- Yilwatda highlights engineering role in development
- He urges more investment in technology and innovation
- APC chairman calls for stronger industry collaboration
The National Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Prof. Nentawe Yilwatda, has stressed the need for engineering, innovation and technology to play a central role in Nigeria’s economic transformation and industrial growth.
Eko Hot Blog gathered that Yilwatda made the call on Tuesday during the opening of the 34th Engineering Assembly organised by the Council for the Regulation of Engineering in Nigeria (COREN) in Abuja.
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The APC chairman, who identified as a member of the engineering profession, said the gathering of professionals, government officials, academics and industry stakeholders highlighted the importance of engineering in addressing Nigeria’s development challenges.
He said the theme of the event, “Shaping Solutions, Building a Greater Future,” reflected the need for practical solutions driven by technology and innovation.
According to him, engineering goes beyond technical knowledge, requiring creativity, research, ethical standards and effective leadership to deliver solutions that improve society.
Yilwatda noted that engineers have a major role in strengthening critical sectors, including infrastructure, energy, agriculture, healthcare, telecommunications and industrial development.
He emphasised that Nigeria’s future growth depends on greater investment in engineering education, research, innovation and the development of local expertise.
The APC chairman said countries that achieved rapid economic progress did so by empowering scientists, engineers and innovators to create solutions suited to their own challenges.
He added that Nigeria has the resources and skilled workforce needed to advance technologically if supported by effective policies and strategic investment.
Yilwatda said engineering would remain essential in delivering key projects in transportation, housing, power, manufacturing, mining and the digital economy.
He linked the focus on infrastructure and technology to President Bola Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda, saying engineers would be critical in converting government policies into practical outcomes for Nigerians.
He urged engineers to adopt emerging technologies such as artificial intelligence, robotics, automation, renewable energy and advanced manufacturing while maintaining professional integrity.
Yilwatda also called for stronger partnerships between government agencies, regulatory bodies, universities, professional organisations and private companies to promote innovation and national development.
He praised COREN for its role in maintaining engineering standards and described the annual assembly as an opportunity for knowledge sharing, mentorship and policy discussions.
The APC chairman encouraged young engineers to remain committed to excellence and innovation, saying Nigerian professionals have the capacity to help close the infrastructure gap, improve productivity and support sustainable economic growth.
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