George Okoroma Elected as FIDIC Africa President
Nigerian engineer George Okoroma has been officially installed as the President of FIDIC Africa during the 31st FIDIC Africa Infrastructure Conference in Accra, Ghana. This significant event, held from May 10 to 13, 2026, was organized in collaboration with the Ghana Institute of Consulting Engineers.
Conference Focuses on Future-Ready Infrastructure
Themed “Future-ready Infrastructure: Moving Africa Forward through Innovation and Sustainability,” the conference gathered consulting engineers, policymakers, and experts from development finance institutions to address the pressing challenges and opportunities facing Africa’s infrastructure landscape. Emphasis was placed on the critical need for innovative solutions and sustainable practices to drive development across the continent.
Leadership Transition and Vision for the Future
Following his appointment, Okoroma expressed that his new role is a call to service, aimed at strengthening the future of Africa’s infrastructure. He highlighted that his leadership is a culmination of nearly four decades of dedication to engineering and organizational service across the continent. “The future of Africa’s infrastructure relies on empowering local technologists and enforcing existing policies, while also building capacity for the next generation,” he stated.
Okoroma’s Career Path within FIDIC Africa
Before becoming President, Okoroma held several key positions within FIDIC Africa. He began his journey by being elected to the executive committee during the organization’s general meeting in Marrakech, Morocco, in 2016. He subsequently served as honorary treasurer, vice president in 2024, and was confirmed as president-elect in 2025, showcasing a progressive trajectory within the organization.
Addressing Infrastructure Challenges
The conference also tackled vital issues such as infrastructure financing, procurement reform, climate resilience, local content development, and technological innovation in Africa’s engineering sector. Participants engaged in discussions aimed at bridging the continent’s significant infrastructure funding gap, estimated by the African Development Bank to be between $130 billion and $170 billion annually.
Collaborative Efforts for Sustainable Development
Delegates at the conference underscored the necessity of stronger partnerships among governments, development organizations, and local engineering firms to promote sustainable infrastructure development across Africa. This collaborative spirit is deemed essential to overcoming the diverse challenges faced in infrastructure projects.
A Proven Leader in Engineering
Mr. Okoroma previously served as the 18th President of the Consulting Engineering Association of Nigeria (ACEN), where he successfully transitioned the association’s operations to a digital platform amidst the COVID-19 pandemic. Born in Omoku, Rivers State, he studied civil engineering at Paul Sabatier University in Toulouse, France, and later earned a master’s degree in project management from the University of Roehampton in London. He is also the founder of Gambeta Nigeria Limited and GAPEC Consultants Limited, both instrumental in executing infrastructure projects throughout Nigeria.
Promoting Professional Standards in Engineering
FIDIC Africa represents the African affiliates of the International Federation of Consulting Engineers and is dedicated to promoting professional standards and sustainable infrastructure development across the continent. Under Okoroma’s leadership, the organization aims to foster innovation and enhance the capabilities of local engineers, ensuring that Africa’s infrastructure initiatives are both effective and resilient.
