The Abeokuta Branch of the Nigerian Society of Engineers (NSE) has reiterated its commitment to advancing industrial growth and economic development in Ogun State during a strategic courtesy visit to the Ogun State Ministry of Trade, Industry and Investment.
The delegation, led by the Branch Chairman, Engr. Olumayowa Idowu, FNSE, met with the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry, Engr. Kehinde Akintomide, FNSE, and the Honourable Commissioner, Mr. Adebola Sofela, in a move aimed at deepening collaboration between the engineering profession and government in promoting industrialization and investment.
During the engagement, the Chairman congratulated Engr. Akintomide on his appointment as Permanent Secretary and his recent elevation to the Fellowship cadre of the NSE, describing both milestones as well-deserved recognitions of professional excellence and leadership.
He noted that having a seasoned engineer at the administrative helm of a ministry central to industrialization and investment reinforces the strategic value engineers bring to governance, policy execution, and sustainable development.
Highlighting Ogun State’s reputation as one of Nigeria’s leading industrial hubs, the Chairman emphasized the critical role of engineering expertise in infrastructure planning, industrial layout, energy systems, manufacturing processes, quality assurance, and environmental sustainability. He clarified that the visit went beyond ceremony, representing NSE Abeokuta’s readiness to support the Ministry with professional and technical input.
Key areas of proposed collaboration outlined by the Chairman included technical advisory services on industrial and infrastructural projects, promotion of local content and indigenous engineering capacity, capacity building for technical personnel within the public sector, advocacy for safety and compliance standards, and support for strategic initiatives such as the Sigma Industrial Park in Ewekoro.
In his response, the Permanent Secretary, Engr. Kehinde Akintomide, FNSE, expressed appreciation to the NSE Abeokuta Branch for the visit and warm goodwill. He acknowledged that his appointment and Fellowship elevation carry greater responsibility to uphold professionalism and deliver impactful service to the State.
He assured the delegation that the Ministry welcomes structured collaboration with professional bodies to enhance project implementation, strengthen industrial policy execution, and promote sustainable economic growth.
Similarly, the Honourable Commissioner, Mr. Adebola Sofela, commended the NSE delegation and underscored the indispensable role engineers play in achieving the Ministry’s mandate. He observed that Ogun State’s industrial success has been anchored on sound engineering input and forward-looking infrastructure development.
The Commissioner further stressed that partnerships with professional institutions such as NSE are vital for sustaining investor confidence, ensuring compliance with standards, and enhancing competitiveness within the State’s industrial landscape. He affirmed the Ministry’s willingness to work closely with NSE Abeokuta in driving innovation and industrial excellence.
The visit concluded with a mutual commitment to sustained cooperation aimed at consolidating Ogun State’s status as a premier destination for industrial investment and economic prosperity in Nigeria.
