Institute moves to boost local content in Nigeria

The Nigerian Institute of Mechanical Engineers (NIMechE) has urged for strengthening the link between engineering and national security, as well as promoting domestic production of facilities in Nigeria. Engr. Dr. Babagana Modu Tela, the NIMechE National Chairman, made this statement during his welcoming remarks at the 39th International Conference, Exhibition and Annual General Meeting held in Abuja recently.

He emphasized that the conference's theme, "Mechanical Engineers as Catalysts of Innovation for Enhanced Security and Sustainable National Development," is both timely and strategic, as engineering is primarily about solving problems.

Tela called upon mechanical engineers to establish a profession where young Nigerians can confidently claim, "I can design, manufacture, and improve it." He further stated that the 2026 conference will serve as a platform for knowledge exchange, professional networking, technology transfer, and institutional collaboration. According to Tela, mechanical engineers bear the responsibility of contributing professionally and ethically to the development of technologies that bolster national resilience while fostering peaceful and sustainable development.

In his message, Engr. Ali Alimasuya Rabiu, President of the National Society of Engineers (NSE), highlighted the critical role engineering plays in contributing to the creation, adaptation, and maintenance of engineering machinery for national security.