Today, the global engineering community pauses to celebrate a remarkable son of Nigeria, Africa, and the world — Engr. Mustafa Balarabe Shehu — a man whose life and career have been a masterclass in excellence, perseverance, and visionary leadership.
Born on this day in Kano, Nigeria, young Mustafa would grow up to carry the dreams of a continent on his shoulders — and deliver beyond all expectations.
From his formative years at the prestigious Government College Kaduna, through the rigours of Ahmadu Bello University where he earned his degree in Electrical Engineering, to the hallways of global power at the World Federation of Engineering Organizations, his journey has been nothing short of remarkable.
He cut his professional teeth at the iconic Egbin Thermal Power Station in Lagos, went on to serve diligently at the Kano State Rural Electricity Board, rising to Assistant Director, and ultimately established MBS Engineering Limited — a company that today delivers world-class electrical, mechanical, power, and oil & gas engineering services across Nigeria.
But it is his service to the engineering profession that sets him apart.
As 28th President of the Nigerian Society of Engineers (2012–2013), he served his nation's engineers with distinction.
As President of the Federation of African Engineering Organizations (2015–2016), he elevated the voice of an entire continent.
And then, in a historic moment witnessed by the world in San José, Costa Rica in March 2022, he was elected President-Elect of the World Federation of Engineering Organizations — garnering an overwhelming 67 out of 71 votes — a testament to the universal respect and confidence the global engineering community placed in him.
In October 2023 in Prague, he was invested as the 17th President of WFEO — becoming, in that golden moment, the first person from Sub-Saharan Africa to hold that office. It was not just a personal triumph. It was a triumph for Nigeria, for Africa, and for every engineer who dared to dream beyond borders.
For two years, he led with grace, integrity, and purpose — championing engineering education, sustainable development, African capacity building, and the elevation of the profession on the world stage — before formally handing over the mantle in Shanghai in October 2025.
Today, as Immediate Past President of WFEO, his legacy is etched permanently in the annals of global engineering history.
Your story reminds us all that excellence knows no geography, that perseverance breaks every barrier, and that one person, rooted in purpose, can truly change the world.
Many happy returns, sir.
Isqil Najim
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