Mr. Sunday Olakunle Alabi
A Trailblazer in Corrosion Science and Marine Engineering Education
A Legacy Forged in Science and Sea
The Journey of Mr. Alabi Olakunle Sunday
Imagine standing on the deck of a vessel, watching the endless waves crash against the hull. Saltwater sprays the metal surfaces, a silent battle unfolding beneath the shimmer of the sun. To the untrained eye, it’s just the sea at work. But to Mr. Alabi Olakunle Sunday, this is a call to action—a puzzle to be solved, a science to be mastered.
Meet Mr. Alabi Olakunle Sunday – A Pioneer in Corrosion Science
With over 30 years of dedicated teaching and research, Mr. Alabi has been a trailblazer in corrosion science, revolutionizing marine engineering education in Nigeria. As a lecturer at the Federal College of Fisheries and Marine Technology, Lagos, he didn't just teach—he reshaped the curriculum, ensuring corrosion studies became a core part of Marine Engineering education. His groundbreaking work has equipped generations of students and professionals with industry-relevant expertise, empowering them to tackle real-world challenges and leaving an indelible mark on both academia and the industry.
A Visionary’s Calling: From Classroom to Industry
Long before corrosion science became his life's work, Mr. Alabi noticed a critical gap in Nigeria’s marine engineering education. Bright and ambitious students were graduating, but many lacked the specialized knowledge needed to handle the relentless forces of metal degradation in marine environments. The ships, rigs, and offshore structures they were destined to work on were at risk—not just from the ocean, but from a lack of preparedness.
Determined to change this, he didn’t just teach chemistry; he revolutionized it.
Beyond Theory:
Learning by Doing
His classrooms became laboratories for discovery. Students didn’t just read about corrosion; they measured it, analyzed it, and experimented with it firsthand.
�� Corrosion Rate Determination – By applying the NPY (Number of, Product Weight per Year) formula, students could quantify material degradation with precision.
⚡ Electrochemical Corrosion Experiments – By immersing metals in electrolytes and applying a battery current, they witnessed real-time metal dissociation, transforming theory into tangible understanding.
These practical experiences didn’t just make learning engaging—they made it indispensable. Graduates stepped into the workforce with an edge over their peers, bringing hands-on expertise that companies desperately needed.
Rewriting the Rules of Marine Engineering Education
Traditionally, chemistry courses like BCH 111 (Basic Science Chemistry) and BCH 121 (Inorganic & Organic Chemistry) followed a standard technical education framework. While useful for Fisheries students, this curriculum didn’t meet the complex demands of Marine Engineering.
So, Mr. Alabi took a bold step. He transformed BCH 121, replacing generic organic chemistry topics with essential marine corrosion studies—seawater desalination, metal degradation, and the science of corrosion itself.
At first, students struggled. This wasn’t easy. But soon, they realized the power of this knowledge.
Graduates with corrosion expertise didn’t just find jobs—they became industry favorites. Top institutions like Warwick Petrochemical School sought them out, recognizing the value of their specialized training. In response, the Marine Engineering Department cemented Marine Corrosion as a dedicated second-semester course, ensuring future students could dive even deeper into the field.
"Corrosion is nature’s way of testing our innovation. Are you ready to overcome it?"
"Corrosion is more than just rust—it’s a challenge that impacts industries, safety, and economies worldwide. Understanding it is the first step to solving it."
More than just texts
Blueprints for future engineers, scientists, and industry experts, offering:
Fundamental principles of corrosion science
This section explores the different types of corrosion, what causes them, and how environmental factors like moisture, salt, and temperature influence corrosion rates. Expect to learn about the science behind corrosion, key reactions, and methods used to slow down or prevent metal decay.
Real-world case studies from the marine and industrial sectors
From rusting ships and offshore oil rigs to weakened bridges and failing pipelines, you’ll see how corrosion impacts safety, infrastructure, and industry operations. Learn from successful prevention techniques and how experts like Mr. Alabi have helped industries combat these challenges.
Practical applications for solving corrosion challenges
Expect insights on protective coatings, advanced materials, cathodic protection, corrosion inhibitors, and smart design strategies. Whether it's safeguarding marine structures, extending the life of industrial machinery, or improving infrastructure durability, this part highlights real, effective solutions that save billions in repairs and maintenance.
TRANSCENDING THE INDUSTRY
Continuing the Mission: A Platform for Global Impact
To ensure that his knowledge reaches students, professionals, and institutions worldwide, a dedicated website is in development.
This online platform will serve as a hub where:
His books can be accessed globally
Students and professionals can gain valuable resources
Marine and industrial communities can benefit from decades of research and teaching
This isn’t just a biography. It’s a movement.
A mission to safeguard industries, empower professionals, and ignite a passion for corrosion science in future generations.
And it all started with one man’s vision—Mr. Alabi Olakunle Sunday, the pioneer of corrosion education in Nigeria.
– Adewale O., Marine Engineer
"Mr. Alabi didn’t just teach us about corrosion—he made us masters of it. His lessons went beyond textbooks, giving us real-world skills that set us apart in the industry."
– Grace T., Industrial Chemist
"Before Mr. Alabi’s class, corrosion was just a concept. After his teachings, I see it everywhere—and more importantly, I know how to prevent it. His impact on my career is immeasurable."
– Emeka K., Materials Engineer
"Thanks to Mr. Alabi’s in-depth corrosion studies, I secured a top engineering job right after graduation. His courses gave me a competitive edge that employers recognized immediately."
– Fatima M., Oil & Gas Corrosion Specialist
"Learning from Mr. Alabi was like unlocking a new world. He turned complex corrosion science into simple, practical knowledge that I now apply daily in my work."
– Tunde A., Research Scientist
"If you want to understand corrosion science in a way that changes your career, Mr. Alabi is the mentor you need. His passion and knowledge are unmatched."
A Lasting Legacy:
Knowledge That Lives On
Mr. Alabi’s philosophy is simple: Science isn’t learned—it’s experienced. His classrooms became laboratories for discovery. Students didn’t just read about corrosion; they measured it, analyzed it, and experimented with it firsthand.🔬 Corrosion Rate Determination – By applying the NPY (Number of, Product Weight per Year) formula, students could quantify material degradation with precision.⚡ Electrochemical Corrosion Experiments – By immersing metals in electrolytes and applying a battery current, they witnessed real-time metal dissociation, transforming theory into tangible understanding. These practical experiences didn’t just make learning engaging—they made it indispensable. Graduates stepped into the workforce with an edge over their peers, bringing hands-on expertise that companies desperately needed.
