Akinyemi celebrates Prof Bart Nnaji at 70, hails legacy in power, education

By Adejayan Gbenga

Academic and media practitioner, Dr. Akinyemi Rasaq, has congratulated renowned engineer and former Minister of Power, Prof. Bart Nnaji, on his 70th birthday, describing him as a visionary leader, pioneering scholar and nation builder whose contributions have transformed Nigeria’s science, technology and energy sectors.

In a congratulatory message issued ahead of Prof. Nnaji’s 70th Birthday Symposium scheduled for July 17, Akinyemi praised the former minister’s remarkable career, saying he exemplifies excellence in academia, public service and entrepreneurship. He noted that Nnaji’s achievements have continued to project Nigeria’s intellectual capacity on the global stage.

According to Akinyemi, Nnaji attained the rank of Professor of Mechanical Engineering in the United States at the age of 36, a feat he described as a landmark accomplishment. He also recalled that Nnaji was appointed Minister of Science and Technology at 37 before later serving as Minister of Power, where he made significant contributions to national development.

Furthermore, Akinyemi identified the establishment of Geometric Power Limited, Nigeria’s first independent power company, as Nnaji’s most enduring legacy. He said the initiative demonstrated the professor’s determination to tackle the country’s electricity challenges through innovation and private-sector leadership.

“He did not just talk about energy reform; he dared to build it. He turned policy into infrastructure and vision into megawatts,” Akinyemi said while commending Nnaji’s commitment to practical solutions for Nigeria’s power sector.

Reflecting on their professional relationship, Akinyemi recalled inviting Nnaji in 2021 to deliver the keynote address at the Global Colloquium on “Globalization and Challenges of Higher Education in Nigeria,” organised in honour of Chief Afe Babalola, SAN, CON. He noted that Nnaji’s presentation, alongside Emeritus Professor Jacob Oluponna of Harvard University, reflected exceptional scholarship, foresight and dedication to national development.

Meanwhile, Akinyemi described Nnaji as a mentor, globally respected scholar and statesman whose integrity has remained unquestioned throughout his public service. He also recalled that former President Olusegun Obasanjo appointed him Pro-Chancellor and Chairman of the Governing Council of Bells University of Technology, Ogun State, a position he continues to hold, adding that Nnaji left public office without facing corruption allegations or investigation by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission.

As Prof. Nnaji marks his 70th birthday, Akinyemi prayed for continued good health, wisdom and many more years of impactful service. He said the former minister’s life embodies the virtues of wisdom, righteousness and exemplary leadership, adding, “Nigeria is proud of you. Africa is proud of you. We are proud to call you father, mentor and icon.”