Nigeria requires an estimated $3 trillion investment to meet the infrastructure demands of its growing population of over 200 million people, according to Engr. Bola Mudashiru, Deputy National Chairman of the Nigerian Institution of Highway and Transportation Engineers (NIHTE).
Mudashiru made this revelation during a mentorship and scholarship program organized by NIHTE in collaboration with the Civil Engineering Department of Enugu State University of Science and Technology (ESUT).
Nigeria's Construction Industry and Infrastructure Gap
According to the NIHTE deputy chairman, Nigeria's construction industry has an estimated market size between $26.9 billion and $40.3 billion, accounting for 9% of the country's Gross Domestic Product (GDP). He further explained that the country's infrastructure stock is currently estimated at only 30% of GDP, highlighting significant infrastructure gaps that need to be addressed.
Mudashiru noted that governments at all levels are making concerted efforts to boost infrastructure development through Public-Private Partnership (PPP) incentives. He encouraged civil engineers to bridge experience gaps, engage in field competitions, and overcome geographic constraints to excel in their careers.
Importance of Civil Engineering in National Development
The NIHTE deputy chairman stressed the importance of civil engineering in shaping human civilization and the future scope of engineering in Nigeria. He advised students to evaluate their skills, assess interests, connect with professionals, and consider job outlook and salary potentials in their career planning.
Prof. T.O Chime, Dean of the Faculty, who officially declared the program open, described civil engineering as a noble profession with immense promise. He commended NIHTE for extending the benefits of the mentorship and scholarship program to the department and pledged to convey the Institution's good works to the Vice Chancellor.
Dr. Celestine Odenigbo, Head of Department of Civil Engineering at ESUT, highlighted the significant contributions of NIHTE towards improving road infrastructure and expressed gratitude for the partnership, looking forward to further collaboration.
Bridging Academia and Industry
Prof. C.C. Ike, a Foundation Engineering Expert and former Head of Department, emphasized the importance of strengthening partnerships with NIHTE to enhance the Highway and Traffic division within the Civil Engineering program at both graduate and postgraduate levels. He noted that such partnerships would ultimately bridge the gap between academia and industry.
Engr. Achi Chigozie, Chairman of NIHTE's Enugu Chapter, advised students to excel academically and professionally while serving as exemplary ambassadors of the Civil Engineering department and the nation. He emphasized the importance of upholding the values of the profession and contributing positively to society.
The program aimed to mentor and shape the next generation of civil engineers, bridging the gap between academia and industry, which is crucial for addressing Nigeria's infrastructure challenges.
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