The Nigerian Institution of Marine Engineers and Naval Architects (NIMENA) has congratulated three of its distinguished members on their elevation to the rank of professor in the Department of Marine and Offshore Engineering at Rivers State University (RSU), Port Harcourt.

The newly elevated academics are Engr. Professor Kombo Theophilus-Johnson, FNSE; Engr. Professor Daniel Tamunodukobipi, MNSE; and Engr. Professor Ugochukwu Charles Orji, MNSE.

In a congratulatory message signed by its National General Secretary, Engr. Dr. Azubuike Chuku, the institution described the achievement as a significant milestone in the academics’ careers and a source of pride to the engineering body and the wider marine and offshore engineering profession.

The message, issued on behalf of NIMENA’s National Chairman, Engr. Dr. Eferebo Sylvanus, FNSE, the Council of NIMENA (CONIM) and the entire membership, commended the three professors for their sustained contributions to scholarship, research, engineering education, mentorship and professional development.

According to the institution, their elevation represents not only personal academic accomplishments but also recognition of their commitment to advancing knowledge and strengthening engineering education in Nigeria.

NIMENA noted that the achievement underscores the importance of academic excellence and professional dedication in developing the specialised expertise required to advance the country’s marine and offshore engineering sector.

The institution expressed confidence that the professors would deploy their expanded academic standing, professional experience and leadership capabilities to promote innovation, deepen research and strengthen the relationship between academic institutions and the maritime industry.

It added that their elevation presented an opportunity to make further contributions to marine technology, offshore engineering and the development of Nigeria’s blue economy.

The blue economy encompasses economic activities linked to oceans, seas and other water resources, including maritime transportation, offshore energy, fisheries and marine technology. Developing these sectors requires skilled professionals, relevant research and technological innovation to improve efficiency, safety and sustainability.

NIMENA expressed hope that the professors’ new status would create greater opportunities for impactful research, mentorship, professional service and national development.

It also highlighted the importance of experienced academics in nurturing the next generation of engineers, particularly in specialised fields requiring advanced technical knowledge and practical expertise.

The institution said the achievement of the three members reflected the value of sustained commitment to learning, research and professional advancement, while reinforcing the role of universities in producing the manpower needed to support Nigeria’s maritime and offshore industries.

“Congratulations, Distinguished Professors! NIMENA proudly celebrates you,” the institution said.

The elevation of the three engineers comes at a time when technical expertise, research capacity and innovation remain important to the development of Nigeria’s maritime sector.

Marine and offshore engineering plays a critical role in areas such as vessel design, offshore infrastructure, marine equipment, subsea operations and maritime safety. Strengthening academic capacity in these areas can support industry development, improve local technical competence and create opportunities for collaboration between universities and industry operators.

For NIMENA, the recognition of its members represents an opportunity to celebrate professional excellence while encouraging continued investment in engineering education, research and mentorship.

The institution reaffirmed its pride in the three academics and expressed optimism that their achievements would inspire younger engineers to pursue excellence in scholarship and professional practice.