08/03/2026
What an inspiring moment for young women in STEM!
Ifeoma Lucy Ugwuanyi, a brilliant Petroleum Engineering student from the Federal University of Petroleum Resources , has emerged as the overall winner of the .0 held on 6 March at - on her birthday too!
Her outstanding presentation, "Drilling Fluid Formulation for High Pressure and High Temperature Wells,” earned her the top spot among three exceptional finalists showcasing innovative, solution‑driven research.
Other remarkable finalists included:
Chukwuka Chioma Favour (PTI) – Investigating PAHs, lead, zinc and cadmium in crude‑oil‑contaminated water; and
Elizabeth Onome Anthony (PTI) – Developing green nanoparticles for scale inhibition and removal.
The Chief Judge, Prof. Kenneth Ibe, praised the Founder of Pinefon Empowerment Initiative, Mrs Mfon Otite Douglas, for her unwavering commitment to empowering the girl child and nurturing future STEM leaders.
In her heartfelt acceptance speech, Lucy thanked God, her lecturers, and her parents — and revealed that her big win came on her birthday
The event also featured goodwill messages from partner organisations and a sensitisation session by NDLEA representative Adeosun Olabisi on the dangers of drug abuse.
With registration now open for the .0 edition, Pinefon Empowerment Initiative continues to champion opportunities for young women across Nigeria.
Congratulations, Lucy!
A true inspiration to girls in STEM everywhere!!
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