On the 26th of May 2025, The National Association of Polytechnic Engineering Students (NAPES), Kwara State Polytechnic Chapter, hosted its 3rd Annual Quiz and Debate Competition in honor of Engineer Rotimi Iliasu, Kwara State Former Commissioner of Works.
The event, themed “The Impact of AI on Nigerian Engineering Personnel: Job Displacement or New Opportunities?”, was held at the Rear Admiral Lawal Alabi Auditorium.
It brought together engineering students across seven departments who showcased their knowledge, critical thinking, and teamwork.
At the end of a tough contest, the Mechatronics Engineering Department, represented by Yakub Zainab Olamide and Adebayo Mubarak Aderibigbe, emerged as the overall winners of the quiz competition.
The keynote address was delivered by Engr. Prof. Omolade A.A. Elleta, MNSE, FNSChE, Director of the North Central Health Research Ethics Committee (NACHREC), Ilorin. In her address, Prof. Elleta emphasized the interdisciplinary nature of design and the growing role of Artificial Intelligence in automating routine tasks.
She cited the evolution of mobile banking as a clear example of how AI has transformed everyday life.
However, she cautioned students against the uncritical use of AI, sharing a personal experience where AI-generated information about university officials proved inaccurate.
“AI is a powerful tool, but it must be used with a critical eye,” she advised.
Welcoming participants, Engr. Dr. M.Z. Oba, Director of the Institute of Technology (IOT), applauded the continuous organization of the competition and urged students to seize the opportunity to build character and confidence through such platforms.
Participants were drawn from across the various engineering departments.
Representing the Welding and Fabrication Department were Obafemi Samuel Ayomide and Adeoye Mofeoluwa Blessing, while the Electrical Electronic Department fielded Balogun Kehinde Hammed and Azeez Mayowa Dorcas.
The Mineral and Petroleum Engineering Department was represented by Abdulganiyu Shakirullahi Bolaji and Oguntola Ayomikun Favour.
From Agricultural Engineering came Lawani Joyce Omowunmi and Adeleye Vessels Adedara, while Ayomide Peculiar and Adeoye Melody stood for Metallurgical Engineering. Civil Engineering was not left out, with Oyelu Martha Goodness and Shittu Olawale Moshood.
The grand finale was graced by distinguished guests including the Chief Host, Engr. Dr. Oba Mustapha Zubair, Director of the Institute of Technology, and the Chairman of the Occasion, Engr. Dr. Mohammed Abdul Jimoh, FNSE, FIMechE, and FCDPM, both applauded the students’ performances and urged them to keep pace with the rapidly evolving landscape of artificial intelligence and innovation.
NAPES President Senator Lambe Adedoyin Daniel and Speaker Rt. Hon. Adewara Tolulope, alongside General Secretary Sen. Tajudeen Yusuf Abiodun, coordinated the smooth organization of the event, which was well-attended by students, faculty, and stakeholders in the engineering field.
The top three positions were awarded ₦50,000, ₦30,000, and ₦20,000 respectively.