By Suleiman Abdulmumin
Dr. Mustapha Abdullahi is a distinguished Nigerian technocrat, energy expert, and public policy professional whose rise to national prominence reflects a rare blend of academic excellence, industry experience, and visionary leadership. An illustrious son of Ebiraland, he currently serves as the Director-General and Chief Executive Officer of the Energy Commission of Nigeria (ECN), following his appointment by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu on October 24, 2023.
Born in January 1985 in Kano, Dr. Abdullahi hails from Okene Local Government Area of Kogi State, where his roots continue to shape his commitment to community development, youth empowerment, and educational advancement.
Academic Excellence and Global Exposure
Dr. Abdullahi’s academic journey is marked by distinction and international relevance. He earned a Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering from the Aliko Dangote University of Science and Technology (ADUSTECH), formerly Kano University of Science and Technology. Seeking deeper specialization, he proceeded to the University of Salford, United Kingdom, where he obtained a Master of Science (MSc) degree.
His pursuit of cutting-edge research led him to the University of Manchester, one of the world’s leading research institutions, where he earned a PhD in Mechanical Engineering. His doctoral research focused on oil and gas structural health monitoring, a critical area for asset integrity, safety, and sustainability in the energy sector. He further distinguished himself by securing a Postdoctoral Fellowship and Research Associate position at the same university through the Industry Collaboration Fund (ICE) a testament to the practical relevance and industry value of his work.
Career and Professional Experience
With over 14 years of multidisciplinary experience, Dr. Abdullahi has built a robust professional portfolio spanning academia, regulation, research, and public service. He has served as a Research Associate and Teaching Assistant at the University of Manchester’s School of Mechanical, Aerospace and Civil Engineering, contributing to both teaching and high-impact research.
In Nigeria, he has worked with key strategic institutions, including the Nigerian Upstream Petroleum Regulatory Commission (NUPRC) formerly the Department of Petroleum Resources (DPR) and the National Space Research and Development Agency (NASRDA). His expertise cuts across oil and gas, renewable energy systems, sustainability, space technology, and applied research, positioning him as a well-rounded energy policy professional.
Leadership at the Energy Commission of Nigeria
Before his appointment as DG/CEO of ECN, Dr. Abdullahi served as Senior Technical Adviser (STA) to the Minister of Innovation, Science and Technology, Chief Uche Geoffrey Nnaji, where he played a strategic role in policy formulation, technical coordination, and inter-agency collaboration.
Since assuming office at the Energy Commission of Nigeria, Dr. Abdullahi has focused on strengthening institutional capacity, promoting evidence-based energy planning, and aligning Nigeria’s energy strategy with national development goals and global sustainability frameworks. Under his leadership, the Commission continues to emphasize:
- Integrated national energy planning
- Promotion of renewable and alternative energy sources
- Energy efficiency and sustainability initiatives
- Research-driven policy support for government decision-making
His approach combines technical depth with administrative clarity, positioning ECN as a key driver of Nigeria’s long-term energy transition agenda.
Commitment to Ebiraland and Youth Development
Beyond his national responsibilities, Dr. Mustapha Abdullahi remains deeply connected to Ebiraland. He is widely recognized for his passion for community development, particularly in youth empowerment and education. Through institutional opportunities and advocacy, he has contributed to facilitating employment opportunities for young people and supporting educational initiatives aimed at human capital development in his homeland.
A Visionary Public Servant
Dr. Mustapha Abdullahi represents a new generation of Nigerian public sector leaders technically sound, globally exposed, and locally committed. His blend of academic rigor, professional competence, and community consciousness makes him a fitting choice to lead the Energy Commission of Nigeria at a critical time in the nation’s energy evolution.
As Nigeria navigates the complexities of energy security, sustainability, and innovation, Dr. Abdullahi stands poised to make a lasting impact both nationally and within Ebiraland through service, knowledge, and purposeful leadership.