₦airaland Forum

NIHTE to raise top engineers to deliver durable transport networks in Nigeria

By OGEMDI OZOEMENAM, Awka

The Nigerian Institute of Highway and Transportation Engineers (NIHTE ) has vowed to raise world-class engineers capable of delivering durable rural transportation networks that will catalyze agricultural activities and stimulate socioeconomic growth nationwide.

The National Chairman of the association, Engr. Francis Oraikhi stated this at the 4th inauguration of it’s new Chairman and executive members held in Awka, Anambra State Capital as part of activities marking her Annual General Meeting.

Representing by the National Vice Chairman, Engr. Edmond Nkalu, Engr Oraikhi reaffirmed NIHTE’s mission to raise world-class engineers capable of delivering durable rural transportation networks that will stand the test of time to enhance socio economic development across the country.

He however lamented that absence of innovative engineering is the bane of low agricultural productivity, insisting that with such innovations, it would catalize agricultural activities and economic growth nationwide.

Speaking on the topic "Integrated Approaches to Rural Road Development: Engineering Innovation and Contractual Frameworks," Engr. Tony Nwafor MD Vertical Limits and Engr. Prof. Louis Orakwue SPC RAAMP underscored the need for modern, collaborative methodologies to improve rural access roads.

They highlighted how innovative engineering practices and effective contract administration are critical to unlocking agricultural productivity and supporting inclusive development.

Award recipient Engr. Amobi Anthony and Engr Benson Okafor, described the meeting as a significant step towards strengthening professional excellence.

Engr. Michael Orekyeh, National Vice Chairman and Pioneer Chairman of the Nigerian Institute of Metallurgical, Mining and Materials Engineering Awka Chapter encouraged engineering students present at the event, on the need to participate actively in NSE programmes, noting that passion, discipline and visibility enhance opportunities for mentorship and career advancement.

In his acceptance speech, the newly inaugurated Chairman, Engr. Udechukwu Obianyo, expressed gratitude to NIHTE for the confidence reposed in him. He called for collective support from members, pledging to pursue initiatives that will elevate the chapter’s impact and advance engineering standards across Anambra State.

The Chairman of the Nigerian Society of Engineers (NSE) Awka Branch, Engr. Maryjane Okoli, and NIHTE Pioneer Chairman Awka Chapter, Engr. Chidi Obiudu (FNIHTE), congratulated the new leadership team, describing the handover as a reaffirmation of NIHTE’s commitment to continuity and institutional growth.

They emphasized the importance of such gatherings in strengthening professional knowledge and alignment with national engineering priorities.

Both leaders also commended Governor Charles Soludo for promoting sound engineering practice through the Ministry of Works, particularly in ongoing road construction and infrastructure projects across the state.

They further appreciated the NIHTE National Chairman for his dynamic leadership and unwavering support to the chapters.

Speaking on behalf of student engineers, Miss Kosisochukwu Udemba pledged the commitment of young professionals to uphold engineering ethics, seek mentorship and contribute meaningfully to the institution’s vision and affirmed the readiness of emerging engineers to learn, innovate and support the advancement of transportation engineering in Nigeria.###