As a professional journalist, I would like to introduce you to Mervin Azeta, a Nigerian energy expert who is making waves in the global energy industry. Mervin Azeta is not only a successful engineer and manager at Schlumberger, one of the world’s largest energy service and technology providers, but also a passionate advocate for sustainable development, gender equality, and youth empowerment.
Mervin’s interest in energy started at a young age, when she witnessed the tragic death of her aunt due to a power outage during childbirth. She decided to pursue engineering as a way to solve problems and improve access to quality energy for everyone. She graduated with first-class honors in chemical engineering from the University of Benin in Nigeria, where she explored solar energy and climate change for her thesis.
She then joined Schlumberger as a completions field engineer, working in various environments and countries, such as Congo, Nigeria, and the USA. She gained valuable experience in executing oil and gas well completion projects while also learning about innovative technologies and sustainable energy practices.
To further her knowledge and skills, she enrolled at Imperial College London, where she obtained a master’s degree in sustainable energy futures with distinction. She was also awarded the prestigious President’s Scholarship for her academic excellence and leadership potential.
Mervin is now a business line product and service delivery manager for Surface and Midstream Production Systems at Schlumberger, overseeing two lines of business across Nigeria and West Africa. She is responsible for ensuring operational excellence, customer satisfaction, talent development, and profitability.
Mervin is also a recognized leader and influencer in the energy sector, serving on multiple boards and committees that aim to shape a low-carbon, secure, and equitable energy future for all. She is an avid speaker and writer on topics such as energy transition, diversity and inclusion, STEM education, and women empowerment. She has received numerous awards and accolades for her achievements and contributions, such as the Emerging Alumni Leader Award from Imperial College London, the 40 Under 40 Award from Hart Energy, and the Future Energy Leader Award from the World Petroleum Council.
Mervin Azeta is an inspiring example of a Nigerian woman who is breaking barriers and making a difference in the world through her engineering prowess, advocacy work, and visionary leadership. She is a role model for the next generation of female STEM professionals and transformative leaders.
Dominica Una is not just a brilliant Nigerian woman but also a pioneer in the field of Petroleum and Gas Engineering. Recently, she achieved a significant milestone by earning her PhD degree from the University of Port Harcourt, becoming the first person in her family to accomplish such a feat. Her remarkable achievement and educational attainment in this male-dominated field are inspiring and worthy of recognition.
Coming from a humble background in Nigeria, Dominica Una grew up in a family with limited resources. Her father worked as a teacher, while her mother was a trader. With six siblings, financial struggles were a constant reality. However, an impactful childhood experience shaped her determination. While collecting palm fruits in the bush, she was bitten by ants, which highlighted the importance of education as a means to overcome poverty and suffering.
“I made a vow that day that my kids would never have to go through what I’ve been through. My decision right there was education. I immediately and loudly declared, ‘I must go to school to the last level,'” she shared on LinkedIn.
With unwavering zeal and passion, Dominica Una pursued her education. She enrolled at the University of Port Harcourt in South-East Nigeria, where she obtained her Bachelor’s degree in Petroleum and Gas Engineering. Continuing her studies at the same university, she earned her Master’s degree in Materials and Metallurgical Engineering. Her academic journey led her to apply for a PhD program in Petroleum and Gas Engineering, also at the University of Port Harcourt.
Throughout her educational pursuit, Dominica Una faced numerous challenges. Balancing her studies with family responsibilities, managing financial difficulties, coping with academic stress, and overcoming self-doubt were among the hurdles she encountered. However, fueled by determination, she made sacrifices such as skipping social events, late nights, early mornings, and spending long hours in the laboratory.
Despite the obstacles, Dominica Una held steadfastly to her dream, persisting with courage, enthusiasm, and faith. Encouragement and support from her husband, children, parents, siblings, mentors, and friends played a significant role in her journey. She drew inspiration from the success stories of other accomplished women in STEM fields, including Dr. Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala, Dr. Oby Ezekwesili, and Dr. Funmi Olopade. Click here to continue reading about Dominica.
