Professor Chinedum Nwajiuba is a distinguished Nigerian academic, environmental economist, and agricultural development expert. He is best known for his tenure as the second substantive Vice-Chancellor of the Alex Ekwueme Federal University Ndufu Alike Ikwo (AE-FUNAI) in Ebonyi State, Nigeria, serving from February 2016 to February 2021.
Early Life and Education
Nwajiuba obtained his Bachelor of Agriculture (B.Agric.), Master of Science (M.Sc.), and Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.) degrees in Agricultural Economics from the University of Nigeria, Nsukka. He further pursued postdoctoral research at Humboldt University of Berlin, Germany, broadening his expertise in environmental economics and sustainable development.
Career
Academic Career
Nwajiuba's academic career began at Imo State University, Owerri, where he rose through the ranks to become a Professor of Agricultural Economics and Environmental Management. During his time at Imo State University, he held several administrative positions, including Acting Head of Department for Agricultural Economics and Director of Academic Planning.
Prior to his appointment as Vice-Chancellor, he also served as the Executive Director of the African Institute for Applied Economics (AIAE), a research think-tank focused on economic policy analysis and development in Africa.
Vice-Chancellorship at AE-FUNAI
In February 2016, Professor Chinedum Nwajiuba was appointed the second Vice-Chancellor of Alex Ekwueme Federal University Ndufu Alike Ikwo (AE-FUNAI). His five-year term, which concluded in February 2021, was marked by significant achievements, including:
- Academic Development: A focus on improving academic standards, curriculum development, and ensuring timely accreditation of programmes.
- Infrastructure Growth: Substantial development of physical infrastructure within the university campus, including lecture halls, administrative buildings, and student hostels.
- Research and Innovation: Encouragement of research activities and initiatives to position the university as a hub for innovation.
- Staff Welfare: Implementation of policies aimed at improving staff welfare and development.
- Community Engagement: Strengthening the university's relationship with its host community and promoting corporate social responsibility.
Research and Expertise
Professor Nwajiuba's research interests span several critical areas, including:
- Agricultural Development and Policy
- Environmental Economics
- Climate Change Adaptation and Mitigation
- Rural Livelihoods and Poverty Alleviation
- Food Security
- Sustainable Development
He has published extensively in reputable national and international journals, contributing significantly to the discourse on sustainable agricultural practices and environmental management in developing economies.
Publications
Nwajiuba is the author or co-author of numerous scholarly articles, book chapters, and research papers focusing on agricultural economics, environmental policy, and sustainable development. His work often examines the nexus between economic development, environmental sustainability, and rural well-being in the African context.
Legacy
Professor Nwajiuba is recognized for his leadership in transforming AE-FUNAI into a rapidly growing federal university with an emphasis on academic excellence, infrastructural development, and community impact. His tenure as Vice-Chancellor laid a strong foundation for the university's continued growth and positioned it as a notable institution in Nigeria's higher education landscape.