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COREN 33 Assembly: Former Minister Urges FGN To Prioritise Support For Engineers In Nation-building

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From Lateef Taiwo

Former Minister of Power Professor Barth Nnaji has stated that adequate support for the engineering profession in Nigeria by ensuring adequate funding and capacity building opportunities for practitioners to bring them up to speed with knowledge in modern innovations that would enhance their role in nation-building.

Speaking on Tuesday in Abuja as the chairman of the opening ceremony of the 33rd COREN Engineering Assembly, Nnaji who is the founder and chairman of the indigenous power company, Geometric Power Limited (GPL) stressed the importance of engineers in driving inclusive growth and addressing Nigeria’s infrastructure and development challenges.

COREN as the regulatory body with the mandate to regulate and control the engineering education, training and practice of engineering in all its aspects and ramifications.

The theme for the 2025 Assembly is “Advancing Quality Engineering Services and Businesses in Nigeria-Professional Compliance and Remuneration.”

Prof Nnaji recommended the establishment of dedicated innovation funds, and technology parks where engineers, scientists, and entrepreneurs can collaborate to build indigenous solutions tailored to Nigeria’s unique challenges by the federal government (FG).

He equally urged the federal government to enact and enforce forward-looking policies that promote innovation, incentivise research and development, and streamline regulatory processes to accelerate national development through engineering.

He said: “Establishing dedicated funds and technology parks where engineers, scientists, and entrepreneurs collaborate will foster homegrown solutions.

“The government also has a vital role to play. It must enact and enforce clear, forward-looking policies that incentivise research and development, protect intellectual property, and streamline regulatory approvals.”

He called on the authorities to play their part by providing the enabling environment for engineering enterprises to thrive.

The professor also advocated a transparent public-private partnership (PPP) framework, which he said, is essential to leverage private sector expertise and financing in delivering large-scale infrastructure projects.

“Government can tap into private engineering expertise and capital, accelerating delivery while ensuring accountability,” he added.

While highlighting the critical role engineers play in national development from constructing roads and power plants to designing digital infrastructure, he stressed the importance of adapting academic curricula to include digital literacy, artificial intelligence, and interdisciplinary learning.

“Engineers are nation builders. When given the opportunity, we create solutions that are essential for inclusive development,” he said, noting that technological innovation must be underpinned by ethical standards and professional competence”, he said.

Referencing China as an example Engr Nnaji said China which is the fastest growing economy in the world has engineers occupying most of her top government offices as decision custodians.

Engr Nnaji balanced his call by tasking his fellow professionals to reaffirm commitment to upholding the highest standards of excellence in ethics and innovation.

“Let us mentor the next generation, sharing both our technical knowledge and our sense of civic responsibility. As we stand at the crossroads of possibility, let us chart a course guided by ingenuity collaboration and a shared vision of a prosperous, sustainable Nigeria.

Concluding his advice, Nnaji said, “To our government partners, I urge you to recognise that engineers are not merely service providers, but strategic allies in nation building, together we can harness technology rooted in our unique context to build resilient infrastructure, spur economic development and uplift every Nigerian community.”

Earlier in his welcome remarks, President and Chairman in Council of COREN, Prof. Sadiq Abubakar, who expressed concern over the recurring engineering failures, especially housing collapse, across the country in recent times sought collaboration of states and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) in addressing the challenge of non-compliance with standards, leading to engineering failures.

According to Abubakar, the theme of this year’s COREN Assembly is very apt, focusing on key issues of professionalism, compliance and remuneration while delivering quality engineering services and businesses.

“So, I call on captains of industry, state governments and the Minister of FCT, Nyesom Wike, to join hands with COREN technical committees in the states, expatriate monitoring committees and other sectorial regulators.

This is to curb the dangerous trends of non-compliance with codes and standards leading to engineering failures occurring in the various sectors.

These trends have caused loss of lives, properties, investments and loss of confidence in the engineering profession,” he said.

The COREN President at the beginning of the event expressed on behalf of himself, his family and the entire COREN family expressed deep sorrow over the demise of immediate past president of Nigeria, General Muhammadu Buhari announced a week’s mourning period for the late former president, Muhammadu Buhari, adding that the event, since it had started before the sad news filtered in was allowed to hold low-keyed.

Declaring a one-minute silent for the repose of the soul of the Ex-President, Abubakar said the 33rd COREN Engineering Assembly would have been postponed to mourn him if not for the fact that the programme commenced earlier.

On his part, COREN Registrar, Prof. Okorie A. U. Uche expressed an unreserved gratitude to the dignitaries, professionals, and other invested guests who had come from far and near to grace the occasion, noting that it was a sign that they all wanted the best for the engineering profession in Nigeria.

“It speaks directly to the core of what we must continue to pursue: quality in engineering services that leads to local and global standard, professionalism that reflect ethical conduct, technical excellence and accountability, compliance with enhance competence that impacts the people socioeconomically,” he said.

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2026: Atiku Bagudu Grassroots Group Dismisses ‘Tinubu Must Go’ Campaign

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The Atiku Bagudu Grassroots Network for Tinubu 2027 has dismissed claims that a so-called “Tinubu Must Go” campaign is gaining meaningful traction in Northern Nigeria, describing the narrative as exaggerated and disconnected from the realities on the ground.

