By Olufemi Oni, Ilorin

The Rector of the Kwara State Polytechnic, Engr. Dr. Abdul Jimoh Mohammed, has reiterated the institution’s unwavering commitment to generating ideas and innovations aimed at tackling Nigeria’s current challenges.

The Rector stated this on Wednesday while declaring open the ongoing international conference of the Institute of Technology held at the Polytechnic’s permanent site.

Represented by the Deputy Rector Administration, Dr. (Mrs.) Felicia Olabisi Awolola, the Rector emphasised the critical role of academia and technology in driving national development amidst the myriad challenges facing the country.

He implored the participants to engage fully in meaningful discussions, share experiences and explore unconventional approaches that could lead to sustainable development.

In her paper entitled, “Engineering and Technology: Solutions for National Security, Economic and Infrastructural Development”, the lead paper presenter, Prof. Olubunmi Mokuolu, revealed that over 2.2 million Nigerians were displaced in 2024 due to the activities of Boko Haram and other related illegal groups.

She lamented Nigeria’s overdependence on oil revenues, describing it as a major vulnerability, particularly in the face of global market fluctuations.

Prof. Mokuolu emphasised that integrating engineering and technology holds the key to solving Nigeria’s pressing issues in national security, economic growth, and infrastructure.

She advocated the adoption of innovative technologies such as drone surveillance, AI-powered security systems, renewable energy, smart infrastructure, and digital transformation as strategic tools to unlock Nigeria’s full potential.

The conference continued with various paper presentations and discussions aimed at fostering sustainable development through technology and engineering innovations.