Overview
Professor Benjamin Chukwuma Ozumba is a distinguished academic, medical expert, and transformative leader who served as the 14th Vice-Chancellor of the University of Nigeria, Nsukka (UNN) from 2014 to 2019. With a career spanning over four decades, Professor Ozumba has made groundbreaking contributions to medical research, academic innovation, and institutional leadership. His tenure as Vice-Chancellor was marked by exceptional advancements in research, technology, and global collaborations, solidifying UNN’s position as a leader in higher education in Nigeria and beyond.
Academic and Professional Achievements
Professor Ozumba is an accomplished scholar in Obstetrics and Gynaecology, holding multiple fellowships, including:
- Fellow, Nigeria Postgraduate Medical College in Obstetrics and Gynaecology (FMCOG)
- Fellow, West African College of Surgeons (FWACS)
- Fellow, Royal College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists (FRCOG), England
- Fellow, American College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists (FACOG), USA
- Fellow, American College of Surgeons (FACS), USA
He trained at prestigious institutions, including the University of Lagos, Harvard School of Public Health, and Crawley Hospital, England.
Leadership and Innovations
As Vice-Chancellor of UNN, Professor Ozumba spearheaded numerous innovative initiatives, including:
- Roar Nigeria Hub: The first university-embedded incubator in sub-Saharan Africa, fostering student innovation and entrepreneurship.
- Lion Science Park: A university-based science park attracting resident companies and start-ups, boosting research and commercialization.
- Established the First University Embedded Science Park in Continental Africa: Accredited by the International Association of Science Parks (IASP), Switzerland.
- Lion Ozumba 5531: Pioneered the production of the first electric vehicle in Nigeria, further positioning UNN as a hub of technological innovation.
- National Innovation Competitions: Led the University of Nigeria to the first position twice during his tenure in the National Competition on Innovation organized by the Federal Ministry of Science and Technology.
- Tractorization Project: Pioneered a university-led tractor assembly initiative, promoting agricultural technology.
- Laptop Assembly Plant (Lion Technologies): Established the first university-based laptop assembly plant in Nigeria.
- Facilitated UNN’s first-ever ranking by Times Higher Education and consistently maintained its position as Nigeria’s top university by Google Scholar Citations.
Research and Publications
Professor Ozumba has an extensive research portfolio, with significant contributions in maternal and child health, gynaecological oncology, reproductive health, and health systems strengthening. He has published numerous articles in peer-reviewed journals and served as an editorial consultant for several international medical journals.
Awards and Recognitions
Professor Ozumba has received over 55 national and international awards for his outstanding leadership, academic excellence, and contributions to public health and education. Notable recognitions include:
- National Productivity Order of Merit (NPOM): Awarded by the Federal Republic of Nigeria at the end of his tenure as Vice-Chancellor.
- National Icon Award: Association of Computer Scientists of Nigeria.
- Garkuwan Matasan Nigeria: Awarded by the Arewa Youth Association.
- Best Vice Chancellor in Nigeria: Conferred by the Association of Yoruba Women in the USA.
- Top 7 Vice Chancellors in the World: Recognized by the World Education Congress in Mumbai, India (2017).
- Kwame Nkrumah Africa Leadership Award for distinguished service in education and medicine.
- Distinguished Public Service Award by the Cathedral Church of the Good Shepherd.
- Africa’s Patriotic Vice-Chancellor of the Year by the League of African Development Students.
- Meritorious Award for Development of Education in Nigeria by the National Association of Nigerian Students.
Community Service
Beyond academia, Professor Ozumba has played a vital role in community health and development, serving as an adviser to the Enugu State Health Reform Team and coordinating free medical outreaches in Anambra State. He is also a patron of various professional and community associations, reinforcing his dedication to public service.
Conclusion
Professor Benjamin Chukwuma Ozumba stands as a beacon of academic excellence, innovation, and leadership. His visionary contributions have transformed the University of Nigeria, Nsukka, and advanced healthcare and education across Nigeria and sub-Saharan Africa.
