Power Deficit Threatens Growth, Engineers Warn

Electrical engineers have warned that Nigeria’s persistent power challenges could continue to undermine economic growth if urgent investments and innovation in the sector are not prioritised.

The warning came yesterday at the inauguration of Engr. Ohida Asema Maiyaki as the 10th chairman of the Abuja Chapter of the Nigerian Institute of Electrical and Electronic Engineers (NIEEE).

President of NIEEE, Engr. Felix Adesola Adegboye, said the engineering profession remains critical to addressing infrastructure gaps, stressing that reliable electricity is central to industrialisation and economic sustainability.

“Leadership in a professional body such as ours is not ornamental; it demands commitment to advancing both the profession and society,” he said, urging engineers to drive innovation, promote sustainable energy solutions and uphold professional standards.

He added that improved power supply and adoption of emerging technologies would play a key role in boosting productivity across sectors.

In his inaugural address, Maiyaki said the chapter would focus on capacity development in key areas of the power sector to strengthen technical competence among engineers.

He disclosed plans to introduce structured training programmes covering solar photovoltaic systems, power systems practice, and energy auditing, among others.

According to him, the initiative is aimed at equipping professionals with relevant skills to tackle Nigeria’s energy challenges and support economic growth.

Also speaking, Chief Executive Officer of Daylad Consult Ltd, Engr. Dayo Olugboye, said no economy can function optimally without stable electricity supply.

“The modern economy runs on electricity. From small businesses to large industries, power is essential for productivity and efficiency,” he said.

Olugboye called for stronger collaboration between government and the private sector to address infrastructure deficits and unlock growth.

The event also featured the outgoing chairman, Engr. Cletus Ayila, who urged the new leadership to sustain efforts at strengthening the chapter’s activities and professional engagement.