Professionals in Nigeria’s engineering sector have been urged to adopt artificial intelligence (AI) as a strategic tool to enhance productivity and remain competitive in a rapidly evolving global economy.
The call was made at the 2nd and 3rd Engr. Augustine Ikebude Okolo Memorial Lecture organised by the Automotive and Locomotive Engineers Institute in collaboration with the Nigerian Society of Engineers Kaduna Branch and the Nigerian Institution of Mechanical Engineers Kaduna Chapter.
The event attracted senior engineers, fellows and industry practitioners, with the Presidents of the Nigerian Society of Engineers and the Council for the Regulation of Engineering in Nigeria in attendance.
Delivering a keynote lecture titled “Rethinking Productivity, Performance, and Professional Impact in the Age of AI,” the Founder of AI Mastery Academy, Gabriel Gambo Nmadu, said traditional measures of productivity are rapidly becoming obsolete.
He noted that many professionals still equate busyness with productivity, stressing that the emerging reality demands smarter, technology-driven approaches to work.
Nmadu introduced what he described as a “new productivity equation,” explaining that output is now determined by the combination of skill and AI leverage over time.
According to him, professionals who will thrive are those who can effectively integrate their expertise with AI tools to deliver faster and higher-quality results.
He further highlighted the concept of a “personal AI productivity stack,” which includes tools for communication, research, data analysis, presentations and automation.
“High performers today are not defined by how hard they work, but by how intelligently they use AI as a co-pilot,” he said.
While advocating wider adoption of AI, Nmadu stressed that human capabilities such as critical thinking, creativity, ethical judgment and effective communication remain essential.
He described these skills as the key differentiators that will continue to give professionals an edge in an AI-driven environment.
The session also featured practical demonstrations showing how AI tools can be integrated into everyday engineering workflows.
Nmadu urged professionals to position themselves for emerging opportunities by acquiring AI skills, updating their professional profiles and engaging in continuous learning.
“AI will not replace you, but a professional who uses AI will replace you,” he said.
The lecture, organisers said, is part of ongoing efforts to promote capacity building and ensure Nigerian engineers remain relevant in a technology-driven
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