Prof. Charles Arizechukwu Igwe: A Visionary Leader at the Helm of the University of Nigeria, Nsukka
On May 23, 2019, the University of Nigeria, Nsukka welcomed its 15th Vice-Chancellor, Professor Charles Arizechukwu Igwe. In his distinguished career, Prof. Igwe has left an indelible mark on academia and has made significant contributions to the field of Soil Science. His leadership and commitment to the university's growth and development have made him an exemplary figure at UNN.
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On May 23, 2019, the University of Nigeria, Nsukka welcomed its 15th Vice-Chancellor, Professor Charles Arizechukwu Igwe. In his distinguished career, Prof. Igwe has left an indelible mark on academia and has made significant contributions to the field of Soil Science. His leadership and commitment to the university's growth and development have made him an exemplary figure at UNN.
Born in Awka, Anambra State, Nigeria, on August 23, 1958, Prof. Igwe's academic journey led him to the University of Nigeria, Nsukka, where he earned his Ph.D., M.Sc., and B Agric degrees in Soil Science. He also obtained a Postgraduate Diploma in Soil Science from the Agricultural University of Norway. His academic prowess and commitment to his discipline led him to become a Professor/Consultant in the Department of Soil Sciences within the Faculty of Agricultural Sciences, a position he held for over 14 years. Prof. Igwe's academic leadership roles at UNN include serving as the Head of the Soil Sciences Department, Associate Dean of Faculty, Dean of Faculty, and Director of various centers at different times. His vast experience in these administrative roles paved the way for his appointment as Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Administration) in April 2016, with a reappointment in 2018. His multifaceted academic and administrative background prepared him for the challenges and opportunities that would come with his role as Vice-Chancellor.
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Beyond the borders of Nigeria, Prof. Igwe's reputation as a respected researcher and academic leader extends to various countries. He has been a Visiting Researcher/Professor in universities located in Germany, Japan, Norway, Italy, and France. His international exposure has significantly contributed to his expertise and the global perspective he brings to his work at UNN. Prof. Igwe's research focuses on the contributions of organic and mineral colloids to the stability of tropical soils. His work is particularly significant in regions with unstable soils that experience catastrophic erosion due to intense tropical rainfall. As a response to the challenges posed by global climate change, he expanded the scope of his research to include "Carbon sequestration in tropical soils." His pioneering research on soil colloidal dispersion and soil factors influencing erodibility (K) factors in erosion models has earned him recognition as a leading figure in soil and environmental sciences.
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Prof. Igwe has received numerous accolades and honors throughout his career. He is a NORAD Fellow, a Fellow of the Alexander von Humboldt Foundation (AvH) in Germany, a Regular Associate at the International Centre for Theoretical Physics in Trieste, Italy, and a Fellow of the Japanese Society for Promotion of Science. His academic excellence and dedication were acknowledged when he received the University of Nigeria Vice-Chancellor's Faculty and University Prizes in 1992/93. Furthermore, he is listed in the Marquis Who's Who in Science and Engineering and participated in the German DAAD/DIES Deans Course in 2009. Prof. Igwe's dedication to UNN is further exemplified by his efforts to secure scientific equipment donations from the AvH in 2001 and 2010. Additionally, he received research grants from the Third World Academy of Sciences (TWAS) on two separate occasions, showcasing his commitment to advancing knowledge and research at the university.
Despite his numerous achievements and contributions to academia, Prof. Charles Arizechukwu Igwe remains a devoted family man. He is married and is the proud father of four children.In the short time since assuming the role of Vice-Chancellor at the University of Nigeria, Nsukka, Prof. Charles Arizechukwu Igwe has already made remarkable strides in advancing the institution's academic and research excellence. His journey, which began as a dedicated scholar, has now evolved into visionary leadership. As he continues to lead UNN, Prof. Igwe's commitment to research, education, and academic development is sure to leave a lasting impact on the university and the broader academic community.
