• Super Admin
• 07 Mar, 2026

Experts in mechanical engineering have raised concern over underutilization of commercialization potential of university-based engineering and technology research. The experts made the call on Friday at the 5th Annual Prof. Olusoji Ofi Distinguished Academic Lecture, organised by the Nigerian Institution of Mechanical Engineers (NIMechE), Ibadan Chapter, in Ibadan. The lecture, which also marked the 7th NIMechE Ibadan Distinguished Academic Lecture, is entitled "Sustainable Engineering and National Development: The Spirit of Olusoji Ofi". It aimed at advocating for effective support for developmental research in Nigeria. The Guest Lecturer, Prof. Adelere Adeniran, the Dean, School of Engineering Babcock University, Ilison Remo, highlighted the enormous potential of research results in various fields, including food technology, agri-engineering, mechanical engineering, and civil engineering, among others. He said that many of these research results unfortunately ended up on the shelf, with little attention paid to commercialization and industrialization. Adeniran emphasized the need for research to move beyond publication to production, and for engineering innovation to translate into industry, enterprise, and national progress. Speaking on the theme of the lecture, he stressed that sustainable engineering is not just about designing efficient machines or developing mathematical models, but about ensuring that knowledge generates within universities translates into technology that serves society and advances national development. He further stated that the Prof. Ofi's pioneering work on the mechanical production of pounded yam "Iyan Ofi" was a groundbreaking achievement that showcased the power of sustainable engineering. "His innovation was more than just a technological breakthrough; it was a testament to the potential of engineering to create economic value, reduce human drudgery, support local industry, and improve everyday life. "Prof. Ofi's work embodied the spirit of sustainable national development, where knowledge serves society, innovation supports enterprise, technology reflects culture, and professional integrity strengthens national institutions. "Prof. Ofi's message was clear: research must be directed towards societal transformation, and engineering innovation must be harnessed for national progress. Nigerian engineering can support and define national development. "As Nigeria moves forward, it is imperative to carry forward the spirit of Professor Ofi, embracing disciplined engineering, principled leadership, and purposeful innovation to build a nation where knowledge serves society, technology uplifts humanity, and progress endures for generations, "he said. The Chairman, NIMechE, Ibadan Chapter, Engr. Kabir Aminu, said that the lecture was name after Prof. Olusoji Ofi in recognition of his passion and labour in the field of mechanical engineering. He noted that the lecture has foster a continuous collaboration between his family, proteges, and the entire institution of mechanical engineers and Nigerian Society of Engineers(NSE) as a whole. Earlier, the National Chairman of NIMechE, Dr Babagana Tela, represented by the former NIMechE National Vice-chairman, Prof. Dare Ademola, said that the distinguished annual lecture has become a platform where issues of national interest were being discussed by stakeholders. He noted that various insights and recommendations from past lectures had led to formulation of many policies for national development. Responding, Prof. Ofi expressed his gratitude to the association, UI community, well-wishers, and all who had worked tirelessly to make the event a reality. He suggested that universities should be encouraged to set up incubation centres to to help the economy grow by encouraging innovation and the use of technology. The event featured the launch of Ofi Endowment Fund, awards presentation and goodwill messages from the former Vice Chancellors of the University of Ibadan, Prof. Abel Olayinka and Prof. Olufemi Bamiro, and Prof. Samuel Osisanya, Engr. Ademola Agoro among others. Source: https://independent.ng/mechanical-engineers-raise-concerns-over-underutilised-engineering-research/