Recognising the critical role engineers play in infrastructure development and national progress, Mamman emphasised the need to place a renewed focus on innovation and technological advancements through rigorous research and development efforts.
Mamman stated this at the opening ceremony of the 44th Conference of Directors of Electrical and Mechanical Engineering Departments of the Ministries of Works and Housing in Abuja on Tuesday.
According to the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Works and Housing, it is vital for engineers to play a prime and fundamental role in addressing challenges by dedicating themselves to research, development, innovation, and the adoption of indigenous technology.
He added that this conference will help to address issues that impede Nigeria’s economic progress, such as a preference for imported products over locally produced ones and barriers to the advancement of homegrown technology.
“Discussing Economic Emancipation Achievable through Application of Homegrown
Technology, the papers to be presented at this Conference are to address issues that slow down the Economy of Nigeria as a result of over preference for imported products to locally produced ones and issues that inhibit the advancement of homegrown technology in Nigeria.
“It’s imperative therefore that in discussing the conference theme, the role of the engineers is prime and fundamental. Engineers need to put more effort into Research and development activities that result in innovations, inventions, and adaptation of indigenous technology.
This process will prove to the nation that indeed Engineering professionals are ready to propel the country into Economic emancipation through technological advancement.”
He further extended his congratulations to the Electrical and Mechanical Engineers of the Ministries for their commitment to organizing the annual conference, adding that the conference, which serves as a platform for knowledge sharing and idea exchange, plays a crucial role in advancing the careers of engineers and finding practical solutions to Nigeria’s economic and technological challenges.
“This program helps the Electrical and Mechanical Engineers to share valuable knowledge and ideas that would advance the development of their career, and also proffer solutions to the dwindling Economic and Technological development of Nigeria.
“It is on this premise that “Economic Emancipation Achievable through Application of Homegrown Technology.” was selected as the theme for this year’s Conference. The theme is very timely, key, and apt as it would promote National Economic growth through homegrown Technology.”
He added,” Nigeria needs an Economic growth model that can generate sufficient jobs for her huge population and also be inclusive enough to significantly curb poverty. History has shown that such a viable economic growth model is only achieved through technological innovations.
“The immense benefits of technological innovations cannot be denied having proven over the decades to be a convenient, life-saving, faster and easier route to carrying out day-to-day tasks and solving a plethora of problems.”
