PROFESSOR ANDY OGOCHUKWU EGWUNYENGA: THE INTELLECTUAL GENERAL OF REFORMATION

 

PROFESSOR ANDY OGOCHUKWU EGWUNYENGA: THE INTELLECTUAL GENERAL OF REFORMATION


Living Legends Series | Published by Global Egberi Media International
Authored by Prince Agbedeyi O. D | Edited by Seigha Dora Ayedi 


🎓 A Humble Beginning Rooted in Purpose

Born on April 4, 1960, in the historic town of Issele-Uku, Delta State, Professor Egwunyenga’s early life mirrored the classic Nigerian story of humble beginnings, shaped by diligence, discipline, and a thirst for learning. His foundational education at Onicha-Olona and Illah LSC set the tone for academic brilliance. He proceeded to Federal Government College, Kaduna, where he completed his WASSCE in 1979, emerging as a promising mind destined for greatness.

📘 Academic Excellence and Progressive Rise

He earned his B.Sc. in Zoology (Second Class Upper) from the University of Lagos in 1982, and later obtained his M.Sc. in Applied Entomology and Parasitology from the University of Jos in 1990. He completed his Ph.D. in Parasitology and Entomology and became a Professor of Zoology at Delta State University (DELSU) in 2005.

🏛️ Trailblazer in Academic Administration

From 2007 to 2011, he served as Rector of Delta State Polytechnic, Ogwashi-Uku, bringing institutional discipline and innovation. His appointment as the 7th Substantive Vice-Chancellor of DELSU, Abraka in December 2019 ushered in a wave of reforms defined by a Six-Point Agenda:

  • Motivating academic and non-academic staff
  • Deepening ICT infrastructure
  • Strengthening faculties and departments
  • Prioritizing student welfare
  • Expanding internally generated revenue
  • Promoting transparency and good governance

💻 A Digital Pioneer in Challenging Times

During the COVID-19 pandemic, DELSU under his leadership completed its 2019/2020 academic year on schedule through virtual learning, including Zoom-based lectures and the DELSU Learning Management System. He also registered DELSU staff on Google Scholar to boost global research visibility.

🛠️ Architect of Structural Growth

Professor Egwunyenga spearheaded numerous infrastructure projects using IGR and TETFUND support, such as:

  • New lecture halls and laboratories
  • Faculty of Pharmacy complex
  • Campus beautification and renovation of academic buildings

🧑🏽‍🤝‍🧑🏽 Champion of Staff Welfare and Justice

His administration prioritized justice and harmony by reversing unjust sanctions imposed on staff and promoting qualified non-academic personnel into academic roles—greatly improving morale and productivity.

📈 A Scholar with Substance

With over 50 peer-reviewed publications, an h-index of 17, and nearly 1,000 citations, Professor Egwunyenga has mentored over 21 postgraduate students and made major contributions to parasitology and public health biology.

🏆 Recognitions and Laurels

His tenure earned numerous honors, including:

  • Pan-African Prize of Excellence from the African Union Parliament
  • Awards from Vanguard, The Guardian, and the Association of Vice-Chancellors of Nigerian Universities
  • Recognition for inclusive education and disability-friendly policies

⚖️ Balancing Progress with Criticism

While some stakeholders expressed concerns over policy reversals and calendar restructuring, even critics acknowledged the tangible growth and innovation recorded under his leadership.

🌍 Legacy of Light

As he transitions from office, Professor Andy Ogochukwu Egwunyenga’s legacy remains firmly etched in Delta State’s academic history. His visionary leadership, ethical compass, and reformist zeal make him not just a retired Vice-Chancellor, but a Living Legend.


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