Borno State Governor, Professor Babagana Umara Zulum, has pledged his administration’s support for a successful hosting of the 2026 National Conference of the Nigerian Society of Engineers (NSE) in Maiduguri, beginning on December 1, while announcing the adoption of Grade Level 9 as the entry point for engineers joining the state public service.
Zulum made the announcements when he received the NSE President, Engr. Ali Alimasuya Rabiu, and members of his delegation at the Council Chamber of the Government House in Maiduguri.
Key Highlights
- Zulum pledges government support for the NSE 2026 National Conference in Maiduguri.
- The conference is scheduled to begin on December 1, 2026.
- More than 6,000 delegates are expected to attend the event.
- Borno State adopts Grade Level 9 as the entry point for engineers in its public service.
- Engineers will progress to Grade Level 10 after two years under the approved framework.
- The state government highlights infrastructure projects delivered with the involvement of local engineers.
Zulum Promises World-Class NSE Conference in Maiduguri
The governor said his administration was committed to ensuring that the 2026 NSE National Conference would be among the best engineering gatherings hosted in Nigeria.
He disclosed that the government had constructed the Maiduguri International Conference Centre as part of preparations for the event and assured the NSE delegation that the facility would be ready before the conference.
“The conference will, inshallah, be one of the best held in Nigeria,” Zulum said.
The conference, themed “Engineering Innovation for Enhanced Security and Sustainable National Development,” is expected to bring together professionals and stakeholders to examine the role of engineering in addressing national challenges.
Zulum described the theme as particularly relevant to Borno State, which has faced nearly two decades of security challenges.
He expressed hope that the conference would provide a platform for engineers and other experts to develop practical solutions to insecurity and promote sustainable national development.
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Borno Approves Grade Level 9 Entry for Engineers
In a major policy announcement, Zulum disclosed that Borno State had adopted the enhanced entry-level structure for engineers approved by the National Council on Establishments at its March 2018 meeting in Owerri.
Under the arrangement, engineers entering the Borno State public service will be placed on Grade Level 9, with progression to Grade Level 10 after two years, in line with the approved framework.
The governor said the decision reflected his administration’s commitment to recognising the professional qualifications and contributions of engineers in public service.
He also emphasised the government’s resolve to engage indigenous professionals in the execution of major infrastructure projects across the state.
Zulum Highlights Engineers’ Contributions to Borno Infrastructure
The governor commended local engineers for their roles in delivering key infrastructure projects, including the Maiduguri International Conference Centre, Borno State Teaching Hospital, roads and other critical facilities.
He also highlighted improvements in the state’s road maintenance capacity, disclosing that his administration had acquired 100 trucks and established a state-owned quarry plant with a production capacity of 120 tonnes per hour.
According to him, Borno State currently operates four asphalt plants, with local engineers playing significant roles in the execution of several road projects.
Zulum further directed his Chief of Staff to meet with the chairman and members of the conference’s Local Organising Committee to identify areas where the state government could provide additional support.
He promised logistical and financial assistance, including the provision of buses. He also assured the delegation that the Spouses’ Forum would receive the support earlier pledged by his wife.
Over 6,000 Delegates Expected at NSE 2026 Conference
Earlier, NSE President, Engr. Ali Alimasuya Rabiu, commended the Zulum administration for its achievements in infrastructure development, institutional strengthening and socio-economic advancement despite the security and developmental challenges facing the North-East.
Rabiu disclosed that more than 6,000 delegates, including engineers, industry stakeholders and other participants from across Nigeria, were expected at the conference.
He added that representatives of engineering organisations from other African countries would also attend.
The gathering is expected to provide opportunities for professional collaboration, knowledge exchange and discussions on the contribution of engineering innovation to national security and sustainable development.
The December conference is expected to place Maiduguri at the centre of national engineering discussions while providing an opportunity for professionals to examine solutions to some of Nigeria’s infrastructure and security challenges.
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