In a major step towards enhancing global engineering development and positioning Nigeria as a central player in international technical advancement, the Nigerian Society of Engineers (NSE) has signed the Consensus on Engineering Capacity Building alongside 32 other professional bodies from around the world. This historic signing took place during the Belt and Road Forum on Engineering Capacity, held at the Tianfu International Convention Centre in Chengdu, Sichuan Province, China.
The high-level event formed a core component of the Belt and Road Conference on Science and Technology Exchange, a multilateral platform committed to knowledge sharing, innovation, and sustainable engineering across participating nations. This year’s theme, “Pioneering Engineering Innovation and Co-construction of Engineering Capacity,” highlighted the urgent need for cross-border cooperation in engineering standards, education, and application to meet global development goals.
According to a statement released by NSE, the Consensus on Engineering Capacity Building was co-initiated by 33 globally recognized engineering institutions, reflecting a unified international agenda to align engineering development with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
“The Nigerian Society of Engineers is proud to be part of this global engineering renaissance,” said Margaret Oguntala, President of the NSE, in a message delivered at the forum by the Society’s representative, Olumayowa Idowu.
“This consensus signals a powerful moment for Africa and a renewed commitment to empower engineers to deliver sustainable solutions.”
The landmark agreement outlines six critical areas of cooperation aimed at accelerating engineering growth, innovation, and global alignment:
Engineering Education and Talent Development
To strengthen technical education frameworks and encourage cross-national academic exchange for emerging engineers.
Mutually Recognised Standards and Competency Frameworks
For establishing uniform criteria that promote mobility of engineers and enhance global recognition of professional credentials.
Continuing Professional Development (CPD)
Targeting lifelong learning, this initiative supports engineers in upgrading their skills to match technological advancement.
Harmonisation and Internationalisation of Engineering Standards
Designed to unify engineering practices across borders for easier collaboration in infrastructure, energy, and ICT sectors.
Engineering Ethics and Social Responsibility
A joint call for engineers worldwide to uphold ethical standards, safety, and environmental consciousness in their projects.
Global Innovation Exchange and Application of Scientific Achievements
Facilitating the cross-border exchange of innovations and technologies that can be applied for sustainable development.
NSE’s inclusion in the consensus not only highlights Nigeria’s increasing relevance in global engineering conversations but also provides a platform to leverage international partnerships for local capacity building. With Nigeria facing critical infrastructure gaps, underutilized technical talent, and pressing climate adaptation needs, the consensus offers a blueprint for transformative change.
Engineering experts have lauded the development. Dr. Musa Ibrahim, a civil engineer and university lecturer in Abuja, told our correspondent:
“This is long overdue. For Nigeria to industrialize and build sustainable cities, it must invest in engineering education and align with global competency frameworks. This consensus opens doors for our young engineers to think and work globally.”
Furthermore, the collaborative effort is expected to bolster the Tinubu administration’s Renewed Hope Agenda, particularly its science, technology, and innovation components aimed at job creation and economic diversification.
With the consensus now signed, the NSE is expected to scale up its engineering training programmes, advocate for policy alignment with global standards, and partner with other international institutions for knowledge sharing and joint infrastructure projects.
The success of this agreement, however, hinges on effective implementation and Nigeria’s commitment to reforming its engineering education system, strengthening regulatory frameworks, and supporting innovation-driven enterprises.
As the Belt and Road initiative continues to evolve, Nigeria’s proactive engagement through the NSE is a strategic positioning that could unlock new opportunities in infrastructure finance, digital engineering, and climate-resilient development.