
The Chairman of the Nigerian Society of Engineers, Abeokuta Chapter, Engr. Olumayowa Ayodeji Idowu, has been conferred with the Young Professional Excellence Award for Leadership by the Federation of African Engineering Organisations.
The award was presented by the President of FAEO, Engr. Refilwe Buthelezi, during the 11th UNESCO–Africa Engineering Week and 9th African Engineering Conference held at the Speke Resort Convention Centre, Munyonyo, Kampala, Uganda.
According to NSE, the event, themed ‘Leveraging Engineering Innovations and Technology to Accelerate Africa’s Socio-Economic Transformation’, brought together engineers, innovators, and policymakers across the continent to celebrate excellence and leadership in engineering practice.
Engr. Idowu, who is the youngest ever Chairman of the NSE Abeokuta Chapter, was selected after a rigorous screening process involving nominees from professional engineering institutions across Africa.
Expressing his delight, Engr. Idowu said the recognition reflects the collective effort of the engineering community in Nigeria.
He said, “I am deeply humbled and honoured to receive the Young Professional Excellence Award for Leadership from the Federation of African Engineering Organisations.
“To be recognised among such esteemed leaders in the engineering sector is a testament to the collective effort of my colleagues, mentors, and the entire Nigerian Society of Engineers.”
He extended his appreciation to the President of NSE, Engr. Margaret Oguntala, describing her as an inspiring leader who continues to create opportunities for young professionals.
“I appreciate Engr. Oguntala for her guidance and support and for giving room for young engineers to thrive and contribute meaningfully to the growth of the profession,” Idowu added.
“This award is not just for me but for everyone who has supported our vision of advancing engineering in Nigeria and Africa. It is a reminder of our responsibility as young professionals to drive positive change, inspire innovation, and contribute to the socio-economic transformation of our communities.”
Under Idowu’s leadership, the NSE Abeokuta Chapter has recorded several milestones, particularly in mentoring young professionals and promoting innovative engineering solutions.
An alumnus of the Public Leadership Programme of AIG-Imoukhuede at the University of Oxford, Engr. Idowu also serves on the Academy Committee of FAEO. He chairs the NSE Programmes, Branding, Publicity, and Media Relations Committee, where he has championed initiatives that spotlight the role of engineers in national development.
The FAEO Young Professional Excellence Award celebrates emerging leaders who inspire change, mobilise teams, and deliver impactful engineering solutions addressing Africa’s socio-economic challenges. Engr. Idowu’s recognition underscores his growing influence in engineering leadership and his dedication to advancing the profession across borders.
SOURCE: PUNCH NEWS PAPER