In a statement signed by Hon. Ali Oriri, the network declared that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu continues to enjoy solid and expanding support across the North due to ongoing infrastructure delivery, security gains and economic reforms that are beginning to yield results for ordinary citizens.

According to the group, attempts to project isolated discontent as a widespread northern revolt ignore the substantial work being done by the administration and the loyalty of key stakeholders who recognise the difficult but necessary decisions taken since 2023.

The network said its mobilisation efforts are already consolidating grassroots structures in preparation for the 2027 elections.

“The so-called Tinubu Must Go movement is making noise, but noise is not the same as organised political strength,” Oriri stated.

“What we see in the North is growing appreciation for the roads being constructed, the power projects advancing, and the renewed focus on security that is gradually restoring confidence in many communities.”

He added: “President Tinubu inherited deep structural problems. The reforms he embarked upon were tough, but they are laying the foundation for a stronger economy.

“Our network is on the ground educating our people on these realities and organising them for 2027.”

The Atiku Bagudu Grassroots Network for Tinubu 2027 emphasised that Northern Nigeria remains a critical political base and that genuine engagement with traditional institutions, youth groups, women organisations and local political actors is already yielding positive responses.

Oriri noted that the network is working closely with like-minded stakeholders to counter misinformation and highlight measurable progress in infrastructure and security across the region.

He pointed to major highway projects, rail developments and increased investment in the security architecture as evidence that the administration is addressing the very concerns being exploited by critics.

The group insisted that any assessment of public mood in the North must go beyond selective voices and examine the broader picture of development and stability efforts.

“We are not blind to the challenges of cost of living and insecurity. No serious person is,” Oriri said.

“But we also see the deliberate investments in roads that link our markets, the push to improve electricity transmission, and the operational successes being recorded by our security agencies. These are not imaginary.”

“The people of the North understand that sustainable progress requires continuity of purposeful leadership.

“That is why the Atiku Bagudu Grassroots Network is mobilising support for President Tinubu’s re-election in 2027,” he continued.

Oriri further accused promoters of the “Tinubu Must Go” campaign of seeking to capitalise on temporary hardships without offering a coherent alternative that addresses the root causes of Nigeria’s economic and security challenges.

He maintained that the network’s approach is rooted in constructive engagement rather than opportunistic agitation.

According to the statement, the group will intensify town-hall meetings, community outreaches and stakeholder consultations across northern states in the coming months to deepen understanding of the administration’s policies and consolidate electoral structures.

“Our loyalty is to the Nigerian people and to the progress that is being made under this administration,” Oriri declared.

“We will not allow a campaign built on frustration alone to define the political conversation in the North.

“President Tinubu has shown the courage to take hard decisions. The Atiku Bagudu Grassroots Network for Tinubu 2027 stands firmly with him because we believe continuity is essential for the gains already recorded in infrastructure and security to be fully realised,” he concluded.

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APC PCC Appoints Hafiz Kawu Director of Grassroots Engagement, Mobilisation

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The All Progressives Congress (APC) Presidential Campaign Council (PCC) has appointed Hon. Hafiz Muhammad Kawu Ibrahim, OON, mni, as Director of Grassroots Engagement and Mobilisation, entrusting the former lawmaker and public administrator with the crucial responsibility of strengthening the party’s connection with supporters and voters across the country.
The appointment is widely viewed as a strategic move by the ruling party to reinforce its grassroots structures and deepen engagement at the ward, local government and state levels ahead of future political contests. As Director of Grassroots Engagement and Mobilisation, Kawu is expected to coordinate outreach programmes, grassroots campaigns and stakeholder engagement initiatives aimed at expanding the party’s support base nationwide.
A seasoned politician with extensive experience in governance and public service, Hafiz Kawu previously served as Special Assistant in the Office of former Vice President Yemi Osinbajo before representing Tarauni Federal Constituency in the House of Representatives between 2019 and 2023 under the platform of the APC.
During his time in public office, he earned a reputation for grassroots development, constituency engagement and people-oriented representation. His political journey has been marked by active involvement in community empowerment programmes, youth development initiatives and sustained interactions with party supporters at the grassroots level. Reports on his public service record consistently highlight his commitment to maintaining close ties with constituents and promoting inclusive development.
Political observers say these attributes make him a natural fit for the role. Grassroots mobilisation remains one of the most critical components of electoral success in Nigeria, and many within the APC believe Kawu’s experience, accessibility and understanding of local political dynamics position him well to lead the party’s engagement efforts across diverse communities.
Beyond his legislative experience, Kawu currently serves as Executive Commissioner (Technical) at the National Pension Commission (PenCom), a position that further reflects his administrative competence and policy experience.
Supporters of the APC have expressed confidence that his leadership will further energise the party’s grassroots machinery, particularly among youths, women and first-time voters. They believe his ability to engage communities directly and communicate government policies in relatable terms will help strengthen public participation and reinforce support for the ruling party’s agenda.
A recipient of the national honour of Officer of the Order of the Niger (OON) and a member of the National Institute for Policy and Strategic Studies (NIPSS), Hafiz Muhammad Kawu Ibrahim brings both political experience and institutional knowledge to his new role.
With this appointment, the APC appears to have placed a trusted grassroots operator at the heart of its mobilisation strategy, underscoring the party’s recognition of the pivotal role grassroots engagement will play in shaping its future electoral fortunes. For many within the ruling party, Hafiz Kawu’s emergence as Director of Grassroots Engagement and Mobilisation represents not only a reward for years of service but also an investment in a political figure widely regarded as capable of connecting government policies with the aspirations of the people.

