By Abbas Nazil
Abuja – The Nigerian Society of Engineers (NSE) has expressed grave concerns over the Federal Government’s recent appointments to critical engineering positions within the nation’s River Basin Development Authorities (RBDAs).
A statement issued on December 23, 2024, highlights the alarming trend of unqualified personnel being appointed to leadership roles that require specialized engineering expertise.
The RBDAs, under the Federal Ministry of Water Resources, are instrumental in managing water resources for agricultural, environmental, and economic purposes.
However, the NSE’s review of the appointments reveals that only four of the 12 Executive Director positions designated for engineering were filled by qualified engineers.
Related Posts
Those appointed include Engr. Julius Oloro (Ogun-Osun RBDA), Engr. Mohammed Shettima (Chad BDA), Engr. Babajamu Adeniran (Lower Niger RBDA), and Engr. Charles Osua Akpan (Cross River BDA). Additionally, Engr. Alanamu Ayinla Abolere has been assigned as Executive Director, Planning & Design, for the Lower Niger RBDA.
The NSE’s concern lies in the appointment of individuals lacking professional credentials to key engineering roles, which it believes undermines the integrity of the institutions tasked with critical water resource management.
“These appointments jeopardize the ability of the RBDAs to fulfill their mandates effectively,” the statement reads, questioning the government’s commitment to upholding professionalism in governance.
The society has called on the Federal Government to reconsider these appointments and ensure adherence to guidelines that prioritize qualified professionals.
It also urged civil society, stakeholders, and citizens to advocate for transparency in leadership appointments. The NSE, representing Nigerian engineers at home and abroad, reaffirmed its commitment to advancing the engineering profession and safeguarding the nation’s infrastructure.
The statement underscores the importance of competent leadership for sustainable development in a sector vital to millions of Nigerians.
