George Okoroma, Vice President of the African chapter of the International Federation of Consulting Engineers (FIDIC), has urged engineers to embrace artificial intelligence (AI) to improve quality service delivery in the construction industry and tap other economic opportunities in the sector.
Okoroma said AI, a field of science that involves building computers and machines that can reason, learn and act in ways that typically require human intelligence, is gaining momentum in the construction industry.
Okoroma said AI can analyze vast amounts of data to optimize project schedules, identify potential risks and allocate resources more effectively.
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He urged engineers to remember that engineering is not limited to structures and machines but is a transformative force in communities, economies and people's lives, and to embrace the trends of development.
Okoroma, a former President, Association of Consulting Engineers of Nigeria (ACEN), made the remarks at the second special annual lecture held in his honour in Port Harcourt, Rivers State.
Special lecturer at the event, Benia Ojumu, a former Executive Secretary (Projects), Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC), noted that Nigerian engineers have a role to play in developing practical solutions that will change the face of the country’s economic landscape.
According to Ojum, AI has the potential to bring about new areas of economic opportunities as well as social development, inclusive and sustainable growth.
Ojumu, who delivered his speech titled: “Designing a Resilient Future: The Impact of Artificial Intelligence in Construction Management and the Future of Engineering in Nigeria”, noted that despite the growing number of start-ups and established companies using AI solutions to deliver customer services, AI adoption in Nigeria is still at a nascent stage.
He said: “The big question that always comes up is whether AI will replace human intelligence. AI will not replace human biological intelligence, but it will improve our lives.”
“The field of AI is poised to transform the way we live, work, socialize, find dates, and even perceive our place in the universe. AI is set to have a lasting impact on our social lives and on private and public institutions.”
“Sustainability must be at the forefront of our efforts. From an engineering perspective, we have the ability to establish systems, technologies and infrastructure that minimize environmental impact, optimize resource use and enhance the well-being of local communities.”
“AI is gradually making its presence felt across various industries, revolutionizing traditional practices and introducing innovative solutions. In the field of construction management, AI has proven to be a game-changer, offering multiple benefits that increase the efficiency, productivity, and overall success of projects.
“By leveraging AI algorithms, construction managers can analyze vast amounts of data to optimize project schedules, identify potential risks and allocate resources more effectively.”
Earlier, the President of the Omoku chapter of the Nigerian Association of Engineers, Sunny Orike, described Okoroma as “an icon of modern civil engineering in Nigeria”.
He added that Okoroma has distinguished himself as a professional and philanthropic leader and has brought immense pride to the Ogba people, ONELGA, Rivers State and the nation at large.
