The Nigerian Society of Engineers (NSE), Oluyole Branch, is set to host the 8th edition of the Engr. Ifedayo Akintunde Annual Lecture on July 2nd, 2025, at the Abiola Ajimobi Technical University (TECH-U), Ibadan. This year’s event focuses on a subject of continental urgency: “Empowering Africa’s Energy Transition.”

The lecture series, named after one of Nigeria’s most distinguished engineers, Engr. Ifedayo Akintunde, has become a leading platform for bridging engineering innovation with national development. Each year, it brings together engineers, academics, policymakers, and industry leaders to examine real life challenges and propose sustainable solutions.

This year’s guest lecturer is Professor Olumuyiwa Oyinlola, a renowned academic at the Centre for Climate and Sustainability Innovation at De Montfort University, United Kingdom. Prof. Oyinlola is known for his work in sustainable infrastructure and off grid energy systems in Africa.

The event is expected to feature key figures including Engr. Oluseyi Makinde, Governor of Oyo State, as Special Guest of Honour, and Dr. Adesola Ajayi, Rector of TECH-U, as Chief Host. Also expected is Oba Abimbola Owolabi Olakulehin, the Olubadan of Ibadanland, who will serve as Royal Father of the Day.

With over 600 million Africans lacking access to electricity, energy transition is no longer a luxury but a necessity. For Nigeria, the most populous country on the continent, the stakes are particularly high.

“This lecture comes at a time when Nigeria is rethinking its energy future,” said Dr. Ajayi. “We must prepare the next generation of engineers to lead innovations in renewable energy, grid stability, and inclusive electrification.”

The theme reflects growing momentum around energy diversification, climate action, and the integration of engineering into policy dialogue. As fossil fuel dependency wanes globally, African nations are being urged to design transition plans that prioritize resilience, affordability, and local innovation.

First held in 2018, the Engr. Ifedayo Akintunde Lecture has grown into one of Nigeria’s most respected engineering thought leadership events. Past editions have explored themes ranging from dam infrastructure and digital power systems to international case studies on development and the role of technology in humanitarian work.

The lecture series honours Engr. Ifedayo Akintunde, FNSE, a past President of the NSE and former Vice President of the World Federation of Engineering Organizations. He is also the founder of Profen Consultants (PCI), a firm credited with advancing structural engineering practices in Nigeria.

“Engr. Akintunde’s professional legacy is one of vision, excellence, and nation building,” said the Branch Chairman, Engr. Francis Fadipe. “This lecture is our way of continuing that legacy by using engineering as a tool to shape Nigeria’s future.”

Beyond presentations, the event fosters dialogue between academia, government, and private sector stakeholders, ensuring engineering solutions don’t remain in theory but translate into practice.

The NSE Oluyole Branch has emphasized the importance of using platforms like this to influence education, infrastructure policy, and energy investments especially in underserved regions.

As Nigeria and the continent at large push for cleaner, smarter, and more inclusive energy systems, the 2025 Ifedayo Akintunde Lecture offers a timely reminder: engineering is not just a profession it is a national imperative.