Senator Mao Arukwe Ohuabunwa

Place of Birth:
Arochukwu, Abia State

Marital Status:
Married

State of Origin:
Abia State

Area of Specialisation:
Management

Qualification:
B.Sc. Applied Microbiology, Rivers State College of Science and Technology. PGD Public Admin, M.Sc. Human Resources Management, Enugu State University of Technology. PhD Political Science, University of Nigeria, Nsukka.

Present Position:
Pro-Chancellor and Chairman of 17th Governing Council, University of Port Harcourt.

Prof. Owunari Abraham Georgewill

Date of Birth:
May 15, 1965

Place of Birth:
Abonnema, Akuku Toru LGA

Marital Status:
Married ( with four children)

State of Origin:
Rivers State

Phone Number:
0803 317 0636

Email Address:
owunari.georgewill@uniport.edu.ng

Area of Specialisation:
Professor of Pharmacology

Qualification:
B.Med. Sc. Pharmacology, MBBS, MSc. Pharmacology, MD degree of the University of Port Harcourt, KSC, JP(B.Med. Sc., MBBS., MSc., MD., UPH)FRSBLondon, FIIA, MSIOP, MIAME, MASN MNMA, MWASP, MWASOT.

Present Position:
9th Vice Chancellor of the University of Port Harcourt

Prof. Chukwudi Ochi Onyeaso

Professor Chukwudi Ochi Onyeaso, the current Deputy Vice Chancellor (Administration) of the University of Port Harcourt, received his early education at Ngodo Primary School and Methodist College, Uzuakoli, before studying Dentistry at the University of Ibadan. His postgraduate training was at the University College Hospital (UCH), Ibadan and Lagos University Teaching Hospital (LUTH). In 1999, he obtained the Fellowship of the West African College of Surgeons, becoming a Consultant Orthodontist and Lecturer I at the University of Ibadan and UCH—the first Consultant Orthodontist in that institution.

In 2004, through a MacArthur Foundation award, he undertook post-fellowship training at the University of Illinois at Chicago. He also served as Sub-Dean (Undergraduate) in the Faculty of Dentistry, University of Ibadan (2004–2006). On January 14, 2008, he became the pioneer Professor of Orthodontics at the University of Port Harcourt and Consultant Orthodontist at the University of Port Harcourt Teaching Hospital (UPTH).

Professor Onyeaso holds several prestigious fellowships: Fellow of the International Congress of Oral Implantologists (FICOI, 2004), World Federation of Orthodontists (FWFO, 2005), International College of Dentists (FICD), Nigerian Academy of Medicine (2023), and others. In 2019, he was awarded Doctor of Science (Honoris Causa) by the International Agency for Standards and Ratings for his outstanding contributions.

He has held key administrative positions, including two-term Dean of the Faculty of Dentistry, University of Port Harcourt (2013–2017), Honorary Director of Clinical Dental Services at UPTH, and Senate representative to the UPTH Board. He chaired the Senate Committee on Academic Prizes (2011–2025) and has been a resource person for the National Universities Commission (NUC), contributing to curriculum development, accreditation, and BMAS formulation for Nigerian universities.

Internationally recognized, he examines for the West African College of Surgeons at both Membership and Fellowship levels, and served on its Faculty of Dental Surgery Board. He has also trained postgraduate doctors for national and regional medical colleges.

Professor Onyeaso is a globally acclaimed orthodontist, with over 132 scientific publications in reputable journals worldwide. He has served on editorial boards, including as Editor-in-Charge of English manuscripts for Odonto-Stomatologie Tropicale (2004–2019). Since 2004, he has been the only Sub-Saharan African orthodontist on the Review Board of the American Journal of Orthodontics and Dentofacial Orthopedics (AJODO). His research has earned international recognition, including documentation requests from the British Library, and he ranks among the Top 2% Scientists in Nigeria and Top 20% globally according to the AD Scientific Index (2023).

His contributions have earned him multiple awards: a Gold Medal from the American Biographical Institute, commendations from the University of Ibadan, recognition from the Journal of National Medical Association (USA), and honours from WASLF (2015) and Assemblies of God Nigeria (2019). Earlier in his academic career, he was honoured as Best Lecturer by dental students at Ibadan and recognized for sports dentistry contributions.

