Rivers State Deputy Governor, Prof. Ngozi Odu, has called for strategic planning, innovative engineering, and sustainable infrastructure to harness the state's Blue Economy potential. She made the call at the Second Distinguished Annual Lecture of the Nigerian Institution of Civil Engineers (NICE), Port Harcourt Chapter. Odu emphasized that Rivers State's extensive coastline, rivers, creeks, wetlands, and aquatic resources offer enormous opportunities for economic development.
Odu noted that civil engineers play a critical role in developing ports, jetties, waterways, coastal infrastructure, flood-control systems, and water-management facilities. She stressed that these could only be fully harnessed through modern infrastructure and proper environmental management. The deputy governor commended NICE for honouring Engr. Beniah Ojum with the annual lecture, describing him as a distinguished national and global figure in the engineering profession.
According to Odu, the State Government, under Governor Siminalayi Fubara, remains committed to infrastructure development and creating an enabling environment for sustainable investment. She urged NICE, academia, the private sector, and other stakeholders to work together to transform Rivers State's natural resources into sustainable economic opportunities. Odu's call for strategic investment aims to unlock the state's Blue Economy potential.
The National Chairman of NICE, Engr. Tokunbo Ajanaku, represented by Engr. Virgilius Ezugo, said the institution is engaging engineering establishments nationwide to secure industrial training placements for civil engineering students. He added that approval has been obtained for civil engineers serving under the NYSC to be posted to relevant engineering organisations. NICE, in collaboration with the Nigerian Society of Engineers (NSE), has secured improved entry placement for engineers in the civil service.
Ezugo noted that NICE, which celebrated its 25th anniversary in Abuja in June, is constructing a national secretariat with a e-library, meeting halls, and research facilities. He urged civil engineers to position themselves to benefit from opportunities in shipping, tourism, and infrastructure development arising from the Blue Economy. The institution's efforts aim to enhance the capacity of civil engineers in the country.
A Professor of Ecosystem Services and Biodiversity, Prof. John Onwuteaka, delivered a lecture titled: ‘Engineering the Blue Frontier: Leveraging Civil Engineering to Unlock Rivers State’s Blue Economy Potential for Sustainable Growth.’ The lecture provided insights into the role of civil engineering in harnessing the state's Blue Economy potential. Onwuteaka's presentation highlighted the need for sustainable infrastructure and innovative engineering solutions.
Engr. Beniah Ojum expressed gratitude to guests, professional bodies, friends, and family for their support in making the event a success. He particularly appreciated the Nigerian Society of Civil Engineers, the Nigerian Institution of Civil Engineers, his alma mater, St. Mary’s School, Omoku, and the guest lecturer for their contributions. Ojum's contributions to the engineering profession were recognised during the event.
Key points
- Rivers State Deputy Governor, Prof. Ngozi Odu, calls for strategic planning and sustainable infrastructure to unlock the state's Blue Economy potential.
