Three FUPRE scholars ranked among world’s top 2% scientists

The Federal University of Petroleum Resources, Effurun (FUPRE), has once again placed Nigeria on the global map of academic excellence, as three of its distinguished scholars — Engr. (Prof) Olusegun David Samuel, Dr Modestus O. Okwu, and Dr Elias E. Elemike — have been listed among the world’s top 2% scientists in the prestigious Stanford University–Elsevier Global Ranking of Scientists (2025 edition).

The Stanford–Elsevier Top 2% Scientists Ranking assesses researchers worldwide using Scopus data and a composite citation score (c-score), which factors in citations, h-index, co-authorship, and authorship position.

Encompassing 22 scientific fields and 174 subfields, the ranking celebrates scholars who fall within the top 2% of their disciplines or the top 100,000 researchers globally for their sustained and high-impact scientific contributions.

This international recognition further strengthens FUPRE’s reputation as a fast-rising hub of research excellence and innovation, underscoring its commitment to cutting-edge, solution-driven scientific inquiry.

For Engr. Prof. Olusegun David Samuel, an eminent expert in Energy and Thermofluid Systems, being named among the world’s top scientists is, in his words, “both humbling and inspiring.”

Featured in the ranking for three consecutive years, Prof. Samuel attributes the honour to his mentors, colleagues, students, and divine grace.

His pioneering research in sustainable energy and clean technologies continues to address real-world energy challenges while amplifying FUPRE’s global footprint in innovative research.

Dr Modestus O. Okwu, an Associate Professor of Mechanical Engineering, secured his place among the world’s elite researchers for his groundbreaking work in Robotics, Energy, and Digital Technologies.

His research fuses artificial intelligence, automation, and renewable energy to solve pressing industrial and societal problems.

Describing the recognition as evidence that “with commitment, integrity, and innovation, world-class research can emerge from any university,” Dr Okwu dedicated the honour to his team and the FUPRE community, affirming the university’s growing influence in global sustainability and innovation.

Similarly, Dr Elias E. Elemike, a leading Nanomaterials Chemist, described his inclusion among the world’s top scientists as a validation of years of focused and impactful research. “It shows that my work and contributions are relevant and significant,” he said.

With over 100 publications spanning energy, environment, medicine, and agriculture, Dr Elemike noted that publishing in high-impact journals enhances visibility and global influence.

His advice to emerging scholars: “Research is enduring — be open-minded, collaborate widely, and strive for excellence.”

The Vice-Chancellor of FUPRE, Prof. Ezekiel O. Agbalagba, hailed the recognition as a landmark achievement for both the university and Nigeria. He described it as proof of the country’s growing capacity for world-class research and innovation.

“This honour shows that with focus, dedication, and innovation, Nigerian scholars can excel globally,” he said, commending the honourees for exemplifying the university’s core values of Excellence and Relevance.

The inclusion of three FUPRE scholars among the world’s top 2% scientists marks another milestone in the university’s evolution as a centre of global scientific influence.

It reflects not only FUPRE’s rising stature in petroleum engineering, energy systems, and digital technologies but also Nigeria’s expanding contribution to the global body of knowledge.

Through vision, collaboration, and purposeful research, FUPRE continues to drive innovations that power industries, transform communities, and advance a sustainable future.

ALSO READ TOP STORIES FROM NIGERIAN TRIBUNE