The 2026 National Engineering Games officially commenced in Abuja on Saturday, with the President of the Nigerian Society of Engineers (NSE), Engr. Ali Alimasuya Rabiu, underscoring the importance of the event in promoting the health, unity and professional development of engineers across the country.
Speaking at the opening ceremony through the Deputy President of the Society, Engr. Valerie Ifueko Agberagba, Rabiu said the Games were conceived to provide engineers with an avenue to unwind from the demands of their profession while fostering teamwork, friendship and healthy competition.
He also called for stronger collaboration with the diplomatic community and development partners to broaden the reach and international profile of the National Engineering Games in future editions.
According to him, such partnerships align with one of the founding objectives of the Games—to build friendships that promote peace, unity and mutual understanding beyond Nigeria’s borders.
Rabiu recalled that the initiative, launched in 2011, was designed to improve the physical, mental and social well-being of engineers, while strengthening camaraderie and professional relationships within the engineering community.
“When we launched this programme in 2011, it was to give engineers, who work tirelessly across all sectors of the economy, an opportunity to step away from their demanding schedules, engage in physical activities and improve their overall health and wellness,” he said.
The NSE President noted that the Games go beyond sporting competition, serving as a platform to instill discipline, resilience, teamwork and excellence—values that mirror the ideals of the engineering profession.
He stressed that engineers, who remain at the forefront of infrastructure development and technological innovation, deserve opportunities to relax, network and recharge outside their professional commitments.
Rabiu urged participants to compete in the right spirit, uphold the principles of integrity and fair play, and use the event to build lasting friendships and professional networks that would further strengthen engineering practice in Nigeria.
Earlier, Chairman of the Nigerian Engineering Games Committee, Engr. Giandomenico Massari, expressed appreciation to the NSE leadership for its unwavering support, which ensured the successful organisation of the 2026 edition.
The Games officially began with the Habu Gumel Olympic Marathon, staged in honour of former NSE President, Engr. Habu Ahmed Gumel, who currently serves as President of the Nigeria Olympic Committee (NOC), marking the start of activities for this year’s National Engineering Games in the Federal Capital Territory.
