The newly elected National Chairman of the Nigerian Institution of Electrical and Electronics Engineers, NIEEE, Alkali Tijjani, has said engineers must play a leading role in driving Nigeria’s technological transformation amid rapid global advances in digital innovation.
Mr Tijjani made the pledge in an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria on Wednesday in Maiduguri after emerging as the national chairman of the professional body.
He said the engineering profession was witnessing unprecedented changes driven by digital technologies, renewable energy, automation and artificial intelligence, making it imperative for Nigerian engineers to take the lead in addressing the country’s technological and infrastructure challenges.
According to him, the institution’s mandate extends beyond protecting the interests of its members to promoting research, innovation and ethical professional practice.
“Our responsibility extends beyond advancing the interests of our members. We must continue to uphold the highest standards of professional ethics, encourage continuous learning, promote research and innovation, and provide practical solutions to the technological and infrastructural challenges confronting our nation,” he said.
The NIEEE chairman stressed the need for stronger collaboration with government institutions, academia, industry players, regulatory agencies and international professional bodies to boost the institution’s relevance and contribution to national development.
He pledged to run an inclusive, transparent and accountable administration that would ensure all chapters and members participate in shaping the future of the institution.
Mr Tijjani identified institutional strengthening, membership development, digital transformation, professional capacity building, strategic partnerships, youth engagement and increased visibility for the NIEEE as the major priorities of his administration.
He also urged chapter chairmen nationwide to promote professionalism, innovation and unity through technical seminars, public lectures, industrial visits, mentoring programmes and community outreach initiatives.
The NIEEE chairman further encouraged young engineers and student members to embrace innovation, excellence and lifelong learning, assuring them of greater opportunities for professional growth and leadership development.
He expressed confidence that with unity, professionalism and a shared commitment to service, the institution would strengthen its position as a leading force for technological advancement and national development in Nigeria.
