NIHTE Laments Lack of Engineering Innovations Needed to Boost Food Production

NIHTE Laments Lack of Engineering Innovations Needed to Boost Food Production

The Nigerian Institute of Highway and Transportation Engineers (NIHTE) has expressed concern over the persistent absence of innovative engineering solutions, describing it as a major obstacle to improved food production in the country.

Speaking during the 4th inauguration of its new Chairman and executive members at the Institute’s Annual General Meeting in Awka, the body stressed that modern engineering innovations remain vital for catalyzing agricultural activities and driving nationwide economic growth.

Delivering the keynote address on Integrated Approaches to Rural Road Development: Engineering Innovation and Contractual Frameworks, Engr. Tony Nwafor, Managing Director of Vertical Limits, and Engr. Prof. Louis Orakwue of SPC RAAMP, emphasized the urgent need for contemporary and collaborative methodologies to develop rural road networks.
They noted that improved contract administration and the adoption of innovative engineering practices are essential to unlocking agricultural productivity, enhancing rural accessibility, and supporting inclusive development.

Representing the NIHTE National Chairman, Engr. Francis Oraikhi, the National Vice Chairman, Engr. Edmond Nkalu, praised the Awka Chapter for a smooth leadership transition. He reaffirmed NIHTE’s mandate to produce world-class engineers capable of delivering durable rural transportation systems that will stimulate economic activities and expand agricultural value chains across Nigeria.

Award recipients Engr. Amobi Anthony and Engr. Benson Okafor described the AGM as a significant stride toward strengthening professional excellence and deepening the institute’s capacity-building efforts.

Also speaking, Engr. Michael Orekyeh, National Vice Chairman and Pioneer Chairman of the Nigerian Institute of Metallurgical, Mining and Materials Engineering (NIMMME), Awka Chapter, encouraged engineering students to participate actively in Nigerian Society of Engineers (NSE) activities. He stressed that passion, discipline, and professional visibility are crucial for accessing mentorship opportunities and advancing their engineering careers.

In his acceptance speech, the newly inaugurated Chairman, Engr. Udechukwu Obianyo, thanked NIHTE for the confidence reposed in him. He called for unity and collective support, pledging to pursue programmes and reforms that would strengthen the chapter’s relevance and advance engineering standards across Anambra State.

Chairman of the Nigerian Society of Engineers (NSE), Awka Branch, Engr. Maryjane Okoli, and NIHTE Pioneer Chairman Awka Chapter, Engr. Chidi Obiudu (FNIHTE), congratulated the new leadership team. They described the handover as a testament to NIHTE’s commitment to continuity, institutional growth, and professional development.

Both leaders commended Governor Charles Chukwuma Soludo for promoting sound engineering practices through the Ministry of Works, especially in the area of ongoing road construction and critical infrastructure development across the state. They also lauded the NIHTE National Chairman for his dynamic leadership and continued support to state chapters.

Speaking on behalf of student engineers, Miss Kosisochukwu Udemba reaffirmed the commitment of young professionals to uphold engineering ethics, pursue mentorship, and contribute meaningfully to the institute’s vision. She assured that emerging engineers are eager to learn, innovate, and support the advancement of transportation engineering in Nigeria.