AI Could Replace Human Engineering Designs, Dangote Warns at Academy Induction
By Queen Madaki
The emergence of artificial intelligence (AI) could disrupt traditional engineering systems and replace designs historically handled by human engineers, according to Africa’s richest industrialist, Aliko Dangote.
Speaking at his induction as an Honorary Fellow of the Nigerian Academy of Engineering in Lagos, Dangote urged professionals to take a proactive role in shaping the future of the discipline, a development closely followed by The Business Bureau.
He warned that AI is rapidly transforming industries and could fundamentally alter how engineering is practised.
“It is possible that AI will soon phase out engineering designs usually undertaken by human engineers,” Dangote said.
Engineers Must Adapt to AI Disruption
Dangote emphasised the need for innovation and strategic engagement, urging engineers to actively shape how AI is integrated into education and real-world applications.
He called on professionals to influence curriculum development and ensure that emerging technologies enhance rather than replace human expertise.
“Engineers must step in and lend their voice on how AI will affect how the profession is taught and practised,” he stated.
Engineering Remains Central to Industrial Growth
Despite the rise of artificial intelligence, Dangote reaffirmed the critical role of engineering in national development and industrialisation.
He described engineering as the foundation of economic progress, stressing that no country can industrialise without it.
“Engineering is more than a profession. It is a language of progress… No nation can industrialise without the ingenuity of engineers,” he said.
He highlighted that the Dangote Group’s industrial success, including its refinery and fertiliser operations, was built on strong engineering expertise.
Investment in Engineering Talent
Dangote noted that his conglomerate remains Nigeria’s largest employer of engineering and technology graduates, with engineers forming a significant portion of its workforce.
He disclosed that the company has invested heavily in capacity development through training programmes and international exposure.
According to him, the Dangote Academy was established to bridge the gap between academic knowledge and industrial application, with hundreds of engineers trained both locally and abroad.
Call for Stronger Talent Development
Dangote warned that Nigeria must significantly deepen its engineering talent pool to remain globally competitive.
He cited China’s large-scale investment in engineering education as a model for building a strong industrial base.
Recognition by Nigerian Academy of Engineering
President of the Nigerian Academy of Engineering, Prof. Rahamon Bello, said Dangote’s induction recognises his contributions to engineering-driven industrialisation.
He described the Dangote Refinery as one of the most ambitious engineering projects in Africa.
The Lagos State Government also praised the industrialist’s impact, noting that his investments have created jobs and driven economic growth across multiple sectors.
The Business Bureau analysis indicates that while AI presents both risks and opportunities, the future of engineering will depend on how effectively professionals adapt to emerging technologies.