From Ifeoma Ejiofor
The Nnewi branch of the Nigerian Society of Engineers (NSE) on Saturday held her 2022 annual general meeting and induction of new corporate members.
The AGM which held at National Engineering Design Development Institute(NEDDI) Nnewi, Anambra State had the theme “Sustainable Engineering Waste Conversion: A Panacea For Energy Crisis In Nigeria.”
In his welcome address, the Chairman of the Nnewi branch of NSE, Engr Obumneme Onyedum said that it is a thing of joy that the branch is doing excellently well in just nine years of her existence.
He said that the theme of this year’s AGM was carefully chosen because of the need to convert the huge waste seeing everywhere to wealth especially to generate electricity.
Engr Onyedum said that this has become imperative because of the hazardous nature of refuse dumps that litters the nooks and crannies of the industrial town of Nnewi and other cities in the state.
“You can see scavengers going to the refuse dumps to pick pieces of metals and other materials suitable to them but if the waste are properly harnessed, the state stands to benefit more.
“As a matter of fact, we have decided to work and build a synergy with Anambra State Governor, Prof Charles Soludo on waste to wealth economy, interestingly, the state Commissoner for Environment, Chinedu Odumegwu is our member.” He said.
Engr Onyedum while commenting on the incessant building collapse in the country identified activities of quacks as being responsible for the development.
“It is worrisome that almost everyone has become a building engineer and a building contractor in Nigeria, this is a dangerous development that must tackled with all seriousness it deserves.”
Engr Onyedum while thanking the members of Nnewi branch for their cooperation expressed the commitment of his executive council to membership drive and empowerment of members.
He said as a matter of fact that NSE, Nnewi branch has concluded arrangements with the member representing Nnewi North, Nnewi South and Ekwusigo Local Goverment Areas in the House of Representatives, Hon Chris Azubogu to empower members on different softwares and practical activities.
The Nnewi branch of NSE however identified insecurity as a major issue slowing down the branch in the pursuit of her programs and activities.
The highlight of the AGM was a lecture delivered by Engr Dr. Chiazor Jisieke(MNSE) on Sustainable technological approach towards recovering energy from municipal waste as well as the induction of eight new corporate members.