The Institute of Non-Destructive Testing (INDT) convened a two-day conference in Lagos to address the pressing challenges of collapsing public infrastructure and the National Grid. Themed “The Role of Non-Destructive Testing in Preserving and Optimising Critical National Assets and Infrastructure,” the event brought together industry leaders to deliberate on solutions for safeguarding Nigeria’s critical infrastructure.
Speaking at the conference, INDT President Michael Adegbite emphasized the vital role of functional infrastructure in driving industrial performance, manufacturing, and economic growth. He highlighted the urgent need to address the nation’s infrastructure deficit, exacerbated by frequent failures of aging assets.
“Our nation faces a critical infrastructure deficit essential for sustainable industrial growth. The frequent collapse of existing assets has significantly impacted productivity and socio-economic development,” Adegbite said. “This conference seeks to deliver workable solutions and innovative strategies to ensure asset integrity and improve infrastructure resilience.”
Vice Admiral Emmanuel Ogalla, Chief of Naval Staff, represented by Commodore Igbani Agwo, underscored the importance of implementing non-destructive testing (NDT) to enhance infrastructure safety. He called on INDT to set standards and enforce regulations in the sector, noting that the recurring failures of the National Grid serve as a wake-up call for action.
“NDT plays a pivotal role in guiding sound engineering decisions and shaping the ecosystem of infrastructure development,” Ogalla stated. “By proactively safeguarding buildings and facilities through best practices in NDT, we can minimize catastrophic failures and improve the quality of life for Nigerians.”
The conference provided a platform for experts to share insights, identify challenges, and propose actionable strategies to enhance productivity and performance efficiency in critical sectors. It reinforced the role of NDT as a key tool in ensuring the sustainability and safety of Nigeria’s infrastructure and industrial assets.
