Zulum assures engineers of befitting 2026 NSE conference

Governor Babagana Zulum of Borno has assured the Nigerian Society of Engineers (NSE) of adequate support to host a successful 2026 National Conference scheduled for Dec. 1 in Maiduguri.

Zulum gave the assurance when he received the NSE President, Engr. Ali Alimasuya Rabiu, and his delegation at the Government House, Maiduguri.

He said the state government had constructed the Maiduguri International Conference Centre as part of preparations for the event, assuring that the facility would be ready before the conference.

The governor expressed optimism that the conference would be one of the best held in the country.

He said the theme of the conference, “Engineering Innovation for Enhanced Security and Sustainable National Development,” was particularly relevant to Borno, which had experienced nearly two decades of security challenges.

Zulum expressed hope that deliberations at the conference would produce practical engineering solutions to address security challenges and promote sustainable development.

He directed his Chief of Staff to engage the Chairman and members of the Local Organising Committee to identify their needs.

The governor also promised to provide buses and financial support to facilitate the successful hosting of the conference.

He added that the Spouses’ Forum would receive the support earlier promised by his wife.

Zulum further announced that the state had adopted the enhanced entry-level structure for engineers approved by the National Council on Establishments at its March 2018 meeting in Owerri.

He said engineers entering the Borno public service would henceforth be placed on Grade Level 9 and advance to Grade Level 10 after two years in line with the approved framework.

The governor said his administration had prioritised the engagement of indigenous engineers in executing major infrastructure projects across the state.

He cited the construction of the Maiduguri International Conference Centre, the state teaching hospital recently inaugurated by the Vice-President, as well as roads and other infrastructure projects.

Zulum also highlighted the government’s investment in road maintenance, including the acquisition of 100 trucks and the establishment of a state-owned quarry plant with a production capacity of 120 tonnes per hour.

He said the state also had four asphalt plants, adding that local engineers had played significant roles in executing several road projects.

Earlier, Rabiu commended the Zulum administration for its investments in infrastructure, strengthening of public institutions and promotion of socio-economic development despite the security challenges facing the Northeast.

He said more than 6,000 delegates, including engineers, stakeholders from across Nigeria and representatives of engineering organisations from other African countries, were expected to attend the conference.

Rabiu said the gathering would provide an opportunity for professionals to exchange ideas and explore engineering innovations for national development.