By Engr. Dr. V.C. Achilike.
Octogenarian Encomium for Emeritus Professor Samuel Onuoha Onyegegbu, the Doyen of Engineering, Ogbuehi Asaba, Professor of Professors.
Ladies and gentlemen, esteemed colleagues, students, and friends,
On behalf of our goal- achieving Head of Department, the Chairman of Mechanical Engineering Staff Welfare Association, I bring you this heartfelt 80th birthday goodwill message .
Please, allow me the luxury of your precious weekend time to peruse this litany of glorious motivating achievements.
Today, we gather to celebrate not only the remarkable birthday of Emeritus Professor Samuel O. Onyegegbu but also a lifetime dedicated to the fields of mechanical engineering, research, and mentorship. A stalwart figure in academia, his contributions have significantly advanced the Mechanical Engineering Department and the broader Faculty of Engineering.
Emeritus Professor Onyegegbu's journey in education and professional development is an inspiring story of dedication and excellence. As the former Head of the Department of Mechanical Engineering , a former Dean of the Faculty of Engineering, and also the former President of Senior Staff Club UNN, he exemplified leadership and vision, implementing development agendas that have shaped the future of engineering education and staff welfare in our institution. His relentless pursuit of academic excellence created an environment where both students and staff could thrive, fostering a culture of innovation, collaboration, and rigorous inquiry.
One of Prof. Onyegegbu’s most profound legacies is his unwavering commitment to mentoring students and faculty members. He has not only influenced generations of young engineers with his profound knowledge and enthusiasm but has also nurtured many who have gone on to become distinguished illustrious professors like Engr.Prof. Howard Okezie Njoku. (Former HoD, Mechanical Engineering UNN) ,Engr. Prof. Godwin. O. Unachukwu. (Director, Climate Change Innitiative,UNN), Engr. Prof. Chigbo Agha. Mgbemene ( Director , SERVICOM UNN.), Rev. Engr.Prof. Edmond.C Okoroigwe (Former HoD, Mechanical Engineering UNN), Engr. Dr .Paul Ako(Immediate past HoD of Mechanical Engineering Departmental, UNN), Engr. Dr. Eke Mkpamdi (Present HoD of Mechanical Engineering Departmental, UNN), Engr. Dr. Patrick Okolo (First Class and BGS) and other Ph.D. holders both home, diaspora and International Students. His ability to connect with students, understand their aspirations, and guide them towards their goals has left an indelible mark on countless lives. The success of his mentees stands as a testament to his effectiveness as a teacher and advisor.
He is an epitome of impeccable integrity, a forever handsome, very neat well-dressed, habitual English smart personality.
A most respected gentleman, he is known for his punctuality - never a 'Nigerian time" person, -making him loving husband and a father of all and very importantly, a devoted Christian. He is approachable and mentor to many. And as a senior staff club member, he's a jolly good fellow.
As an astute academician, Prof. Onyegegbu has been prolific in his research, contributions profoundly shaping mechanical engineering. His publications have explored critically important areas, contributing to knowledge regarding heat transfer, thermodynamics, and renewable energy. Some notable examples of his contributions include:
1. Heat Transfer Coefficient for Glazed Transpired Solar Collector in Natural Convection Mode: This work underscores the efficiency of solar technologies, imperative as we transition toward sustainable energy solutions.
2. The Effect of Secondary Fuel Injection on the Performance and Exhaust Emissions of an Open-Chamber Diesel Engine: This publication has important implications for improving engine design and reducing environmental impact.
3.Overstability of Viscoelastic Fluid Layer Oscillating in a Vertical Periodic Motion and Heated from Below: His research in fluid dynamics has advanced our understanding of complex fluid behavior under varying conditions.
4. Experimental Determination of Some Thermal Properties of Palm Fiber, Kernel, and Shell: This study highlights the potential of local resources, contributing to both engineering applications and sustainable development.
5. Convective Instability of Rotating Radiating Fluids: His work here bridged complex theoretical concepts with practical applications in engineering thermodynamics.
