The SOfE competition which was the 10th Nigeria HEAT had the theme, “Pathways to Net-Zero: Innovative Solutions for a Carbon-Neutral Future” and was organised by Engr. Ikechukwu Okoli (IMechE Young Member Representative for Nigeria panel), Daniel Ajare (IMechE Nigeria, South-East, and South-South Coordinator), Engr. Obiora Clement Okafor, Emmanuel Ikpatt, and other Nigeria executive members.
The event had several notable persons present from engineering field, they included; Engr. Prof. C. H. Achebe – Dean Students Affairs Nnamdi Azikiwe University Awka, Engr Prof. S. C. Nwigbo – Dean, faculty of engineering Nnamdi Azikiwe University Awka, Engr. Dr. C. C. Okafor – Associate professor of mechanical engineering, and Engr. Dr. Ifeanyichukwu Onyenanu – IMechE Middle East and Africa Young Member Representative.
A five-man panel made up the judges for the event. They were; Engr. Dr. Jeremiah Chukwuneke (Chief Judge of the competition), Engr. Dr. Mmonwuba Nwanneka, Dr Dereck-M Akachukwu Orji, Mr Ukoh Izuchukwu Joseph, and Mr. Ezeani Chukwuebuka Francis.
A total of four (4) entries were received from across the universities in Nigeria. Therefore, the competition had all four eager and excited presenters representing their respective universities. They were Mbakwe Somtochukwu Emmanuel (Chukwuemeka Odumegwu Ojukwu University, Anambra), James Emmanuel Ikenna (Imo State University), Anthony Chidiebere Udem (Nnamdi Azikiwe University), and Joshua Prince Chinonso (University of Port Harcourt).
Upon eventual commencement of the event, Engr. Prof. C. H. Achebe gave an opening remark, he spoke about the threat carbon emission poses to our society and enjoin the students keep up the trend of working towards reduction of carbon emission and providing innovation that will convert the emitted carbon to a non-environmental harmful element. This was followed by a welcome note by Engr. Ikechukwu Okoli (Nigeria panel YM Rep). Then the chief judge of the competition Engr. Dr. J. L. Chukwuneke read the SOfE rules and guidelines to the competitors before the commencement of the presentation.
First to take the stage was Mbakwe Somtochukwu Emmanuel, a fourth-year mechanical engineering student. The title of his presentation was “DEVELOPING A SOLVENT-BASED CARBON EXTRACTION SYSTEM”. He developed a solvent-based carbon extraction system that utilised a two-chamber column for the absorption and extraction of the CO2. He believed that the success of his project will significantly enhance Nigeria's global standing, demonstrating its dedication to carbon waste management.
Representing Imo State University, the fourth-year student, James Emmanuel Ikenna presented on the topic “Hydro Electric Core Generator (HECG)”. He stated that the existing electricity generating sets are unreliable, costly in maintenance, and causes air pollution hence, he developed a new and advanced technology that uses water-pressure cycle to generate clean and affordable energy/electricity – The HECG.
Next, Anthony Chidiebere Udem, a fifth-year mechanical engineering student from Nnamdi Azikiwe University, presented on the topic “ADVANCED CARBON CAPTURE”. His presentation focused on Direct Air Capture (DAC) with a Liquid Solvent-Based CO2 Removal System.
The final competitor was Joshua Prince Chinonso, a fourth-year student of mechatronics department of University of Port Harcourt. His presentation was titled “HydroFlame – The zero Carbon Stove”. His work leverages the process of electrolysis to split water into hydrogen and oxygen, producing a clean and sustainable fuel source to power a stove. He stressed that his work showcases how innovative energy solutions can be applied to everyday appliances, promoting sustainability in our kitchens and contributing to the broader goal of achieving net-zero emissions.
With the presentations concluded, the the panel of judges were left with the challenging task of compiling marks and producing the presenter’s performance ranking. The contestants anxiously awaited the results, knowing that the top two in ranking would receive cash prizes with the slot for the first position to represent Nigeria in the regional (Middle east and Africa) SOfE competition. After much collation and deliberation, the panel reached a consensus. The Chief Judge Engr. Dr. Jeremiah Chukwuneke gave the details of the contestants’ marks and the eventual winners.
The 2nd Place winner with a prize of 200GBP was awarded to James Emmanuel Ikenna from Imo State University for his presentation while the 1st Place winner with a prize of 300GBP was awarded to Joshua Prince Chinonso from the University of Port Harcourt.
A short speech on the importance of IMechE membership and registration was delivered by Engr. Dr. Ifeanyichukwu Onyenanu. He advised the student to always seek help from their lecturer on issues of technical report writing and presentations. One of the judges, Dr Dereck-M Akachukwu Orji enjoined the students to take public speaking serious by enrolling on trainings that can make them perfect in expressing themselves publicly. Engr. Okoli Ikechukwu gave a closing remark citing the need for the students to be more serious in their studies as well as the IMechE programs because it will help their professional growth and in turn improve the world through engineering profession.
The SOfE Competition this year was highly competitive. The contestants delivered innovative presentations, but each put in considerable effort to ensure their work stood out and was clear. This competition was truly commendable, with the results announced it is hoped that the engineering students will be inspired to continue their technical pursuits. They should strive to develop even more innovative methods to advance the engineering field and provide solutions to pressing challenges. The winner of the SOfE Competition will now prepare to represent Nigeria at the Middle East and Africa Regional finals. This is an exciting opportunity for the winner to showcase their talents on a higher, international stage.
Our sincere regards go to the unbiased judges and special guests for your support and for taking the time to be a part of this event.
Our hearty congratulation goes to Joshua Prince Chinonso for winning the tenth edition of the Nigeria Heat.