Three FUPRE Scholars Make World’s Top 2% Scientists List

The Federal University of Petroleum Resources, Effurun (FUPRE), has celebrated a global academic milestone as three of its 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 2025 edition of the Stanford University–Elsevier Global Ranking of Scientists.

The ranking, which evaluates researchers worldwide using Scopus data and a composite citation score (c-score), considers citations, h-index, co-authorship, and authorship position. It spans 22 scientific fields and 174 subfields, recognising scholars who rank within the top 2% of their discipline or among the top 100,000 researchers globally.

Prof. Samuel, an expert in Energy and Thermofluid Systems, described the recognition as “humbling and inspiring,” noting that it is the third consecutive year he has featured on the list. He credited the honour to his mentors, colleagues, students, and divine support, while highlighting that his research in sustainable energy and clean technologies contributes to solving real-world energy challenges.

Dr. Okwu, an Associate Professor of Mechanical Engineering, earned his place for his work in Robotics, Energy, and Digital Technologies, which integrates artificial intelligence, automation, and renewable energy to address industrial and societal problems. He dedicated the recognition to his research team and the wider FUPRE community, emphasising that innovation and integrity can produce world-class research from any institution.

Dr. Elemike, a Nanomaterials Chemist, said the accolade validates years of focused research, with over 100 publications across energy, environment, medicine, and agriculture. He advised emerging scholars to be collaborative, open-minded, and committed to excellence.

FUPRE Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Ezekiel O. Agbalagba, hailed the achievement as a landmark for the university and for Nigeria, highlighting it as evidence of the country’s growing capacity for impactful global research. “This recognition demonstrates that Nigerian scholars can excel on the world stage with dedication and innovation,” he said, praising the honourees for exemplifying FUPRE’s core values of Excellence and Relevance.

The inclusion of the three FUPRE academics in the top 2% scientists list underscores the university’s rising influence in petroleum engineering, energy systems, and digital technologies, further cementing Nigeria’s role in global scientific contributions.