Legacy of Transformation: Reflections on Akpofure’s Vice Chancellorship at FUPRE

As the sun sets on his five-year tenure as Vice Chancellor of the Federal University of Petroleum Resources, Effurun (FUPRE), Engr. Prof. Akpofure Rim-Rukeh stands before a room full of distinguished scholars, administrators, and industry leaders for what would be his final address to the University’s governing council. The moment is poignant—not only for Rim-Rukeh himself but for the institution he has led through one of the most transformative periods in its history.

It’s March 11, 2025, and the room is filled with anticipation as the outgoing Vice-Chancellor begins his valedictory speech. His voice, filled with gratitude and humility, echoes through the chamber as he reflects on a journey that began on May 4, 2020. As FUPRE’s first Vice-Chancellor to deliver a formal valedictory speech, Rim-Rukeh’s words hold weight not just as a personal farewell, but as a testament to the monumental strides the University has made under his leadership.

“It is with great honour, excitement, and immeasurable gratitude to God that I stand before you this morning to participate in your meetings for the last time as Vice Chancellor of this University,” he begins. A deep sense of fulfilment resonates in his voice as he recalls the unique challenges and successes of his administration. Over the course of five years, Rim-Rukeh helped shape FUPRE into a beacon of academic excellence, research innovation, and industry partnerships, all while remaining deeply connected to its roots as a university focused on the energy sector.

The Early Challenges: Navigating a Pandemic
When Rim-Rukeh first assumed office in May 2020, the world was grappling with the early stages of the COVID-19 pandemic. Like many educational institutions around the world, FUPRE was forced to close its doors and shift to remote learning. But it was the swift reopening of the University in October 2020, following the Federal Government’s easing of lockdown restrictions, that served as one of the first litmus tests of his leadership.

The task was formidable: meet the National University Commission’s (NUC) guidelines for safe reopening. This included providing isolation centres, distributing masks and hand sanitisers, and ensuring the availability of running water across the campus. In his speech, Rim-Rukeh highlights the collective effort that ensured FUPRE remained safe during a time of unprecedented uncertainty. “There were cases, but there was no life lost to COVID-19 in FUPRE,” he proudly notes, a testament to the careful planning and teamwork that allowed the University to not only survive the pandemic but to come out stronger on the other side.

Academic Expansion: Building the Future
Rim-Rukeh’s tenure was defined by an unyielding commitment to academic growth. He set out with a clear vision to expand the University’s academic offerings and diversify its curriculum. The result was the establishment of numerous new programs that would position FUPRE as a leading institution in both national and international academic circles.

Under his leadership, the University saw the introduction of a range of new departments, each designed to meet the evolving needs of the energy sector and beyond. These included programs in Petrochemical Engineering, Cyber Security, Data Science, Marine Transport and Logistics, and Natural Gas Engineering. “We worked to ensure that our academic offerings mirrored the future needs of the global workforce,” Rim-Rukeh explains. “This diversification was key to positioning FUPRE as a hub for energy and technological innovation.”

In addition to expanding the academic portfolio, Rim-Rukeh oversaw the creation of three new colleges—each aimed at addressing the distinct needs of specific sectors. The College of Maritime and Offshore Studies, College of Computing, and College of Petroleum Management and Administration have all become integral to FUPRE’s broader educational mission, reinforcing its position as a global leader in petroleum studies.

Focus on Excellence: Teaching and Research Facilities
Rim-Rukeh knew that expanding the academic offering alone wouldn’t be enough. He also prioritized enhancing the physical and technological infrastructure needed to support this growth. From state-of-the-art teaching and research equipment to upgraded office spaces and smart classrooms, FUPRE underwent a massive transformation during his tenure.

“We recognized that teaching and learning are directly tied to the quality of the facilities available,” he says. The University invested in specialized equipment for a variety of departments, from Marine Engineering to Chemical Engineering. The procurement of advanced research tools, such as the Atomic Absorption Spectrophotometer and Bioreactors, has enabled students and faculty alike to push the boundaries of innovation and discovery.

In addition to the physical infrastructure, Rim-Rukeh championed the use of specialized software applications designed to enhance the teaching and research experience. Departments such as Petroleum Engineering and Electrical/Electronics Engineering benefited from cutting-edge teaching software, allowing students to engage with real-world simulations and research models.

