President of the Nigerian Society of Engineers (NSE), Engr. Margaret Aina Oguntala, FNSE, in the company of the institution’s chairman, Maitama Branch, Engr. Dr. Okoye Ugochukwu Henry, FNSE recently unveiled twin solar-powered bus stop shelters with all-in-one streetlights constructed by NSE Maitama Branch.
The initiative which is conceptualised as a Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) under the Community Engineering Project has witnessed the delivery of the projects in two strategic points, right in front of the Transcorp Hilton Hotel in Maitama and in front of the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited towers in the Central Business Districts of the Federal Capital Territory.
Speaking at the ceremony, Oguntala said the commissioning of the project marks a significant milestone in the collective efforts by Engineers at harnessing renewable energy thereby promoting environmentally friendly infrastructure. She said solar power represents a clean and abundant source of energy which should be effectively harnessed to reduce carbon footprints and boost energy security.
The project, according to her speaks volumes about Nigerian Engineers’ innovative spirit and ability to address pressing societal needs as well as reaffirms the collaborative posture of the NSE and will in no small measure encourage the government to do more and other stakeholders to make their mark in giving back to the society.
“By integrating bus stop shelters with street lighting, this project not only provides commuters with a comfortable waiting area but also enhances safety and security in our urban environment”, Oguntala added.
She commended the NSE Maitama Branch, saying that she was proud of their bold step in the direction of the fulfilment of the United Nations Goals. “The deployment of these solar-powered streetlights underscores our commitment to the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals, particularly Goal 7: Affordable and Clean Energy, and Goal 11: Sustainable Cities and Communities. By leveraging renewable energy technologies, we can create vibrant and resilient cities that prioritize the well-being of residents while minimizing our impact on the environment.
“I commend the NSE Maitama Branch for spearheading this project and for their dedication to advancing engineering excellence in the nation’s capital, projects like this demonstrate the importance of collaboration between the engineering profession, government agencies, private sector stakeholders, and the community at large, it is through such partnerships that we can achieve meaningful progress and create lasting impact.
“I confirm that this project is a positive response to my call that our Branches must strive to impact their immediate communities with projects of immense value such as this one. As we celebrate this event, let us rededicate ourselves to the principles of sustainability, innovation, and inclusive development; let us continue to harness the power of engineering to address the complex challenges facing the entire Federal Capital Territory and build a better future for the residents”.
While urging the FCT authorities to jealously protect this infrastructure from vandalism, Madam President extended her gratitude to all those who have contributed to the success of the project and reaffirmed the Nigerian Society of Engineers’ unwavering commitment to advancing the engineering profession for the betterment of our nation.
Chairman of NSE Maitama Branch, Engr. Okoye thanked the NSE President for taking time out of her tight schedule to do the honours of launching the projects. He also thanked all the dignitaries first for their contribution towards the projects and for their presence at the official commissioning.
Okoye said “Our journey towards this remarkable achievement has been one filled with dedication, collaboration, and unwavering commitment to the betterment of our community, these Bus Stop Shelters stand not only as a testament to our engineering prowess but also as a symbol of our collective responsibility to harness technology for the greater good.
“The President and Chairman in Council of the Nigerian Society of Engineers, Engr. Margaret Oguntala, FNSE is on a mission of rebirthing the NSE for the growth, empowerment and advancement of Engineering in Nigeria and this is a typical example of it”.
Okoye also added “I am honoured to acknowledge the invaluable partnership we have forged with the Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers – Humanitarian Technologies Board. Their support has been instrumental in bringing this project to fruition, and we are immensely grateful for their partnership and collaboration”.
The NSE Maitama Branch Community Engineering Project chair, Engr. Rita Ezeh, FNSE pointed out that the shelters represent more than just structures, saying that they signify a leap forward in sustainability and convenience for various immediate communities.
Ezeh emphasized the strategic advantages of the projects which include harnessing solar power to reduce reliance on traditional energy sources thereby contributing to a greener and more environmentally friendly future. She also explained that the integrated all-in-one solar streetlights provide illumination during the night and would go a long way to improving visibility and safety for commuters using the bus stops during the dark hours.
“With the inclusion of phone charging ports, these shelters offer a practical solution for commuters to stay connected and powered up, ensuring they can communicate and access information during their journeys”, she said.
The project, according to Ezeh would not have been possible without the collaborative efforts of the Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers (IEEE) – Humanitarian Technologies Board, the Transmission Company of Nigeria and the Transport Secretariat of the FCT.
