On Friday, September 13, 2024, Engr. David Okeke officially concluded his tenure as Chairman of the Nigerian Society of Engineers (NSE), Awka Branch, and handed over the leadership to Engr. Mrs. Oluchi Maryjane Okoli, the newly elected Chairman.
In his valedictory speech, Engr. Okeke expressed profound gratitude to God for the privilege of serving the branch and acknowledged the invaluable contributions of the 13th Executive Committee.
He reflected on the significant strides made during his tenure, emphasizing the stability, progress, even though there may have been few challenges, he noted that he was happy leaving a united & progressive house having achieved great success.
Looking ahead, Engr. Okeke assured the incoming leadership of his unwavering support and commitment to the branch’s continued growth and success.
He outlined his key accomplishments, highlighting the following:
“During my investiture on 5th November, 2022, I pledged to focus mainly on three areas: Human Capacity development; Members welfare, visibility and awareness; and NSE Engineering Centre.
Human Capacity Development: The branch successfully implemented mentorship programs, facilitated job placements, and fostered collaborations with government and academic institutions. These initiatives aimed to equip members with the necessary skills and knowledge to excel in their professional endeavors.
Members’ Welfare and Visibility: Engr. Okeke prioritized the well-being and recognition of branch members. He spearheaded the organization of science and mathematics quiz competitions, revitalized the Nigerian University Engineering Students Association (NUESA), and arranged industrial visits to enhance members’ professional development and broaden their understanding of the engineering field.
” For the first time in Awka Branch, we conducted two different edition of Science & Mathematics secondary school quiz competitions (4th Edition in 2023 and 5th Edition in 2024).
“Some selected science schools that engaged in the competition were from Federal Government schools, State Government schools, Missionary schools and Private schools.
“The students from the various schools competed among each other through our engineering mentorship, learning and competition programs. The final stage of the competition was aired live at Anambra State Broadcasting Service (ABS), and prizes were given to the winners.
” We revived the Nigerian University Engineering student Association (Unizik Chapter) and nurtured them in various aspect of engineering programs and professional development as follows:
“We did four (4) different mentorship programs in 2022, 2023 and twice in 2024.
“Key courtesy visitations to ministry such as: Housing & Transport. We did placement of our NUESA student at: Innoson Vehicle Manufacturing (15 persons), Anambra State Material Testing Laboratory (3 persons), Ministry of Housing (4 persons), Sabrud (2 persons).
“Industrial Visitations at Innoson Vehicle Manufacturing, Nnamdi Azikiwe University Solar Power Hybrid 2MG, Chisco Institute of Logistics and Supply chain Management, Nnamdi Azikiwe University, Awka & Anambra State Material Testing Laboratory.
” Our industrial visit has also been a top-notch in places like: Innoson Company ltd, Cutix, Nigerian Brewery, Second Niger Bridge, Anambra State cargo Airport, NAU 2MG Solar Power Hybrid, Anambra State Material Testing Laboratory, Chisco Institute & Chain Management Nnamdi Azikiwe University Awka, Sabrud and lot more.
” We believe in caring for orphans and less privileged, therefore, we visited orphanages to give them financial support and we also rendered hospitality to the less privileged and those in hospitals. We performed these rites during our Thanksgiving Sunday service which is held once in every year.
” In 5th January, 2023 our journal was rated among the top journals by Google scholar in the world.
” We have consistently created awareness on causes & remedy of building collapse in Anambra State and in Nigeria generally, through various media, workshop/seminars and live talk at theAnambra State Broadcasting Station. We have also submitted our position paper to the Anambra State Government panel of inquiry 2024 regarding building collapse in the state.
“On our engineering center, this is yet to be actualized completely, however, plans on how to achieve it are going on. A discussion is also ongoing between me, my Vice Chairman, and a Philanthropist developer for its actualization. We have developed a time frame for this Project and a process is already ongoing at the Ministry lands to enable us to properly secure our property.
” In the 2023 group dynamics competition, the NSE Awka Branch was the overall best in Southeast Zone, with an amazing score of 9th position out of 86 Branches and in the key top performance of the main area of assessment such as: top best in professional activities, top best in Branch administration (growth) and top best in finance. And this is the best result Awka Branch has achieved since the creation in 1991 till date’.
NSE Engineering Centre: Recognizing the importance of a dedicated facility to support the branch’s activities, Engr. Okeke made significant progress towards establishing an NSE Engineering Centre. He actively pursued land acquisition and developed comprehensive plans for the construction of the facility.
In her acceptance speech, Engr. Mrs. Oluchi Maryjane Okoli expressed her gratitude to God and the branch members for their trust and confidence in her leadership. She pledged to foster an inclusive and collaborative administration, building upon the strong foundation laid by her predecessor. Engr. Okoli called for unity and support from all members to ensure the continued success and growth of the NSE Awka Branch.
In addition to her professional accomplishments, Engr. Okeke also played a crucial role in promoting the branch’s visibility and influence within the local community. He actively engaged with government officials, industry leaders, and academic institutions to strengthen partnerships and advocate for the engineering profession. His efforts contributed to the branch’s reputation as a respected and influential organization.
As Engr. Okeke handed over the reins to Engr. Mrs. Oluchi Maryjane Okoli, there was a sense of optimism and anticipation for the future of the NSE Awka Branch. The branch was poised to continue its trajectory of growth and innovation under the leadership of its new Chairman.