Under his stewardship, FUPRE has flourished into a beacon of higher education in Africa, positioning itself as a global center for innovation, research, and industry collaboration. His leadership brought the University to the forefront of national and international conversations on sustainable development, energy transitions, and environmental management.

Vision for Transformation
When Professor Akpofure assumed the Vice Chancellorship, FUPRE was a budding institution with a strong foundation in petroleum studies. However, Akpofure’s vision for the university was far broader. He saw an institution that could be at the cutting edge of academic excellence across a wide range of disciplines. His vision was simple yet ambitious: to create a world-class university that would serve not just the immediate needs of the Nigerian oil and gas sector but also address the global challenges of sustainability, energy, and climate change.

This vision drove his first major initiative: the expansion and diversification of FUPRE’s academic programs. Under his leadership, FUPRE introduced a range of innovative programs aimed at equipping students with the skills and knowledge required to thrive in the modern world. Postgraduate diplomas, Master’s, and Ph.D. programs were launched in fields such as Petroleum Waste Management, Energy Economics, Sustainable Development, and Climate Change Studies. These programs reflect the growing demand for professionals who can tackle complex, multifaceted challenges in today’s world.
Accreditation and Global Recognition

One of Professor Akpofure’s most notable achievements was the successful accreditation of FUPRE’s core academic programs. In December 2024, programs such as Chemical Engineering, Petroleum Engineering, and Marine Engineering received full accreditation, marking a significant milestone in the university’s quest to provide globally recognized and industry-ready graduates.

This achievement did not come easily. Akpofure’s administration worked tirelessly with faculty members to ensure that FUPRE met and exceeded the stringent standards set by regulatory bodies such as the National Universities Commission (NUC). It was his determination to see the university recognized on the global stage that propelled the university’s academic standing forward.

“Accreditation is not just about meeting criteria. It’s about ensuring that our students receive the best possible education, equipping them with the skills they need to succeed in their careers,” Professor Akpofure said, reflecting on the importance of maintaining the highest academic standards at FUPRE.
Professor Akpofure also recognized the importance of bridging the gap between academia and industry. One of his key initiatives was the establishment of the University-Industry Advisory Board, which sought to foster collaboration between FUPRE and various sectors of the economy, particularly the oil and gas, energy, and environmental industries. By engaging industry leaders in the development of FUPRE’s academic programs, Akpofure ensured that the university’s curriculum was aligned with real-world needs.

This move significantly enhanced the employability of FUPRE graduates, making them highly sought after by employers. FUPRE’s role in preparing students for the workforce became even more pronounced with the introduction of specialized centres such as the Centre for Energy Business Studies and the Centre for Climate Change Studies, which have become hubs for research and industry partnerships.

Commitment to Research and Innovation
Research was another area where Akpofure’s leadership had a lasting impact. His administration increased FUPRE’s investment in research infrastructure, establishing several new Centres of Excellence across key sectors such as energy, climate change, and sustainable development. These centers provided students and faculty with the resources to conduct groundbreaking research and develop solutions to some of the world’s most pressing challenges.

In addition to the creation of these centres, Akpofure’s administration placed a strong emphasis on encouraging innovation. During his tenure, FUPRE saw a rise in patent applications and innovative research outputs. The establishment of the FUPRE Space on DSpace 7 allowed the university to digitally archive and share research outputs, further enhancing its position as a leading research institution.
“We have built an ecosystem where research thrives, and innovation is at the core of everything we do,” said Akpofure. “The goal is to ensure that our research not only contributes to academic knowledge but also addresses real-world issues that affect our society and the global community.”

Infrastructure and Technological Advancements
Professor Akpofure was also instrumental in modernizing FUPRE’s infrastructure. Under his leadership, the university underwent a significant transformation, with the construction of a state-of-the-art Central Library Complex and the establishment of solar-powered Smart Classrooms. These advancements not only improved the learning environment but also reflected Akpofure’s commitment to sustainability.

In addition to physical infrastructure, Akpofure administration oversaw the expansion of the university’s ICT infrastructure, including the development of a robust University Portal and the establishment of a JAMB CBT Examination Centre. The integration of technology into every facet of the university’s operations ensured that FUPRE remained relevant in an increasingly digital world.

