UNILORIN, NNPCL Launch Strategic Partnership for West Africa’s First Engineering Centre of Excellence
By 𝔸bdulrazak Tomiwa
The University of Ilorin and the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL) have formed a joint strategic committee aimed at deepening the partnership between the two entities.
This development was announced on Saturday by Kunle Akogun, the university’s Director of Corporate Affairs, following a high-level meeting at the NNPC Towers in Abuja last Wednesday.
The university’s team was headed by Vice-Chancellor Prof. Wahab Egbewole, SAN, while the NNPCL delegation was led by its Managing Director and CEO, Bashir Bayo Ojulari.
According to Akogun, the primary focus of the talks was the creation of a Centre of Excellence at the University of Ilorin. This facility, which is intended to prioritize practical engineering and technology-based research, is envisioned as a pioneer project for the West African region.
The two parties also discussed the potential inauguration of an NNPCL Professorial Chair at the institution. This role would be designed to advance industry-focused research and enhance academic proficiency within vital segments of the energy industry.
“The joint committee, which will refine the details of the partnership, is expected to report back within four weeks,” the statement said.
The university’s delegation also included several key officials, such as the Deputy Vice-Chancellor for Research, Technology, and Innovation, Mukhtar Adeiza Etudaiye; the Registrar, Mansur Adeleke Alfanla; and the Dean of the Faculty of Engineering and Technology, Joshua Olaoye.
