A former Executive Vice President, Upstream, of the Nigeria National Petroleum Company Limited, NNPCL, Engineer Adokiye Tombomieye has declared that the nation’s progress cannot be measured solely by economic indicators.
He cautioned that the depletion of natural resources and the looming threat of climate change were stark reminders of the urgent need for sustainable development.
Tombomieye, who stated this in Rivers State at an international conference organized by the Faculty of Engineering of the Rivers State University of Science and Technology, urged engineers to engender national development by designing and implementing solutions that promote inclusive growth and enhance quality of life.
Speaking on the topic, “Engineering Practice for National Development and Environmental Sustainability”, Tombomieye said engineers must play key roles both in policy formulation and implementation for desired national development.
He said they must acknowledge the pivotal role that engineering plays in shaping the trajectory of nations and safeguarding the health of our planet.
“Engineering is not merely a profession; it’s a driving force behind economic growth, social progress and environmental stewardship.
“However, the challenges we face in the 21st century- rapid urbanization, climate change, resource scarcity-demand a revaluation of our engineering practices to ensure both national development and environment sustainability.
“Furthermore, engineering must be viewed through the lens of a holistic development”, Tombomieye said.
He tasked engineers with the responsibility “to design and implement solutions that promote inclusive growth, enhance quality of life and preserve the natural heritage of our planet.
“Moreso, environmental sustainability must be at the forefront of our engineering endeavours.
“The degradation of our ecosystems, the depletion of natural resources and the looming threat of climate change are stark reminders of the urgent need for sustainable development.
“We must adopt a circular economic approach where resources are used efficiently, waste is minimized and ecosystems are regenerated.
“From renewable energy systems to green infrastructure our engineering solutions must prioritize environmental sustainability at every stage of the project lifecycle.”
He stressed the need to “overcome the inertia of outdated policies and practices that perpetuate environmental degradation and social inequity.
“We must bridge the gap between developed and developing nations ensuring that all countries have access to the knowledge, technology and resources needed to pursue sustainable development.”
The conference attracted scholars and intellectuals from within and outside Nigeria, including Prof. Nlerum Okogbule, Vice Chancellor, Rivers State University, Prof. Sadiq Abubakar, President, Council for the Regulation of Engineering in Nigeria (COREN) and Engr. Effifia Chu, Managing Director, Warri Refinery and Petrochemicals.
National progress must include social well-being, environmental quality – NNPCL ex-VP, Tombomieye
