nigeria.” This meticulously crafted blueprint comprises five key themes, each addressing crucial aspects of our mission. It is not a stand-alone effort but a result of collaborative hard work from our team members who dedicated a year to crafting this comprehensive agenda. Designed as a living document, MOPSA will guide our shared journey and help achieve our collective goals.
APPRECIATION
Your Excellencies, Distinguished Guests, Ladies and Gentlemen, at this juncture I’d like to express my deepest gratitude and appreciation. The journey we are embarking on today is a collective effort, and I am acutely aware that it would not be possible without the unwavering support and dedication of countless individuals.
To my mother who loved and nurtured me, thank you for being the strong and prayerful woman that you are.
To my number 1 cheerleader, the best father that ever lived, my late father, MSE Anthony Adefaratimi Ayeni, I remain eternally grateful.
To my Uncle, my daddy, Rev. Afolabi Olubola, thank you for believing in me enough to steer me towards Chemical Engineering.
To my children and family, your love, understanding, and sacrifices are the pillars upon which I stand.
To my beloved husband, you have been my rock, inspiration, and refuge. Thank you for always standing by my side and being the source of my strength.
To my remarkable mentors, supporters and promoters who guided and nurtured me, your love, commitment and belief in our shared vision have brought us to this moment. I am immensely grateful.
To the esteemed members of Margaret Oguntala Think Tank (MOTT), MOTT-PAC and other numerous committees who have played very essential roles in making this investiture ceremony a reality, your expertise and tireless efforts and contributions have not gone unnoticed.
To the esteemed Past Presidents of the Nigerian Society of Engineers, Fellows, and Council members who have graciously shared their wisdom and guidance with me, your collective leadership has set a high standard that I aspire to uphold. I am deeply honoured to have your support and counsel.
To the President of Nigeria, Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu GCFR, The Keynote Speaker, President of the 10th Senate, Distinguished Senator Godswill Akpabio, GCON, (FNSE), Speaker of the House of Representatives, Hon. Tajudeen Abbas, my Governor, Governor of Ondo State, Hon. Lucky Orimisan Atedatiwa, Ministers, Governors, Royal Fathers of the day, members of the diplomatic Corps, President of World Federation of Engineering Organizations (WFEO), FAEO and WAFEO, the Association of Professional Bodies of Nigeria, leaders of other Professional Associations in Nigeria, Presidents of Engineering Institutions from other parts of the World, Captains of Industries, well-wishers, professional women support groups our beautiful spouses, and all those who have graced this occasion with your presence, your support and encouragement inspire us to strive for excellence. I do the Yoruba traditional kneeling to appreciate you all.
At this moment, I extend my gratitude to all Engineers and professionals present. Your contributions to society and commitment to progress make our world a better place.
CONCLUSION
In conclusion, I would like to share a profound thought by Henry Ford: “Coming together is a beginning. Keeping together is progress. Working together is success.” As we unite, we commence the journey to progress. Through our unity, we achieve steady progress, and by working together with unwavering dedication, success is inevitable. Our journey is just beginning, and I am very excited to walk this path with all of you.
May our shared journey be marked by achievements, discoveries, and the boundless spirit of engineering excellence.
Thank you!
God bless The Nigerian Society of Engineers (NSE).
God bless The Federal Republic of Nigeria.
Engr. Margaret Aina Oguntala, FNSE, FNSChE
President, The Nigerian Society of Engineers.