The Oyo State Acting Governor, Barrister Adebayo Lawal, has reaffirmed the government’s commitment to revitalizing Nigeria’s manufacturing sector by fostering innovation and investing in technical education.
He was Speaking at the Association of Professional Women Engineers of Nigeria (APWEN) International Conference in Ibadan where he emphasized the critical role of female engineers in this national agenda.
The conference, themed “Revitalizing Nigeria’s Manufacturing Sector through Innovative Engineering Solutions,” brought together professionals from across the country to discuss strategies for economic growth and industrial revival.
Lawal highlighted that the Omituntun 2.0 agenda, his administration’s blueprint, prioritizes “innovation, inclusivity, and technical education” as key drivers of economic development. He said these pillars are essential for rebuilding the state’s economy and contributing to the nation’s manufacturing revival.
The acting governor showcased several ongoing initiatives in Oyo State that align with the conference’s theme. These include expanding access to technical and vocational education, strategic infrastructure investments, and supporting STEM initiatives for young girls.
“Our flagship Fasola Agribusiness Industrial Hub is a practical model of innovation,” Lawal said, noting that it integrates agriculture, processing, and manufacturing to create jobs and boost food security. He also mentioned that the state’s recently concluded AfCFTA Sub-National Strategy is designed to leverage the African Continental Free Trade Area by “boosting industrial competitiveness” and creating new manufacturing opportunities.
Lawal stressed the importance of partnerships with professional bodies like APWEN, which he said have been “instrumental in shaping policies, mentoring the next generation of female engineers, and driving community-based innovation.”
Looking ahead, Lawal pledged to deepen collaborations with APWEN, invest in research and development facilities within tertiary institutions, and promote inclusive leadership to ensure women engineers play central roles in the nation’s manufacturing transformation.
He concluded by challenging the young engineers in attendance, especially the women, to take up the mantle of leadership. “The future of Nigeria’s manufacturing rests in your hands. Your ideas, your resilience, and your courage to innovate will determine how far we go as a nation,” he stated.
The president, APWEN , Dr Adebisi Osim, explained that the event is meant to empower women engineers and drive Nigeria’s progress.
Osim, further stated that the theme of the conference is a reminder that engineers are indeed building Nigeria’s future .
She said “Today marks the culmination of a year of relentless dedication to empower women engineers and drive Nigeria’s progress. Our theme, “Revitalizing Nigeria’s Manufacturing Sector Through Innovative Engineering Solutions”, reminds us that engineers are indeed building Nigeria’s future – one innovative step at a time.
“As we open this conference, let us reflect on the extraordinary year that was 2025 for APWEN. This has been a year of bold actions, transformative impacts, and unbreakable spirit.We have not only encouraged, enhanced, and excelled, as our motto states, but we have ignited passions, bridged divides, and created lasting change across Nigeria.
“This year’s conference is about action , our resolutions will form a policy and industry advisory document, which APWEN will share with the government and stakeholders. Dear colleagues, this conference is your platform. Engage with luminaries like the Chairman Engr. Margaret Oguntala, FNSE; Special Guest Engr. Prof. Sadiq Zubair Abubakar; Keynote Prof. Nasir Naeem AbdulSalam; and Guest Speaker Mrs. Olubukola Adubi. Network, innovate, and collaborate to revitalize manufacturing.
“Let us collaborate to expand apprenticeships, internships, and scholarships. To our government leadersSupport engineering-led policies that will empower our industries. Ladies and gentlemen, the future of Nigeria’s manufacturing sector lies not in imported solutions, but in home-grown innovations driven by Nigerian engineers. That is why we are here. That is why we must succeed.”
The event which was also attended by the Oyo state first lady , Engr, Tamunominini Makinde witnessed panel sessions and keynote speeches by other stakeholders.
Women Engineers Call for ‘Home-Grown Innovation’ to Revitalize Nigeria’s Manufacturing Sector