Mudiame University Vice-Chancellor Represents NSE President at Adam Okoene 4th Annual Public Lecture

The Vice-Chancellor of Mudiame University, Irrua, Prof. (Engr.) A.I. Omojie, represented the President of the Nigerian Society of Engineers (NSE), Engr. Margaret Aina Oguntala, FNSE, FAEng, at the 4th Annual Public Lecture and Distinguished Personalities Award Ceremony organized by the NSE Ekpoma Branch.

The event, held in Ekpoma, Edo State, brought together eminent engineers, government officials, academics, captains of industry, and distinguished personalities to deliberate on the theme:

“Development of Local Content Technology: What Level Are We in Nigeria?”

The Vice-Chancellor led the delegation from Mudiame University to the prestigious gathering, reaffirming the University’s commitment to advancing engineering education, innovation, research, and national development.

A major highlight of the occasion was the recognition of Engr. Adams C. Okoene, FNSE, FAEng, a respected member of the Board of Trustees of Mudiame University, Irrua, as the 2026 Annual Lecture Laureate and Distinguished Personality. The honour celebrated his outstanding contributions to engineering practice, leadership, mentorship, and national development.

The event attracted several notable dignitaries, including:

• His Excellency, Senator Monday Okpebholo, Governor of Edo State, represented at the occasion.
• Engr. Ali Alimasuya Rabiu, President of the Nigerian Society of Engineers, represented by Prof. Emmanuel Aluyor, FNSE.
• Chief Anthony Ehizojie Abumere II, Father of the Day.
• Engr. Adams C. Okoene, Annual Lecture Laureate.
• Prof. Sunday O. Onohaebi, National Institute of Construction Technology and Management, Uromi, who delivered the thought-provoking public lecture.
• Hon. Chief Engr. Victor Sabo Edoror, Commissioner representing the Federal Character Commission.
• Senator (Hon.) Dr. Joseph Ikpea.
• Prof. Eunice Omonzokpia, Vice-Chancellor of Ambrose Alli University, Ekpoma, who served as Chief Host.
• Engr. Dr. Sunday Fidelis Iyere, Chairman of the Nigerian Society of Engineers, Ekpoma Branch.

In his welcome address on behalf of the NSE President, Prof. Omojie commended the Ekpoma Branch for sustaining a lecture series that promotes practical engineering solutions to Nigeria’s developmental challenges. He noted that engineering remains central to addressing issues such as infrastructure deficits, technological advancement, industrial growth, environmental sustainability, and local content development.

The keynote lecture emphasized the urgent need for Nigeria to deepen indigenous technological capacity, invest in engineering innovation, and strengthen local content policies to accelerate national industrialization. Participants were encouraged to leverage local expertise and research to build sustainable infrastructure and create home-grown solutions capable of driving economic transformation.

The event also celebrated individuals whose exceptional service and achievements have significantly advanced the engineering profession and contributed to societal development.

Speaking after the ceremony, members of the Mudiame University delegation described the programme as an inspiring platform that reinforces the University’s vision of producing industry-ready graduates, fostering innovation, and strengthening partnerships with professional bodies such as the Nigerian Society of Engineers.

Mudiame University remains committed to excellence in engineering education, research, entrepreneurship, and technological advancement, while continuing to support initiatives that promote sustainable national development through science and innovation.