Ayoade Elegbede
The Ogun State Branches of the Nigerian Society of Engineers, NSE (Abeokuta, Ilaro, Ota and Mowe) have donated a sum of N1,000,0000.00 to support Ogun State government in its efforts at combating the spread of the COVID-19 pandemic in the state.
Ogun State is peculiar, it not only shares international border with the Republic of Benin, it also does with all other states in the South – West (except Ekiti), including Lagos State, which is the epicentre of the pandemic in the country. The state, no doubt would require all the support that it can get in the fight against COVID-19 pandemic and the N1 million support, which was donated, is considered a timely support in the fight against the highly contagious virus.
While presenting the cheque on behalf of the Society, the Abeokuta Branch Chairman, Engr. Dr. Olanrewaju Apampa commended the state government for its valiant efforts in setting up functional isolation centres across the state; for the continuous public advocacy and sensitization; and for the steps being taken to mitigate the effect of the containment efforts on the citizenry.
He also promised the willingness of the society for any technical assistance, to the establishment and maintenance of the isolation centres, including assessment of any broken down mechanical ventilators for possible repairs. “We are also in the process of developing a mechanical hand washing device, which we shall be promoting for use in schools and other places, as soon as we get over the critical phase of this pandemic”, Apampa said.
Engr Dr Apampa disclosed that the Ogun NSE initiative is under the guidance, encouragement and active support of the President of the Nigerian Society of Engineers, Engr. Babagana Mohammed, FNSE, who he said, is a friend of the state.
The Ogun State Deputy Governor, Engr. Noimot Salako – Oyedele who received the donation on behalf of government promised that the state government would ensure transparent use of all voluntary donations towards the containment of the COVID-19 pandemic.
The Deputy Governor described the pandemic as a global challenge deserving of a cooperative front to stop it from further spreading. She then urged other reputable professional bodies to emulate the kind gesture of NSE and follow their lead and noble example in the cause of combating the scourge.
NSE has always been committed to collaborate with various arms of Government for the purpose of uplifting the country as a whole.
In attendance were the General Secretary, NSE Engr. Olumayowa Idowu, Ogun State Chief of Staff, Alhaji Shuaib Afolabi Salis and Ogun State Hon. Commissioner of Health, Dr. Tomi Coker