Prof. Akpofure’s leadership saw a significant transformation in students’ accommodation. Recognizing the importance of providing comfortable living spaces, he remodeled existing hostels, introducing state-of-the-art facilities to enhance students’ living experiences and new hostel blocks were also constructed to accommodate the growing student population. He ensured that FUPRE’s hostel facilities met contemporary standards, improving the overall welfare of students during their time at the university.

One of Akpofure’s key achievements was the remarkable support FUPRE received from various Ministries, Departments, Agencies (MDAs), private individuals, and corporate organizations. Among the significant donations was the Federal Ministry of Power’s provision of infrastructure, including a dedicated 30KM 33KV power line, as well as the ongoing construction of a 2×7.5MVA substation to boost power supply to the university. The Ministry also energized FUPRE with a 1.5MW Solar Hybrid Captive Power Plant, despite challenges with performance due to battery and inverter failures.

The Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation (NNPC) and Shell Nigeria Exploration & Production Company (SNEPCo) played a role by donating a 100-seater ICT centre, while Chevron constructed a state-of-the-art Post Graduate Students Hostel, enhancing living conditions for students. Additionally, the Petroleum Technology Development Fund (PTDF) funded an upgrade to FUPRE’s Marine Engineering Department, and alumni contributions, such as the donation of a 6.5KVA petrol generator, helped address power challenges.

One of the most prestigious contributions came from the Abdul Samad Rabiu (ASR) Initiative, which granted FUPRE ₦250 million for the establishment of the ASR Centre for Corrosion Research. Prof. Akpofure also fostered vital collaborations, such as the inauguration of FUPRE’s Intellectual Property and Technology Transfer Office (IPTTO) by the National Office for Technology Acquisition and Promotion (NOTAP).

Prof. Akpofure’s administration also focused on integrity and transparency. The introduction of the Ethics Integrity and Compliance Scorecard (EICS) and the Anti-Corruption Transparency Unit (ACTU) earned FUPRE top rankings in the 2024 ICPC evaluation. Moreover, he launched the Student Advocacy Vanguard and restructured the university’s Freedom of Information Unit, promoting accountability.
A key innovation under Prof. Akpofure’s leadership was the FUPRE Roundtable 2021. This event, attended by influential industry leaders, fostered strategic partnerships between FUPRE and the oil and gas sector. It highlighted opportunities for institutional donations, advancing technological research, and addressing the challenges faced by public universities.

FUPRE Strategic Plan (2019-2024)
It would be recalled that when Professor Akpofure took over in 2020, the University’s Strategic Plan (2019-2024) was incomplete. His leadership ushered in a new era with the development of the first comprehensive institutional strategic plan for the period 2020-2025. This plan was designed to elevate FUPRE to greater academic and research heights.

The key priorities outlined in the strategic plan were designed to advance the University across multiple facets, including teaching, research, funding, and infrastructure. These priorities included teaching and learning excellence, research excellence, increased funding, attracting regional and international faculty and students, building strong academic and industry partnerships, staff and student welfare, improvement in physical infrastructure and information technology, and the introduction of new academic programs.
The establishment of the Directorate of Strategic Plan Implementation (SPI) was pivotal in ensuring the University’s goals were realized. This unit was tasked with promoting FUPRE globally, attracting funding, partnerships, and resources, thereby accelerating the University’s growth and fulfilling its mission of becoming an academic and research powerhouse.

Under Akpofure’s leadership, several key policies were developed and approved, including intellectual property (IP), research, endowment, security, ICT, and sexual harassment policies, among others. These policies provided a framework for governance and operations within the University.
The University Health Centre (UHC) also saw significant improvements, with the provision of health services, including routine drug supplies, health education, and a toxicology screening policy for new students. The Centre played a crucial role in the University’s COVID-19 response, ensuring compliance with health and safety guidelines for the safe reopening of the campus in 2020.

Akpofure’s administration also prioritized financial stability and efficiency, appointing a competent Bursar and improving financial procedures. The University experienced improved financial health, with no salary shortfalls from 2020 to 2024. Key infrastructure projects were funded, including the construction of new hostels and significant improvements to campus energy and water supply systems.
The strategic plan also addressed student welfare by enhancing campus life, academic support, and sports activities. Under his leadership, the University saw an increase in student enrollment and graduation rates, as well as achievements in sports and academics. FUPRE also attracted foreign students, enriching its international presence.

