The Speaker of the House of Representatives, Tajudeen Abbas, has called for synergy between the government and professional engineers in the country towards massive infrastructure development.
Abbas said this at the 2023 Nigerian Society of Engineers (NSE) National Engineering Conference, Exhibition, and Annual General Meeting in Abuja on Tuesday.
Abbas, represented by the Deputy Speaker, Benjamin Kalu, said that collaboration is significant in the pursuit of sustainable growth and development.
The speaker said the theme of the event aligned with national goals, which emphasised the vital role of engineering in shaping the future.
Abbas said that the Federal Government’s National Integrated Infrastructure Master Plan (NIIMP), launched in 2020, envisioned an investment of 2.3 trillion dollars over the next 23 years to bridge Nigeria’s infrastructure deficit.
“The undertaking underscores the critical role of engineering in addressing the nation’s infrastructure needs and laying the foundation for economic prosperity,” he said.
The speaker said that the legislature played a pivotal role in enacting effective and timely legislation that facilitated infrastructure development.
He said that by creating a pro-business regulatory environment, the legislature can encourage private sector participation and unleash the transformative potential of engineering.
Abbas said that the intersection of engineering and governance was particularly significant in the pursuit of sustainable growth and development in the country.
“Infrastructure development is not merely about constructing roads, bridges, and power plants; it is about creating a holistic ecosystem that fosters economic productivity, enhances social well-being, and promotes environmental sustainability.
“Achieving this synergy requires a governance framework that is conducive to innovation, collaboration, and accountability,” he said.
Abbas said that the legislature’s oversight function ensures that infrastructure projects are executed with transparency, efficiency, and adherence to the highest standards.
He said that by holding the executive accountable, the legislature safeguards the integrity of public funds and ensures that infrastructure projects deliver the intended benefits to the Nigerian people.
Abbas said that the convergence of engineers and governance is not a new concept, as it has existed in America, China and other nations of the world with remarkable developmental results
“It is, therefore, the reason why I opine that collaboration with technical institutions like the Nigerian Society of Engineers (NSE), through initiatives like short-term expert consulting, is crucial in navigating the intricate technical landscape of policymaking, ensuring the success of policies, and averting costly errors.
“I would like to express my sincere appreciation to the Nigerian Society of Engineers for organising this important conference and providing a platform for engineers, policymakers, and stakeholders to engage in meaningful dialogue and collaboration.
“I urge you to continue to excel in your endeavours and contribute your expertise to the development of our nation.
“The 10th House of Representatives is indeed the people’s House, and therefore open to constructive dialogue with the NSE. Your commitment to engineering excellence is essential for building a prosperous and sustainable future for Nigeria,” he said
