Elevating a 65-year-old legacy on Thursday, December 21, 2023, the Nigerian Society of Engineers (NSE) made history by electing Margaret Oguntala as its 34th President, marking the first time a woman would hold this esteemed position in its record.
Popularly known as Erelu Worldwide, her emergence unfolds the strengthening of an empowered woman paddling the boat of a stout sector.
Academic and professional milestones
Margaret Oguntala commenced on her engineering voyage at the University of Benin (UNIBEN), earning a B.Eng degree in Chemical Engineering in 1986.
Her commitment to professional growth became evident in her induction as a corporate member of the NSE in 1996, and later becoming a Fellow in 2010.
She is also recognized as a Fellow in the Nigerian Society of Chemical Engineers (NSChE) and the Institute of Management Consultants (IMC).
Leadership ascension
Over the years, Margaret’s leadership prowess manifested in various roles, including her chairmanship of NSE, Ikeja Branch, 2009-2011 and three-term Vice Presidency in 2014, 2015 and 2016 at the national level.
Her strategic initiatives, such as partnering with Samsung, showcased her commitment to the welfare and development of NSE members.
Multifaceted professional engagements
Margaret’s influence extends beyond her presidency. Currently serving as a Partner at BAMSAT Engineering Limited, Group Executive Director at Kenol Nigeria Limited, and Board Member, at BlackHouse Media; she wears multiple hats with grace.
Her advocacy for Girls in Science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) and support for young engineers further exemplify her dedication to the engineering community.
Awards and recognitions
Margaret’s impact is measured by over 60 awards from various engineering institutions and professional bodies, including the prestigious NSE Presidential awards and the Association of Professional Women Engineers of Nigeria (APWEN) Innovative Leader Award.
Her commitment to continuous professional development is evident through numerous paper presentations and scholarly contributions.
A mentor and matron
Recognized as the Matron of the Nigerian Universities Engineering Students Association (NUESA), Margaret extends her leadership beyond professional realms, mentoring as inspiring the next generation of engineers both males and females.
Balancing family and pastime
Margaret, a devoted family woman has been married for almost 33 years, manages to balance her professional endeavours with her matrimonial and personal commitments.
Her love for travel, acting and reading showcases the multifaceted nature of this multitasking trailblazing leader.
A true woman of substance
Margaret, widely described as a woman of unblemished character, tells a journey exemplified by diligence and excellence in all she does. Her election as the first female president of the NSE, not only represents breaking fixed barriers, but sets a high standard for leadership with a feminine touch in the engineering community.
Her impact resonates not just in her achievements but in the lives she had touch, touches, will touch and still inspire.
