The University was founded in March 2007 under the Federal Government of Nigeria initiative to build a specialized university to produce unique high-level manpower and relevant expertise for the oil and gas sector in Nigeria and worldwide.
The University operates a collegiate system. At present, it has two colleges. They are Science-based with the following departments.
The College is headed by a Dean. The various departments are headed by either a full Head of Department, Ag. Head of Department or a Coordinator. There is also a Directorate of Students Affairs headed by an Ag. Dean. This Directorate caters for the needs of the students right from admission to graduation and thereafter.