The Chief Executive Officer of the Nigerian Upstream Petroleum Regulatory Commission (NUPRC), Gbenga Komolafe, has underscored the critical role of industrial engineering in driving sustainable infrastructure and inclusive economic growth.
Komolafe made this assertion while delivering a lecture at the Department of Industrial and Systems Engineering, Faculty of Engineering, Lagos State University (LASU).
In a statement released to the media, he emphasized the evolving significance of industrial engineering in addressing global challenges.
“Industrial engineering has long been a driving force for progress, efficiency, and innovation. However, its impact extends far beyond the manufacturing sector. Today, it serves as a catalyst for sustainable infrastructure, inclusive growth, and transformative solutions across multiple industries,” Komolafe stated.
The Expanding Influence of Industrial Engineering
Tracing the evolution of the discipline, Komolafe noted that industrial engineering has transitioned from its traditional focus on manufacturing efficiency and waste reduction to a multidisciplinary field that spans systems engineering, supply chain management, healthcare, education, and public services.
“Historically, industrial engineering was centered on optimizing manufacturing processes, reducing waste, and improving productivity. However, the field has expanded to encompass smart city design, sustainable transport networks, and energy-efficient infrastructure,” he explained.
He further highlighted how emerging technologies, such as Artificial Intelligence (AI), the Internet of Things (IoT), and data analytics, are transforming industrial engineering, enabling the development of innovative and environmentally friendly solutions.
Addressing Societal Challenges Through Engineering
Komolafe emphasized the growing role of industrial engineers in tackling global socioeconomic challenges, including affordable housing, accessible healthcare, and equitable resource distribution.
“Industrial engineers are not only shaping the industrial sector but also playing a key role in addressing societal issues. Their expertise ensures that growth benefits all levels of society, particularly marginalized communities,” he noted.
Citing recent United Nations (UN) statistics from 2024, Komolafe highlighted the increasing global demand for skilled engineers, driven by the need to create sustainable and efficient systems.
“The demand for skilled engineers continues to rise as industries seek solutions to complex challenges. Industrial engineers are uniquely positioned to optimize processes and develop impactful systems across diverse sectors,” he added.
NUPRC’s Commitment to Engineering Development
Komolafe also reaffirmed NUPRC’s commitment to nurturing the next generation of industrial engineers. As part of its corporate social responsibility initiatives, the commission supports engineering faculties and provides continuous professional development opportunities.
“NUPRC remains dedicated to equipping future engineers with the necessary resources to excel. We are actively supporting engineering education and ensuring professionals stay informed through our quarterly publications in the NPRC Magazine,” he said.
Encouraging young professionals to embrace mentorship and continuous learning, Komolafe concluded by stressing the transformative potential of industrial engineering in shaping a sustainable future.
