artificial intelligence, AI
David Akinyewola-Opeyemi, professor of civil and structural engineering at Achievers College, advocates for the deployment of artificial intelligence (AI), machine learning, and digital twin technologies as important tools to ensure structural safety in the face of increasing climate and environmental uncertainty.
Mr. Opeyemi made the call while speaking at the university’s 6th inaugural lecture titled “Bridging Uncertainty: Ensuring Structural Safety in the Amidst Climate and Environmental Change” held at the university in Owo, Ondo State.
He warned that traditional engineering assumptions and deterministic design methods are becoming increasingly inadequate to deal with modern environmental realities, noting that changing climate patterns are exposing buildings, bridges, dams and other infrastructure to risks that cannot be captured by existing engineering codes.
According to him, the future of structural reliability will rely heavily on smart technologies that can predict failures, monitor infrastructure health in real time, and adapt to changing environmental conditions.
“Looking to the future, the future of ensuring structural reliability in the face of climate and environmental change will be shaped by artificial intelligence and machine learning for predicting reliability, digital twins of infrastructure systems, climate-tuned design codes, resilience-based performance metrics, and the integration of sustainability, reliability, and resilience,” he said.
Opeyemi explained that digital twins, which are virtual replicas of physical infrastructure systems, allow engineers to continuously monitor structures throughout their life cycles, detect weaknesses early and initiate maintenance before failures occur.
He emphasized that engineering practices need to evolve from a reliance on static historical data to adaptive, data-driven systems that can respond to uncertainties brought about by climate change and rapid urbanization.
He also called on universities to review engineering curricula to incorporate reliability and risk analysis, probabilistic thinking and climate-resilient design strategies, adding that future engineers must be able to manage uncertainty rather than assume certainty.
Mr Opeyemi called on engineers to prioritize public safety over commercial interests and resist complacency in design and construction practices, explaining that structural deficiencies are both a technical and moral issue.
He also called for stronger building standards, tailored engineering solutions for developing countries, and increased investment in resilient infrastructure across Nigeria.
The inaugural lecturer highlighted his contributions to structural reliability research and low-cost engineering laboratory innovations supported through TETFund-sponsored projects, while acknowledging the role of mentors, colleagues, and family in his academic journey.
In his address, the acting vice-chancellor of the university, Professor Oyesoji Aremu, praised the intellectual depth of the lecturers.
“The junior lecturers were able to demonstrate their talent in structural engineering and make informed policy recommendations that will benefit the country,” Alem said.
