The Nigerian Society of Engineers (NSE) has inducted 214 engineers into its Fellowship cadre during its 2026 Second Quarter Dinner held in Abuja. Speaking at the event, NSE President Ali Alimasuya Rabiu called on the Federal Government to take urgent and decisive action to address the country's worsening insecurity and economic hardship.
Call for Government Action
In a statement signed by the Society's Acting Executive Secretary, Abdulkadir Aliyu, the NSE President expressed deep concern over the growing wave of kidnappings and other criminal activities across the country. Rabiu emphasized that the safety and welfare of Nigerians must remain the government's top priority.
While reaffirming the Society's commitment to supporting government efforts toward national development, he stressed the need for stronger collaboration among government, professional bodies, academia, industry, and other stakeholders to address the country's challenges.
Economic Hardship and Rising Costs
According to Rabiu, the worsening economic situation has left many Nigerians struggling to cope with rising living costs. He noted that soaring fuel prices, with petrol selling for about N1,350 per litre, have significantly increased transportation costs and placed additional pressure on households and businesses.
He also condemned the increasing cases of abductions, particularly of teachers, pupils, and other innocent citizens, describing the trend as unacceptable and calling for immediate and sustained intervention by security agencies.
Political Activities and Governance
With political activities ahead of future elections gaining momentum, Rabiu urged government officials not to lose focus on their constitutional responsibility to protect lives and improve citizens' welfare. “The security and welfare of the people must remain the foremost objective of governance,” he said.
The NSE President also joined growing calls for improved workers' welfare, urging the Federal Government to undertake a substantial review of the national minimum wage to reflect current economic realities. He expressed confidence that Nigeria possesses the resources and capacity to improve the quality of life of its citizens, provided there is sufficient political will and commitment to implement necessary reforms.