Beyond academia, Professor Onyeaso has served in numerous professional bodies, including the Nigerian Medical Association, Nigerian Dental Association, Medical and Dental Consultants’ Association of Nigeria, and Nigerian Association of Orthodontists. He is also a Fellow of the Institute of Management Consultants (FIMC/CMC) and other professional networks.

Widely travelled and an active conference participant, Professor Onyeaso is also deeply committed to mentoring, teaching, and advancing healthcare delivery in Nigeria. He is happily married to Professor (Mrs.) Adedamola Olutoyin Onyeaso of the Faculty of Education, University of Port Harcourt, and they are blessed with children.

Prof. Rosemary Nkemdilim Ogu

Marital Status:
Married

State of Origin:
Delta State

Phone Number:
08033129937

Email Address:
dvc.acad@uniport.edu.ng, rosemary.ogu@uniport.edu.ng

Office Address:
Office of the DVC, Academic, Senate Building

Area of Specialisation:
Obstetrics and Gynaecology

Present Position:
DVC, Academic & Council Member, 17th Governing Council

Prof. Rosemary Nkemdilim Ogu, the Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Academics), is a Consultant Obstetrician/Gynaecologist and immediate past head of the Department of Obstetrics & Gynaecology at the University of Port Harcourt & University of Port Harcourt Teaching Hospital.

She graduated (MB.BS) with distinction from the University of Benin in 1999.

Her residency training in Obstetrics and Gynaecology at the University of Port Harcourt Teaching Hospital from 2003 to 2008, earned her the fellowship of both the West African College of Surgeons and the National Postgraduate Medical College of Nigeria (FWACS, FMCOG).

She has an M.Sc. (Reproductive Health) degree from the World Bank Centre of Excellence in Reproductive Health Innovation CERHI, domiciled in the University of Benin.

Ogu’s research with a robust focus on Women’s Health, is characterized by a commitment to improving the quality of healthcare services, as evidenced by her publications in reputable journals such as BMC Pregnancy and Childbirth, Reproductive Health and The Lancet. Her work often explores the effectiveness of various interventions aimed at enhancing maternal, youths and newborn health outcomes.

Prof. Rosemary Ogu is currently a faculty board member at the National Postgraduate Medical College of Nigeria and the National President of the Medical Women’s Association of Nigeria. She is also a Staff Adviser for the Port Harcourt University Medical Students Association (PUMSA).

Prof. Rosemary Ogu is happily married to Chief Hillary Ogu and they are blessed with children.

Prof. Angela Ine Frank-Briggs

Professor Angela Ine Frank-Briggs is a highly respected medical doctor, Paediatric neurologist, and academic leader with over three decades of professional experience. She currently serves as the Deputy Vice Chancellor Research & Development at the University of Port Harcourt, where she provides strategic leadership in research innovation, academic advancement, and institutional growth.

An accomplished clinician and scholar, Professor Frank-Briggs is a Fellow of the National Postgraduate Medical College of Nigeria with specialization in Paediatric Neurology. She obtained her MBBS from the University of Jos in 1992 and has since built a distinguished career in child neurology, neurodevelopmental disorders, medical education, and university administration.

She previously served as Provost of the College of Health Sciences (2021–2025), Director of Centre for Children Developmental and Communication Disorders, University Centre (2014–2021), and Head of the Department of Paediatrics & Child Health (2014–2016). She is also a long-serving Consultant Paediatric Neurologist at the University of Port Harcourt Teaching Hospital. She has served as a member of the Medical and Dental Council Disciplinary Tribunal and Education committee.

Her clinical and research interests span epilepsy, autism, Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder, cerebral palsy, child development, neurocognitive disorders and outcomes, and leadership in medical education. She has published over 50 peer-reviewed articles and has supervised numerous postgraduate trainees, residents, MSc, and PhD students.

Professor Frank-Briggs is an active member of several national and international professional bodies, including the Paediatric Association of Nigeria, American Academy of Neurology, African Child Neurology Association, and the International Child Neurology Association. Her work has earned her several prestigious awards, including the Women of Merit Gold Award and international fellowships from the Japan Paediatric Society and the International Society of Infectious Diseases.

Beyond academia, she is an advocate for community health, women’s empowerment, youth mentoring, and leadership development. She brings to every role a deep commitment to excellence, integrity, and service.

