By Abbas Nazil
The Nigerian Society of Engineers (NSE) has officially commenced the 2026 National Engineering Games in Abuja, describing the annual sporting event as a strategic platform to promote physical fitness, strengthen professional relationships and foster unity among engineers across the country.
Speaking at the opening ceremony on Saturday, NSE President, Engr. Ali Alimasuya Rabiu, represented by the Deputy President, Engr. Valerie Ifueko Agberagba, said the games remain faithful to the vision behind their establishment in 2011 by providing engineers with an opportunity to unwind from demanding professional responsibilities while encouraging healthy lifestyles and networking.
She noted that the Engineering Games have grown beyond a sporting competition into a national event that reflects the values of discipline, teamwork and excellence associated with the engineering profession.
According to her, the initiative also creates opportunities for engineers to interact with government officials, development partners, private sector stakeholders and members of the diplomatic community, thereby strengthening collaboration across different sectors.
Agberagba highlighted the inclusion of the NSE Habu Gumel Marathon as one of the major attractions of this year’s edition, explaining that the race, introduced last year, honours former NSE President, Engr. Habu Ahmed Gumel, who currently serves as President of the Nigerian Olympic Committee.
She described Gumel as an outstanding sports administrator whose achievements demonstrate how engineering leadership can positively influence the global sporting community while enhancing Nigeria’s international reputation.
The NSE leadership commended engineers and guests who turned out for the games, noting that their participation reflects the profession’s commitment to excellence, friendship and healthy living.
The President also praised the Chairman of the National Engineering Games Committee, Engr. Giandomenico Massari, and members of the organising committee for their dedication in ensuring the successful planning and coordination of the event.
Earlier, Chairman of the 2026 Engineering Games Committee, Engr. Giandomenico Massari, said the event symbolises more than the commencement of sporting activities, describing it as a celebration of unity, wellness, teamwork and the enduring spirit of the engineering profession.
Massari explained that the Engineering Games were conceived to encourage physical fitness, mental alertness and social interaction among engineers, stressing that maintaining good health is essential for professionals responsible for designing, constructing and sustaining critical infrastructure.
Quoting the Latin expression “Mens sana in corpore sano,” meaning a healthy mind in a healthy body, he said sports remain a vital tool for achieving balance between professional excellence and personal wellbeing.
He further noted that sports possess the unique ability to bridge social, cultural and physical divides while creating inclusive environments where individuals from different backgrounds can interact, build confidence and challenge discrimination.
According to him, the Engineering Games are guided by principles that promote accessibility, positive attitudes, diversity, partnerships, effective communication, sound policies and equal opportunities for participation.
Massari added that this year’s programme features the NSE Habu Gumel Olympic Marathon and Awareness Walk alongside several indoor sporting competitions designed to combine innovation, recreation and engineering excellence.
He acknowledged the support of the NSE President, Engr. Ali Alimasuya Rabiu, for providing the leadership and vision that sustained the initiative, while also appreciating the contributions of the Special Guest of Honour, distinguished guests, sponsors, partners and other stakeholders.
He urged participants to compete with integrity, discipline and sportsmanship, emphasising that the greatest achievement of the games lies not only in winning medals but also in building friendships, strengthening professional networks and promoting a culture of healthy living.
Massari also commended members of the Engineering Games Committee and its various subcommittees for their commitment and hard work in organising the event.
The 2026 National Engineering Games were officially declared open with participants encouraged to compete fairly, prioritise safety and contribute to making the event a memorable celebration of sportsmanship, professional unity and wellness.
