Minister to S'east: Adopt nanotechnology solutions in highway constructions
Minister of Works, Engr David Umahi has charged Southeast States and South East Development Commission (SEDC) to start adopting nanotechnology solutions in highway constructions to safeguard huge investments in road
Minister of Works, Engr David Umahi has charged Southeast States and South East Development Commission (SEDC) to start adopting nanotechnology solutions in highway constructions to safeguard huge investments in road developments.
Umahi who gave the advice at the 2026 International (HYBRID) Conference of Faculty of Engineering, Nnamdi Azikiwe University, Awka, Anambra state said such move would prevent life premature failures on the roads.
He restated his ministry's commitment to large scale infrastructure renewal with durability, sustainability in mind, economic diversification, climate-resilient developments and inclusive growth.
Describing the Conference theme, "Sustainable Engineering for A Resilient Future" as aligning with the vision and mission of the President Bola Tinubu-led administration, Umahi said Engineering, in all its branches remained central to achieving national objectives.
"My Ministry is vigorously implementing transformative infrastructure projects across the country, guided by principles of sustainability, durability, and value for money," he added.
Also speaking, lawmaker representing Aguata Federal Constituency at the National Assembly, Engr. Dom Okafor charged Engineering scholars to evolve from being builders of structures to architects of sustainability.
He also challenged the scholars to insist on designs not just for strength, but for longevity, adaptability and ecological harmony.
Regretting consequences of unsustainable development-rising sea levels, collapsing infrastructure, energy crises, and widening inequality being witnessed across the globe, Okafor expressed confidence that the intellectual crucible would offer opportunity for ideas to be forged, solutions tested and collaborations born.
Declaring the 2-day Conference open, Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Ugochukwu Ayaehie applauded the organizers for their remarkable research output, stressing that their work has not only advanced knowledge but also has the potential to transform industries and communities.
Ayaehie, represented by Deputy Vice Chancellor, Prof Hilda Osisioma challenged the faculty to take further step by patenting their products and innovations, which he said would not only protect their intellectual property but also open up opportunities for commercialization and impact.
Earlier, Dean, Faculty of Engineering, Engr. Prof. Ugochukwu Okonkwo described the conference theme as timely, especially at a time global challenges are increasing like resource scarcity, climatic change, rapid urbanization, degradation of the environment, among others.
He acknowledged the pivotal role of engineering in shaping sustainable tomorrow, as well as importance of 3Rs of rethinking, redesigning and rebuilding available system within reach for global revamping and sustainability.
Prof Michael Ngadi from McGill University, Canada and Dr. Eni Oko from Newcastle University, England were among the Lead Paper Presenters at the conference.