6. Pilot-Plant for Energy Recovery from Tropical Waste Food Materials: Prof. Onyegegbu’s efforts in this area speak volumes about his commitment to addressing critical waste and energy challenges in our region.
7. Performance of a Modulated Solar Thermoelectric Cooler: This innovative research paves the way for advancements in cooling technologies, vital for enhancing energy efficiency.
8. Production of Biogas from Tropical Waste Food Materials: This work illustrates his dedication to sustainable practices, reducing waste while generating energy.
9. Solar Distillation of Pond Water and Solar Distillation of Pond (Muddy) Water: These studies demonstrate his contributions to improving water purification methods essential for many communities.
10. A Large-Scale Facility for Experimental Studies of Natural-Circulation Solar Energy Tropical Crop Dryers: This initiative has significant implications for agricultural productivity and food security.
11. Nocturnal Distillation in Basin-Type Solar Still and Heat Transfer Inside a Horizontal Cylindrical Annulus in the Presence of Thermal Radiation and Buoyancy: Through these studies, he has contributed to innovative thermal management solutions.
12. Stability of Thermal Convection in Basin-Type Solar Stills and Performance of Photovoltaic Cells in Equatorial Climate: These investigations are critical as we seek to optimize renewable energy systems in diverse climates.
13. Solar Radiation Induced Natural Convection in Stagnant Water Layers and Transient Multidimensional Second Law Analysis of Solar Collectors Subjected to Time-Varying Insolation with Diffuse Components: His work ensures that emerging technologies are efficient and effective.
14. Second Law Optimization of Integral Type Natural Circulation Solar Energy Crop Dryers and Electricity Generation from a Compound Parabolic Concentrator Coupled to a Thermoelectric Module: These papers exemplify his forward-thinking approach to applying engineering principles for real-world solutions.
15. Design of Preventative Maintenance Scheduling Model for Deteriorating Systems and Modeling Edge Heat Loss in a Flat-Plate Absorber Employed in an Indirect Solar Dryer: His contributions to maintenance and performance modeling have significant implications in manufacturing and operations.
16. Maximizing the Energy Potential of Palm Kernel Shells by Pyrolytic Conversion of Biofuel and Effect of Absorptive Coating of the Hot Fluid Passage of a Heat Exchanger Employing Exergy-Optimized Pin Fins in High Temperature Applications: These continue to inform the fields of energy production and management.
17. Modeling Composite Performance Variables of Deteriorating Systems Using Empirical Evidence and Artificial Neural Network and Numerical Investigation of Entropy Generation in Stratified Thermal Store Performance: His interdisciplinary approach to problem-solving has not only advanced mechanical engineering but also enriched the dialogue across disciplines.
18. Bio-Oil Potential of Some Tropical Woody Biomass and Determination of Oxidation Characteristics and Decomposition Kinetics of Some Nigerian Biomass: His commitment to renewable resources is evident in research that supports sustainable energy practices.
19. A Numerical Study to Predict the Energy and Exergy Performance of a Salinity Gradient Solar Pond with Thermal Extraction and Experimental Investigation of a Photovoltaic-Powered Solar Cassava Dryer: These works exemplify his dedication to exploring innovative energy systems.
20. Pyrolysis of Gmelina Arborea Wood for the Bio-Oil/Bio-Char Production: Physical and Chemical Characterization of Products and Analysis of Thermal Storage System: His innovative contributions continue to resonate within the field of thermal engineering.
He is indeed the DOYEN of Engineering.
As we celebrate Professor Onyegegbu today, we honor not only his academic achievements but also his profound impact as a mentor, leader, and innovator in mechanical engineering. His legacy inspires all of us to pursue excellence, foster knowledge, and remain committed to the betterment of our communities and environment.
Happy birthday, Professor Samuel O. Onyegegbu! May you continue to be a beacon of inspiration and wisdom as you navigate the next chapter of your life.
Thank you for your unwavering dedication and remarkable contributions to our academic community.
We love you Daddy.
Engr. Dr. V.C. Achilike. Vice-chairman, Mechanical Engineering Staff Welfare Association, Department of Mechanical Engineering, Faculty of Engineering, UNN.
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