The Pro-Chancellor and Chairman of the Governing Council of Niger Delta University (NDU), Engr. Emeritus Prof. Steven Odi-Owei, was celebrated on the occasion of his 81st birthday during the 6th Edition of his Annual Public Lecture, on June 23, 2026, organized by the Nigerian Institution of Mechanical Engineers (NIMechE), Yenagoa Chapter.
The lecture, themed “Optimizing Upstream Well Intervention Operations: Mechanical Engineering Innovations and Best Practices,” featured a presentation by Mr. Lucky Charles, Director of Operations, Zewich Nigeria Limited. He highlighted the growing importance of digital competence in mechanical engineering, stressing that modern engineers must combine technical expertise with information technology skills to remain relevant in an increasingly automated industry.
Charles also emphasized the need for proper planning, skilled personnel, equipment reliability, and strict adherence to safety standards in upstream well intervention operations. According to him, the future of the oil and gas industry lies in optimizing existing wells through innovation, best practices, and continuous learning.
Representing the National Chairman of the Nigerian Institution of Mechanical Engineers, Engr. Ekereta Usaz, FNSE, FNIMechE, commended the organizers for sustaining a platform that promotes professional development and technical knowledge sharing. Similarly, the Chairman of the Occasion, Engr. Dr. Babagana Modu Tela, FNSE, FNIMechE, described the lecture theme as a reflection of the core values of mechanical engineering—innovation, excellence, and professionalism.
The event attracted distinguished personalities from academia, government, and industry, including the Vice-Chancellor of Niger Delta University, Prof. Allen A. Agih; the Registrar, Dr. Emmanuel Amaegbe; the Acting Librarian, Prof. Pereware A. Tiemo; members of the Governing Council, Prof. Barclays Ayakoroma and Barr. (Mrs.) Biobelemoye Charles-Onyema, MNI; and the Special Assistant to the Vice-Chancellor, Mr. Kennedy Brambaifa.
Speaking at the event, the Vice-Chancellor of Niger Delta University, Prof. Allen A. Agih, congratulated Engr. Emeritus Prof. Steven Odi-Owei on his 81st birthday and described the celebration as a fitting recognition of a distinguished engineer, scholar, and administrator. He noted that the University community was delighted to join family, friends, colleagues, and professional associates in honouring the newly appointed Pro-Chancellor and Chairman of the Governing Council.
Prof. Agih commended Prof. Odi-Owei's longstanding contributions to engineering education, professional practice, and national development, expressing confidence that his wealth of experience would continue to enrich the University's governance system. He wished the celebrant good health, wisdom, and many more years of impactful service to the nation and humanity.
The celebration provided an opportunity for colleagues, students, and professional associates to honour a man whose career has left an enduring impact on engineering practice, higher education, and professional development in Nigeria.
Niger Delta University joins family, friends, and the engineering community in celebrating Engr. Emeritus Prof. Steven Odi-Owei and wishes him continued good health, wisdom, and many more years of fruitful service
