The Deputy National Chairman of the Nigerian Institution of Highway and Transportation Engineers (NIHTE), Engr. Dr. Bola Mudasiru, has stated that Nigeria requires an estimated $3 trillion investment to meet the infrastructure demands of its growing population of over 200 million people.
He made this revelation while speaking at a mentorship and scholarship program organized by NIHTE in collaboration with the Civil Engineering Department of Enugu State University of Science and Technology (ESUT).
Dr. Mudasiru noted that Nigeria’s construction industry has an estimated market size of between $26.9 billion and $40.3 billion, accounting for 9% of the country’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP).
However, the country’s infrastructure stock is currently estimated at 30% of GDP, highlighting significant infrastructure gaps.
The NIHTE deputy chairman emphasized that the government at all levels is 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.
Dr. Bola also highlighted the importance of civil engineering in shaping human civilization and the future scope of engineering in Nigeria.
He advised students to possess skills evaluation, assess interests, connect with professionals, and consider job outlook and salary potentials.
The Dean of the Faculty, Prof. T.O Chime, who officially declared the program open, described civil engineering as a noble profession with immense promise.
He commended NIHTE for its generosity in 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.
The Head of Department of Civil Engineering at ESUT, Engr. Dr. Celestine Odenigbo, pinpointed the significant contributions of NIHTE towards bettering road infrastructure. He expressed gratitude for the partnership and looked forward to further collaboration.
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. This partnership, he noted, 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 highlight of the event was the presentation of scholarships to selected students by NIHTE, aimed at enhancing their studies.
The programme aimed to mentor and shape the next generation of civil engineers, bridging the gap between academia and industry.
