By Peter Onyekachukwu 
…..Launches Locally-Relevant Engineering Books
By Peter Onyekachukwu
A Nigerian engineer and author, Mr Victor Oritsetimeyin, has raised concern over the heavy dependence on foreign science textbooks in Nigeria’s technical and engineering education, describing the trend as a setback to national development and local content growth.
Speaking in Warri, Delta State during the public unveiling of his two new books Mechanical Engineering Technician Practices Volume I and Metalwork for Colleges and Vocational Institutions in Nigeria Oritsetimeyin noted that science books written abroad often lack contextual relevance to Nigeria’s unique environment, systems, and industries.
He said the motivation behind writing the books was to bridge the knowledge gap and contribute meaningfully to the development of science and technology education in the country.
“Nigerians have long relied on foreign textbooks that do not reflect our local realities,” he said. “These books I have written are designed to support learning in technical institutions using familiar concepts, examples, and applications that students and professionals in our environment can relate to.”
Oritsetimeyin, who also works in the oil and gas industry, added that both books had already been approved by the Delta State Ministry of Education (Technical) for use in technical colleges and polytechnics.
He announced that a second volume of Mechanical Engineering Technician Practices is currently in the works and would be made available soon.
Endorsing the books, Chief Benjamin Esi, Chairman of the Nigeria Society of Engineers (NSE), Warri branch, commended the author for drawing from his wealth of field experience to support technical education.
“The value of these books goes beyond the classroom,” Esi said. “They will enhance practical knowledge for students, technicians, and even practicing engineers.”
Prof. Alfred Edema of the Federal University of Petroleum Resources, Effurun (FUPRE), who unveiled the books, emphasized their relevance in Nigeria’s push for self-reliant education.
“These are not just engineering textbooks. They are knowledge tools with strong local content and insight from decades of engineering practice. Everyone who reads them not just students will gain something useful,” he said.
Tony Misan, a mechanical engineer with Chevron Nigeria Ltd., who reviewed Mechanical Engineering Technician Practices, praised the clarity and structure of the book, noting that it would be a vital resource for both learners and industry practitioners.
“The illustrations and real-world examples from the oil and gas sector make it practical, accessible and industry-aligned,” Misan noted.
In his review of Metalwork for Colleges and Vocational Institutions, Mr Edward Bright, Head of Civil Engineering Department at FUPRE, highlighted the critical role of metalworking in driving industrial and economic development.
“Metalwork remains the backbone of industrialisation. The book’s content is essential for students and professionals who are looking to contribute to national growth through technical skills,” Bright said.
Representatives of the Olu of Warri, Ogiame Atuwatse III Chief Tony Onuwaje and Chief Samuel Koko were also in attendance, lending royal support to the author’s initiative aimed at promoting indigenous knowledge and capacity development in science and engineering.