Dangote AI engineering disruption warning as Aliko Dangote says artificial intelligence could replace traditional engineering design roles
President and Chief Executive of Dangote Industries Limited, Aliko Dangote, has warned that artificial intelligence could significantly disrupt traditional engineering systems and potentially replace design processes long handled by human professionals.
Dangote made the remarks on Friday during his induction as an Honorary Fellow of the Nigerian Academy of Engineering in Lagos, where he urged engineers to take a more proactive role in shaping the future of the profession.
He said the rapid advancement of artificial intelligence is already transforming multiple sectors and may soon redefine how engineering designs are created and executed.
“Today, we are witnessing the impact of artificial intelligence in virtually all spheres of life,” Dangote said. “It is possible that AI will soon phase out engineering designs usually undertaken by human engineers.”
The industrialist called on engineering professionals to actively engage in discussions around the integration of AI, stressing the need to guide how the technology is taught and applied in real-world practice.
Dangote described engineering as the backbone of national development, arguing that no country can achieve industrial growth without strong technical expertise and innovation.
He highlighted major infrastructure projects within the Dangote Group as evidence of engineering’s central role in economic transformation, noting that thousands of engineers are employed across its operations, including refinery and fertiliser facilities.
He also referenced the company’s investment in training through the Dangote Academy, where young engineers are exposed to practical industrial experience and international best practices.
According to him, strengthening local engineering capacity remains critical for Nigeria to remain competitive in a rapidly evolving global economy.
President of the Nigerian Academy of Engineering, Professor Rahamon Bello, praised Dangote’s contributions, describing his industrial ventures as landmark achievements that reflect engineering excellence in Africa.
He pointed to the Dangote Refinery as one of the continent’s most ambitious engineering projects, underscoring its significance to industrial development.
Lagos State Government representatives also commended the project, describing it as a major example of large-scale engineering success with wide economic impact.
