Starreporters has exclusively gathered that the University of Port Harcourt is on the verge of announcing a new occupant for the prestigious Petroleum Technology Development Fund (PTDF) Professorial Chair in the Faculty of Engineering, following the conclusion of a rigorous interview and selection process.
According to a reliable source within the university, this comes after the expiration of the tenure of Professor Dulu Appah, who previously held the chair under the sponsorship of the Petroleum Technology Development Fund (PTDF).
The source revealed that earlier today, a high-powered panel comprising top management officials of the University, representatives of the PTDF, an external assessor, the Dean of the Faculty of Engineering, and the Head of the Department of Gas Engineering conducted interviews for shortlisted candidates who responded to a widely circulated call for applications.
The selection process was comprehensive and highly competitive. Candidates were reportedly evaluated based on their academic qualifications, depth of research, and how well their goals aligned with the strategic objectives of the PTDF Chair.
The PTDF Professorial Chair is a coveted academic position aimed at deepening research, innovation, and industry collaboration in petroleum and gas engineering—fields of critical importance to Nigeria’s energy future.
Though the identity of the new chair occupant has not yet been disclosed, our source hinted that final decisions have been made, and an official announcement from the university is expected in the coming days.