Engr. Felix Atume, FNSE mni: A Distinguished Engineer and Leader and a former COREN registrar
Education
Engr. Atume boasts a distinguished academic background. He holds a West African School Certificate (1976) from Government College, Keffi. Following this, he earned a B.Eng. in Civil Engineering (1981) and an M.Sc. in Highway Engineering & Transportation (1992) from Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria.
He further expanded his knowledge with an MBA (Management) from Benue State University, Makurdi (2001) and completed the prestigious National Institute of Policy and Strategic Studies program in Kuru, becoming a Member of the National Institute (mni) in 2002.
Professional Career
Engr. Atume’s career reflects a dedication to public service and leadership in the engineering field. He began his journey as a Site Engineer for the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) at the School of Nursing in Abeokuta (1981-1982). He then rapidly rose through the ranks of the Benue State Ministry of Works, holding positions including Assistant Divisional Engineer, Divisional Engineer in various local governments, and Resident Engineer on key road projects (1982-1991).
His leadership qualities propelled him to become Chief Resident Engineer for the Makurdi Beach project and Township Roads (1992-1993). He then transitioned to leadership roles outside direct project management, serving as Director of the Benue State Rural Development Agency (BERDA) (1994-1997) and reaching the pinnacle of public service as the Honourable Commissioner for Benue State Ministry of Works & Housing (1997-1999).
Engineering Leadership and Service
Engr. Atume’s commitment extends beyond government service. He has actively participated in the Nigerian Society of Engineers (NSE) throughout his career, serving as Branch Secretary (1986-1992), Branch Chairman (1993-2000), Director of Membership Services at NSE Headquarters (2000-2002), Executive Secretary (2003-2006), and currently as Chairman of the Board of Fellows (Jan. 2018-date). He has also held leadership positions within numerous NSE committees, demonstrating his dedication to ethical practices and industry development.
His leadership extends beyond the NSE. He served as Senior Lecturer at the Federal University of Technology, Minna (2006-2007) and continues as Senior Lecturer at the Federal University of Agriculture, Makurdi. He held the esteemed position of Registrar for the Council for the Regulation of Engineering in Nigeria (COREN) (2007-2013) and Secretary General of the Federation of African Organization of Engineers (FAOE) (2008-2012). Currently, he is the Chairman and Principal Partner of AD-Team Limited (2013-date).
Community Service and Philanthropy
Engr. Atume recognizes the importance of giving back to the community. He is the proprietor of Unique Schools, Makurdi (comprising a primary and secondary school), as well as the Makurdi Business School. He established the Felix Atume Foundation and actively supports organizations like the Mount La Salle Old Students Association, Bunaka Community Secondary School (which he built), and the OnovMba Ando Community Hospital (also built by him).
Honors and Recognition
Engr. Atume’s achievements have been widely recognized. He has received numerous awards, including the NICE Abuja Merit Award (2012), NSE Presidential Award (2011), Honorary Fellow – Nigerian Association of Technologist in Engineering (NATE) (2009), Nigerian Institute of Architects Merit Award (2004), NUJ Merit Award (1998), and Award for Best Organized Branch of NSE (1997).
Professional Qualifications and Skills
Engr. Atume holds prestigious professional qualifications, including being a Registered Engineer with COREN, Fellow of the Nigerian Society of Engineers (FNSE), Member of the Institute of Highway and Transportation (MIHT), Fellow of the Institute of Structural Engineers (FNIStructE), Member of the American Society of Civil Engineers (MASCE), and Fellow of the Nigerian Institution of Civil Engineers (FNICE). He is recognized as an expert on Public Private Partnerships (PPP) and Public Policy, with exceptional management skills and a proven track record of success.
Personal Life
A devout Christian, Engr. Atume is happily married to Juliana Atume, and their marriage is blessed with many children.