- He noted that artificial intelligence is steadily altering how tasks are performed
- he said the growth of the Dangote Group has been built on strong engineering foundations and technical innovation
Aliko Dangote has warned that the rapid rise of artificial intelligence could significantly reshape the engineering profession, potentially displacing traditional design processes long handled by human experts.
Speaking in Lagos on Friday during his induction as an Honorary Fellow of the Nigerian Academy of Engineering, Eko Hot Blog gathered that the President and Chief Executive of Dangote Industries Limited said AI is already transforming multiple sectors and may soon take over key aspects of engineering work.
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He noted that artificial intelligence is steadily altering how tasks are performed, warning that it could eventually replace certain engineering functions if professionals do not actively engage with its development.
Dangote urged engineers to take a leading role in guiding how AI is integrated into both education and practice, stressing the need for innovation to ensure human expertise remains relevant.
Despite the technological shift, he reaffirmed the importance of engineering in national development, describing it as a critical driver of industrialisation and economic progress.
Drawing from his experience, he said the growth of the Dangote Group has been built on strong engineering foundations and technical innovation. He pointed to major projects, including large-scale refinery and fertiliser plants, as examples of how engineering underpins industrial success.
According to him, the company employs a significant number of engineers and technology professionals, who play a central role across its operations.
Dangote also highlighted investments in capacity building, noting that the group has established training programmes to equip young engineers with practical skills and exposure to global best practices.
He, however, cautioned that Nigeria must expand its engineering talent base to remain competitive internationally, referencing countries like China that have heavily invested in engineering education.
In his remarks, the President of the Nigerian Academy of Engineering, Rahamon Bello, said the honour recognises Dangote’s contributions to engineering-led industrial growth.
He described the Dangote Refinery as one of Africa’s most ambitious industrial projects, reflecting the scale of investment and technical achievement driven by the group.
Also speaking, Babajide Sanwo-Olu, represented by his Special Adviser on Works and Infrastructure, Engr. Adekunle Olayinka, praised the refinery as a landmark engineering accomplishment.
He added that Dangote’s investments have created jobs and stimulated industrial development across the region, reaffirming the state government’s commitment to supporting initiatives that advance engineering and economic growth.
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