‎Professor Philip Afaha has been appointed as the pioneer Vice-Chancellor of the newly established Akwa Ibom State University, Afaha Nsit. 

His appointment comes following the enactment of the law establishing the Akwa Ibom State University of Education and the transformation of the Akwa Ibom State College of Education, Afaha Nsit, into a university.

Professor Afaha, a distinguished historian and university administrator, brings to the new institution extensive academic and administrative experience, having served as Deputy Vice-Chancellor, Administration, at the University of Abuja.

Born in 1972, Professor Afaha obtained his Bachelor’s degree in 1995 and Master’s degree in 2004 from the University of Uyo before earning a PhD in History from the University of Abuja in 2011.

He joined the University of Abuja in January 2013 as a Senior Lecturer and subsequently rose through the ranks to become a Professor of History. During his tenure at the institution, he served as Head of the Department of History, Director of the Institute of Legislative Studies and Director of the TETFund Centre of Excellence.

In May 2023, the Governing Council of the University of Abuja appointed him Deputy Vice-Chancellor, Administration, a position in which he provided leadership in the institution’s administrative affairs.

‎Professor Afaha’s scholarly interests span global political dynamics, social movements and international relations, with particular focus on areas including U.S.-Nigeria economic diplomacy.

He is also a recipient of the NYSC National Merit Award and has contributed to youth development and professional advancement through his mentorship and service to various organisations, including the Akwa Ibom State Corpers Forum, Abuja Chapter.

As pioneer Vice-Chancellor, Professor Afaha is expected to provide the academic and administrative leadership required to lay a strong foundation for the institution and position it as a centre of excellence in teacher education and professional development.