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Eggon Political Forum Endorses Ombugadu as Consensus Candidate for 2027 Nasarawa Governorship Race

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In what many observers are describing as a watershed moment in the political history of Nasarawa State, the Eggon Political Forum has officially endorsed Rt. Hon. Dr. David Emmanuel Ombugadu of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) as the consensus candidate of the Eggon Nation for the 2027 governorship election.The announcement was made at a grand assembly held at Albert Event Hall in Nasarawa Eggon Local Government Area, where leaders, stakeholders, and representatives of diverse groups gathered to deliberate on the future of Eggon political aspirations. The Forum, a non-partisan body devoted to fostering unity and political stability among the Eggon people, emphasized that the decision was the product of months of consultations, assessments, and feedback from across the state and beyond.The Forum acknowledged that six prominent Eggon sons had secured party tickets for the governorship contest, namely: Hon. Shuaibu Umaru Kubi (ACCORD), Gen. Nuhu Angbazo (ADC), Hon. Chris Mamman (ADP), Hon. Ibrahim Kassimu Aboh (APGA), Rt. Hon. Dr. David Emmanuel Ombugadu (PDP), and Mr. John Tanko Kigbu (YPP). While commending all six candidates for their courage and commitment to public service, the Forum explained that the need for unity and collective interest compelled them to adopt a single candidate. This, they argued, would prevent the fragmentation of Eggon votes and strengthen the community’s chances of producing the next governor of Nasarawa State.According to the communiqué, the Forum’s assessment was guided by several political considerations: party stability, grassroots presence, popularity across the state, structural strength of the political platforms, track records in previous positions of responsibility, governance experience, and manifesto credibility. On these grounds, Ombugadu was adjudged to be the most suitable candidate, having demonstrated consistency, political maturity, and a broad appeal across Nasarawa State.In a communiqué signed by Alh. Umaru Gwamna (Cingarin Eggon), Chairman of the Forum, and Hon. Chief Istifanus Dennis Abaku (Dan Masani Akun / Uban Garin Ende), Secretary, the Forum appealed to the other five Eggon candidates to rally behind Ombugadu in the spirit of unity. “We respectfully appeal to the five other candidates to kindly support and rally round the adopted candidate to ensure victory in the forthcoming elections,” the Forum declared.The Forum further extended its appeal to other ethnic nationalities in Nasarawa State, urging them to align with the Eggon people in supporting Ombugadu’s candidature. It stressed that while divergent interests are natural in politics, the collective interest of the land must remain supreme.Shortly after the endorsement, the Forum led a high-powered delegation to the palace of the Aren Eggon, His Royal Highness Justice Ahmed Ubangari Alaku, to formally notify him of the resolution. Speaking on behalf of the Forum, Chairman Alh. Umaru Gwamna briefed the paramount ruler on the aims and objectives of the Forum and explained the decision to adopt Ombugadu as the consensus candidate. He emphasized that the Forum deemed it necessary to seek the royal father’s advice and blessings as the Eggon Nation embarks on this united political journey.In his response, the Aren Eggon commended the Forum for its efforts to unite the Eggon people and described Ombugadu as a “blessed son of the Eggon Nation” who has consistently made his people proud. He noted that Ombugadu is not only an asset to the Eggon Nation but to Nasarawa State at large, wishing him success in the forthcoming governorship election. His Royal Highness also admonished all Eggon candidates and their supporters to shun politics of bitterness, propaganda, blackmail, and hatred, reminding them that leadership ultimately comes from God. “We as men can only do our human arrangements, but God alone can make it happen,” he cautioned.The royal father concluded by offering his blessings and wishing Ombugadu well in his political pursuit.The endorsement and royal affirmation are being hailed as a historic opportunity for the Eggon Nation, which has long aspired to produce the governor of Nasarawa State. With unity of purpose and the backing of traditional authority, the Forum expressed optimism that 2027 could mark the realization of this dream. Political analysts note that the move could significantly reshape the dynamics of the forthcoming election, as the Eggon people constitute one of the largest ethnic groups in the state. By consolidating their support behind a single candidate, the Forum hopes to maximize their influence and bargaining power in the wider political landscape.The Eggon Political Forum’s decision underscores the importance of unity, consultation, and collective interest in the pursuit of political power. As the countdown to the 2027 governorship election begins, all eyes will be on Rt. Hon. Dr. David Emmanuel Ombugadu, who now carries not only the weight of Eggon aspirations but also the blessings of their revered traditional ruler.

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