“We recognize that our efforts must be guided by God’s wisdom and direction. These goals include the completion of our Engineering Centre, the welfare and empowerment of our members, and the elevation of our profession’s relevance in governance and policymaking” –Engr Emem EzekielÂ
SPEECH PRESENTED BY THE BRANCH CHAIRMAN, ENGR EMEM EZEKIEL, MNSE, ON THE OCCASION OF 2025 SOLEMN ASSEMBLY & FOUNDATION LAYING CEREMONY OF GATEHOUSE / BUSINESS CENTER OF NSE UYO, TODAY SUNDAY 12TH 2025.
Protocols,
It is with great joy and a deep sense of purpose that I welcome you all to the 2025 Solemn Assembly of NSE Uyo Branch. Today, as we gather under the theme “Arise! Let’s Build,” we are reminded of the words of Nehemiah 2:18, which says, “Let us arise and build!” We are thankful to God for His love and faithfulness towards us as Engineers throughout 2024 and what He is about to do for us this year 2025.
We gather here today, to dedicate our professional affairs and programs for this year into the almighty hands of God. We are reminded of our shared vision to advance our profession, strengthen our branch, and contribute meaningfully to the society. This solemn assembly is both a moment for reflection and also a call to action. The theme, “Arise! Let’s Build,” encapsulates our collective aspiration to build an enduring legacy for engineering in our state. It challenges us to unite our efforts and channel our skills toward achieving impactful goals. As Psalm 127:1 says, “Unless the Lord builds the house, the builders labor in vain.” We recognize that our efforts must be guided by God’s wisdom and direction. These goals include the completion of our Engineering Centre, the welfare and empowerment of our members, and the elevation of our profession’s relevance in governance and policymaking.
One of our primary objectives this year is the successful completion of the Engineering Centre. This project is more than just a building; it is a symbol of our collective strength, a hub for professional development, and a beacon of excellence for the engineering community. As Proverbs 24:3-4 says, “By wisdom a house is built, and through understanding it is established; through knowledge its rooms are filled with rare and beautiful treasures.” We urge every member to take ownership of this project and contribute in any way possible to ensure its timely completion. Together, we can make this dream a reality.
As part of our activities today, we have laid the foundation for our Gatehouse/Business Center. This project serves as a testament to our unwavering commitment to providing a conducive environment that fosters the growth and success of our members. In light of the facilities we have put in place in the last few months, running into millions of naira, we have deemed it necessary to enhance the security and amenities of this premises. To achieve this, we will be completing the fencing and constructing a gatehouse, ensuring a comfortable and secure environment for our security personnel. Furthermore, the business center, equipped with cutting-edge design and printing equipments, will offer a range of services like design, typing, and printing from A1 to A6, catering for the diverse needs of both our members and outsiders. We are thrilled about the prospects of this project and the opportunities it will bring to our branch.
One might ask why we have to abandon the roofing work that was considered paramount during our last meeting; this decision was informed by the urgent need to embark on an emergency intervention at the first floor of the main building before continuing with the roofing. We hope to finish the remedial works before our February 2025 meeting.
Additionally, we are proud to unveil our 2025 Table Calendar, which showcases the remarkable achievements and milestones of our branch. This calendar serves as a memento of our collective efforts and the progress we have made since assuming office. We encourage you to utilize this calendar, letting it serve as a constant reminder of our daily programs and the need to remain focused, organized, and committed to achieving our goals this year.
The welfare of our members remains a top priority. As engineers, we often focus on solving society’s problems, but we must also ensure that our members are adequately supported. This year, we will intensify efforts to scout for job opportunities, provide platforms for career advancement, and promote initiatives that enhance the professional and personal well-being of our members. As Galatians 6:2 says, “Carry each other’s burdens, and in this way you will fulfill the law of Christ.” Let us work together to build a professional body where every engineer can thrive.
Unity is the foundation upon which all our achievements rest. Without it, progress is impossible. I call on every member to come together and focus on our shared goals. Let us foster a spirit of solidarity and collaboration that will strengthen our branch and inspire greater participation in our activities. As Psalm 133:1 says, “How good and pleasant it is when God’s people live together in unity!” When we stand together, we can overcome any challenge and achieve remarkable feats.
As engineers, our expertise is invaluable in shaping the policies and governance of our state. We must advocate for the appointment of engineers in key positions where decisions that affect infrastructure, technology, and development are made. By doing so, we ensure that our profession’s voice is heard and that engineering principles guide the progress of our society. I encourage all members to actively engage with policymakers and demonstrate the value we bring to the table.
Our senior members are the pillars of our profession, and their wealth of experience is a treasure we must harness. I appeal to our senior members to take an active role in mentoring younger engineers and be interested in the development of our branch. Proverbs 27:17 says, “As iron sharpens iron, so one person sharpens another.” Your guidance and leadership are critical to building a strong and vibrant engineering profession. Let us work together to inspire the next generation of engineers and ensure the continued growth of our profession.
As we gather in this solemn assembly, let us not forget the role of faith and unity in our journey. The theme, “Arise! Let’s Build,” reminds us of the story of Nehemiah, who led the rebuilding of Jerusalem’s walls. Nehemiah 4:6 declares, “So we rebuilt the wall till all of it reached half its height, for the people worked with all their heart.” He achieved this monumental task not only through skill but also through faith, teamwork, and a deep sense of purpose. Similarly, we must recognize that our collective strength lies in our unity and shared vision.
As we embark on this year’s journey, let this assembly serve as a rallying point for our collective ambitions. Let us arise with renewed vigor and determination to build—not just structures, but a thriving society of engineers; not just projects, but legacies that will stand the test of time; and not just solutions, but a future filled with hope and opportunity.
Distinguished colleagues and friends, the time to act is now. Philippians 4:13 encourages us, “I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me.” Let us arise and build a better NSE Uyo Branch, a stronger engineering profession, and a brighter future for our state and nation.
Thank you, and may this solemn assembly mark the beginning of a transformative year for us all. May God answer all our prayers, in Jesus’ name, Amen!
