By Ikenna Nwokedi
The Faculty of Engineering, Nnamdi Azikiwe University, Awka held her 2024 Hybrid International Conference. The Conference with the theme, “Sustainable and Smart Agriculture for National Development”, took place on Wednesday, 6th to Thursday, 7th November, 2024 at ASUU NAU Secretariat.
Declaring the event open during his address, UNIZIK Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Bernard Ifeanyi Odoh informed that the conference was one of his initial public functions as the 7th Substantive Vice-Chancellor of the institution. Prof. Odoh stated that the theme of the conference is topical against the backdrop of the astronomical rise in the cost of goods and services which includes the cost of energy following the withdrawal of fuel subsidy and the devaluation of the Naira.
The VC affirmed that there is need for a shift in the application of fossil fuels to eco-friendly source of energy while highlighting that agriculture is important to enable the development and deployment of new technologies towards improving agricultural practices and boost food production in what is called smart agriculture.
Earlier on in his opening speech, the Chairman of the occasion and former MD/CEO of Transcorp Hotels Ltd, Chief Valentine Chineto Ozigbo commended the Faculty for the conference and the wonderful theme. Chief Ozigbo stated that the issues to be discussed at the conference are significant and capable of changing the destiny of the country.
The LP candidate in the last Anambra Gubernatorial Elections also said that Nigeria has arable land resources, the climate and very knowledgeable individuals and stakeholders who would ensure smart agriculture thrives despite the issues of insecurity which government at all levels should address as a matter of urgency. He expressed hope that there will be implementable take aways from the conference to serve as a foundation for greater course.
Delivering his welcome address, the Dean Faculty of Engineering, Engr. Prof. Solomon Chuka Nwigbo stated that the conference couldn’t have come at a better time when the globe yearns for an alternative source of energy which is clean, eco-friendly and sustainable. The scholar urged policymakers, industry leaders and stakeholders to prioritize investments in sustainable energy and smart agriculture which requires commitment to research, collaboration and the development of supportive policies that encourage innovation.
In his keynote address, the President of African University of Science and Technology Abuja, Engr. Prof. Azikiwe Peter Onwualu opined that Sustainable Energy initiatives focus on satisfying the energy needs of present generation without compromising energy availability for future generations. Prof. Onwualu recommended that in addressing challenges of sustainable energy, there should be effective implementation of existing digital economy policy, empowering youths with relevant skills, mentorship, networking youth with investment in research and development as well as commercialization.
On his part, one of the Guest Speakers, Engr. Prof. Barth Nnaji, Founder and CEO of Geometric Power Ltd, stated that the nations reliance on fossil fuels has not only led to environmental degradation but also poses significant risks to the economy and public health.
Prof. Nnaji who was represented by the Director, ICT, Alex Ekwueme Federal University Ndufu Alike, Ebonyi State, Engr. Dr. Ngozi Eli-Chukwu averred that moving away from fossil fuel dependence can drastically reduce greenhouse gas emissions and help combat climate change issues that disproportionately affect the most vulnerable segments of the nation’s populace. The scholar concluded that introduction of fabrication, manufacturing and sales of sustainable energy into the nation’s educational programs is a vital step towards preparing the next generation of leaders in this critical field.
In his views, An Assistant Professor at Algona University Canada, Engr. Dr. Elvin Ugonna Eziama affirmed that there is need for comprehensive approach for sustainable energy and smart agriculture for national development. The scholar stated that smart agriculture can contribute to sustainable energy though biomass and biogas production by embracing the innovation though which the nation can cultivate a resilient economy that supports livelihood, promotes health and preserves the planet for future generation.
Speaking also, the Anambra State Commissioner for Power and Water Resources, Hon. Engr. Julius Chukwuemeka stated that smart agriculture and renewal energy is the way to go for a nation that seeks drastic economic development. He informed that the Government of Prof. Soludo is poised in making good policies that will enhance the state in all fronts of socioeconomic development.
In a vote of thanks, the Chairman Planning Committee, Engr. Prof. Cletus Ohaneme eulogized all and Sundry who graced the occasion. The scholar stated that the Faculty has already keyed into the pratice of Sustainable Energy through its research, teaching and community service.
The 2024 FEG International Conference also featured exhibition display and inspection, award presentations to distinguished personalities and technical sessions.
