Establishment of Public Works Department, A Welcome Idea – Ogun NSE

The Nigerian Society of Engineers (NSE) in Ogun State has welcomed the idea of Ogun State Governor, Prince Dr. Dapo Abiodun, MFR on the establishment and invigoration of a public works department to handle the routine maintenance and rehabilitation of roads, most of which are in poor condition across the entire state. 

The Chairman, Nigerian Society of Engineers (NSE), Abeokuta Branch, Engr. Dr. Olanrewaju Ahmed Apampa FNSE, stated this during a courtesy visit to the Ogun State Deputy Governor Engr. Mrs. Noimot Salako-Oyedele, in her office at Oke-Mosan, Abeokuta yesterday Friday 14th June, 2019. 

 Apampa, who led the team of NSE Ogun State Chairmen from Ota and Ilaro Branches, Executive Members and Some Past NSE Chairmen in the state, also drew attention of the Ogun State Government to the issue of stormwater drainage in Abeokuta metropolis and other townships across the State and made some good technical recommendations to the Government

“In this wise, we advised that the capacity of government’s departments responsible for the regular maintenance of drains, culvert and waterways need to be strengthened and that government public enlightenment efforts on dangers of dumping refuse on waterways need to be followed, with appropriate and publicized sanctions for offenders”, he added.

Also, the Nigerian Society of Engineers (NSE) in Ogun State expressed concern over the condition of vocational and technical education across the state, noting that, technical skills, being the bedrock of engineering manpower, is a catalyst for industrial growth and a magnet for capital inflow.

Dr. Apampa said they visited some technical schools in Ogun, noting that a lot need to be done in repositioning the institutes, so that students would be better trained.
     
He recommended the creation of general handyman basic training programmes in Electricity, Plumbing, Heating Ventilation and Air conditioning, expanding the pool and technical depth of trainers, as well as the establishment of affiliations with national and international certification and regulatory agencies.

While welcoming the team, the Deputy Governor described NSE as the bedrock of the society, saying government was aware of the bad state of schools and technical/vocational education across the state and would ensure that they are put in good shape soon.

“We want to make sure that our children in the state get education that is comparative and competitive in this 21st century, so that they can go out in the industry and perform better. We must also ensure that we prepare our youths to be employable and also ensure that those already employed get training and re-training from time to time”, she said.

 Highlight of the visit was presentation of the Commemorative Award to the Deputy Governor by the Nigerian Society of Engineers, Ogun State