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L-r …Engr Ahmed Imam; Engr Bawa Sani; Financial Secretary, Nigerian Society of Engineers, Victoria Island Branch. (NSEVI). Engr. Obiageli Akposionu, representing the Chairman, Vice Chairman Engr Babatunde James; Guest Speaker, Executive Director & Technical Service of Nigeria Ports Authority, Engr Ibrahim Abba Umar; General Secretary, NSEVI. Engr Joan Nweke, Technical Secretary, Engr Aristobulus Tauna, Maxwell Nwajei and Engr E.A Awatabe, during the Annual Public Lecture on ‘Smart Ports and digital Maritime Systems’ as Part of activities to mark Engineering Week, organized by NSEVI. Held in Lagos on 21/ 8/2025..PHOTO: CHINYERE IKEANYI.
… Amid Engineering Week Celebrations*
As part of its annual Engineering Week festivities, the Nigerian Society of Engineers (NSE) Victoria Island Branch hosted an inspiring public lecture focused on Nigeria’s rapidly evolving maritime sector and the transformative power of engineering innovation. Titled “Smart Ports and Digital Maritime Systems: Engineering the Future of Nigeria’s Trade Hubs,” the event attracted practitioners, policymakers, and industry leaders committed to shaping Nigeria’s economic and infrastructural landscape.
Engineering Week provides a vital platform for reflection and dialogue within Nigeria’s engineering community. This year’s lecture stood out as a crucial moment where knowledge met actionable solutions, addressing the challenges and opportunities in Nigeria’s ports and maritime systems. The event highlighted how technological advancements can significantly boost trade, security, and economic growth.
Engr. Aji Ezekiel Agobu FNSE, Chairman of the NSE Victoria Island Branch, represented by Vice Chairman Engr. Babatunde B. James emphasized the significance of such gatherings: “This lecture reaffirms our commitment to innovation, capacity building, and nation-building. We are fostering an environment where ideas translate into real-world solutions that benefit society at large.”
Nigeria’s strategic position in the global economy places it at a pivotal crossroads. Experts and stakeholders are calling for urgent investment in smart ports and digital maritime systems to ensure the country’s trade hubs can meet future demands. Currently, Nigeria’s maritime industry contributes substantially to GDP but faces hurdles such as inefficient port operations, outdated technology, and a lack of transparency. As global trade increasingly relies on digital solutions, modernizing ports and streamlining logistics are essential to reduce congestion, lower operational costs, and enhance competitiveness.
Agobu stressed that Nigeria must leverage emerging technologies—including artificial intelligence, blockchain, and the Internet of Things (IoT), to facilitate smarter, more efficient port operations. He underscored that upgrading maritime infrastructure is critical to unlocking Nigeria’s economic potential and ensuring sustainable growth.
The proposed shift toward digital maritime systems involves developing integrated platforms for real-time cargo tracking, automating customs procedures, and deploying data analytics to optimize supply chains. Such innovations promise quicker movement of goods, enhanced safety, and improved security in Nigerian waters. Agobu called for a collaborative approach involving the government, the private sector, and international partners to realize these goals.
Mr. Emeka Okeke of the Nigerian Shipping Association urged immediate action: “This is a decisive moment for Nigeria. We cannot afford to fall behind. The world is moving toward smarter ports, and Nigeria must lead in Africa.”
Sustainable development was also a key focus, with calls to prioritize green technologies—reducing emissions and investing in renewable energy—to position Nigerian ports as environmentally responsible trade hubs.
Looking ahead, stakeholders will convene to craft a national strategy for implementing these digital systems, ensuring Nigeria captures opportunities for trade growth and economic development. The message is clear: modernization is essential for Nigeria’s future in global commerce.
The event featured insights from Engr. Lorahim Abba Umar FNSE, whose perspectives on digital maritime systems enriched the discourse and inspired attendees to think boldly about engineering’s role in revolutionizing Nigeria’s maritime landscape.
Engr. Agobu expressed gratitude to elders, fellows, partners, and members whose dedication sustains NSEVI’s reputation as a hub of engineering excellence and innovation. Participants were encouraged to engage activ
Source: Championnews.com.ng | Read Full Story…
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