Present Position:
Deputy Vice Chancellor Research and Development of the University of Port Harcourt

Lady, Dr. Gloria Obiageri Chindah

Place of Birth:
Choba

Marital Status:
Married

State of Origin:
Rivers State

Phone Number:
08037247330

Email Address:
registrar@uniport.edu.ng

Area of Specialisation:
Educational Psychology Guidance & Counselling

Qualification:
B.Ed, M.Ed and Ph.D in Educational Psychology Guidance & Counselling

Present Position:
Registrar and Secretary to the Council, University of Port Harcourt

Pastor Ule Williams Glad, PhD

Place of Birth:
Joinkrama Engenni

Marital Status:
Married

Local Government Area:
Ahoada West Local Government Area

State of Origin:
Rivers State

Early Life and Education:
Born in 1964 in Joinkrama Engenni, in present day Ahoada West Local Government Area of Rivers State, Nigeria.

Pastor Ule Williams Glad, Ph.D. is an accomplished scholar and anointed man of God. He began his education at Baptist Day School, Joinkrama, and proceeded to Baptist High School, Port Harcourt,respectively where he earned both his First School Leaving Certificate (FSLC-75) as well as the West African School certificate (WAEC) later.

Pastor Glad in 1983 pursued a higher education at the University of Port Harcourt, earning a Bachelor’s, Master’s, and doctorate of philosophy (PhD) in political science, respectively.

Career and Leadership Roles:
Pastor Ule Williams Glad, Ph.D, who is the current National President of the University of Port Harcourt Alumni Association, has traversed all areas of life( community, career, social,political, faith) of leadership( role )spanning over four decades.

He is presently the Baptist high school class (75/80) serving president.

He had previously served as the university of Portharcourt Alumni Association’s Secretary at both state and once acting national secretary and substance national secretary before becoming the Alumni Association national president in its 2021 national convention in Calabar

Faith and Advocacy:
A devout servant of God, Pastor Ule Williams Glad,Ph.D. serves as a pastor at the Abundant Life Evangel Mission (ALEM).

He is also an advocate for peace and a recognized *Ambassador for Peace* under the Universal Peace Federation. Additionally, he is a member of Human Rights Watch International.

Family Life:
Pastor Ule Williams Glad is happily married to his wife, Deborah, and they are blessed with children.

He is a gifted hand, simply could be described as a jack of all trade and master of all as he’s engraced to handle issues with philosophical calmness that is never known of men.

Hobbies and Interests:
Pastor Glad has a diverse range of hobbies, including wrestling (where he was a champion in both traditional and freestyle categories), football, swimming, cricket,teaching,coaching, reading, and counseling.

Chief (Hon) Kadilo Kabari

Date of Birth:
May 9, 1980

Place of Birth:
Gokana

Marital Status:
Married

State of Origin:
Rivers State

Brief Biography:
Born on the 9th day of May,1980,Kadilo Barina Kabari had his primary education at the then Rivers State University of Science and Technology Staff School(R.S.U.S.T.S.S.) with Distinction in His First school leaving certificate .He then proceeded to the Federal Government College (F.G.C)Kwali-Abuja bagged his Senior secondary school certificate and subsequently had his Tertiary education at the Prestigious Ahmadu Bello University(.A.B.U) Zaria graduating with a B.Sc degree in Microbiology

Chief (Hon) Kadilo Kabari carried out his National Youth Service at the Bayelsa State College of Health Technology Otuogidi-Ogbia, had served as Special Adviser on Waste operations with the Rivers State Waste Management Agency (RIWAMA) and subsequently became Chairman, Gokana Local Government Council(C.T.C)

He is a former Rotaract Club President (ABU Main),National Senate President of the National Union of Rivers state students (NURSS NATIONAL), Chief of staff in the Nigerian Youth Parliament and currently The Convener,Ogoni Beyond Oil and Politics(B.O.P Ogoni)

He is also the Natural and Paramount Ruler of Barako Ancient Community (Menebon Barako) in Gokana local government of Rivers state and happily married to Engr (Mrs) Leton Kadilo Kabari with Three(3) children.

