In a strategic move to bridge widening capacity gaps and boost the technical acumen of its engineering workforce, the Federal Ministry of Works has launched a three-day zonal training programme for engineers, technologists, and technicians in Nigeria’s North Central zone.
Held at the Pavement Evaluation Unit in Sheda, Kwali Area Council of the Federal Capital Territory, the intensive sessions commenced on Tuesday, with the aim of sharpening competencies in modern road construction, safety enforcement, and project delivery.
The programme, approved by the Honourable Minister of Works, Engr. David Umahi, CON, and the Minister of State, Hon. Bello M. Goronyo, Esq., is part of a broader national capacity-building initiative to sustain technical performance in the face of a rapidly ageing workforce.
In a statement issued by the Director of Press and Public Relations, Mohammad Abdullahi Ahmed, on Wednesday, the Permanent Secretary, Engr. Olufunsho Adebiyi, FNSE, explained that the Ministry is prioritising zonal-based training as a cost-effective way to ensure broader participation. He said:
“This initiative is not just a technical refresher. It is a response to a real crisis — the vacuum created by the recent wave of retirements. We’re not only plugging a gap; we’re also raising a new generation of engineers who can rise to the demands of 21st-century infrastructure.”
Engr. Adebiyi further disclosed that a comprehensive personnel audit had been conducted and submitted to the Office of the Head of the Civil Service of the Federation for consideration. He also stressed the importance of versatility and national exposure among public service engineers:
“We must break the cycle of stagnation. Engineers must rotate across zones and departments. Staying too long in one location limits their growth and weakens institutional knowledge-sharing.”
He challenged younger professionals to pursue self-improvement, noting that in today’s public service landscape, “competence is the new currency.”
On discipline and ethical standards, the Permanent Secretary was unequivocal:
“The Federal Ministry of Works operates a zero-tolerance policy on misconduct. We have clear disciplinary frameworks, and those who flout regulations will face sanctions.”
