Nigeria must reduce reliance on imported machinery — Engineers

The Nigerian Institution of Mechanical Engineers (NIMechE) has urged the country to reduce its dependence on imported machinery and promote indigenous technology and local manufacturing to tackle security, unemployment, and economic challenges. NIMechE National Chairman, Babagana Tela, emphasized mechanical engineering's crucial role in national transformation during the 39th International Conference, Exhibitions and Annual General Meeting of NIMechE held in Abuja.

Tela argued that mechanical engineering should be seen as an instrument of national transformation, capable of addressing critical issues such as security, energy supply, manufacturing, and economic diversification. He urged the government, universities, polytechnics, research institutions, and private companies to collaborate in converting research findings into practical technologies for local production.

The conference, themed "Mechanical Engineers as Catalysts of Innovation for Enhanced Security and Sustainable National Development," highlighted the need for mechanical engineers to innovate and develop technologies that strengthen national resilience while supporting peaceful and sustainable development. Tela emphasized the responsibility of mechanical engineers to create technologies that address practical issues and called for stronger collaboration among government agencies, academia, industries, and professional bodies to direct engineering expertise towards problem-solving.

The conference aimed to provide a platform for mechanical engineers to exchange ideas, showcase innovations, and develop practical solutions to national challenges. Committee Chairman, Rose Madaki, encouraged attendees to actively participate in technical sessions, exhibitions, and the annual general meeting, expressing optimism that the discussions would lead to tangible outcomes for the profession and the country.