Engr Muttaqha Rabe Darma

Date of Birth:
23rd July 1966

Place of Birth:
Katsina City

Marital Status:
Married

State of Origin:
Katsina State

Brief Biography:
He was admitted to Bayero University, Kano (BUK) where he graduated with a Second Class Upper Division (2.1) degree in Mechanical Engineering in 1989. He went further to obtain his Master’s degree in Business Administration (MBA) from the same University in 1994. In the course of his desire for professional excellence, he took a second Master’s degree in Engineering (Production) from the University of Benin in 1995. He also obtained two doctorate degrees, a Doctor of Philosophy in Production Engineering and a Doctor of Business Administration from the University of Liverpool (UoL), UK. He is currently on the verge of defending his third doctoral dissertation in Operations Management with a Special Interest in Mathematical Modelling of the Spread of Family Poverty in Northwest Nigeria.

He has also been conferred with an Honorary Doctorate Degree of Science from the Federal University of Technology, Owerri (FUTO).

Engr Muttaqha Rabe Darma has worked with several organizations after a brief stint as a lecturer at Bayero University, Kano (BUK) where he began his working career as a Graduate Assistant in the Department of Mechanical Engineering in 1990.

After a successful career in both the public and private sectors for almost two decades, he decided to fully join politics.

Engr. Muttaqha Rabe Darma is a Fellow of the Nigerian Society of Engineers; a Member, of the Nigerian Institute of Management, a Member of the Renewable and Alternative Energy Network, and an Alumnus of the London and Columbia Business Schools. He has over 50 publications. His most recent works include Pathways to Greatness: The Katsina State of the Future and What ‘Umaru ‘Yaradua Told and Taught Me.

Hon. Biodun Musiliu Salami

Hon. Biodun Musiliu Salami is a distinguished Nigerian professional known for his expertise in communication, public service, and governance. With a career spanning over three decades, he has built a reputation as a seasoned media practitioner and a respected voice in national development and institutional leadership.

Salami’s educational background is rooted in a strong foundation in mass communication and public affairs. He studied at The Polytechnic, Ibadan, where he earned his Higher National Diploma, and at the Nigerian Institute of Journalism (NIJ) in Ogba, Lagos. He later advanced his academic pursuit at Lagos State University (LASU), where he earned a Masters Degree in Peace and Security Studies. This rich academic journey has equipped him with communication and analytical skills that have served him effectively in both professional and leadership roles.

He currently serves as an external member of the Governing Council at the University of Port Harcourt, where he contributes to high-level decision-making processes concerning institutional policy, strategic planning, and university advancement. His appointment to this role reflects his broad experience, integrity, and commitment to education and nation-building.

In addition to his role in university governance, Hon. Salami is widely recognized for his contributions to youth development, community service, and public enlightenment. He is passionate about education, civic engagement, and reforms that promote transparency and effectiveness in institutions. He has also used his platform to advocate for responsible leadership, streamlined governance structures, and the empowerment of the next generation.

He is a man of vision, discipline, and compassion, and is known for his calm disposition, deep insight, unwavering dedication to excellence and a valuable asset to the University od Port Harcourt.

Prince Oghenekaro Benson

Date of Birth: 23rd March, 1965

Sex: Male

Town: Igbide

Local Government: Isoko South

Marital Status: Married

State of Origin: Delta State

Nationality: Nigerian

Contact: 08038989534, 08028426559

Email: bensonprince504@gmail.com

EDUCATIONAL QUALIFICATION WITH DATE:

• First Leaving Certificate: Olomoro Primary School, Olomoro – 1971-1977
• West Africa Examination Certificate (WAEC) Ovwor Mixed Secondary School, Ovwor – 1981-1985
• National Diploma (ND), Auchi Polytechnic, Auchi (Discipline: Accountancy) – 1987-1989
• Higher National Diploma (HND), Federal Polytechnic, Afikpo (Discipline: Accountancy) – 2005-2008

OCCUPATION:
Businessman (Chairman/CEO Prinkason Nig, Ltd.)

POLITICAL POSITIONS HELD:

• Assistant Leader, DPP, Igbide Ward 07 (April, 2010-November 2010)
• Director of Youths/Security, DPP Isoko Nation Campaign Organization 2010/2011
• Leader, DPP, Igbide Ward 07 (November, 2010-December, 2013)
• Leader, APC, Igbide Ward 07 (December, 2013 Till Date)
• Contact/Mobilization Committee: Member Delta State APC Governorship Campaign Organization, 2018-2019
• Delta State Coordinator for TMT (Tinubu Media Team) BATIC (Bola Ahmed Tinubu intellectual Coalition). GNAT (Grass Root Network for Asiwaju Tinubu), TSG (Tinubu Support Group), COSGABAT (Coalition of Support Group for Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu).
• APC Presidential Campaign Council (PCC), Member Directorate of Labor. 2022-2023

