The University of Lagos (UNILAG) has received software licences and workstation computers valued at over $3.5 million from Baker Hughes Oil Services Company to enhance teaching, research, and student training in the Department of Geosciences.
The donated items include two HP Z2 G9 workstation laptops, five licences of JewelSuite Subsurface Modelling Software, and five licences of JewelSuite Geomechanics Software. These tools are expected to strengthen teaching, learning, and research activities, particularly in subsurface modelling and geoscience studies.
A delegation from Baker Hughes visited the University for the Formal Handover of the equipment to support Geology and Geoscience Training. Led by Mr. Akinbowale Awobajo, the delegation included Mr. David Odofin, Mr. Oghenerobor Akpobasaha, Mr. Oviekhaye Friday, Mr. Afekeinde Collins Nwanya, and Mr. Atanda Olasunkanmi.
The Vice-Chancellor of the University, Professor Folasade Ogunsola, OON, FAS, described the donation as a significant milestone in strengthening collaboration between the University and the energy industry. She noted that such partnerships are vital for bridging the gap between academic learning and industry practice.
According to the Vice-Chancellor, the equipment and specialised software will significantly improve the quality of training available to students in the Department of Geosciences and better prepare them for careers in the energy sector. She added that the initiative reflects a shared commitment between the University and its industry partners to advance education, promote research, and support national development.
Reaffirming the University’s commitment to industry collaboration, Professor Ogunsola expressed optimism about deepening the partnership with Baker Hughes and highlighted the importance of establishing a formal Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to sustain future engagements.
In his remarks, Mr. Akinbowale Awobajo, the representative of the Country Director of Baker Hughes Oil Services Company, Mr. Francis Oganya explained that the donation was aimed at supporting the training needs of students and exposing them to industry-standard tools used in modern geoscience practice. Mr. Awobajo reiterated the company’s commitment to the development of local talents within Nigeria’s energy sector.
Also speaking during the visit, Mr. David Odofin emphasised that the future of the energy industry depends on how effectively students are prepared to address emerging challenges. He noted that the workstation machines and software licences represent more than technological tools, as they provide students with early exposure to the technologies and analytical skills required in modern geoscience and energy careers.
In his remarks, the Head of the Department of Geosciences, Professor L. Adeoti, expressed appreciation to Baker Hughes for the donation, describing it as a major boost to the department’s academic and research capacity. He disclosed that the University of Lagos is one of three institutions selected to benefit from the initiative.
Professor Adeoti noted that the new facility will enhance the training of both undergraduate and postgraduate students, while positioning the University as a leading intellectual hub for the oil and gas industry within and beyond Nigeria. He added that the equipment is expected to attract more postgraduate students, particularly PhD candidates, and further strengthen research activities within the department and related disciplines.
While expressing the department’s interest in collaborating with the company to organise periodic training sessions for staff and students on the effective use of the software and workstations, Professor Adeoti assured that the equipment will be deployed immediately to support student training and research activities
Professor Olushola of the Department of Physic who represented the Dean of the Faculty of Physical and Earth Sciences, stated that the donation would foster stronger collaboration between the University and industry. He explained that the resources will support subsurface research across several disciplines, including Geophysics, Geology, Mathematics, Statistics, Computer Science, Chemical Engineering, Petroleum Engineering, and Systems Engineering.
Other staff of the Department of Geosciences present at the handover ceremony included Professor A. Akinmosin, Dr. S. I. Bankole, and Dr. O. Y. Adeogun
