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Lt. Col. Abubakar-Surajo Imam, a distinguished officer in the Nigerian Army, recently achieved a historic milestone by being conferred the title of Professor by the Nigerian Defence Academy (NDA).
Imam, born in Kankia, Katsina State, rose through the ranks and became the Head of the Department of Mechatronics Engineering at the NDA, solidifying his reputation as a pioneer and expert in the field.
Academic Achievements:
Imam earned his Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering from Bayero University, Kano, Kano State.
His pursuit of academic excellence continued with a Master's degree in Mechatronics from Newcastle University, United Kingdom, and a Ph.D. in Mechatronics and Robotics from the same institution.
His educational journey reflects a commitment to multidisciplinary studies, combining mechanical engineering, electronics, computer science, and control engineering within the field of Mechatronics.
Military Service:
Imam joined the Nigerian Army as a member of Short Service Combatant Course 32, later converting to Regular Commission.
Throughout his military career, he served in various units, including 1 Base Workshop, Technical Group EME, HQ Nigerian Army Electrical and Mechanical Engineers Corps, and DICON.
His contributions have been instrumental in enhancing the capabilities of the Nigerian Army in areas related to mechatronics and robotics.
Research and Innovation:
Imam's influence extends beyond the military sphere. He is an Examiner and Member of the Central Selection Committee for Master’s and PhD candidates sponsored by the Petroleum Technology Development Fund.
As a researcher, he has collaborated with institutions such as the Defence Industries Corporation of Nigeria (DICON), Defence Research and Development Bureau, Command Engineering Depot, Buffalo Engineering Technology, Air Force Institute of Technology, Ahmadu Bello University, and Aliko Dangote University of Science and Technology.
Academic Leadership:
Currently serving as the Head of the Department of Mechatronics Engineering and the Director of the Centre for Innovation and Creativity at the NDA, Imam has played a pivotal role in elevating the institution's standing among Nigerian universities.
Imam led the NDA in founding the Department of Mechatronics Engineering and the Centre for Innovation and Creativity, advancing research and development.
Contributions to the Military Industrial Complex:
Imam's vision and dedication are evident in his efforts to establish the Centre for Innovation and Creativity.
This centre catalyzes realizing Nigeria's Military Industrial Complex, promoting innovation and creativity in technologies related to military and civil hardware and software solutions.
His initiatives aim to reduce Nigeria's dependence on foreign technical solutions and enhance national security through indigenous capabilities.
International Recognition:
Imam's international engagements include participation in over 40 workshops and numerous seminars.
He has presented research papers at conferences in the United Kingdom, Spain, Egypt, and the United States of America.
His global exposure has enriched his perspectives and contributed to the dissemination of knowledge in the field of Mechatronics.
Authorship:
Imam's intellectual contributions extend to the realm of literature. He has authored several books covering topics such as Mechatronics, and PIC Microcontrollers.
Others include Embedded Systems Design, Sensors and Actuators for Embedded Systems, Coding, and Robotics.
He also wrote Drone Technology for Kids, and a Field Manual for Drone Technology, among others.
Recognition and Honors:
Imam's professorial title, bestowed by the NDA Council, reflects his outstanding service, dedication, and contributions to Mechatronics Engineering.
The recognition underscores the Nigerian Defence Academy's commitment to acknowledging and rewarding outstanding individuals within its academic community.
In conclusion, Professor Lt. Col. Abubakar-Surajo Imam stands as a trailblazer, shaping the landscape of mechatronics and robotics in Nigeria.
Exemplifying unwavering commitment to academia, military service, and innovation, he leaves an indelible imprint on Nigeria's military and academic domains.
