Posted by Tajudeen Abbas, Speaker of the House of Representatives, has urged for collaboration between the government and professional engineers in the country to accelerate infrastructure development. Abbas made the remarks on Tuesday during the 2023 Nigerian Society of Engineers (NSE) National Engineering Conference, Exhibition, and Annual General Meeting in Abuja.
Abbas, who was represented by Deputy Speaker Benjamin Kalu, stated that partnership is critical in the pursuit of long-term growth and development.
According to the speaker, the event’s topic was linked with national aspirations, emphasizing the critical role of engineering in molding the future.
According to Abbas, the Federal Government’s National Integrated Infrastructure Master Plan (NIIMP), which was published in 2020, envisioned a 2.3 trillion dollar investment over the next 23 years to overcome Nigeria’s infrastructure gap.
“The undertaking underscores the critical role of engineering in addressing the nation’s infrastructure needs and laying the foundation for economic prosperity,” the president stated.
The legislature, according to the speaker, played a critical role in establishing effective and timely laws that facilitated infrastructure development.
He believes that by building a pro-business regulatory climate, legislators may stimulate private sector participation and unlock engineering’s transformative potential.
According to Abbas, the convergence of engineering and governance is especially important in the country’s quest of long-term growth and development.
“Infrastructure development is more than just building roads, bridges, and power plants; it is about developing a holistic ecosystem that promotes economic productivity, social well-being, and environmental sustainability.”
“Achieving this synergy requires a governance framework that is conducive to innovation, collaboration, and accountability,” he added.
According to Abbas, the oversight function of the legislature ensures that infrastructure projects are carried out with transparency, efficiency, and adherence to the highest standards.
He stated that by holding the government accountable, the legislature protects the integrity of public finances and guarantees that infrastructure projects benefit the Nigerian people as intended.
According to Abbas, the convergence of engineers and government is not a new concept, having existed in America, China, and other countries with outstanding developmental benefits.
“This is why I believe that collaboration with technical institutions such as the Nigerian Society of Engineers (NSE), through initiatives such as short-term expert consulting, is critical in navigating the intricate technical landscape of policymaking, ensuring policy success, and avoiding costly errors.”
“I’d like to express my heartfelt gratitude to the Nigerian Society of Engineers for hosting this important conference and providing a forum for engineers, policymakers, and stakeholders to engage in meaningful dialogue and collaboration.”
“I encourage you to continue to excel in your endeavors and to contribute your knowledge to the development of our country.”
“Because the 10th House of Representatives is the people’s House, it is open to constructive dialogue with the NSE.” “Your dedication to engineering excellence is critical to ensuring Nigeria’s prosperous and sustainable future,” he stated.