The Association of Water Well Drilling Rig Owners & Practitioners (AWDROP) held its inaugural election on Thursday, October 24, 2024, at the Royal Choice Inn, Abuja marking a significant milestone in the organization’s history.
Prof. Ipoola Okunlola was elected as the new president, succeeding Engr. Michael Ale. The newly constituted executive committee includes Engr. Dikko Sanusi (Vice President), Ajayi Richard A. (Secretary General), Alhaji Mohammed Mairiga (Assistant Secretary General), Obafemi Hassan (Internal Auditor), Olaniran Femi (Public Relations Officer), Ahmad Atana (Financial Secretary), and Shittu Abiodun (Welfare Officer).
Ahead of the election, a screening process was conducted on Wednesday, October 23, 2024, resulting in the selection of these executive members. However, a faction of disgruntled members, who did not clear the screening, attempted to hold a parallel election. In light of this, Prof. Okunlola urged the public to dismiss the actions of these members as unlawful.
In his acceptance speech, Prof. Okunlola expressed his gratitude for the trust placed in him and promised to uphold the mission and values of AWDROP. He acknowledged the contributions of his predecessor and the outgoing executive committee, crediting them for laying a solid groundwork for the association's future.
“The campaign was vigorous and demonstrates that AWDROP is a formidable Association that has come to stay,” he stated, emphasizing the importance of unity and collective effort to achieve the association’s goals.
During his address, Prof. Okunlola articulated a vision for the association that focuses on fostering unity, enhancing professional development, and driving innovation. He outlined key objectives, including the urgent need for improving human capital development, implementing the extant Code approved by the Governing Council of Standards Organisation of Nigeria which is Code of Practice for Water Well Construction in Nigeria NCP 027:2010, and abolishing of "Per Meter Billing System" which is an aberration in any engineering construction industry worldwide.
He called on all members to join him in this transformative journey, stressing the need for accountability and transparency within the organization.
“As President, I urge every member to commit to unlocking our Association's potential and empowering each other for a brighter future,” he concluded.
