By Bon Peters
Port Harcourt—Renowned oil and gas expert, Dr. Longinus Chinedu Mbakwem, has been conferred with a Doctorate Degree (Ph.D) in Ministerial Counseling from Evangelical Bible College and Seminary, Greenacres, Florida, USA, an affiliate of Calvary College of Theology, Rivers State, Nigeria.
The prestigious occasion, held over the weekend in Port Harcourt, brought together distinguished personalities from various fields, including religious leaders, scholars, and industry professionals. The event provided a reflective moment for Christians to evaluate their faith and embrace true Christian values.
Commitment to Faith and National Development
Speaking with The Bureau Newspaper on the sidelines, Dr. Mbakwem revealed that his journey into theology was inspired by a divine calling. “No matter your profession or achievements, God’s calling remains supreme,” he stated. He emphasized the need for individuals to heed their spiritual mandates while contributing to national development.
Dr. Mbakwem also used the opportunity to urge the Federal Government to enhance the country’s Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) infrastructure. He emphasized that developing CNG stations nationwide is crucial for the success of the Presidential Compressed Natural Gas Initiative, aimed at providing cleaner and more affordable energy alternatives.
A Veteran in the Oil and Gas Industry
With over 24 years of extensive experience in the downstream oil and gas sector, Dr. Mbakwem has built a reputation for excellence in sales and operations management. His expertise spans multiple petroleum products, including Bitumen, Lubricants, Premium Motor Spirit (PMS), Automotive Gas Oil (AGO), Liquefied Natural Gas (LNG), Liquefied Petroleum Gas (LPG), Propane, Liquid Nitrogen, CNG, and Condensate.
He boasts a strong track record in strategic marketing, negotiation, inventory management, and sales forecasting. His career has seen him occupy management roles in various leading oil and gas firms, further solidifying his influence in the industry.
A Lifelong Pursuit of Knowledge
An accomplished scholar, Dr. Mbakwem revealed that his latest doctorate is his sixth degree, with plans already underway for a seventh. His academic credentials include:
- B.Sc. (Hons.) in Botany – University of Jos, Nigeria
- MBA in Project Management Technology – Federal University of Technology, Owerri
- M.Sc. in Corporate Governance – Leeds Beckett University, UK
- BA, M.Th. in Theology – Evangelical Bible College and Seminary, USA
- Ph.D. in Ministerial Counseling – Evangelical Bible College and Seminary, USA
- Ph.D. (in view) in Energy Economy – Emerald Institute, University of Port Harcourt
He is also a member of several professional bodies, including the Nigerian Gas Association, the Institute of Management Consultants (IMC), and the National Institute of Marketing of Nigeria (NIMN), among others.
Advocacy for CNG Infrastructure
Highlighting Nigeria’s untapped gas potential, Dr. Mbakwem stressed the urgent need for the government to invest in CNG infrastructure. “Nigeria is sitting on vast natural gas reserves, and we must harness this resource effectively. CNG is more environmentally friendly and cost-effective than PMS and AGO,” he asserted.
He pointed out that while some companies, including his own, have embraced LNG and CNG sales, infrastructural deficits remain a significant challenge. “We need more CNG stations incorporated into existing fuel stations so that Nigerians can easily access the product,” he added.
Dr. Mbakwem further called for increased training programs on CNG vehicle conversions and servicing, ensuring seamless adaptation of this alternative fuel source.
Commitment to Energy Sustainability
Currently engaged in gas-to-power initiatives, Dr. Mbakwem reaffirmed his dedication to reducing pollution and enhancing energy efficiency. He remains passionate about energy sustainability and is actively exploring innovative solutions to address contemporary energy challenges.
Theological Institution Advocates Proper Training for Church Leaders
At the convocation ceremony, Rev. Dr. Noble Obinna Madu, Acting President of Calvary College of Theology, emphasized the importance of theological education. He lamented the trend of individuals assuming pastoral roles without formal training, noting that such practices negatively impact the Christian faith.
“Many so-called men and women of God enter ministry without proper training. Just as doctors and lawyers undergo rigorous education, so should ministers of the Gospel,” he stated.
He urged the graduates to be exemplary ambassadors of the institution and encouraged new students to remain diligent in their studies, trusting in God for guidance.
Rev. Dr. Aaron Ajere, Chairman of the Governing Council and General Superintendent of the school, reiterated the institution’s commitment to training church leaders. He admonished the graduates to uphold biblical principles in their teachings and ministries, warning against doctrinal deviations that contribute to the challenges facing Christianity today.
“The world needs true ministers who will uphold holiness and truth. Healing, prophecy, and other spiritual activities must remain biblical,” he stressed.
The event concluded with a charge to the graduating students to uphold integrity, remain dedicated to their calling, and contribute positively to both the church and society.