As renowned engineer and former Minister of Science and Technology, Prof. Bart Nnaji, marks his 70th birthday, tributes have continued to pour in from across Nigeria and beyond, celebrating a lifetime of groundbreaking achievements, leadership, and service to humanity.
Reflecting on his decades-long relationship with Nnaji, the writer described the founder of Geometric Power as an exceptional individual whose accomplishments in engineering, academia, and Nigeria's power sector have earned him global recognition. Beyond his professional success, he portrayed Nnaji as a compassionate, humble, and generous man who remains deeply connected to ordinary people despite his international stature.
The tribute recalled memorable moments from the early 1990s when Nnaji, despite holding a prestigious academic position in the United States, often found time to unwind with friends during visits to Nigeria before returning to work with remarkable discipline and commitment.
One such experience occurred in 1993 when the writer persuaded Nnaji to postpone an early morning flight from Lagos to Abuja. That decision proved significant after the Nigeria Airways flight they would have boarded was hijacked and diverted to Niamey, Niger Republic, sparing them from the traumatic incident.
Another story highlighted Nnaji's strict approach to punctuality. During a trip from Lagos to Enugu in 1992, the writer delayed their journey, believing the airline would not depart on schedule. On arrival at the airport, the flight was already full. While Nnaji managed to secure a cramped crew seat through the intervention of airline staff, the writer later boarded through a separate arrangement, leaving Nnaji both surprised and amused upon their arrival in Enugu.
Beyond professional excellence, the tribute also revealed Nnaji's deeply personal side. The author recounted an emotional moment in October 2024 when the usually composed engineer became visibly relieved after his wife safely returned from a trip to their hometown. Concerned about her travelling without security, Nnaji openly expressed how much she meant to him, saying he could not imagine life without her.
According to the writer, this rare display of emotion reflected the strong family values that have remained central to Nnaji's life despite his demanding career and public profile.
The tribute further noted that although Nnaji has earned numerous academic distinctions and international honours, he has consistently chosen simplicity over titles. During his swearing-in as Minister of Science and Technology, he reportedly requested to be addressed simply as "Bart Nnaji," preferring not to emphasize his many professional titles.
Describing him as a man who remains comfortable among villagers, farmers, artisans, and everyday Nigerians, the writer said Nnaji has never allowed his global accomplishments to distance him from his roots.
As family, friends, colleagues, and admirers celebrate his milestone birthday, many regard Bart Nnaji as a symbol of innovation, integrity, humility, and transformational leadership whose contributions continue to shape Nigeria's technological and economic development.
