The Nigerian Society of Engineers (NSE) has thrown its weight behind President Bola Ahmed Tinubu's strategic focus on developing the nation's blue economy. The endorsement came as over 6,500 engineers and their spouses registered for a major international conference in Ibadan.
Engineering Innovation for a Sustainable Blue Economy
NSE President, Engr. Margaret Aina Oguntala, made the declaration during a pre-conference media briefing in Ibadan on Monday, December 1, 2025. She stated that the administration's creation of the Ministry of Marine and Blue Economy marks a crucial pivot away from Nigeria's traditional dependence on crude oil revenues.
The week-long 2025 International Engineering Conference, Exhibition and Annual General Meeting opened at the International Conference Centre, University of Ibadan, and will run until Friday, December 5. Oguntala revealed that the 6,500 online registrants are expected to be joined by more delegates, including international participants, registering on-site.
"The blue economy represents vast opportunities in food security, climate resilience, biodiversity conservation, maritime transport and tourism," Oguntala explained. She emphasized the conference's goal is to support the government by producing a practical roadmap for the sustainable use of ocean and water-based resources to drive national prosperity.
A Gathering of Distinguished Personalities
The event has attracted a high-profile guest list. President Tinubu is expected as the Distinguished Guest of Honour, with Oyo State Governor, Engr. Seyi Makinde, serving as Chief Host. Former President Olusegun Obasanjo, a Fellow of the NSE, will attend as Special Guest of Honour.
The Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Adegboyega Oyetola, is billed to deliver the keynote address. The conference also boasts royal participation from accomplished engineers: His Imperial Majesty, Oba Rashidi Adewolu Ladoja (ARSA I), and Oba Abimbola Akeem Owoade I, the Alaafin of Oyo, both respected Fellows of the Society.
Conference Activities and Expected Outcomes
The agenda is packed with plenary and technical sessions, exhibitions, cultural activities, and specialized programs for young engineers and spouses. A significant highlight will be the conferment of the Society's prestigious Fellowship on 481 engineers, while five eminent personalities will receive honorary fellowship awards for their contributions to engineering development.
Activities commenced with the Engr. Alade Ajibola Golf Tournament and National Engineering Games, which concluded on Sunday. The Fellowship Conferment Ceremony is scheduled for 2:00 p.m. on Tuesday.
Oguntala commended the media for its support and reaffirmed the NSE's commitment to advancing policies that strengthen national development. She expressed confidence that the conference outcomes would provide the government and stakeholders with strong technical insights to effectively drive Nigeria's blue economy agenda forward.
