Nigerian Trailblazer Dominica Una Achieves PhD in Petroleum and Gas Engineering, Breaking Family Barriers

In a groundbreaking achievement, Dominica Una, a Nigerian woman, has earned her PhD in Petroleum and Gas Engineering from the University of Port Harcourt. Her success not only marks a personal triumph but also establishes her as the first in her family to attain such academic heights and as one of the rare Nigerian women in this traditionally male-dominated field.

Hailing from a modest background with a father as a teacher and a mother as a trader, Una faced the challenges of a large family working hard to make ends meet. Her life took a turn when she was bitten by ants as a child while collecting palm fruits in the bush—an experience that ignited her realization of education's crucial role in escaping poverty and suffering.

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“I made a vow that day that my kids would never have to go through what I’ve been through. My decision right there was education. I immediately and loudly declared, ‘I must go to school to the last level,'” she emphasized.

Driven by her commitment to education, Una enrolled at the University of Port Harcourt, earning her Bachelor’s degree in Petroleum and Gas Engineering. Undeterred by financial difficulties, academic stress, and self-doubt, she pursued her Master’s degree in Materials and Metallurgical Engineering at the same university.

Despite numerous obstacles, including sacrificing social events and spending long hours in the lab, Una maintained her determination. Her academic journey spanned six years, during which she received unwavering support from her husband, children, parents, siblings, mentors, and friends.

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Una's persistence culminated in the successful completion of her PhD program and the defense of her thesis. Notably, she received various awards and recognitions, including:

- Best Graduating Student in Petroleum Engineering Department at University of Port Harcourt (2014)

- Best Graduating Student in Faculty of Engineering at University of Port Harcourt (2014)

- Best PhD Thesis in Petroleum Engineering Department at University of Port Harcourt (2021)

- Young Professional Award by Society of Petroleum Engineers (2021)

- Woman Engineer of the Year Award by Women Engineers Network (2021)

Beyond her academic achievements, Una is a social activist and founder of Women Engineers Network (WEN), a non-governmental organization aiming to inspire, mentor, and support women engineers in Nigeria. She is also a member of the Society of Petroleum Engineers (SPE), Nigerian Society of Engineers (NSE), and Women in Energy Network (WIEN).

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Una drew inspiration from successful women in STEM fields, such as Dr Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala, Dr Oby Ezekwesili, and Dr Funmi Olopade. Expressing her gratitude, she dedicated her achievement to women and girls pursuing dreams in STEM fields, encouraging them not to be deterred.

Una's future plans include continuing her research in petroleum and gas engineering, contributing to the development of the energy sector in Nigeria and Africa. She aspires to mentor more women and girls in STEM fields, emphasizing the limitless potential of individuals in achieving their goals.

“I am grateful to God for His grace and mercy upon my life. I am also thankful to my family, friends, mentors, and colleagues who have been there for me all through. I dedicate this achievement to all the women and girls who are pursuing their dreams in STEM fields. You can do it! Don’t let anyone or anything stop you. You are the future of Africa!” she declared.