Friends, colleagues, and associates on Monday evening gathered in Ibadan to honour Engr. Michael O. Oluwagbemi, Co-founder and Emeritus Partner at LoftyInc Allied Partners Limited—operators of the Wennovation Hub in Lagos and LoftyInc Capital Management in the United States—following his conferment as a Fellow of the Nigerian Society of Engineers (FNSE).
Engr. Oluwagbemi, who also serves as Programme Coordinator of the Presidential CNG Initiative, was celebrated at a colourful event that brought together industry leaders, innovators, technocrats, and policymakers.
The evening was filled with glowing tributes, underscoring his remarkable impact across engineering, innovation, national development, and humanitarian service.
Former President of the Nigerian Society of Engineers (NSE), Chief Olumuyiwa Alade Ajibola, described him as “a thoroughbred professional whose passion for excellence sets him apart.” He noted that Oluwagbemi’s distinguished journey in engineering and entrepreneurship has inspired a new generation of problem-solvers across Nigeria and beyond.
Also speaking, former Managing Director of FERMA, Engr. Nurudeen Rafindadi, commended his commitment to nation-building and sustainable development. “Michael possesses a rare blend of technical brilliance and administrative competence. His contributions to infrastructure and innovation speak for themselves,” he said.
Similarly, Senator Babafemi Ojudu hailed his visionary leadership, noting that he consistently deploys his expertise to advance national progress. “Michael’s work ethic and dedication are exemplary. His recognition as an FNSE is well-deserved,” he said.
A close associate, Foluso Ojo, recounted the positive influence Oluwagbemi has had on his circle. According to him, “none of his friends here can say Michael has not impacted them in a positive way. He is a good man, and I have no regrets associating with him.”
Other speakers described the FNSE conferment as not merely a personal achievement but a testament to dedication, innovation, and service to humanity.
Guests also highlighted Oluwagbemi’s role in accelerating the growth of Nigeria’s innovation ecosystem through LoftyInc and Wennovation Hub—platforms that have supported hundreds of startups and entrepreneurs across Africa. They further applauded his leading contributions to the Presidential CNG Initiative, where he continues to champion Nigeria’s transition to cleaner and more affordable energy solutions.
As tributes flowed, one theme remained consistent: Engr. Oluwagbemi is a leader whose values, professionalism, and vision place him at the forefront of engineering excellence and national transformation.
Engr. Oluwagbemi holds a first-class degree in Electrical Engineering (Summa Cum Laude) from Prairie View A&M University, Texas, USA. He also earned a Master’s degree in Electrical Engineering from the University of Houston, and an MBA in International Management from the University of London, United Kingdom.
He is a licensed professional engineer in Texas and Nigeria (COREN), as well as a certified Project Management Professional (PMP). His professional experience includes roles at ExxonMobil and WorleyParsons Corporation. He currently serves as Chairman of the Essentials Committee of the Nigeria Content Consultative Forum of the Nigerian Content Development and Monitoring Board (NCDMB).
