Dr Matthew Ejiofor Offodile (FNMGS, FNAH), a highly celebrated geologist and Awka statesman, marks his 84th birthday this week.
Dr Offodile remains active as a consultant exploration geologist/hydrogeologist and Managing Director of Mecon Geology and Engineering Services Ltd., Jos, Nigeria.
He graduated from University of Ibadan with a B.Sc. London degree in Geology in 1964. He started his career in the Nigerian Geological Survey the same year, as a trainee hydrogeologist in the Enugu and Sokoto offices of the department. In 1965, he was appointed in the Sokoto and Maiduguri postings the author was involved in the Nigerian Geological Survey United States Geological Survey joint programme of investigation of the Sokoto and Chad ground water basins.
Matthew Offodile obtained the M.Sc. London and Diploma of the University College, London (Hydrogeology) and the Ph.D (F.D.) degree of the University of Uppsala (Institute of Palaeontology), Sweeden in 1976.
From 1972 to 1973, he was posted as Geologist in Charge, Geological Survey, Jos, from where he covered most areas of the former Benue-Pateau State, with emphasis on the Geology of the Nigerian Benue Valley.
He served as President of the Nigerian Mining and Geosciences Society in 1984-85, a fellow of the Nigerian Mining and Geosciences Society (FNMGS) (1985) and Nigerian Association of Hydrogeologists (FNAH) (2000).
Dr Offodile holds the 2002 most distinguished Rt. Hon. Nnamdi Azikiwe/NMGS Award for his consistent contribution to, and promotion of, the study of the Earth Sciences in Nigeria.
He is also a Recipient of the 2009 Nigerian Mining and Geosciences Society (NMGS)/Shell Development Company (SDC) Award, the Highest Award of the Nigerian Mining and Geosciences Society.
He is a father, grandfather, uncle and senior citizen who continues to contribute to the development of his beloved hometown, Awka, the capital of Anambra State.
Hearty congratulations, Dr Offodile!!
(This notation derived extensive materials from a University of Ibadan entry for Dr Matthew Offodile. Awka Times acknowledges the copyright authority of the university.)
