Students from Igbinedion University, Okada, have made Nigeria proud by winning a top international award from the Society of Petroleum Engineers (SPE). Their student group, known as the IUO SPE Student Chapter, was given the 2025 Presidential Award for Outstanding Community Involvement.
This award places them among the top 10% of student groups worldwide. The honour was officially announced in a letter signed by SPE President Olivier Houzé on June 9, 2025.
The global body praised the Igbinedion students for their hard work, strong leadership, and community service projects. According to the SPE President, their activities have helped educate more people about petroleum engineering and also engaged the local community in positive ways.
The SPE Presidential Awards are given in three areas: Technical Development, Community Involvement, and Member Support. Igbinedion University won in the Community Involvement category for medium-sized student chapters. The students will be honoured at the SPE Annual Technical Conference and Exhibition in Houston, Texas, USA, from October 20 to 22, 2025. During this event, they will present their community work to professionals from around the world.
Reacting to the news, the group’s Faculty Adviser, Engr. Dr Oby P. Obeta stated that the award demonstrates the students’ commitment to making a difference. She said their efforts—such as science outreach programmes and clean energy projects—have helped both their school and the surrounding community. The management of Igbinedion University has also praised the students, stating that the win brings pride to the school and showcases the university’s strong commitment to training future leaders in petroleum engineering.
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