The University of Lagos has once again reaffirmed its place among Nigeria’s leading institutions of learning and research, emerging overall champion at the 2025 Nigerian Association of Petroleum Explorationists (NAPE) Basin Evaluation Competition (BEC).
The highly competitive event, which began in July 2025 and climaxed between November 9 and 13 at the NAPE Annual International Conference, brought together 26 universities from across the country. After months of rigorous analysis, five universities advanced to the grand finale: University of Lagos (UNILAG), University of Nigeria, Nsukka (UNN), Olabisi Onabanjo University (OOU), Akwa Ibom State University (AKSU), and the University of Ibadan (UI).
Working with a sophisticated dataset from the Deep Offshore Niger Delta, the UNILAG team expertly interpreted seismic and well data, identified technically sound leads and prospects, and delivered practical exploration recommendations. Their presentation, during the finals on November 10, showcased exceptional mastery, clarity, and depth – qualities that ultimately secured their victory.
At the award night on November 13, UNILAG was officially declared 1st-place winner, with the University of Ibadan and Akwa Ibom State University taking 2nd and 3rd positions respectively.
Members of the triumphant UNILAG team are:
- Akande Habib Opeyemi
- Demilade Kolawole-Jacobs
- Ewherido Ogheneruona
They were supported by a fourth contributor, Akindele Akindimeji, whose input proved instrumental to the team’s overall performance.
As champions, the UNILAG team received a cash prize of ₦1,500,000, while the first and second runners-up received ₦750,000 and ₦500,000 respectively.
The achievement has drawn applause across the university community, with special commendation extended to UNILAG’s industrial mentor, Mr. K. Uzoma; student advisers, Dr. T. Omeru and Dr. O. Y. Adeogun; Head of the Department of Geosciences, Prof. L. Adeoti; and the dedicated academic and non-academic staff of the department.
The Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Folasade T. Ogunsola, also received accolades for her visionary leadership, which continues to create an enabling environment for student excellence and cutting-edge research.
With this win, the University of Lagos not only reinforces its reputation as a powerhouse in geosciences training; it also demonstrates the depth of talent, discipline, and innovation thriving within its academic community.
