By: Chinwe Onuigbo, Awka
Nnamdi Azikiwe University (UNIZIK), Awka, has named Professor Ugochukwu Anyaehie as its new substantive Vice-Chancellor, marking a notable transition in the leadership of one of Nigeria’s foremost public universities.
In a statement released by the Acting Director of Information and Public Relations, Njelita Louis, the university confirmed that the appointment was ratified by the Governing Council on 16 November 2025 and takes effect from 18 November 2025.
Professor Anyaehie is to serve a single, non-renewable five-year term, in accordance with the institution’s governing statutes.
A renowned scholar, Professor Anyaehie is widely respected for his contributions to Physiology and Clinical Measurements, fields in which he has built a distinguished academic and research profile.
His extensive administrative experience and professional achievements have positioned him as a prominent figure within Nigeria’s higher education sector.
With nearly two decades of teaching and research experience at the College of Medicine, University of Nigeria, Enugu Campus, Anyaehie is a specialist in Medical Physiology and Clinical Measurement.
He earned his medical degree (MBBS) from Abia State University, Uturu, in 1998, followed by a master’s degree in 2004, a PhD in 2009, and a Master of Public Health in 2011.
His academic career began in 2002 at the College of Medicine, Imo State University, where he taught part-time before transitioning to a full-time role.
In 2007, he joined the University of Nigeria, achieving the rank of Reader, and was later promoted to Professor of Physiology and Clinical Measurement in 2013.
Professor Anyaehie has also held several leadership roles, including Deputy Provost of the College of Medicine, University of Nigeria (2018–2022).
He previously served as Acting Provost at the Imo State University College of Medicine and later as a visiting professor from 2020 to 2022, a position he held pro bono.
He succeeds Professor (Dame) Carol Chinyelugo Arinze-Umobi, who has served as Acting Vice-Chancellor during the transition period.
Members of the university community have expressed optimism that Professor Anyaehie’s appointment will strengthen ongoing reforms and deepen progress in teaching, research, innovation, and institutional development.
Olusola Akintonde