ILARA MOKIN, Nigeria (FN) — The Nigerian Society of Engineers has called on newly inducted engineering graduates of Elizade University to contribute meaningfully to national development through innovation, collaboration and ethical practice.
The charge was delivered Thursday during the induction ceremony for the university’s eighth cohort of engineering graduates for the 2024/2025 academic session. The event, held in Ilara Mokin, Ondo State, marked the graduates’ formal entry into the professional body.
NSE President Engr. Margaret Oguntala, represented by Akure Branch Chairman Engr. Oluwaseun Adeyeye, emphasized the evolving nature of engineering and the need for young professionals to stay abreast of emerging technologies and global best practices.
“As engineers, we must be willing to think outside the box, challenge conventional wisdom, and develop innovative solutions to real-world problems,” Oguntala said. “Collaboration and networking are vital in our profession. I encourage you to build relationships with colleagues, mentors and industry leaders.
She urged the inductees to uphold the highest standards of ethics and integrity, and to remain committed to excellence in their careers.
Acting Vice Chancellor of Elizade University, Prof. Sunday Adeyemo, described engineering as a calling to improve human life and encouraged graduates to embrace lifelong learning.
“Your degree comes with a profound responsibility — to innovate with integrity and to uphold the ethics of your profession,” Adeyemo said. “The world you are stepping into is rapidly evolving. You must stay ahead through creativity and collaboration.”
Dean of the Faculty of Engineering, Prof. Dare Adetan, echoed the call for continuous learning, noting that engineers must be equipped to tackle complex challenges ranging from infrastructure and energy to climate and digital transformation.
“To remain relevant, you must stay curious and embrace innovation,” Adetan said. “Opportunities abound for thoughtful and purpose-driven engineers.”
Representing the federal government, a senior official from the Ministry of Innovation, Science and Technology, Dr. Amina Yusuf, commended the NSE for its role in shaping future engineers and urged graduates to align their skills with national priorities.
“Nigeria needs engineers who are not only technically sound but also socially conscious,” Yusuf said. “We look to you to help solve our infrastructure challenges, drive industrial growth, and contribute to sustainable development.”
Parents and community members in attendance expressed pride and optimism about the graduates’ future.
“I believe these young engineers will help transform our communities,” said Olumide Adebayo, a parent of one of the inductees. “We need their energy and ideas to build a better Nigeria.”
Established in 1958, the Nigerian Society of Engineers serves as the umbrella body for all practicing engineers in the country, promoting engineering excellence, technological advancement and professional ethics. The induction of graduate engineers marks a key milestone in their transition to professional practice.
