The Akwa Ibom State Government has appointed Professor Philip Afaha as the pioneer Vice-Chancellor of the newly established Akwa Ibom State University of Education, Afaha Nsit. This appointment was announced by Governor Umo Eno during the 2026 Teachers’ Day celebration. Professor Afaha is a renowned historian and administrator with a strong academic background.
Professor Afaha is a former Deputy Vice-Chancellor, Administration, of the University of Abuja. He joined the University of Abuja in 2013 as a Lecturer I and rose through the ranks to become a Professor of History and Intergroup Relations in 2021. His extensive experience in academic administration will be invaluable in shaping the new university.
During his tenure at the University of Abuja, Professor Afaha served in various capacities, including Head of the Department of History and Diplomatic Studies, Director of the Institute of Legislative Studies, and Director of the Abuja Leadership Centre. His academic credentials include a bachelor’s degree in History and a master’s degree in History and International Studies from the University of Uyo.
Professor Afaha holds a PhD in History, specialising in Intergroup Relations, from the University of Abuja. He was born on December 8, 1972, in Akai Ubium, Nsit Ubium Local Government Area of Akwa Ibom State. His research and publications have contributed significantly to the field of history and intergroup relations.
As a prolific author, Professor Afaha has authored and co-authored over 50 publications. He has also undertaken various academic and professional engagements in Nigeria and abroad. In 2025, he was appointed Special Adviser on Policy and Strategy to the Edo State Governor.
Professor Afaha’s recent appointments include an adjunct professorship at the University of KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa, in May 2026. As the pioneer Vice-Chancellor of the Akwa Ibom State University of Education, he will oversee the development of the university’s academic and administrative structures as it begins operations.
The appointment of Professor Afaha marks a significant milestone in the establishment of the new university. According to the statement announcing his appointment, “His appointment marks another significant chapter in the academic and professional career of one of Akwa Ibom’s accomplished scholars and administrators.”
Key points
- Professor Philip Afaha has been appointed as the pioneer Vice-Chancellor of the Akwa Ibom State University of Education.
- Afaha is a historian and administrator with experience as a former Deputy Vice-Chancellor, Administration, of the University of Abuja.
- He has authored and co-authored over 50 publications and has undertaken various academic and professional engagements in Nigeria and abroad.
