My journey with SPE in the Federal University of Technology Owerri (FUTO) Student Chapter began quietly, without any initial intention of leadership or even active participation. As a freshman, I became aware of SPE early on, but at the time, it felt like just another student organization competing for attention in an already demanding academic environment. Like many students, I was cautious, concerned that involvement might detract from my academic performance rather than complement it.
That perception began to change after attending the new students’ orientation program organized by the then student chapter president, Michael Chimezie. During the session, he spoke passionately about SPE, not merely as an organization, but as a platform for professional growth, technical exposure, leadership development, and global networking. His explanation of the opportunities available to student members planted a seed of curiosity in me. Although I remained hesitant about active volunteering, his consistent encouragement and mentorship eventually convinced me to take the first step. That decision would later become one of the most defining choices of my undergraduate journey.
Stepping Into Leadership
As I became more involved in chapter activities, my interest in SPE deepened organically. In my spare time, I found myself exploring the SPE website, reading about student initiatives across different sections and regions, and imagining the possibilities that could emerge from meaningful engagement. What began as curiosity slowly evolved into purpose.
Over time, I realized I wanted to contribute more intentionally and, eventually, to lead. However, I was also aware of my limitations. Leadership, especially within a professional organization with a strong legacy, requires preparation, discipline, and self-awareness. Under the guidance and mentorship of past chapter leaders and senior colleagues, Charles Ejovwokoghene, Michael Chimezie, Kimberly ThankGod, Ina Johnson, Lucy Amarachi, and Princeclinton Ajoku, I worked deliberately on developing myself. I honed my leadership skills, became familiar with the operational structure of an SPE student chapter and learned how to balance academic responsibilities with volunteering.
Through consistent service, I became recognized as an active and outstanding volunteer within the chapter. When I became eligible to contest for office, I declared my interest, participated in the chapter officers’ screening process, passed the screening examinations, and was ultimately elected as chapter president.
Leading the Chapter: Experiences, Initiatives, and Achievements
Serving as president of the SPE FUTO Student Chapter, particularly one known for excellence, was both an honor and a challenge. The role demanded resilience, adaptability, and a clear sense of direction. Alongside my executive team, faculty advisor, and chapter directors, we developed a vision centered on enhancing the technical competence and professional readiness of our members while preserving the strong legacy built by past administrations.
One of our key initiatives was the reinstatement of the chapter’s monthly technical meetings. These sessions featured seasoned industry professionals who engaged students on emerging technologies, industry trends, and practical challenges within the energy sector. We also organized multiple field trips and industry visits, providing participants with firsthand exposure to real-world operations and helping bridge the gap between academia and industry.
In addition, we hosted technical lectures, hands-on workshops, professional development seminars, and SPE Ambassador Lecture Programs. In alignment with our diversity and inclusion goals, we introduced female-focused initiatives such as women’s development programs and technical advancement sessions aimed at empowering female students both technically and professionally.
Community service was another pillar of our administration. Through the Catch Them Young Empowerment Program, we reached over 200 secondary school students in rural communities, providing educational materials such as pencils, rulers, and notebooks. Other initiatives included the SPE Energy4me outreach programs, the Pad-a-Girl Child initiative, and environmental cleanup drives.
These collective efforts yielded measurable results. By the end of 2024, the chapter had grown to 712 members, the highest recorded by the chapter all time, representing a 22.13% increase from the previous year.
Our work was recognized at multiple levels. We were named Best Student Chapter in SPE Port Harcourt Section 103 in 2024, placed fifth among student chapters in the SPE Nigeria Council for 2025, and received the 2025 SPE Regional Outstanding Student Chapter Award for Technical Dissemination and Professional Development in Africa.
I was also personally awarded the Olumide Phillips Scholarship (DROPS) Award for the Port Harcourt Section by the SPE Nigeria Council.
Reflection: Lessons Learned
Reflecting on my term, one of the most critical factors for success was maintaining a strong and healthy relationship between three key stakeholders: the chapter officers, the faculty advisor, and the section student liaison officer. Effective collaboration among these parties ensured seamless communication and operational efficiency. Any disconnect within this triangle could significantly hinder progress.
Another lesson was that leadership is learned largely on the job. While preparation is important, adaptability and openness to learning are equally essential. Remaining open-minded allowed me to navigate unexpected challenges and refine my leadership approach.
Maintaining relationships with past chapter leaders and officers, both within and outside my chapter, also proved invaluable. Their advice, shared experiences, and best practices helped us implement strategies that were both innovative and practical.
Nonetheless, we faced challenges. Our geographical distance from major industrial hubs, local security concerns, and economic pressures, particularly inflation, sometimes limited our capacity to execute certain initiatives due to funding constraints. These realities forced us to prioritize strategically and, in some cases, postpone or scale down plans.
Advice to Aspiring Student Chapter Leaders
To students considering involvement in SPE, I strongly encourage you to take the leap. Beyond networking and technical exposure, active participation develops leadership, communication, teamwork, and problem-solving skills that extend far beyond the classroom. For those aspiring to become student chapter presidents, my advice is simple. Be open-minded. Do not limit yourself to what currently exists and be willing to imagine and pursue what can be.
Continuing the SPE Journey Beyond Graduation
I often tell fellow students that while being a student member offers numerous opportunities, becoming a professional member opens even more doors. After graduation, I intend to remain actively involved with SPE by volunteering within my sponsoring section, engaging as a young professional member, and continuing to support my student chapter behind the scenes.
SPE has been an integral part of my growth, and my commitment to the organization does not end at graduation. It will evolve.
