As the world grapples with the effects of Climate Change, Nigeria must harness the power of innovation, collaboration, and collective actions, by transitioning to a low-carbon economy, mitigating the impacts of climate change, and building thriving, sustainable communities for generations to come.
This was the submission of stakeholders at the 2024 OLUTUMBI JOANNA MADUKA ANNUAL LECTURE, 2024 OMAL themed: Sustainable Technology and Energy Solutions to Climate Change; Building A Resilient Future ” organised by the Nigerian Society of Engineers, NSE, and the Association of Professional Women Engineers of Nigeria, APWEN.
The 2024 OMAL, which is the sixth in its series, is held in honour of the pioneer president of the Association of Professional Women Engineers of Nigeria, APWEN, Engr. Olutumbi Joanna Maduka, FNSE, FAEng., FNIEEE, MFR.
Delivering the Lecture, Engr. Prof. Christiana Ijagbemi, FNSE said building resilience to climate change requires a holistic approach that integrates sustainable technology with adaptation strategies and community resilience efforts.
Engr. Prof, Ijagbemi, who was represented by Prof. Temitope Odetoye charged government at all levels, citizens, and all stakeholders to invest in green infrastructure, such as flood barriers, green roofs, and coastal restoration projects, which can reduce vulnerability to extreme weather events and sea-level rise.
”Embracing nature-based solutions, such as reforestation, wetland restoration, and sustainable land management, enhances ecosystem services and biodiversity while providing natural buffers against climate impacts. By prioritizing resilience in planning and decision-making processes, communities can withstand and recover from climate-related shocks and build a more sustainable and equitable future for all. ”
According to the guest speaker, sustainable technology encompasses a wide range of innovations and practices designed to minimize environmental impact while meeting human needs.
She said: “Renewable energy sources, such as solar, wind, hydro, and geothermal power, offer clean alternatives to fossil fuels, reducing carbon emissions and dependence on finite resources. Energy-efficient buildings employ technologies like smart thermostats, efficient lighting, and advanced insulation to minimize energy consumption and lower operating costs.”
President/Chairman-in-Council of the Nigerian Society of Engineers, Engr. Margaret Aina Oguntala, FNSE noted that the impacts of climate change are far-reaching and affect every aspect of life, from environmental degradation, and economic downturns to a decline in social wellbeing.
” It is within this context that the role of Engineers becomes indispensable. Our profession is uniquely positioned to drive innovation and develop solutions that can mitigate the adverse effects of climate change while promoting sustainable development.
Engr. Oguntala, FNSE. opined that sustainable technology is the cornerstone upon which the world and Nigeria can build a resilient and prosperous future and as such involves the development and deployment of ideas and methods that meet present needs without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own needs.
She said: ”Therefore, we must lead the charge in creating and implementing technologies that reduce greenhouse gas emissions, enhance energy efficiency, and promote the use of renewable energy sources.
Special Guest of Honour and President, of Cosmopolitan Women Club, Lagos, Dame Marie Fatayi-Williams charged stakeholders to embrace new lifestyles such as green energy and stop the use of plastic among others that will help reduce the effects of climate change in homes, communities, and Country at large.
Also, the Honoree, Engr. Olutumbi Joanna Maduka, FNSE, FAEng., FNIEEE, MFR, expressed joy over the success of the 2024 OMAL, charging the younger generation of female engineers to imbibe Perseverance, Patience, and Hard Work to enable them to excel in the Profession.
On the theme of this year’s OMAL, Engr. Joanna Maduka noted that alternative sources of energy in the form of bioengineering which involves converting waste to reusable, cleaner, and bio-friendly energy should be embraced for a sustainable environment.
The 2024 OMAL attracted women from all sectors including Energy, Academia, Commerce and Industry, Automobile, Civil Engineering, and construction among others
