From FUTO to fellowship: Four mechanical engineers ascend to peak of Nigerian engineering

In a moment of profound pride, legacy, and celebration, four outstanding engineers: Dr. Daniel Ewim, Engr. Emmanuel Augustine Etukudoh, Engr. Dr. Ochuko Felix Orikpete, and Engr. Dr. Constance Obiuto Nwankwo, were conferred with the Fellowship of the Nigerian Society of Engineers (FNSE), the most prestigious honor in Nigerian engineering.

Their elevation was not only a professional milestone but a shared triumph—each of them graduated from the Federal University of Technology, Owerri (FUTO) in 2007 with degrees in Mechanical Engineering, and have remained bound by excellence, purpose, and enduring friendship. Now, nearly two decades later, they stood side by side, not as students, but as Fellows—recognized nationally for their extraordinary impact, distinguished leadership, and transformative contributions to the profession.

The FNSE title is the highest distinction conferred by the Nigerian Society of Engineers, reserved exclusively for engineers who have risen to the top of their field through exceptional achievement, ethical leadership, and influential contributions to national development. It is a mark of enduring excellence, professional trust, and technical distinction.

The conferment ceremony drew an illustrious audience of captains of industry, senior engineers, Fellows of the NSE, policymakers, academics, family members, and longtime friends, many of whom had followed the honorees’ journeys for years. Their presence added depth and warmth to an already powerful occasion.

Delivering the keynote address, Engr. Margaret Oguntala, FNSE, President and Chairman-in-Council of the NSE, described the elevation as both symbolic and consequential. “This is not merely a ceremonial transition, it is a national endorsement of your work, your values, and your influence,” she said. “The FNSE confers not just prestige, but responsibility. You are now ambassadors of engineering excellence, and the conscience of our profession.”

Oguntala reminded the new Fellows that at such heights, the stakes grow even higher. “As you rise, your commitment to ethics, innovation, and service must rise with you. At this stage, you must be defenders of public trust, champions of sustainability, and mentors to the next generation.”

She also spoke boldly against persistent challenges undermining the profession. “Quackery, infrastructure malpractice, and unprofessional conduct threaten both the safety of our people and the reputation of our industry. As Fellows, you must be the firewall, resolute, vocal, and uncompromising.”

The four honorees, each exceptional in their own right, represent a broad and impactful spectrum of engineering leadership.

Dr. Daniel Ewim, widely recognized for his groundbreaking work in Thermofluids and Engineering Education, has shaped the landscape of sustainable energy and mentored emerging engineers across multiple institutions. “This honor is deeply personal,” he said. “To stand here with those I once sat with in class after years of service, research, and growth is a full-circle moment. Engineering education is the root of national innovation, and I remain committed to building systems that empower others.”

Engr. Emmanuel Augustine Etukudoh, whose research and practice in data-driven transportation logistics and infrastructure optimization has transformed public-sector logistics strategy, said: “Fellowship is not a destination, it is a deeper calling. From FUTO till now, my passion has remained the same: creating systems that serve people, rooted in integrity and evidence.”

Engr. Dr. Ochuko Felix Orikpete, a seasoned HSE professional and licensed aircraft engineer, was recognized for his leadership in safety systems, regulatory frameworks, and aviation compliance. “This Fellowship is an affirmation that safety is not just a protocol but it is a professional ethic. It defines how we design, how we manage risk, and how we honor life,” he shared.

Engr. Dr. Constance Obiuto Nwankwo, a Senior Lecturer in Production Engineering at Nnamdi Azikiwe University (UNIZIK), was honored for her contributions to manufacturing systems, engineering education, and advocacy for women in STEM. She reflected, “This recognition represents every young woman I have mentored and every voice that once felt unheard in this profession. It is proof that visibility, competence, and purpose can align.”

Throughout the evening, guests paid tribute to the honorees not just for their accomplishments, but for their character, consistency, and humility. Former FUTO lecturers and classmates some of whom were present, described them as “quiet revolutionaries” who always combined brilliance with responsibility.

As each medallion was placed, and each citation read aloud, there was a palpable sense that this moment transcended titles, it was about a shared story of growth, excellence, and national service.

In her closing charge, President Oguntala reminded all Fellows of their elevated duty. “You are now stewards of a noble profession. Let your work continue to shape our infrastructure, our institutions, our policies, and our people. Let your names be synonymous with ethics, innovation, and national progress.”

And so, from the lecture rooms of FUTO to the apex of Nigerian engineering, Daniel, Emmanuel, Ochuko, and Constance have not only etched their names in gold, they have illuminated a path for others to follow.