The University of Lagos was established in 1962. The faculty of engineering was established in the second phase of the establishment of the University in 1964. The department of Mechanical Engineering was among the pioneering departments of the faculty of engineering, established in 1964. The aim was to provide the much needed skilled and technical manpower to pilot the affairs of the emerging engineering companies in Nigeria. The department has since then grown and strengthened, turning out graduates who have become seasoned professionals in the field of engineering.

Engineering practice is primarily based upon training in mathematics and physical sciences, the economic utilization of the forces and materials of nature to the benefit of man. Mechanical Engineering basically deals with objects in motion e.g. machines and power generation. It covers analysis (load and extension), design, construction/fabrication, production/manufacturing of machine parts, research and development of new techniques and materials.

The programme of study offered is being benchmarked with international standard right from the inception of the department. To maintain the standard whilst abreast with modern trends, there has been constant review of the curriculum of the programme, effective maintenance of existing laboratory equipment and gradual replacement of laboratory equipment and teaching facilities with latest models.

These have made our graduates over the years to meet up with the challenges of the industry and quickly rise to the top echelon of the industry and academic world.

The Department of Mechanical Engineering at the University of Lagos was established because of its economic benefit to Lagos as the center for engineering activity in Nigeria. Therefore, it is an ideal training center for Engineers. The objective of the Department is to produce well-qualified graduates with relevant knowledge and skills to operate and develop public services and the industrial sector of the national economy, to initiate and carry out engineering research and design, to engage in industrial management and to apply research and development in solving the engineering problems of Nigeria. At the end of their training, our graduates are expected to be well versed in analytical, computational and practical aspects of mechanical engineering. They should be capable of taking on full professional responsibilities at any level in the industry and academic circles.