Nigeria must cut its reliance on imported machinery and invest more heavily in indigenous technology and local manufacturing to tackle security, unemployment and economic challenges, the Nigerian Institution of Mechanical Engineers has urged. Babagana Tela, the institution's National Chairman, made the call at the NIMechE's 39th International Conference, Exhibitions and Annual General Meeting in Abuja on Wednesday. The three-day gathering, titled Jewel 2026, carries the theme "Mechanical Engineers as Catalysts of Innovation for Enhanced Security and Sustainable National Development".
Tela said mechanical engineering should be treated as a tool for national transformation rather than simply a technical profession. He stressed that the sector had a critical role to play in strengthening security, improving energy supply, expanding manufacturing and supporting economic diversification at a time when Nigeria faces security challenges, technological dependence, energy constraints, climate change and unemployment. "Engineering must be recognised as an instrument of national transformation," he said, calling on the government, universities, polytechnics, research institutions and private companies to work more closely together to turn research findings into practical technologies that could be made and used locally.
Tela challenged mechanical engineers to find ways to strengthen local manufacturing, reduce dependence on imported machinery and spare parts, encourage young professionals to become entrepreneurs and bridge the gap between academic research and industrial needs. He said Nigeria had substantial human and material resources but needed to improve its capacity to transform them into productive industries. The chairman identified automation, robotics, renewable energy, advanced manufacturing and smart systems as areas requiring greater attention as the profession responds to technological changes.
The institution should prioritise young engineers through mentorship, professional training, research opportunities, entrepreneurship support and international exposure, Tela added. "The future of Mechanical Engineering in Nigeria belongs to our young engineers, technologists, researchers and students," he said, calling for stronger collaboration among government agencies, academia, industries and professional bodies to ensure engineering expertise was directed towards solving practical problems.
Rose Madaki, chairman of the conference planning committee, said the gathering provided an opportunity for mechanical engineers to exchange ideas, showcase innovations, strengthen professional relationships and develop practical solutions to national challenges. She urged delegates to participate actively in technical sessions and exhibitions, expressing optimism that discussions would translate into practical outcomes for the profession and the country.