The Federal University of Petroleum Resources, Effurun (FUPRE), Nigeria’s foremost institution for petroleum studies, made a powerful statement as a key hub for energy sector training during its 4th Convocation Ceremony.
Introduction
FUPRE, Nigeria’s premier petroleum university, reaffirmed its dedication to academic excellence and research innovation during its historic 4th Convocation Ceremony, held on March 14–15, 2025. The event marked several significant achievements, including the graduation of the university’s first cohort of PhD students and the announcement of 42 new patents and two copyrights. These milestones solidified FUPRE’s reputation as a leader in innovation, manpower development, and collaboration with Nigeria’s oil and gas industry.
The event not only celebrated academic success but also highlighted FUPRE’s commitment to bridging the gap between academic training and career readiness. This was evident with the launch of the university’s inaugural Research and Innovation Fair, themed “Innovation for Economic Growth,” and the Career Pathway Fair, featuring an “Alumni Lecture” aimed at providing graduates with career guidance.
The Founder’s Day Lecture stressed the importance of establishing a Technology Transfer Office (TTO) to speed up the commercialization of the university’s intellectual property. The convocation ceremony itself, held on March 15, 2025, attracted dignitaries from the Presidency, Delta and Edo state governments, as well as key players from the oil and gas sector.
FUPRE’s Vice-Chancellor, Engr. Prof. Akpofure Rim Rukeh, played a pivotal role throughout the events, highlighting the university’s key partnerships, curriculum innovations, and global recognition. He expressed his belief that FUPRE’s leadership would continue to enhance the university’s position as a front-runner in petroleum engineering, energy sustainability, and technological advancement.
Press Briefing
On March 3, 2025, ahead of the convocation, Vice-Chancellor Prof. Akpofure Rim Rukeh addressed the press, reaffirming FUPRE’s commitment to producing skilled professionals for Nigeria’s oil and gas sector. He discussed the university’s strides in research, industrial partnerships, and its role in closing the skills gap in the energy sector, ultimately positioning Nigeria as a global leader in petroleum engineering and sustainable energy development.
A highlight of the briefing was the announcement that FUPRE had secured 42 patents and two copyrights, emphasizing the institution’s dedication to technological advancement.
Research and Innovation Fair 2025
On March 12, 2025, FUPRE hosted its inaugural Research and Innovation Fair, themed “Innovation for Economic Growth.” The event brought together leading experts from academia, government, and industry to discuss the role of research in industrial applications, innovations in energy and environmental sustainability, and cutting-edge technologies developed at FUPRE.
Arch. Sonny Echono, Executive Secretary of TETFUND, chaired the event, while Dr. Olasupo Olusi, MD/CEO of the Bank of Industry, delivered the keynote address, emphasizing innovation as a key driver of economic growth. Engr. Prof. Chinedum Mgbemena, Director of the Research & Innovation Centre, also highlighted the center’s accomplishments and its ongoing commitment to technological advancement. The event concluded with an exhibition and pitching session, further showcasing FUPRE’s innovative contributions.
Maiden Alumni Training/Career Fair 2025
On March 13, 2025, FUPRE launched its first-ever Career Fair, aimed at providing graduates with career pathways and professional development opportunities. The event, titled “An Epoch Career Fair for Empowering FUPRE Alumni for Global Career Success,” featured insights from industry leaders, including Prof. Lawrence I.N. Ezemonye, Vice-Chancellor of Igbinedion University, Okada, and facilitated networking sessions with companies looking to recruit fresh graduates.
Announcement of a New Vice-Chancellor
Following the success of the Research & Innovation Fair and Career Fair, FUPRE’s Pro-Chancellor, Engr. Dr. Bello Gachi Issa, FNSE, announced the appointment of Engr. Dr. Ezekiel Oghenenyerhovwo Agbalagba as the new Vice-Chancellor of FUPRE.
Founder’s Day Lecture
Dr. Obichi Obiajunwa, Executive Director of Hutzpa Innovations and Founder of the Young Innovation Leaders (YIL) Fellowship, delivered the Founder’s Day Lecture, titled “Universities as Innovation Hubs: Are We There?” He emphasized the need for FUPRE to accelerate the commercialization of its patents and copyrights, which he argued is crucial for financial sustainability and national development. His lecture received widespread acclaim from FUPRE’s leadership and attendees.
Convocation Ceremony – March 15, 2025
The grand convocation on March 15, 2025, was attended by key dignitaries, including representatives from Delta and Edo state governments, traditional rulers, and captains of industry such as Alhaji Aliko Dangote, Chief Dr. Leemon Ikpea, Engr. Gbenga Komolafe, and Dr. Seinye Lulu-Briggs. The event saw the conferment of Honorary Doctorate degrees upon industry leaders and royal figures.
In his speech, Prof. Akpofure Rim Rukeh celebrated the graduation of 3,369 students, including 2,683 undergraduates and 686 postgraduates, with 51 First-Class Honours. He also announced the introduction of new academic programs in the College of Maritime and Offshore Studies, College of Computing, and College of Petroleum Administration and Management.
The ceremony concluded with a reaffirmation of FUPRE’s commitment to academic excellence, innovation, and collaboration, with a focus on shaping the future of energy education and research in Africa.
