NDA-trained Osichinaka Ubadike becomes NAF’s first serving professor

Osichinaka Chiedu Ubadike, an air vice-marshal, has become the first serving officer of the Nigerian Air Force (NAF) to be conferred with a professorship.

A statement released by the NAF said the governing council of the Air Force Institute of Technology (AFIT) approved Ubadike’s appointment as professor of aerospace engineering.

According to NAF, Ubadike graduated with a first-class bachelor’s of electrical electronics engineering degree from the Nigerian Defence Academy (NDA).

He possesses three master’s degrees from Ahmadu Bello University and NDA.

Ubadike holds a PhD and master’s degree in aerospace engineering and aerospace vehicle design from Cranfield University in the United Kingdom.

He has led several research initiatives within the NAF, including the development of the indigenous NAF unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV).

The AFIT governing council also confirmed the appointment of Paul Jemitola, retired air vice-marshal, as a professor of aerospace engineering.

Jemitola is the immediate-past commandant of AFIT.

He holds a master’s and PhD degrees from Cranfield University.

He was the lead designer of the NAF UAV project. He is a chartered engineer in the United Kingdom.

Jemitola currently serves as the acting vice-chancellor of Isaac Balami University of Aeronautics and Management, Lagos.

Speaking on the conferments, Hassan Bala Abubakar, chief of air staff, said the NAF will continue to invest in its flagship training to minimise dependence on foreign expertise.