Professor Akpofure’s leadership transformed FUPRE, positioning it for long-term growth and success, and ensuring that the University’s vision for excellence is realized in the years to come.

There is no gainsaying that under the leadership of Professor Akpofure, FUPRE faced challenges in forming partnerships with oil and gas companies, a critical area of focus for the institution. In response, Akpofure spearheaded efforts to amend the FUPRE Establishment Act of 2017, particularly Section 11, which deals with the university’s supervisory framework. Working alongside Hon. Efe Afe, a Member of the House of Representatives, Akpofure proposed an amendment to move the university’s oversight from the Ministry of Education to the Ministry of Petroleum Resources, aligning the institution more closely with its core mission of addressing the oil and gas industry’s challenges.

The proposed bill was presented in a public hearing on March 24, 2021. In his presentation, Akpofure emphasized that specialized institutions like FUPRE should be overseen by the relevant ministry—similar to how the Nigerian Defence Academy is managed by the Ministry of Defence. He argued that such a move would better enable FUPRE to fulfil its mandate, citing examples of universities originally established for specific purposes, such as the University of Agriculture, which had lost its focus after being moved to the Ministry of Education. Akpofure also called for provisions to secure adequate funding for the university to carry out its research in alternative energy and oil exploitation, both critical to the nation’s energy future.

Despite the potential benefits, the amendment faced opposition from the Federal Ministry of Education and the Nigerian Universities Commission during the public hearing, and the bill did not pass. However, Akpofure’s leadership continued to focus on FUPRE’s expansion, resulting in numerous infrastructure developments and the securing of grants and patents, further positioning the university as a key player in Nigeria’s oil and gas sector.

Prof. Akpofure’s administration fostered a culture of innovation, with the university producing pioneering research and creative solutions to pressing global challenges. Notably, FUPRE researchers like Prof. Doris Fovwe Ogeleka, Dr. Elias Emeka Elemike, Dr. Chinedum Mgbemena, and Dr. Akinyemi Ogunkeyede have made significant strides in fields ranging from sustainable water filtration to eco-friendly materials. For instance, their collaboration in 2023 led to the creation of a nano clay water filter, designed for point-of-use applications. This development is a critical step toward addressing water scarcity and improving public health, especially in rural communities.

Another notable achievement was the formulation of sustainable paints using PET polymers and functionalized bamboo cellulose. This innovative approach aligns with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), focusing on climate action and sustainable cities. Additionally, Prof. Ogeleka, Dr. Elemike, Dr. Ogunkeyede, and Dr. Mgbemena presented their Zero Pollution Initiative at the TETFund National Research Fair/Exhibition 2024. Their sustainable composite plastic and sand products have the potential to mitigate environmental degradation, positioning FUPRE at the forefront of sustainability research.

With the growing demand for specialized equipment, the university has become a hub for creative improvisation. From the design of advanced drones and electric bikes to the production of high-performance recycling machines, these improvised solutions highlight FUPRE’s ability to adapt to resource constraints while fostering cutting-edge research.

University Ranking
In terms of academic impact, Prof. Akpofure’s vision for FUPRE’s global recognition has taken shape with a clear focus on improving university rankings. Under his guidance, FUPRE embarked on participating in the prestigious Times Higher Education World University Rankings in 2023, marking its first foray into global university assessments. Additionally, the university’s engagement with the Times Higher Education Impact Ranking aims to align its research with the United Nations SDGs, signalling FUPRE’s commitment to addressing global challenges through academic excellence.

Prof. Akpofure’s tenure also emphasized fostering collaboration and knowledge-sharing within the academic community. The University Lecture Series (ULS) initiative has become a platform for experts to engage with students and faculty, promoting academic dialogue and interdisciplinary collaboration.
While FUPRE’s global ranking has improved, reaching a significant milestone in the AD Scientific Ranking, Prof. Akpofure acknowledges that further efforts are needed. However, with a strong foundation in innovation, research, and global outreach, FUPRE is poised to climb even higher on the global stage in the coming years.

