Engr. Prof. (Mrs.) Ongoebi Maureen Orubide Etebu: A Trailblazer in Engineering, Academia, and Leadership
By Francis Dufugha
Prof. Etebu’s journey is a testament to resilience, intellect, and an unwavering commitment to excellence. Born in Kaiama, Kolokuma/Opokuma Local Government Area of Bayelsa State, she demonstrated exceptional academic prowess from an early age. Her thirst for knowledge took her across continents, earning degrees in Chemical, Industrial, and Mechanical Engineering from renowned institutions in the United States and Nigeria. With three Ph.D.s, multiple master’s degrees, and a post-graduate diploma, she stands as one of the most academically decorated engineers in Nigeria.
However, Prof. Etebu is not just an academic giant; she is a woman of action. As Nigeria’s first female professor of Mechanical Engineering, she shattered long-standing gender barriers in a male-dominated field. Her inclusion in the Nigerian Women Hall of Fame in 2023 is a well-deserved acknowledgment of her pioneering role.
Beyond the classroom and laboratories, Prof. Etebu has made remarkable contributions to nation-building. Her tenure as Commissioner in Bayelsa State saw infrastructural transformations, notably her instrumental role in the establishment of Niger Delta University. Her ability to blend engineering expertise with administrative competence ensured the successful execution of large-scale projects, even under challenging conditions.
Her impact extends to maritime education, where she served as the pioneer Vice-Chancellor of the Nigeria Maritime University, Okerenkoko. Here, she laid the foundation for a globally competitive institution aligned with international maritime standards.
Prof. Etebu’s influence is further solidified through her affiliations with prestigious professional bodies. Holding fellowships from ten distinguished institutions, she has continuously contributed to the engineering profession, policy development, and human capital growth. Her dedication to advancing engineering practice in Nigeria is evident in her pivotal role in the establishment of the Bayelsa State branch of the Nigerian Society of Engineers (NSE).
It is not surprising that her leadership qualities have earned her traditional chieftaincy titles, recognizing her as a pillar of development in her native Bayelsa State. Moreover, her recent appointment as Chairman of the Governing Council of Federal Polytechnic, Ado-Ekiti, reaffirms her national relevance.
Beyond her professional and public service achievements, Prof. Etebu’s legacy is also reflected in her family. With children excelling in engineering, medicine, and law, she exemplifies the balance of career excellence and family values.
The decision to immortalize her legacy with an annual public lecture is not just appropriate; it is necessary. Her life’s work serves as an inspiration to aspiring engineers, particularly women, proving that determination, intellect, and service to humanity can break even the toughest barriers.
As we celebrate Prof. Ongoebi Maureen Orubide Etebu, we must also reflect on the need to create more opportunities for women in STEM fields, academia, and leadership positions. Her story is proof that given the right support, Nigerian women can stand tall on the global stage.
May this lecture series continue to inspire generations
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