NEWS
Trailblazer in Uniform: Katsina-Born Lt. Col. Abubakar Surajo Imam Emerges as Nigeria’s First Army Officer to Attain Professorship, Redefines Military Innovation and Academic Excellence
Nigeria has recorded a historic milestone in the intersection of military service, engineering innovation, and academic excellence as Lieutenant Colonel (Professor) Abubakar Surajo Imam becomes the first officer of the Nigerian Army to attain the prestigious rank of Professor.
Hailing from Kankia Local Government Area of Katsina State, Lt. Col. (Prof) Imam stands as a symbol of intellectual brilliance, discipline, and patriotic service. A rare blend of soldier, engineer, and innovator, he has carved a unique path that places Nigeria on the global map of cutting-edge defence and technological research.
His academic journey began at Bayero University, Kano (BUK), where he obtained a Bachelor of Science degree in Mechanical Engineering. Driven by a passion for advanced technology, he proceeded to Newcastle University in the United Kingdom, earning a Master’s degree in Mechatronics and later a Doctorate in Mechatronics and Robotics.
Currently serving at the Nigerian Defence Academy (NDA), Kaduna, Lt. Col. (Prof) Imam occupies two strategic positions: Head of the Department of Mechatronics Engineering and Director of the Centre for Innovation and Creativity (CINOCRE). From these platforms, he continues to drive research, mentorship, and breakthrough technological solutions tailored to Nigeria’s security and development needs.
Over the years, he has been at the forefront of designing and developing advanced military hardware, including automated artillery systems, unmanned ground combat vehicles, and contributions to smart rockets and missile technologies. His work significantly strengthens Nigeria’s indigenous defence capabilities and reduces dependence on foreign technologies.
Beyond the battlefield, his innovations have addressed critical civilian needs. He led groundbreaking projects on ventilator production during the COVID-19 pandemic, developed mobile hospitals, mobile schools, and mobile kitchens, and contributed to the design of hybrid electric vehicles. He has also pioneered affordable housing technologies and engineered machines specifically designed to empower rural women, enhancing productivity and livelihoods at the grassroots level.
An internationally recognized scholar, Lt. Col. (Prof) Imam has attended more than 40 international workshops, participated in numerous global conferences, and authored six books in his areas of expertise. Many of his innovations are already being deployed for both military and civilian applications, demonstrating the practical impact of his research.
From Katsina State to the global stage, his journey reflects what is possible when talent meets opportunity and dedication. Nigeria today benefits immensely from his intellect, creativity, and unwavering commitment to national service.
As history records this unprecedented achievement, Lt. Col. (Prof) Abubakar Surajo Imam stands tall as a beacon of excellence, an inspiration to young Nigerians, and a testament to the power of knowledge in nation-building.
Congratulations to Nigeria’s first Army Professor.