The Edo State Government has announced a new partnership with the Nigerian Society of Engineers (NSE) aimed at empowering young engineers through targeted skills training, mentorship programmes, technical boot camps, and innovation-driven initiatives designed to support business creation and job opportunities.
The collaboration, led by the Edo State Ministry of Business, Trade and Investment (MBTI), is part of the government’s broader plan to strengthen the role of engineering and technical innovation in driving economic development across the state.
Speaking during a meeting with executives of the NSE Benin Branch, the Commissioner for Business, Trade and Investment, Hon. Omoh Anabor, said the partnership will focus on equipping young engineers with practical skills that can help them transform technical ideas into viable businesses.
According to him, Edo State is deliberately positioning itself as a hub for innovation, entrepreneurship, and industrial growth.
“Our goal is to create an environment where young professionals, especially engineers, can develop their skills and convert their knowledge into productive enterprises that contribute to economic growth,” Anabor said.
He explained that the Ministry plans to work closely with the engineering body to design programmes that support young professionals through hands-on technical training, innovation hubs, and mentorship opportunities.
“We are committed to working with the Nigerian Society of Engineers to engage and empower qualified young engineers. Through skills development programmes, technical boot camps, and innovation-driven initiatives, we want to prepare them to become job creators rather than job seekers,” he added.
Anabor also noted that engineering expertise will play a critical role in strengthening industrial productivity, improving infrastructure development, and supporting local manufacturing in Edo State.
The Chairman of the NSE Benin Branch, Engr. (Mrs.) Tina Oigiagbe, welcomed the collaboration, describing it as a significant opportunity to connect engineering talent with economic development initiatives in the state.
She explained that the engineering profession plays a vital role in innovation, industrial growth, and competitiveness, adding that supporting young engineers is key to building a stronger economy.
“Engineering is a major driver of productivity and innovation. By empowering young engineers with the right tools, training, and mentorship, we can help them develop solutions that support industries and create new businesses,” Oigiagbe said.
She also pointed out that many small and medium-sized enterprises struggle due to poor technical design, inefficient processes, and weak maintenance culture, challenges that trained engineers can help solve.
“Through this partnership, we want to support programmes such as mentorship initiatives, technical boot camps, and innovation platforms that connect engineers with entrepreneurs,” she said.
Oigiagbe added that the NSE is ready to support the Edo State Government by providing technical guidance for industrial projects and promoting locally engineered solutions that strengthen indigenous manufacturing.
“These initiatives will help transform innovative engineering ideas into market-ready products while creating employment opportunities for young people in Edo State,” she stated.
