In a momentous achievement, the Nigerian Defence Academy (NDA) in Kaduna State has elevated Lt. Col. Abubakar-Surajo Imam to the esteemed rank of Professor of Mechatronics Engineering.
This groundbreaking accomplishment marks the first time in the history of the Nigerian Army that a serving personnel has attained the rank of a professor.
The announcement was made by the Registrar of the NDA, Brig.-Gen. A.M. Tukur, who emphasized that this recognition not only honours Professor Imam’s remarkable contributions, but also underscores the NDA’s unwavering commitment to fostering academic excellence and recognizing outstanding achievements within its ranks.
Here are seven noteworthy facts about Professor Imam:
1. Early Education And Academic Pursuits
Hailing from Kankia in Katsina State, Imam holds a Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering from Bayero University in Kano State. His quest for knowledge led him to Newcastle University in the United Kingdom, where he earned a Master’s degree in Mechatronics and subsequently a Doctorate degree in Mechatronics and Robotics.
2. Distinguished Military Service
Upon joining the Nigerian Army as part of the Short Service Combatant Course 32, Professor Imam was initially assigned to the Nigerian Army Corps of Electrical and Mechanical Engineering. His dedication and expertise led him to serve in various units, including 1 Base Workshop, Technical Group EME, HQ Nigerian Army Electrical and Mechanical Engineers Corps, and DICON.
3. Instrumental Role In Academic Development
A true visionary, Professor Imam played a pivotal role in establishing the NDA Department of Mechatronics Engineering and the Centre for Innovation and Creativity. He currently holds the prestigious positions of Head, Department of Mechatronics Engineering and Director, Centre for Innovation and Creativity at the NDA.
4. Active Research Collaborations
Beyond his academic pursuits, Professor Imam is actively involved in research collaborations with esteemed institutions such as the Air Force Institute of Technology in Kaduna, Ahmadu Bello University in Zaria, the Aliko Dangote University of Science and Technology in Wudil, Kano State, and the Defence Industries Corporation of Nigeria.
5. Contributions To Education And Research
His expertise is not only confined to research, but extends to the realm of education. Professor Imam serves as an Examiner and Member of the Central Selection Committee for Master and Ph.D. candidates sponsored by the Petroleum Technology Development Fund.
6. Prolific Authorship
A prolific author, Professor Imam has authored several books covering a wide range of topics in his field, including Mechatronics, PIC Microcontrollers, Embedded Systems Design, Sensors and Actuators for Embedded Systems, Coding, Robotics and Drone technology for Kids, and Field Manuals for Drone Technology, among others.
7. International Engagement
Throughout his illustrious career, Professor Imam has participated in over 40 international workshops and numerous seminars, showcasing his expertise at conferences held in the United Kingdom, Spain, Egypt, and the United States of America.