A Nigeria-US based Civil Engineer, Mr Johnbosco Mgbajiaka has called on the Federal Government to implement early warning systems, watershed management, reforestation programs in upstream areas to address annual flooding in the country.
Mgbajiaka gave advice amid recent warning by the Nigerian Metrological Agency on impending flooding across the country.
Speaking with South-South PUNCH on Tuesday, Mgbajiaka, described civil engineering as more than a career noting that it’s a mission to build safer, smarter, and more resilient communities.
“My journey began at Michael Okpara University of Agriculture in Umudike, where I earned my Bachelor’s degree in Civil Engineering. I have always been fascinated by how infrastructure shapes communities and economies.
“To deepen my expertise, I went on to complete my Master’s in Civil and Transportation Engineering at Cleveland State University in Ohio. There, I was honoured to receive the Monte Ahuja Scholarship, which recognized my dedication to the field and helped me focus on impactful research and practical projects. This also motivated me to push further and deepen my research in sustainable transport and resilient infrastructure systems.
“Over the past few years, I have gained experience across diverse sectors — from site engineering to project scheduling, quality control, and project management. In Nigeria, I worked with TTC Hydra Ltd and Gbest Oil Ltd, where I supervised major construction projects like power substations and residential developments. I also served as a Traffic Crew Project Leader for the FCT Transport Secretariat, managing projects that improved urban mobility and public transport infrastructure in Abuja.
“In the U.S., I served as a Quality Control Inspector in Cleveland, ensuring compliance on gas line projects, ADA sidewalks, and community structural maintenance. I currently work at Gregory Construction Services in Virginia, where I’ve grown from a Project Engineer to an Assistant Project Manager. Here, I handle everything from scheduling and budgeting to team coordination, safety compliance, and client engagement. Each role has strengthened my skills in delivering complex projects on time and within budget.
“I bring a comprehensive mix of technical expertise, project leadership, and a deep understanding of modern engineering tools. I’m proficient in civil 3D, Primavera P6, HEC-RAS, HEC-HMS, Synchro, GIS mapping, and hydrological modelling. This allows me to tackle challenges like flood control, sustainable road design, and traffic flow optimization. Beyond the software, I’m skilled in coordinating diverse teams and stakeholders to deliver practical solutions that stand the test of time.
“So, flooding in Nigeria is a growing crisis, made worse by rapid urbanization, poor drainage systems, and climate change. First, we must improve urban planning — enforcing zoning regulations and ensuring that developments are not sited on floodplains.
“Secondly, Nigeria need to design and maintain efficient storm water drainage systems, including culverts and retention basins that can handle increasing rainfall volumes.
“On a larger scale, implementing watershed management, early warning systems, and reforestation programs in upstream areas can reduce runoff and protect communities downstream.
‘’Public education and stakeholder collaboration — including local governments, engineers, and community leaders — are essential to building long-term resilience against flooding”
On the constant collapse of national grid, Mgbajiaka attributed the recurring collapse of Nigeria’s power grid to both technical and systemic challenge.
“From my experience, I believe one of the main issues is inadequate investment in grid modernization and poor maintenance of aging infrastructure. Most substations are overstressed, and there is limited automation to detect faults early.
“To solve this, Nigeria must prioritize investment in smart grid technologies, decentralized power systems, and routine preventative maintenance. We also need better training for technical personnel and enforcement of quality standards during installation and commissioning. Integrating renewable energy sources like solar mini-grids and improving distribution infrastructure will also reduce the load on the national grid and improve stability.
“My goal is to be a bridge between both societies, sharing advanced techniques and innovative ideas across borders. In the U.S., I’m committed to helping modernize aging infrastructure, reduce climate-related risks, and make transit systems safer and more accessible. For Nigeria, I want to bring back advanced engineering strategies and project management practices that can strengthen local capacity, improve urban planning, and build climate-resilient cities” he added.
The civil engineering expert said that in long term, he envisioned creating partnerships and training opportunities that connect young Nigerian engineers with global best practices, empowering them to lead transformative projects at home, believing that his unique blend of local experience and international exposure puts him in a strong position to make that happen.
He expressed joy to keep growing as an engineer and project leader, delivering infrastructure that truly serves people and the environment, looking forward to collaborating with professionals in both countries to implement sustainable, cost-effective solutions.
“I also want to mentor the next generation — young Nigerians and Africans who have big dreams but need guidance to make them real.
“So, I urge them to stay open-minded, never stop learning, and be ready to adapt. Technical knowledge is important, but so is leadership and communication. Be bold enough to step outside your comfort zone — whether that means studying abroad, learning new technologies, or managing large projects. The world needs more engineers who not only design, but inspire positive change” He said.
Provided by SyndiGate Media Inc. (Syndigate.info).