Department of Petroleum Engineering

History of Petroleum Engineering Degree Programme
The Department of Petroleum Engineering of the Abubakar Tafawa Balewa University, Bauchi was established in October, 1998 and is the first Petroleum Engineering Department in the Northern part of the country.

The Professional field of Petroleum Engineering is such that reflects the need of the nation at such a period that increasingly call for technological progress in all fields of endeavour, not the least in hydrocarbon energy source. With the recent oil/gas exploration activities of the Upper Benue Trough Bauchi-Gombe region- and ongoing Kolmani River exploration and development, Gongola Basin and the Lake Chad area, the birth, of the programme cannot come at a better time.

By the end of its first year of establishment, the Department of Petroleum Engineering consisted of four Academic Staff, a Typist and a clerical assistant. Today, in its twenty-fifth year, the Department is recording a steady progress in student enrolment and staff development. The department through the membership of the HOD in the committee of Head of Petroleum Engineering Departments of Nigerian Universities, is making adequate progress in linkages with the Petroleum Industry and other Petroleum Research Institutes.

Presently, there are 33 full time and associate Academic Staff members, a Secretary, 4 Laboratory Technologists and a Clerical Officer. The 33 Academic Staff comprises 7 Professors, 5 readers, 8 senior Lecturers and 13 others full–time academic staff.

The Department of Petroleum Engineering attained Full COREN accreditations in 2014, 2019 and interim NUC accreditation in 2014 and full NUC accreditation in 2017 and another interim NUC accreditation in 2023.

Vision of the Department
The vision of the Department is derived from the vision of the Abubakar Tafawa Balewa University, which is succinctly captioned ― transfer and application of petroleum engineering knowledge for the advancement of mankind in a friendly, interactive and multi-cultural environment.

Mission of the Department
To deliver relevant and high-quality education in petroleum engineering, preparing graduates for professional practice, leadership, and impactful careers in the energy sector. The Department promotes excellence in research, teaching, and innovation, fostering the development and application of ideas and technologies that advance hydrocarbon exploration, production, and sustainable energy solutions, while enhancing societal well-being and quality of life.

Philosophy of the Department
The Department of Petroleum Engineering at Abubakar Tafawa Balewa University is grounded in the principles of academic freedom, tolerance, probity, equal opportunity, and respect for cultural diversity. The Department is committed to fostering an inclusive and intellectually stimulating environment where knowledge is created, shared, and applied responsibly to address the evolving challenges of the petroleum and energy industries.
It upholds integrity and professionalism in teaching, research, and practice, while promoting innovation, critical thinking, and ethical decision-making. The Department values diversity of thought and background as essential drivers of creativity and excellence, and strives to provide equal access to opportunities for all students and staff.
Through these guiding principles, the Department seeks to develop competent, socially responsible, and globally competitive petroleum engineers who contribute meaningfully to sustainable energy development and societal advancement.

Petroleum Engineering Programme Educational Objectives (PEOs)

 

Graduates are expected to be able to attain these objectives within 5 years following graduation:

PEO 1: Graduates will establish successful careers in petroleum engineering and related energy sectors, applying sound engineering principles to solve real-world problems in hydrocarbon exploration and production.

PEO 2: Graduates will demonstrate leadership, teamwork, and effective communication skills in multidisciplinary and multicultural professional environments.

PEO 3: Graduates will engage in continuous professional development, lifelong learning, and adaptability to evolving technologies and practices in the energy industry.

PEO 4: Graduates will contribute to innovation, research, and the development of advanced technologies that enhance efficiency, safety, and sustainability in petroleum and energy operations.

PEO 5: Graduates will uphold ethical standards and professional responsibility, contributing to societal well-being, environmental stewardship, and sustainable energy development.