The Federal University of Petroleum Resources, Effurun (FUPRE) has been identified as an institution with the potential to emerge as a global center for research and innovation, provided it adopts the right strategic approach.
This was the view of Dr. Obichi Obiajunwa, Executive Director of Hutzpa Innovations and Founder of the Young Innovation Leaders (YIL) Fellowship, who delivered the keynote address at the Petroleum Varsity Founder’s Day Lecture.
Speaking on the theme, “Universities are Innovation Hubs: Are We There?”, he emphasized the need for FUPRE to reposition itself as an intellectual powerhouse capable of driving scientific and industrial transformation.
Highlighting the university’s strategic focus on petroleum resources, he noted that FUPRE is uniquely positioned to pioneer groundbreaking research that could redefine Nigeria’s energy sector.
However, he pointed out that financial constraints often hinder research and development, urging the university to accelerate the commercialization of its 41 patented inventions and two copyrighted intellectual properties.
He stressed that converting research into marketable products is essential for ensuring financial sustainability.
According to Dr. Obiajunwa, universities that fail to translate research into tangible solutions and commercial products will struggle to sustain themselves financially.
He encouraged both lecturers and students to embrace a culture of innovation, asserting that research commercialization not only generates revenue but also strengthens the institution’s global reputation in technological advancement.
In his address, FUPRE’s Vice Chancellor, Engr. Prof. Akpofure Rim Rukeh, reflected on the university’s journey since its establishment in 2007.
Expressing pride in its transformation from a single College of Science to a full-fledged institution with five colleges, he highlighted key achievements during his tenure.
These included an increase in the number of buildings on campus from 16 to 32 and the expansion of academic programs.
He urged his successor to continue this trajectory by expanding the curriculum to align with the vision of FUPRE’s founding fathers.
He also reaffirmed the university’s dedication to research and innovation, citing initiatives such as the Career Research Fair and the Founder’s Day Lecture as evidence of its commitment to academic excellence.
He emphasized that these initiatives are designed to guide students toward innovation-driven careers while strengthening FUPRE’s role in national development.
Commendations for Dr. Obiajunwa’s thought-provoking lecture also came from the Pro-Chancellor and Chairman of the Governing Council, Dr. Bello Gachi Issa, and External Council Member, Dr. Buba Fauziyya.
They acknowledged that his presentation provided a solid foundation for Nigerian universities to rethink their roles as drivers of economic and technological progress.
They particularly praised his recommendations for strengthening industry partnerships, creating dedicated innovation spaces, and embedding entrepreneurship into the curriculum.
His proposal to link professorships to research commercialization rather than just academic publications was also recognized as a significant reform that could drive practical, solution-oriented research in Nigerian universities.
The Founder’s Day Lecture attracted a distinguished audience from academia, industry, and government, all of whom applauded the discussion for setting the stage for critical conversations on research, funding, and innovation at FUPRE.
With stakeholders optimistic about the university’s future, its commitment to visionary leadership and strategic collaborations is expected to position it as a leading force in shaping the future of energy research in Nigeria and beyond.
