The Chief Executive Officer of the Nigerian Upstream Petroleum Regulatory Commission, Gbenga Komolafe, has emphasised the pivotal role of industrial engineering in driving sustainable infrastructure and inclusive growth.

He made this assertion while delivering a lecture at the Department of Industrial and System Engineering, Faculty of Engineering, Lagos State University, on Tuesday.

A statement made available to PUNCH Online on Tuesday highlighted Komolafe’s insights into the evolving relevance of industrial engineering in addressing global challenges.

“Industrial engineering has long been a vital force in driving progress, efficiency, and innovation, but its impact extends far beyond the manufacturing sector.

“Today, industrial engineering is a catalyst for sustainable infrastructure, inclusive growth, and transformative solutions in both industrial and non-industrial fields.

“As urbanisation grows and global challenges become more complex, the role of industrial engineers is becoming increasingly crucial,” Komolafe stated.

Tracing the evolution of the discipline, Komolafe noted that industrial engineering has moved beyond its traditional focus on manufacturing efficiency and waste reduction.

“Historically, industrial engineering focused on streamlining manufacturing processes, reducing waste, and improving productivity.

“Over time, however, the field has evolved into a multidisciplinary discipline that spans systems engineering, supply chain management, and even fields like healthcare, education, and public services,” he said.

He further explained the expanding influence of industrial engineers in addressing contemporary issues.

“Industrial engineers are now key players in designing smart cities, sustainable transport networks, and energy-efficient buildings.

“Through the integration of technologies like AI, the Internet of Things, and data analytics, these engineers are developing solutions that are not only efficient but also environmentally friendly”, Komolafe added.

He also highlighted the role of industrial engineers in non-industrial sectors, emphasising their contribution to societal challenges.

“The contributions of industrial engineers are not limited to the industrial sector alone. In non-industrial fields, they play a vital role in addressing challenges such as affordable housing, accessible healthcare, and reducing socioeconomic disparities.

“By ensuring that resources are distributed equitably, industrial engineers are helping to create a world where growth is shared across all levels of society, benefiting not just a privileged few but marginalized communities as well,” he remarked.

Citing recent United Nations statistics from 2024, Komolafe underscored the rising demand for skilled engineers, saying, “As highlighted by recent statistics from the United Nations (2024), there is an increasing demand for skilled engineers.

“This demand is being driven by the need to solve global problems and create systems that are both efficient and sustainable. Industrial engineers possess the skills to address these complex challenges, from optimising industrial processes to developing systems in non-industrial areas like education and healthcare.”

Komolafe further outlined NUPRC’s commitment to fostering the development of future engineers, stating, “This is why organisations like NUPRC are so committed to supporting the development of future industrial engineers. As part of its social responsibility efforts, NUPRC is ensuring that the next generation of engineers is well-equipped with the necessary resources and opportunities to thrive.”

He highlighted the steps taken by the commission to ensure continuous professional development for engineers.

“In fact, NUPRC has pledged to continue supporting engineering faculties and providing quarterly publications through the NPRC Magazine to keep professionals up-to-date with industry trends and developments,” Komolafe said.

Encouraging young professionals, Komolafe emphasised the importance of mentorship and professionalism in the engineering field.

Komolafe concluded by stressing the transformative potential of industrial engineering in shaping the future.