HOBBIES:
Reading, Swimming & Singing

REFEREES:

1. CHIEF LUCKY JERRY ESIGIE
   Leader APC Isoko Nation
   (0803351737)
2. SUR. PETER EDEDAJIROGHO AKAROGBE
   Delta State Secretary, APC
   (0803500508)
3. HON. DR. AKIN-THOMAS BABAJIDE
   D.G. COSGABAT (Coalition of Support Groups for Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu)
   (08067474175)
4. HON. TOSIN ADEYANJU
   Head of Media Directorate TSG And Executive Secretary/CEO National Lottery Trust Fund (NLTF)
   (08021011100)

Prof. Olufemi Martins Adesope

Professor Olufemi Martins Adesope is a highly distinguished and multifaceted academic leader, researcher, and administrator with over 30 years of extensive experience in higher education. He is currently a Professor of Agricultural Extension/ICT in Agriculture at the University of Port Harcourt and serves as the influential Senate Representative on the Governing Council, contributing strategic academic and governance insight.

Professor Adesope’s academic foundation is robust, holding a Ph.D. in Agricultural Extension (2004) and an M.Sc. in Agricultural Extension from the Federal University of Technology, Owerri (FUTO), complementing his B.Sc. (Hons.) in Agricultural Extension Services from the University of Ibadan (UI). Demonstrating a forward-looking commitment to modern scholarship, he recently earned an M.Sc. in Data Science and Information Systems (2024) from Osiri University, Nebraska, USA. This interdisciplinary background uniquely positions him as a scholar at the nexus of agricultural transformation, information technology, and cutting-edge data analysis.

His professional tenure is marked by outstanding contributions to both research and institutional development. He is an accomplished research manager with a proven track record in securing and managing significant individual and institutional research grants from prestigious international and national bodies, including the European Union (ACP-EU EDULINK II Grant), the Tertiary Education Trust Fund (TETFUND IBR Grant, May 2024), and the Climate Impact Research Capacity Leadership Enhancement (CIRCLE) Programme, UK. Notably, he served as the Project Officer for the ACP-EU EDULINK II Grant and as Project Manager for the Gender Equality Policy Project Grant (January 2025), underscoring his expertise in competitive grant acquisition and project execution.

Professor Adesope is a recognized Data Analyst and an emerging Data Scientist, highly proficient in both quantitative and qualitative data analysis. His expertise extends to teaching Research Methods, Statistics, and Data Analysis at the Master’s and Doctoral levels across various disciplines. His key specializations include Agricultural Extension/ICT in Agriculture, Data Science, Rural Sociology and Development, Youth and gender studies, and Livelihood and enterprise development.

He has held numerous high-level administrative and leadership roles at the University of Port Harcourt, reflecting his deep understanding of academic governance and institutional capacity building. These roles include Associate Dean of the School of Graduate Studies, Associate Dean of the Faculty of Agriculture, and crucially, Assistant Director of the Centre for Research Management and Development, where he was instrumental in facilitating essential workshops, scholarship, and fellowship programmes to enhance staff research capacity. He has also served as Head of the Department of Agricultural Economics and Extension and Vice Chairman of the University Research Ethics Committee.

His excellence is internationally and nationally recognized. He is a Fellow of the Institute of Corporate Administration (fCAI) and has received a multitude of awards, including a Letter of Commendation from the Vice Chancellor (July 2021) for being ranked among the best African scientists, the prestigious CIRCLE Champion Award (March 2021), and a Distinguished Merit Award (June 2015) for Diligent and Meritorious Service. He was listed among 800 Nigerian scientists according to their Google Scholar Citation in 2015. His commitment to human capital development is highlighted by his Recognition as Mentor by the Association of Commonwealth Universities (ACU) and the African Academy of Sciences (AAS) in the CIRCLE Programme.

Professor Adesope is a dedicated mentor, an innovative research leader, and a strategic contributor to institutional advancement, continuing to drive the modernization of courses and the overall research profile of the University of Port Harcourt and the wider African academic landscape.

Prof. Kelechi Emmanuel Okonta

Professor Kelechi Emmanuel Okonta is a distinguished clinician, academic, researcher, administrator, author, and public speaker with over 25 years of experience in clinical practice, medical education, and community service.

