Concerns over the growing disconnect between engineering education and industry needs in Nigeria came into sharp focus at the second edition of the Engineering Your Tomorrow (EYT) Summit 2026, where stakeholders called for urgent reforms to produce industry-ready graduates capable of competing globally.
The summit, held today in Agbara, Ogun State, organised by Emma-tob International Academy (ETIA), brought together industry leaders, educators, recruiters, and students in a renewed push to bridge the gap between theory and real-world application.
A Vision Born from Experience
Convener of the summit and Director of ETIA, Engr. Debbie Oreoluwa Omolola, said her exposure to global engineering standards in the United Kingdom inspired the initiative.
“When I had conversations with engineering students here, I saw that they were struggling from a practical standpoint, and it is not their fault,” she said.
“There is a massive skill gap in tertiary and private institutions in Nigeria.”
She explained that the vision behind EYT and ETIA goes beyond academic certification.
“The vision is not just to educate and give you a certification… what we want to do is give you a career that can sustain you and your family,” she added.
From Idea to Movement
In his welcome address, Managing Director of Emma-tob Engineering, Pastor Emmanuel Omolola, described EYT as more than just an event.
“It is a high-impact platform dedicated to redefining engineering where innovation meets sustainability and where talents meet opportunities,” he said.
“Our mission is to enhance employability, drive innovation and contribute meaningfully to modern industries.”
He noted that ETIA was established to close the long-standing gap between classroom knowledge and practical application.
“We are building a platform that equips individuals with industry-ready skills in fabrication, precision engineering, manufacturing and technical services,” he said.
“At ETIA, we believe that excellence in engineering is measured by results.”
Industry Perspective: ‘Degrees Are Not Enough’
Chairman of the day and Factory Manager at Nestlé Nigeria, Mr. Talla Fall, stressed that academic qualifications alone are no longer sufficient.
“It is not just what you know… what matters more is what you do with what you know,” he said.
“Sometimes we receive engineers, but they cannot do anything.”
Highlighting the importance of practical exposure, he added:
“Education must not stop in the classroom but extend into workshops, industries and the real world.”
Fall also underscored Nigeria’s demographic advantage.
“Nigeria’s greatest resource is not oil… it is the young generation,” he said.
“If you rise, Nigeria will rise, and Africa will rise.”
Recruiters Raise Red Flags
From the hiring side, Human Resource professional Mr. Afolarin Afolayan painted a worrying picture of graduate readiness.
“Organisations are frustrated because many graduates lack soft skills like mindset and attitude, and even basic tools like Microsoft Word, Excel and PowerPoint,” he said.
“They know theories but have little or no practical experience.”
He also pointed to the impact of migration on workforce stability.
“The ‘Japa’ syndrome affects talent planning, as trained staff often leave the country without clear long-term plans,” he added.
Technology and the Future of Engineering
Delivering the keynote, Factory Engineering Manager Mr. Saheed Kareem highlighted the transformative role of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in engineering and everyday life.
“Artificial Intelligence is simulating human intelligence using machines to solve real-life problems,” he said.
“We are already living with AI, even if we don’t acknowledge it.”
Using examples from food delivery platforms to smart health devices, he explained how AI is reshaping industries.
“AI is removing human effort and stress, allowing us to focus on more important tasks,” he noted.
Kareem warned that adaptation is no longer optional.
“It has become a mandatory skill for everyone to thrive,” he said.
“In five years, AI will take over many processes completely.”
He, however, cautioned about risks such as cybercrime and ethical concerns.
“We must understand the legal implications and embrace AI responsibly,” he added.
Students Demand Industry Exposure
Students from universities including the University of Lagos and Lagos State University welcomed the initiative but called for more consistent engagement with industry.
“We are grateful for this platform, but we need more opportunities to interact with industry before graduation,” a student participant said.
Another added:
“Programs like this help us understand the realities of engineering beyond the classroom.”
A Call to Action
Across board, speakers agreed that Nigeria’s engineering future depends on deliberate collaboration between academia and industry.
“It is not enough to wish for change — you have to be the change,” said Mr. Talla Fall.
For the organisers, the summit represents a long-term commitment to transformation.
“EYT is not just an event; it is a movement,” said Engr. Debbie Omolola.
“We are building engineers who are innovative, practical and globally competitive.”
