Innocent Onoh
Government and well-to-do individuals in the country have been urged to invest in the large-scale empowerment of Nigerians, especially the youths with technical skills for exploring available opportunities to attain economic self-sufficiency to contribute to national economic growth.
A renowned technician, Dr. Openibo Adeshola Oluremi, made the call in a keynote at the 2025 annual award ceremony and induction of the Nigerian Association of Technologists in Engineering, NATE, Lagos State Branch in Lagos.
Dr. Oluremi noted that in the 21st century, technology drives the engine of economic, social, and environmental progress, and equipping the masses with the relevant skills will reposition them for the future.
The event also featured the unveiling of newly fabricated dehydrating machine by NATE used for drying and storing processed food products for both local consuption and export.
Speaking on the theme, ” Technological skill development: a catalyst for sustainable national growth,” Dr. Oluremi who is currently a Deputy Director at the Directorate of Public Transport and Commuter Services in the Lagos State Ministry of Transportation, said as the nation navigates an era marked by rapid technical advancement, empowering the masses with relevant skills is not merely a luxury but a necessity.
“Let us reflect on the transformative power of technological skill development. The path may be challenging, but the rewards in economic prosperity, social equity, and environmental sustainability are worth every effort. Together, we can build a future where technology serves as a bridge to opportunity and foundation for enduring growth,” she said.
According to Dr. Oluremi, a nation that prioritizes technological skill development will reap the benefit of robust economic growth, enhanced global competitiveness, and improved quality of life for its citizens.
She stated that these benefits are not accidental but the fruits of deliberate investment in education, training, and research.
Her words” The journey toward sustainable national growth is one that requires collective effort.
“As engineers, technologists, technicians, craftsmen, policymakers, educators, business leaders, and citizens, we each have a role to play in championing technological skill development. By investing in our people,we invest in the future of our nation.
“Let us commit to fostering a culture of learning and innovation. Let us ensure that no one is left behind in the march toward progress. Let us remember that the ultimate goal of Technological advancement is to improve lives, create opportunities, and build a sustainable world for generations to come.”
In a remark, the Director General of FIIRO, Dr. Jummai Adamu Tutuwa, who was the Chief Host, stressed that hands-on skills development of Nigerians in craft and artisan should be pursued with vigour to enable them to survive the challenging economic climate.
Represented by the Director of Project Development Design Department, Dr. Livinus Onu, the FIIRO DG, observed that Nigeria is still backward in crafts, and because of that, artisans are sourced from neighboring countries to do works such as tiling, refrigerating, pop, and plumbing, amongst others, which hold immense economic prospects.
She however commended NATE for its efforts in promoting Technological development, praising those behind the fabricated machine that was unveiled at the occasion.
“As we all know, no nation can develop
without application of technology.
“Indigenous machines and equipment are what drives SMEs and even cottage industries. So the building of your new baby today, is the right step in the right direction for this achievement. We congratulate NATE and we salute them.”
The Acting Chairman of the association, Mr Akeem Ogunbiyi who underscored the role of technologists in national economic growth, urged young professionals to bring their unique talents and perspectives towards technical skills development in the country.
“Let us take a moment to honor our founding fathers-the pioneers who laid the groundwork for NATE. Their vision and dedication have paved way for our achievements today. We owe them a debt of gratitude for their foresight and commitment to fostering a community of Technologists that thrives on innovation and integrity.
“To our inductees I say, welcome! You are now part of a vibrant community that is dedication to professional excellence. As you embark on this journey with us, I encourage you to remain steadfast and focused. The road ahead may present challenges, but it is through perseverance and dedication that we will achievement greatness together.
Remember, each of you brings unique talents and perspectives that enrich our association. Engage actively in our programs, contribute your ideas, and seek opportunities to learn from one another. Together, we can push the boundaries of what is possible in our field”.
The chairman of the occasion, Emmanuel Ogunleye emphasized that part of the objectives of the program was to provide opportunities for engineers, Technologists, technicians, and others to discuss and exchange ideas toward the acquisition of relevant skills for outstanding development.
“The huge success of this precious ceremony has not been unconnected with the cooperation of all the executives and members.
We are all aware of the dichotomy the HND graduates face in Nigeria but we can navigate through this by relevant skills acquisition which this gathering provide”, he stated.
The outgoing Chairman, NATE Lagos Branch and National General Secretary, Ibidapo Kayode Samuel reeled out an impressive achievements of the branch during his tenure to include the fabrication of 2 single phase new improved Rice De-stoner machines, fabrication of castor oil seed de-shelling machine, fabrication of three phase rice De-stoner machine and addition of 600 members to the national body from Lagos branch alone.
Some other achievements of his leadership were fabrication of coconut de-shelling machine, production of tiger nut and coconut milk processing machine for peanut, production of butter milking machine for peanut, purchasing of NATE Lagos Sienna space bus and the newly unveiled dehydrating machine.
He advised the newly inducted members saying ” several years back, I was inducted into this great association in this same conference hall. So, I will like to encourage the inductees here today that your induction was professional Technologists has imposed on you the challenges of having to henceforth, stand tall in integrity, be of impeccable character, professional in service, uphold high ethical and professional standards and let the name of NATE be written in gold among the professional bodies in Nigeria.”
Some members of the association including the Deputy Director of ICT, Radio Nigeria, Lagos Operations, Alhaja Lateefat Ajanaku, and Mrs. Ogechi Okereke-Ogbonna also from the department were recognized and awarded for their consistency and contribution to the advancement of technology in the country, as well as for meritorious service as NATE Lagos State executives.