In this edition of our “Engineers Transforming Africa” series, we spotlight Mr. Mohammed Yusuf, a US-based Nigerian civil engineer whose innovative work and research are reshaping sustainable construction in Africa and beyond.

Recently honoured with the 2024 Chairman’s Merit Award by the Nigerian Society of Engineers, Mr. Yusuf has garnered attention for his pioneering research titled “Assessment of Cement Concrete Partially Replaced with Polystyrene and Plantain Peel Ash.” We caught up with him to discuss his journey, innovations, and the future of engineering on the continent.

Q: Congratulations on your recent award. What inspired this groundbreaking research?

Yusuf: Thank you. The inspiration came from a growing need to find eco-friendly, cost-effective materials in construction. Polystyrene waste and plantain peels are abundant but often discarded. My research demonstrates how these materials can partially replace traditional cement to produce durable concrete while reducing environmental impact. It’s a win for sustainability and innovation.

Q: Tell us about your background and how you developed a passion for civil engineering.

Yusuf: I hold a Master’s in Civil Engineering from the Federal University of Technology, Akure, Nigeria, and a second Master’s in Project Management from Northeastern University – The Roux Institute in the U.S. I’ve always loved solving problems. Civil engineering gave me the platform to apply science to real-world infrastructure issues, and I’ve been privileged to work on large-scale projects across Nigeria and now in the U.S.

Q: You’ve had quite a career. What were some of your most defining professional moments?

Yusuf: Between 2019 and 2022, I served as a Senior Civil Engineer at AGYS Premium Global Services Ltd. in Lagos. I led major road and drainage infrastructure projects that still serve thousands daily. Before that, at Forsite Ltd., I helped design structural frameworks for urban development. Both roles taught me the value of leadership, collaboration, and innovation.

Q: How do you view the role of African engineers in global development?

Yusuf: African engineers have the talent and vision to influence global trends, especially in sustainable development. We have unique challenges—urbanisation, climate change—and our solutions can serve as blueprints for emerging economies worldwide.

Q: Any advice for young African engineers?

Yusuf: Stay curious. Learn beyond the classroom. Combine research with practical fieldwork. And never underestimate your potential to innovate—even with local resources. Africa needs your ideas.

With almost a decade of experience and a reputation for research-driven impact, Mr. Mohammed Yusuf is not just building structures—he’s building a sustainable future for Africa.