Current Roles

• Governing Council Member, University of Port Harcourt, representing the University Senate
• Professor of Cardiothoracic Surgery, University of Port Harcourt
• Honorary Consultant Cardiothoracic Surgeon, University of Port Harcourt Teaching Hospital

Training & Qualifications
Prof. Okonta trained at the University College Hospital, Ibadan, where he obtained the Fellowship of the West African College of Surgeons in Cardiothoracic Surgery. He earned his MBBS and MPH from the University of Port Harcourt. He completed advanced cardiac surgery training at Madras Medical Mission, India, and the National Cardiothoracic Centre, Ghana. Based on his clinical research, he was awarded clinical observership at the Cleveland Clinic, Ohio, USA.

Leadership & Administrative Experience
He has served as:

• Pioneer Chief Medical Director, Gregory University Specialist Hospital
• Head of Training & Research, and Head of Clinical Services, Federal Medical Centre, Owerri
• Chief Medical Director, Abia State Multispecialty Hospital, Aba
• Head, Department of Surgery, and Director, Youth Friendly Centre

Association positions held

• Pioneer Sec Gen for ACTSON
• Committee Chairman on Health financing , National NMA
• Committee Chairman on medical curriculum Development, National NMA
• Associate Editor NMJ

Awards & Recognition

Recipient of the Distinguished Service Award, Nigerian Medical Association, Rivers State; Excellence in Community Development Service Award from his hometown association; and multiple awards for institutional development and community service.

Lung Cancer Leadership & Research

Prof. Okonta is a leading voice in thoracic oncology in Africa. He has won international travel grants to UHN Toronto, Canada [Pan African Lung Cancer Forum]; Accra, Ghana; and Barcelona, Spain [IASLC Reviewer Workshop]. He has spoken at PENGASSAN Energy Summit, AstraZeneca, Nigerian Thoracic Society [NTS], and Nigerian Cancer Society [NCS] forums on lung cancer.

He founded the National Lung Cancer Consortium over two years ago and serves as Regional Coordinator for Lung Cancer, Nigerian Cancer Society.

He has over 100 peer-reviewed publications, including an invited editorial on lung cancer in Nigeria for the Journal of Thoracic Oncology and a chapter on lung cancer for a TETFund book project and other many chapters in textbooks. He Authored a text book on Chest trauma

Professional Memberships

Member of the Nigerian Medical Association [NMA], Nigerian Cardiac Society [NCS], Association of Cardiothoracic Surgeons of Nigeria [ACTSON], International Association for the Study of Lung Cancer [IASLC], and American College of Surgeons [ACS].

National Assignments

Chief Medical Director, NYSC Camp Iseyin; Medical Assessor for Military Recruits, Odogbo Cantonment, Oyo; and Medical Personnel for the All-Africa Games, Asaba.

He is a clinician, a lecturer, an administrator, A researcher. Public speaker and an administrator par excellence

Prof. Ibisime Etela

Prof. Ibisime Etela is a registered animal scientist (RAS) and a founding member of the Regional Centre of Expertise Port Harcourt (RCE Port Harcourt), which was acknowledged by the United Nations University – Institute for the Advanced Study of Sustainability (UNU-IAS), Tokyo, Japan in June 2015. He was Officer Overseeing the Centre of Excellence for Environmental Restoration (CEER) at the Hydrocarbon Pollution Remediation Project (HYPREP) in 2024-2025. Research Advisor to the Shell Petroleum Development Company of Nigeria Limited (Shell-Nigeria) from January to December 2015. He joined the University of Port Harcourt, Nigeria (UniPort) as Lecturer I (2005), became Senior Lecturer (2008), Associate Professor (2012), and Professor (2016). He was Community Liaison Officer (CLO) with Shell-Nigeria (2002-2005), Research Fellow with the International Livestock Research Institute (ILRI), Ibadan (1998-2000), and Graduate Research Assistant with ILRI (1996-1997). Prof. Etela teaches both undergraduate and postgraduate level courses including modules on research methods and proposal report writing. He has experience in project planning and management, quality assurance and quality control, project monitoring, evaluation and learning (ME&L), and strategic procurement. Prof. Etela has a Post Graduate Programme training in Data Science and Business Analytics.