According to him, “At my coming in as Vice Chancellor, the University have had three Professors deliver their inaugural lectures. At my exit as VC, the University had a total of 10 Professors delivered their inaugural lectures, of which 7 were delivered in my tenure.”

A significant aspect of his leadership was his commitment to staff development, particularly within the university’s academic cadre. Under his guidance, FUPRE saw a remarkable series of promotions across the professorial ranks. In 2020 alone, 14 staff members were elevated to Associate Professors, and 7 became full Professors. Subsequent years witnessed similar strides in academic excellence, with 7 staff promoted in 2021, 8 in 2022, and 3 in 2023 to Associate Professor, alongside respective promotions to Professor. By 2024, 4 staff were promoted to Associate Professor and 6 to Professor. These efforts highlight Prof. Akpofure’s dedication to fostering academic excellence and rewarding hard work within the university.

Prof. Akpofure also recognized the importance of collaboration and partnerships. Throughout his leadership, FUPRE signed 32 agreements with both local and international institutions, strengthening the university’s academic and research capabilities. He advocated for partnerships that go beyond mere collaborations, encouraging joint ventures that address the complex challenges facing higher education.
In his bid to further improve academic standards, Prof. Akpofure engaged 71 senior academic staff on sabbatical appointments, including Professors, Associate Professors, and Senior Lecturers. Additionally, 63 adjunct staff were engaged between 2020 and 2024 to bolster the university’s academic offerings.
The university’s growth was also reflected in its staffing levels. In 2020, the academic staff numbered 166; by 2024, that number had risen to 254, alongside increases in both senior and junior non-academic staff. This expansion was pivotal in ensuring the university’s ability to meet the increasing demands of a growing student body.

The highlight of FUPRE’s recent history under Prof. Akpofure’s leadership was the university’s convocation ceremonies. In 2022, the university celebrated its third convocation, which saw the graduation of 802 undergraduate students, alongside the first cohort of postgraduate students. The fourth convocation, held in March 2025, was even more remarkable, with FUPRE celebrating its first-ever cohort of doctoral graduates.

Looking Ahead: A Future Built on Solid Foundations
As Rim-Rukeh’s term as Vice Chancellor comes to an end, he’s keenly aware of the legacy he leaves behind. While he’s proud of the tangible achievements, from the expanded academic programs to the upgraded infrastructure, it’s the people of FUPRE—the faculty, staff, and students—that he most cherishes.

“We’ve made FUPRE a place where ambition, innovation, and collaboration thrive,” he reflects. “But the work is far from over. The future of this institution depends on continued investment in research, academic excellence, and strategic partnerships with industry.”

One of the most significant areas of growth under Rim-Rukeh’s leadership was the fostering of both national and international industry partnerships. Through these collaborations, FUPRE has become not just a place of learning, but a critical player in the global energy sector. Rim-Rukeh’s commitment to attracting international faculty and students has helped foster an environment of diversity and intellectual exchange, enriching the University’s research output and broadening its global footprint.

As he prepares to hand over the reins to his successor, Rim-Rukeh is optimistic about the future of FUPRE. He believes that the foundation laid during his tenure will serve as a springboard for continued success. “The University is in a strong position,” he says. “FUPRE’s potential is limitless, and I am confident that it will continue to grow, innovate, and lead the way in the energy sector.”

A Farewell to Remember
As Rim-Rukeh’s speech draws to a close, the room fills with applause, not just for his achievements, but for the quiet strength and vision that defined his leadership. For many, his tenure at FUPRE represents a turning point in the University’s history—a period of expansion, transformation, and undeniable progress.
Looking ahead, the future of FUPRE seems bright. The institution is no longer just a rising star in Nigerian academia; it has become a respected name on the international stage. But as Rim-Rukeh leaves the Vice Chancellor’s office, he reminds everyone of the most important ingredient in FUPRE’s success: people. “It’s been an honour to lead FUPRE, but it’s the people who have made all of this possible. Together, we’ve laid the groundwork for a truly transformative institution.”

As the applause echoes in the room, it is clear that Engr. Prof. Akpofure Rim-Rukeh’s legacy will endure for generations to come, and FUPRE’s brightest days are still ahead.

 Okorie is a seasoned Nigerian journalist with extensive experience in both print and digital media, known for his sharp analytical skills and commitment to truth. email: [email protected], 07066994499