UNIPORT Names Princewill Chike New Vice-Chancellor

The University of Port Harcourt (UNIPORT) has appointed Professor Princewill Chike as its 10th vice-chancellor following approval by the institution’s Governing Council.

The decision was confirmed on Friday in Port Harcourt through a statement issued by the university spokesperson, Sam Kpenu. The appointment comes as the tenure of the outgoing vice-chancellor, Owunari Georgewill, is set to end on 13 July.

According to the statement, the UNIPORT vice-chancellor appointment was approved by the university’s 17th Governing Council after a selection process that was completed successfully and in line with established regulations.

Mr Kpenu explained that the process followed strict legal requirements under the Universities (Miscellaneous Provisions) Act and the University of Port Harcourt Act. He added that a Search Team and a Joint Council-Senate Selection Board were constituted to oversee the exercise and ensure transparency.

The spokesperson noted that both committees conducted the selection in accordance with existing guidelines governing the appointment of vice-chancellors across Nigerian universities.

The Pro-Chancellor and Chairman of the Governing Council, Mao Ohuabunwa, congratulated the new appointee and expressed confidence in his leadership capacity. He said, “Prof Chike possesses the capacity to advance the university’s vision and sustain its tradition of excellence.”

The UNIPORT vice-chancellor appointment marks a leadership transition expected to take effect once Professor Chike assumes office on 13 July. His predecessor will complete his tenure on the same day.

Before his appointment, Professor Chike served as Commissioner for Health in Rivers State during the administration of former Governor Nyesom Wike, bringing prior government experience to his new academic leadership role.

University stakeholders are expected to look to his tenure for continued growth, stability and academic advancement within the institution.

What impact do you think new leadership will have on UNIPORT’s future direction?