He is member, 17th Governing Council of UniPort (represneting Senate – 2025 to date), the National Publicity Secretary, Association of Deans of Agriculture in Nigeria Universities (ADAN; 2021-date), Director of Research, Agricultural Policy Research Network (APRNet; 2021-date), and Steering Committee member of the World Bank-funded Africa Centre of Excellence in Oilfield Chemicals Research (ACE-CEFOR), UniPort (2014-date). He was two-term Dean, Faculty of Agriculture, UniPort (2020-2024), Member representing West Africa on the Regional Universities Forum for Capacity Building in Agriculture (RUFORUM) Sub-Committee of Deans and Principals (2023-2024), Dean representing South-South Zone in the 5th Governing Council of the Nigerian Institute of Animal Science (NIAS: 2021-2024), and Member, Development Committee of the 16th Governing Council, UniPort (2021-2023). Other administrative experience include, being Director, Institute of Agricultural Research and Development, UniPort (2012-2014), and Head, Department of Animal Science and Fisheries, UniPort (2010-2012).

Ibisime holds a doctorate (2006) degree in Animal Science from the University of Benin, Nigeria, as well as master’s (1999) and bachelor’s (1992) degrees from the Rivers State University of Science and Technology (RSUST) now Rivers State University (RSU), Nigeria. His academic honours and awards include receiving the Mastercard Foundation TAGDev 2.0 Program grant in 2023, EU-Erasmus Mundus CREATE GreenAfrica grant in 2023, TETFund NRF grant led by UNIBEN in 2022, PASET-RSIF-ICBD grant in 2020, PASET-RSIF grant in 2019, AAU Senior Executive Attachment Grant for Technology Uptake in 2015, DAAD (German Academic Exchange Service) part-funding for training on Internal Quality Assurance of Higher Education Institutions in Anglophone West Africa from 2014-2016; IFS First Research Grant in 2008, and the prestigious ACU Titular Fellowship to the University of Manitoba (Canada) in 2007. He is a visiting lecturer to several institutes and centres in UniPort, and external examiner for graduate programmes and external assessor for professorial assessment to some public and private universities in Nigeria and Ghana. Trained 200 Ogoni cassava growers in 2024.

Prof. Etela has supervised 8 doctoral (5 completed; 3 ongoing), over 3 master’s and over 22 bachelor’s projects. He has published 52 journal articles, 5 book chapters, over 25 conference papers, and has attended and presented invited papers at different national and international agricultural and agribusiness forums, seminars and workshops. Ibisime is a Doctoral Fellow of the Certified Institute of Entrepreneurship and Enterprise Education (CIEEE); and fellow of the Society of Agriculture, Environmental Resources and Management (SAEREM). He is a member: Nigerian Malacological Society (NMS); Society for Grassland Research and Development in Nigeria (SOGREDEN); Agricultural Policy Research Network of Nigeria (APRNet); Nigerian Institute of Animal Science (NIAP), Animal Science Association of Nigeria (ASAN), Nigerian Society for Animal Production (NSAP – Life Member), and Chartered Institute of Procurement and Supply of United Kingdom (CIPS).

Some awards and honours receieved by Prof. Etela include: May 2026: “CIEEE’s Gold Award of Excellence in Agripreneurship” being Entrepreneurship Merit Award by CIEEE; September 2025: “Distinguished for Excellent Commitment to Education in Nigeria” under the Trancparency Accountability, Education Due Process and Quality Education and Community Development, Best University Administrators Category of the Year Under Review by Nigeria Insight News Magazine. February 2025: Certificate of Recognition; outstanding contributions to the growth and for bringing National and International honours to the University of Port Harcourt, Nigeria (UniPort) – by UniPort. June 2015: UniPort Distinguished Merit Award; diligent and meritorious service to the University – by UniPort. June 2015: Award of Excellence in Service; outstanding contribution to Faculty of Agriculture – by Faculty of Agriculture, UniPort. September 2007: “Best Poster Presentation in Ruminant Nutrition”, 12th Annual Conference, Animal Science Association of Nigeria, Obafemi Awolowo University, Nigeria, 10-13 September 2007. And October 1992: Best Graduating Student of Animal Science, Rivers State University of Science and Technology,Nkpolu, Oroworukwu, Port Harcourt, Nigeria.

He is married with two kids (Hadriel-14; Janice-9). Extra-curricular activities: public enlightenment on dangers of pipeline vandalism, benefits of social inclusiveness, techniques for academic exploits, peace building, conflict resolution and management.