Okada, Nigeria – June 10, 2025 – Igbinedion University Okada (IUO) has achieved a remarkable milestone as its Student Chapter of the Society of Petroleum Engineers (SPE) has been selected to receive the 2025 Presidential Award for Outstanding Student Chapter in the Community Involvement category. This accolade, reserved for the top 10% of SPE student chapters globally, underscores the chapter’s exceptional contributions to societal development and the petroleum engineering profession.
The award, announced in a letter dated June 9, 2025, by 2025 SPE President Olivier Houzé, recognizes the IUO SPE Student Chapter’s dedication to impactful community projects, exemplary leadership, and commitment to advancing SPE’s mission. President Houzé praised the chapter’s officers for their “hard work and dedication to the industry,” highlighting their role in fostering local member engagement and technical excellence. The SPE Presidential Awards celebrate outstanding student chapters in three categories: Technical Dissemination and Professional Development, Community Involvement, and Member Recognition and Appreciation. The IUO chapter’s selection in the Medium group category places it among an elite cohort of chapters worldwide, reflecting the university’s growing influence in engineering education and community service.
The chapter will be formally honored at the 2025 SPE Annual Technical Conference and Exhibition (ATCE) in Houston, Texas, from October 20–22. President Houzé will present the award during the prestigious President’s Luncheon, offering IUO students a platform to showcase their achievements on an international stage. “This award is a testament to the relentless efforts of our student leaders and the support of the university,” said Engr. DR.Oby. P. Obeta , Faculty Advisor of the IUO SPE Chapter. “Their initiatives—from STEM outreach to sustainable energy projects—have made a tangible difference in our community and aligned with SPE’s vision.”
The IUO community congratulates the SPE Student Chapter on this historic achievement and looks forward to their continued contributions to the field and society.
