The immediate past Director-General, National Identity Management Commission (NIMC), Aliyu Aziz, has urged young graduating engineers to stay informed about developing trends in the industry and be prepared to adapt and contribute to the changing landscape, writes Adeyemi Adepetun.
Speaking at the 2023 Engineering Graduates Induction Ceremony of the engineering graduates of Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria, Aliyu said the dearth of skilled labor, inconsistent policy frameworks, and under investment hamper the sector’s growth.
Aziz said in Nigeria, the engineering landscape is marked by infrastructural development, with a focus on energy, transport, and housing, stressing that while the nation boasts rich oil reserves, there’s a pressing need for diversification, leading to investments in renewable energy, transportation projects, and innovation startups. However, he said Nigeria faces unique challenges.
The former NIMC DG, who spoke on “The World Ahead: Roles of Science,
Technology & Innovation,” said additionally, the global challenge of adapting to climate change impacts Nigeria significantly, given its vulnerability to desertification and flooding. These are areas of opportunity for computer simulations.
Aziz said the engineering landscape in Nigeria, though faced with challenges, is ripe with opportunities. He said as the world pivots towards sustainable, tech-driven solutions, Nigeria’s journey mirrors the global trajectory but with its unique flavors.
According to him, embracing the future requires both Nigeria and the global community to harness the potential of engineering to reshape the world for the better.
On a global scale, engineering industries grapple with fast-paced technological changes, sustainability imperatives, and the need for interdisciplinary collaboration.
In the current global landscape, the engineering industry is characterised by innovation, sustainability concerns, and digital transformation. The Internet of Things (IoT), artificial intelligence, cloud computing, blockchain, cybersecurity, and renewable energy solutions dominate the landscape.
“The world is advancing rapidly in these areas, please stay informed about these trends and be prepared to adapt and contribute to the changing landscape,” he stated.
Saying there are rewards for engineers in Nigeria, Aziz said the application of creative thinking, problem-solving, and ingenuity to develop novel solutions to complex problems are by default engineers training.
“As engineers we must acknowledge the pivotal role of science in shaping our understanding of the world. Science is the bedrock upon which all engineering knowledge is built. It is the relentless pursuit of knowledge and truth that enables us to develop technology and innovate. But it’s not just about theoretical knowledge; it’s about questioning the world, experimenting, and exploring the unknown.
“Our commitment to the laid down scientific method of enquiry will continue to be the compass guiding our professional and personal lives. As engineers, you have harnessed and internalized these principles to design, create, and innovate, turning theoretical knowledge into practical solutions.
“However, science alone is not enough. Technology, the practical application of scientific principles, is what empowers us to shape the world,” he stated.
Charging the inductees to be proactive, Aziz, also an alumnus of ABU, listed seven key focus for them, including becoming problem solvers, globally inclined, must continued to learning, ethically focused, become entrepreneurs, must mentor and share knowledge and empathetic, stressing that engineering is not just about equations and calculations but about people. “Build with empathy, understanding the needs and concerns of those you serve,” he stated.
The former NIMC boss reminded the inductees that the path ahead is illuminated by science, driven by technology, and shaped by innovation, stressing that as engineers, “you are the pioneers of this journey, and your contributions will be the guiding lights for future generations. I have no doubt that the Class of 2023 will lead with vision, integrity, and a commitment to making the world a better place.”