Rivers State Deputy Governor Prof. Ngozi Nma Odu has demanded strategic planning, cutting-edge engineering and sustainable infrastructure to turn the state’s vast water resources into an economic powerhouse.
Speaking as Special Guest of Honour at the Second Distinguished Annual Lecture of the Nigerian Institution of Civil Engineers (NICE), Port Harcourt Chapter, on Thursday, Odu told the gathering that Rivers’ extensive coastline, rivers, creeks and wetlands hold massive untapped potential.
“These resources can only be fully harnessed through modern infrastructure and proper environmental management,”
Prof. Odu stressed that civil engineers are central to the effort, with critical roles in building ports, jetties, waterways, coastal defences, flood-control systems and water-management facilities.
She reaffirmed the state government’s commitment under Governor Siminalayi Fubara to drive infrastructure development and create an enabling environment for sustainable investment.
The Deputy Governor urged the institution, academia, the private sector and other stakeholders to collaborate and convert Rivers’ natural assets into lasting economic opportunities.
National Chairman of NICE, Engr. Tokunbo Antoni Ajanaku, represented by Engr. Virgilius Chukwudi Ezugo, outlined the body’s recent gains.
He said NICE is engaging engineering firms nationwide to secure industrial training placements for civil engineering students and has secured approval for NYSC civil engineers to be posted to relevant organisations.
In partnership with the Nigerian Society of Engineers, the institution has also improved entry placement for engineers in the civil service.
Ajanaku noted that NICE marked its 25th anniversary in Abuja in June and is constructing a national secretariat complete with an e-library, meeting halls and research facilities.
He called on civil engineers to position themselves to seize opportunities in shipping, tourism and infrastructure development offered by the Blue Economy.
