Prof S.B Gimba tasks engineers on societal transformation through inclusive innovation (Pictures)
Story by Muhammad KUKURI
Professor Abdullahi S.B. Gimba, a renowned scholar in Petroleum and Gas Engineering, has urged engineers in Nigeria to promote societal transformation through inclusive innovation and capacity building.
Professor Gimba made the call during the 4th Inaugural Lecture of the Nile University of Nigeria in Abuja.
The lecture, tagged “Empowering Society: The Engineer’s Mandate to Innovate in a Disruptive World,” offered deep insights into the transformative role of engineering in a rapidly evolving global landscape.
With this Inaugural Lecture, Nile University underscored its commitment to effective leadership and academic excellence.
Held at the university’s Conference Hall, the event drew a distinguished audience of faculty professionals, students, industry experts, policymakers, and members of the academic community.
It was a momentous occasion for reflection, knowledge-sharing, and strategic dialogue around the future of engineering and its societal relevance.
In his welcome address, the Vice-Chancellor of Nile University, Professor Dilli Dogo, FNAMed, emphasised the importance of inaugural lectures as a critical academic tradition that not only showcases the scholarship of its professors but also sets the tone for research, innovation, and academic leadership within the institution.
“Inaugural lectures serve as a platform to engage the wider society with knowledge and ideas that can catalyse national and global development,” he stated, lauding Professor Gimba for his contributions to academia and innovation in engineering.
Delivering the lecture, Professor Gimba articulated a powerful vision for the role of engineers in addressing the pressing challenges of the 21st century, from climate change and energy transition to technological disruptions and socio-economic inequalities.
READ ALSO: Yobe youth shines at TEDKatagum event as Gov. Buni prioritises youth development
Drawing from African proverbs and global perspectives, he challenged the traditional notion of engineering as a purely technical field. “Our mandate,” he said, “is not just to build systems but to serve as stewards of society, grounded in values and capable of addressing complex problems with humility, creativity, and courage.”
Highlighting his extensive research works and academic journey, Professor Gimba presented a compelling case for innovation in renewable energy, reservoir modelling, advanced materials, and sustainable drilling techniques. He called for interdisciplinary collaboration, modernised engineering curricula, and the strategic integration of research with industry practice.
Central to his lecture was a call for engineers to lead societal transformation through inclusive innovation and capacity building.
Professor Gimba also emphasised the importance of mentorship and leadership development for emerging engineers.
“To build a resilient future, we must invest not only in infrastructure but in people engineers who think ethically, act decisively, and innovate fearlessly,” he asserted.
The event not only celebrated Professor Gimba’s scholarly contributions but also aligned with Nile University’s broader mission to promote research-driven learning, professional excellence, and societal impact.
The 4th Inaugural Lecture reflects the University’s role in cultivating engineers equipped to thrive in a complex, disruptive, and opportunity-rich world.
As Nigeria and Africa confront the realities of a digital, resource-conscious, and globally interconnected future, Nile University continues to position itself as a hub of academic leadership and innovation.
Professor Gimba’s lecture served as both a blueprint and a clarion call, urging engineers, educators, policymakers, and stakeholders to embrace innovation as a tool for empowerment and sustainability.
Follow the Neptune Prime channel on WhatsApp:
Do you have breaking news, interview request, opinion, suggestion, or want your event covered? Email us at neptuneprime2233@gmail.com
 Professor Abdullahi S.B. Gimba,){kind=link}