The Nigerian Institution of Environmental Engineers (NIEE, Abuja Chapter), a division of the Nigerian Society of Engineers has held a Public Lecture and Investiture Ceremony for Engr. Linda Bitrus Elesa FICRPC, MNSE, MNIEE as she became the 6th Chairman of the NIEE, Abuja Chapter.
The event which was themed, “Environmental Sustainability and Resilience for Food Security in Nigeria: The Post COVID-19 Era” also had 2020/2021 new Executive Members inaugurated under the Chairmanship of Engr. O. E. S. Ajani, FNSE, FNIEE, National Chairman, NIEE.
In his keynote address, Engr. Ajani said the theme for event was quite apt and timely because of the global pandemic that has affected several sectors of the economy as well as its imminent environmental impacts.
He added that the Public Lecture has become imperative in order create opportunity for the experts to rub minds and offer suggestions on solving these inevitable environmental challenges that have negatively impacted Nigeria and the entire globe.
“This event has become imperative as it would afford us and our guest speakers the opportunities to dissect these imminent environmental challenges such as flooding, desertification, deforestation, Water Pollution and Climate Change amongst others, and offer suggestions on solving them going forward, particularly in the Post Covid 19 era” said Ajani.
The Distinguished Guest of Honour at the event, Barr. Boss Mustapha, Secretary to the Government of the Federation while delivering his Keynote Remarks commended the efforts of greater body of Nigerian Engineers for rising up to the challenges thrust upon us by the Covid-19 pandemic by putting together an impacful public lecture.
In his words: “It is indeed pleasing to know that NIEE has engaged itself to work with government in ensuring a sustainable development through advocacy for cleaner environment and food security when the Pandemic is defeated”
“I want to assure you that the Federal Government would always engage professionals in seeking solutions to challenges and, within the limit of ever-competing resources, provide supports for laudable efforts that would benefits the greatest majority of the Nigerian populace” he remarked.
Engr. Lynda Bitrus who was being celebrated at the event, and described as a professional Engineer to the core, an uncommon attribute that has earned her the current position of 6th Chairman, NIEE (Abuja Chapter) was visibly overjoyed while giving her inauguration speech.
Elesa who has Deep Strategic, Operations knowledge and expertise in Water and Environmental Engineering/Management with focus on Water Sanitation and Hygiene (WASH) as well as Nature Based Solutions in Water Resources Management vowed to stay committed to upholding the tenets upon which the institution is founded.
According to her, “My ever supportive team of executives and I are truly aware of the immense work that lies ahead and by the special grace of God Almighty, and goodwill of all members we are prepared for it.
“We, however, humbly and respectfully solicit your supoort, advise, encouragement and prayers in order to successfully take NIEE Abuja chapter to a higher pedestal”
She added that the planned activity of the NIEE during her tenure shall be embedded I the mission, vision and goals of the institution.
Engr. Dr. Umar Buba Bindir, FNSE, FAENG, NPOM, former Secretary to Adamawa State Government who as the Guest Lecturer at the event delivered an insight knowledge based lecture on how technological advancement and engineering innovations could solve myraid of challenges militating against food security in Nigeria.
Dr Bindir attributed current challenges facing food security in Nigeria to lack of political will and commitment of the part of our leaders.
The highlight of the event was the awards ceremony for the outstanding past and present members of the NIEE.
Notable and Special guests at the event were Alh. (Dr.) Bamanga Tukur who was the Royal Father of the Day, H E. Rt. Hon. Ahmadu Umaru Fintiri, Executive Governor of Adamawa State, Dr. Mohammad Mahmood Abubakar, Hon. Minister of Environment, Alh. Mohammed Sabo Nanono,
Others are Hon. Minister of Agriculture and Rural Development and Dr. Kashim Akor, Director General/CEO, National Productivity Centre, were the Distinguished Guests of Honour.