Segun Aina, a Computer Engineering scholar at Obafemi Awolowo University (OAU), Ile-Ife, has been appointed Professor of Computer Engineering at the age of 39, making him one of the youngest professors in his field in Nigeria.

Currently lecturing in OAU’s Department of Computer Engineering, Aina also holds several key departmental and faculty positions. Reacting to his elevation, he described it as a humbling milestone accompanied by greater responsibility to serve academia, industry, and national development.

“I see this professorship not as a destination, but as a renewed responsibility to contribute more meaningfully to academia, industry, and national development,” (Segun Aina).

Academic Journey and Achievements

Aina earned his Bachelor of Engineering in Computer Systems Engineering from the University of Kent, UK, in 2008, followed by a Master’s in Internet Computing and Network Security from Loughborough University in 2009. He later completed a PhD in Digital Signal Processing at the same institution.

His rise to professorship reflects strong research credentials, academic leadership, and a commitment to bridging theory and practice in Nigeria’s education and technology sectors.

Beyond the Classroom

Beyond teaching and research, Aina is a pragmatic academic and entrepreneur with interests spanning education technology, agriculture, hospitality, technical and vocational education, and capacity building. In 2010, he co-founded Fluid Click Solutions Ltd, an IT services and engineering project management firm.

Aina is passionate about translating academic knowledge into practical solutions while mentoring young engineers and innovators:

“My lifelong commitment has been to ensure that academic knowledge does not exist in isolation, but actively solves real problems. I remain passionate about mentoring the next generation of engineers, innovators, and entrepreneurs who will shape Africa’s future.”

Professional and Leadership Roles

Aina has undertaken consultancy for both public and private institutions, including the Job Creation Unit in the Office of the Vice President, various state governments, and national examination bodies. He further honed his leadership skills through executive education at Lagos Business School, Pan-Atlantic University.

He has also served on governance boards, including the pioneer Governing Council of Bamidele Olumilua University of Education, Science and Technology, Ekiti, and as Chairman of the Advisory Board of Queensland Academy, Lagos.

Aina is a COREN-registered engineer and a member of professional bodies such as the Nigerian Computer Society, Nigerian Society of Engineers, IEEE, and the Institution of Engineering and Technology. He has authored around 30 peer-reviewed journal and conference papers.

Community Engagement and Philanthropy

Aina is active in community development, serving as National Financial Secretary of the Otan Ayegbaju Progressive Union. He also convenes the DSA Initiative for the Support of Education and Entrepreneurship, which promotes access to education and youth enterprise development.

Segun Aina’s appointment not only highlights his personal achievements but also serves as an inspiration for young academics and engineers across Nigeria, showing that discipline, excellence, and a purpose-driven mindset can accelerate impact in both academia and society.