The President of the Nigerian Society of Engineers (NSE), Mrs. Margaret Oguntala, has issued a powerful call for transformational leadership and robust institutional governance to reposition the engineering profession as a cornerstone of Nigeria's national development.
A Chronicle of a Historic Presidency
Oguntala made this declaration during the virtual unveiling of a book titled “Grace-Filled Footprints: A Chronicle of the Exploits of Margaret Oguntala’s NSE Presidency (2024–2025)”. The publication meticulously documents her groundbreaking leadership journey, reforms, and key milestones as the first woman to serve as President and Chairman-in-Council of the 65-year-old NSE.
She described the book not as a tale of perfection, but as a narrative of service anchored on purpose and responsibility. It reflects the collective efforts of her council to establish lasting legacies built on the pillars of integrity, inclusiveness, and innovation within engineering practice.
Building a Legacy of Integrity and Impact
"Together, we sought to leave footprints of integrity in governance, inclusiveness in leadership, innovation in engineering practice and impact in our national development," Oguntala stated. She emphasized that the title was chosen deliberately, as every step during her tenure was "guided by grace — grace to lead, to listen, to endure and to serve."
She outlined that her administration's core mission was to strengthen institutional trust, deepen the profession's relevance, and firmly reposition engineering as a critical driver of Nigeria’s economic and technological future. Strategic focus areas included:
- Amplifying the voices of engineers in crucial national discourse.
- Empowering young engineers and women in the profession.
- Strengthening collaboration with industry, academia, and government.
- Promoting unwavering professionalism across the entire sector.
Oguntala expressed gratitude to the compilers of the book, noting its purpose is to inspire future leadership rooted in character, accountability, and service.
Endorsements and Measurable Achievements
In his remarks, the NSE President-Elect, Mr. Ali Rabiu, commended Oguntala for her substantial contributions to the profession's growth. He described the publication as a valuable reference on leadership and institutional governance for the society's future leaders. Rabiu assured members that his incoming administration would sustain a leadership culture of dignity, dedication, and integrity.
A past President of the NSE, Mr. Kashim Ali, praised Oguntala's tenure for laying a strong foundation for women in engineering and advancing the collective interests of all Nigerian engineers.
Senior Advocate of Nigeria (SAN), Chief Afe Babalola, whose foreword is featured in the book, highlighted Oguntala's achievements as a trailblazer. Represented by Mr. Andrew Enwemada of TotalEnergies EP Nigeria Ltd, Babalola noted the book chronicles the society's shift from planning to tangible progress.
Key quantitative achievements from Oguntala's administration were revealed:
- A 12 per cent growth in NSE membership over the two-year period.
- The establishment of seven new bureaus (six in Nigeria and one overseas).
- The revitalization of the NSE think-tank through partnerships with bodies like the Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency (NIMASA), enhancing the society's policy influence.
The event underscored a unified vision for the engineering sector's future, championing leadership that can navigate Nigeria towards sustainable development and technological advancement.
