Kakakioodua correspondent witnessed a significant milestone in the history of the Nigerian Society of Engineers (NSE), Ilesa Branch, on Friday, February 6, 2026, as the branch formally held its Sod-Turning and Fundraising Ceremony for the development of a proposed NSE Ilesa Branch Secretariat and Vocational Resource Centre.
The event took place at The Roots Club House, opposite African Church Grammar School, Osogbo Road, Ilesa, and attracted an impressive gathering of royal fathers, professional engineers, community leaders, academics, students, and well-wishers.
Proceedings began with the arrival of guests and members, followed by the rendition of the National Anthem and Osun State Anthem, and an opening prayer. Dignitaries present were duly introduced, setting the tone for what turned out to be a well-coordinated and purposeful programme.
The ceremony was chaired by the President and Chairman-in-Council of NSE, Engr. Ali Rabiu, FNSE, who was represented by Engr. Ayotunde Ogunnaike. The Imperial Royal Father of the Day was His Imperial Majesty, Owa Sir Dr. Clement Adesuyi Haastrup, Ajimoko III, the Owa Obokun Adimula and Paramount Ruler of Ijesaland, while HRM Oba Engr. Olufemi Agunsoye, the Elegboro of Ijebu-Jesa, also graced the occasion.
The Special Guest of Honour was Hon. Gbenga Onigbogi, FCA, Pro-Chancellor of the University of Ilesa. The event was convened by Engr. Oluyemi Oguntominiyi, FNSE, with Engr. Chukwuma Agah Ugha, FNSE, Chairman of NSE Ilesa Branch, serving as host.
In his welcome address, the Chairman of the Project Planning Committee, Engr. Oludotun Fawibe, FNSE, explained that the project represents a long-cherished vision of the branch to have a permanent secretariat that will also function as a vocational and technical skills centre. According to him, the facility is designed to empower youths with practical skills, promote innovation through a tech hub, and provide a stable administrative base for the branch, all aimed at adding lasting value to Ijesaland rather than generating profit.
Addressing the gathering, the representative of the NSE President commended the Ilesa Branch for embarking on what he described as a bold, well-thought-out and sustainable project that aligns with the development aspirations of Osun State. He urged corporate organisations, government, and individuals to support the initiative and encouraged the branch leadership to remain committed to capacity building and professional excellence.
Speaking further, Engr. Chukwuma Agah Ugha highlighted the contributions of the Ilesa Branch since its establishment in 1993, noting its involvement in professional mentoring, public safety campaigns, career guidance for secondary school students, structural integrity assessments, radio engagements, and scholarship awards. He described the new project as a “new chapter” that will deepen the branch’s impact on society.
The event also featured a detailed project presentation by Engr. Dr. Mrs. Mojirade Oloruntoba, FNSE, and Engr. Adewusi Aderotimi, MNSE, outlining the objectives and benefits of the centre to the community and the nation at large.
In his address, the Special Guest of Honour, Hon. Gbenga Onigbogi, pledged strong support for the initiative, describing it as timely and essential for youth empowerment and technical development in Ijesaland.
A fundraising session followed, with pledges and donations announced from dignitaries and guests. Awards were also presented to organisations and an individual In recognition of their commitments to the development of Engineering profession in Nigeria, including ENL Consortium Limited, Horizon Construction, and Engr. Dr. Christopher Omisore.
The royal goodwill message delivered by His Imperial Majesty, Owa Clement Adesuyi Haastrup, further underscored the importance of the project to the future of Ijesaland, as he commended the NSE Ilesa Branch for its foresight and community-oriented vision.
The programme concluded with a closing prayer, vote of thanks by Engr. Obaje Onuche, MNSE, group photographs, and refreshments. Thereafter, guests moved to the project site at Ajaka Estate, Ilesa West Local Government, where the official sod-turning ceremony was performed by the Guest of Honour, assisted by other dignitaries, formally marking the commencement of the project.
More photos: Coverage Script ✍️ Camera 📸 Credit Oladimeji Lasore (+2347035105413, [email protected])
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