Prof Utsev: Meet the Benue ministerial nominee who started primary school at age 3

Engr. Prof. Joseph Terlumun Utsev is a multifaceted personality known for his exceptional contributions as a civil and water engineer, academic, politician, philanthropist, entrepreneur, and administrator. He was born into the esteemed Utsev Akaa family of Mbaakura, Mbagen in Buruku Local Government Area of Benue State, Nigeria.

Education and Academic Achievements

Prof. Utsev’s academic journey is marked by outstanding achievements. He obtained a Bachelor of Engineering Degree in Civil Engineering from the Federal University of Agriculture Makurdi, graduating as the best student in 2004 with a Second Class Honours “Upper Division.” His passion for knowledge led him to pursue higher education, earning both a Masters and PhD in Water Resources and Environmental Engineering from the prestigious University of Nigeria Nsukka in 2007 and 2011, respectively.

Professional and Career Experience

With approximately 17 years of experience in lecturing and the engineering field, Engr. Prof. Terlumun Utsev has garnered a reputation as an accomplished administrator and highly respected professional within the West African sub-region. He has contributed significantly to the advancement of Civil Engineering practice and research, publishing about 40 papers in national and international journals of great repute.

His career highlights include serving as the Deputy Director and later as a full Director in the Centre for Entrepreneurship Development at the Federal University of Agriculture Makurdi from 2013 to 2017. During this time, he spearheaded the establishment of seven workshops, enhancing students’ entrepreneurial skills and generating Internally Generated Revenue (IGR) for the institution.

Prof. Utsev’s contributions to the development of water resources and environmental engineering earned him an appointment as the Honourable Commissioner of the Ministry of Water Resources and Environment in Benue State in 2017. His involvement in the design and influence on the construction of the Idye Basin Phase II drainage showcased his commitment to improving the state’s infrastructure.

In 2020, his expertise was acknowledged on a national level when President Muhammadu Buhari appointed him as the Executive Director of Engineering at the Lower Benue River Basin Development Authority in Makurdi. Here, he played a key role in supervising the construction of various engineering projects, such as dams, bridges, roads, boreholes, and drainages.

Currently, Prof. Utsev holds the prestigious position of the pioneer Rector at the Federal Polytechnic Wannune, Benue State. In this role, he is dedicated to transforming the institution into a world-class educational center, resolving academic, vocational, and employment challenges in the state and Nigeria.

Honors and Awards

Engr. Prof. Joseph Terlumun Utsev’s remarkable contributions have not gone unnoticed, as he has received numerous honors and awards. Notable accolades include the Best Honourable Commissioner in the Water/Environmental sector in Nigeria by Independent Assessors in 2018 and the Academic Noble Award by the Institute of Industrial Administration of Nigeria.

Membership in Professional Bodies and Associations

Prof. Utsev’s commitment to his profession is evident through his membership in several esteemed professional bodies and associations. He is a Registered Civil Engineer certified by the Council for the Regulation of Engineering in Nigeria (COREN) and a Fellow of the Nigerian Society of Engineers and the Nigerian Institution of Civil Engineers, among others.

Academic Excellence and Personal Interests

As a dedicated academic, Prof. Utsev has successfully supervised numerous undergraduate and postgraduate research projects. His pursuit of knowledge and passion for learning extends beyond his field, as he actively participates in professional conferences and workshops worldwide.

Apart from his academic pursuits, Engr. Prof. Joseph Terlumun Utsev enjoys reading, initiating new research frontiers, traveling, and playing badminton. He finds joy and support in his happy marriage, blessed with children.

In conclusion, Prof. Utsev’s life and career exemplify dedication, excellence, and passion, making him a true asset to the field of engineering and the academic community in Nigeria and beyond.