A gathering of engineers is set to take place at the University of Lagos, Akoka, on November 30, 2024, to honour Engr. Idiat Amusu. This special event will celebrate the birthday of this distinguished engineer, who holds the honour of being Nigeria’s first female graduate of Agricultural Engineering and the fourth APWEN National President. But it’s more than that, writes, Isqil Najim.
In appreciation of her inspiring leadership and mentoring roles over the years, the Association of Professional Women Engineers of Nigeria (APWEN) Lagos Chapter, under the leadership of Engr Atinuke Wuraola Owolabi-Agbaje will also inaugurate a mentorship scheme in her honour. This is in addition to a public lecture being organised on the same day. The event will bring together the who’s who of engineering, as Engr Amusu’s influence spans engineering spheres across the country.
The event is scheduled for Saturday, November 30, 2024, at the Oyebolu Resource Center, Works Department, University of Lagos, Akoka, and will commences at 11 am.
The theme of the event, “Empowering Generations Through Lifelong Learning, Innovation, and Collaboration,” was chosen to promote the importance of continuous learning and mentorship in the engineering field, one of the long standing advocacies championed by Engr Amusu through the years.
Engr Idiat Aderemi Amusu, through her career, has left an indelible marks and impacted generations of engineers. Born in Kano in 1952, she shattered gender barriers by becoming the first female Agricultural Engineering graduate in Nigeria from the University of Nigeria, Nsukka. Ever since, she has not looked back.
Her career trajectory have taken her through academic and industry practices. She held academic positions at prestigious institutions like Yaba College of Technology, where she notably served as the pioneer Dean of the School of Technology. Beyond academia, she has actively contributed to the engineering profession through her roles in professional organizations such as COREN and the Nigerian Society of Engineers.
Amusu’s commitment to mentoring and inspiring future generations, particularly women, is a testament to her passion for human capital development. She has been a role model for countless individuals, both males and females, encouraging them to pursue their dream and excel in their chosen fields. Her dedication to promoting diversity and inclusion in engineering has made a significant impact on the industry.
Her contributions to engineering and her unwavering dedication to empowering others have earned her recognitions and respect.
Join us on November 30 and UNILAG Akoka to celebrate this iconic woman. The event is open to general Public.
Expected Speakers at the event
Engr. Olawunmi Gassper, a seasoned expert in vocational education and administration. He has held significant leadership positions in Nigerian higher education, including Rector of Lagos State Polytechnic and Chairman of the Council of Heads of Polytechnics in Nigeria. With a distinguished academic background from institutions like Cranfield University and Manchester Business School, Gassper is a Chartered Engineer and Fellow of several professional engineering institutions. His contributions to the field extend beyond academia, as he has served on various boards and committees, including the National Board for Technical Education. Most recently, he led the Lagos State Technical and Vocational Education Board (LASTVEB), focusing on improving vocational education standards through strategic partnerships.
Engr. Abiola Kosegbe is a distinguished civil engineer and public servant who has made significant contributions, through her career, to the development of Lagos State. Her career has spanned various roles in government, including the Ministry of Environment, Lagos Waste Management Authority, Ministry of Works & Infrastructure, and the Lagos State Building Control Agency. She has been instrumental in implementing innovative initiatives to improve building control, waste management, and infrastructure development. Kosegbe’s dedication to public service extended to her numerous leadership roles within professional organizations like the Nigerian Society of Engineers, NSE and the Association of Professional Women Engineers of Nigeria, APWEN.
Ms. Oyindamola Egbeyemi recently, appointed as the Director of Programs and Coordination at the Lagos State Employment Trust Fund (LSETF). With a Master’s degree in Chemical Engineering from Imperial College London and experience from The Foreshore School and PwC, Egbeyemi has proven to be a consistent advocate for people management and MSME development.
Some of the distinguished engineers expected are: the president of the Council for the Regulation of Engineering in Nigerian, (COREN) Prof Abubakar Z Sadiq who will be a Distinguished Guest of Honour along with the President of Nigerian Society of Engineers, (NSE), Engr Margaret Oguntala; the National President of the Association of the Professional Women Engineers of Nigeria (APWEN), Engr Adebisi Osim, who will Chair of the Occasion.