The Pioneer and Former Rector of Federal Polytechnic Ayede, Oyo State, Engr. Dr. Taofeek Adekunle Abdul-Hameed (FNSE), was celebrated in grand style at the historic inauguration of the 6th and first female Chairman of the Nigerian Society of Engineers (NSE), Ogbomoso Branch, held on March 31, 2026. Recognised as one of the distinguished awardees at the epoch-making ceremony, the honour bestowed on him underscores his visionary leadership, professional integrity, and foundational contributions that continue to shape the growth trajectory of Federal Polytechnic Ayede and the engineering profession at large.
Other eminent personalities who were also recognised at the prestigious ceremony include Prof. R. O. Rom-Kalilu, Vice Chancellor, Ladoke Akintola University of Technology(LAUTECH) ably represented by the University Librarian, Prof Adefunke Sarah Ebijuwa ; Engr. Ademola Agodo, FNSE, MD Protogy Global Services and Former Vice President (NSE); and Engr. Dawud A. Sulayman (JP), Principal Partner, Sulaymaniyyah Chambers, Maitama Abuja—distinguished figures whose presence further amplified the significance of the occasion.
In his remarks, the former Rector expressed heartfelt appreciation for the honour and offered inspiring words to the newly inaugurated executives. He urged them to embrace the responsibility of leadership and advance the objectives of the NSE and MAPWEN to greater heights, while praying for divine guidance and success throughout their tenure. Demonstrating loyalty and unity, Engr. Abdul-Hameed reaffirmed his dual membership of the NSE Osogbo (Omoluabi Branch) and NSE Ogbomoso (Valiant Branch), noting that following the courtesy visit paid to him during his rectorship, he resolved to remain steadfastly committed to both branches—whether in office or beyond. His pledge to “continue to do the needful as at when due” reflects a spirit of enduring service that transcends official designation.
The ceremony, which inaugurated Engr. Prof. Alice Oluwafunke Oke as the 6th Chairman of the Valiant Branch, attracted leading figures from academia, industry, and public service. In her acceptance speech, she pledged alignment with the NSE strategic framework, deeper collaborations, strengthened professional development platforms, enhanced inclusiveness through APWEN and young engineers’ engagement, an intensified membership drive, and the completion of the ongoing Branch Secretariat project. The event also featured a thought-provoking lecture by Tayo Arulogun, Vice Chancellor of Miva Open University, who spoke on blended learning in professional education, enriching the intellectual depth of the gathering.
As tributes poured in from colleagues, institutional leaders, and stakeholders, one message resonated clearly: Engr. Dr. Taofeek Adekunle Abdul-Hameed (FNSE) remains a bridge-builder, mentor, and institution-builder whose influence extends far beyond tenure. His transformative stewardship at Federal Polytechnic Ayede, unwavering commitment to the NSE, and enduring dedication to excellence continue to inspire confidence and progress within Oyo State and across Nigeria.