UNIBEN professor appointed vice-president of Nigerian Academy of Science

Friday Okonofua of the University of Benin has been appointed as the Vice-President of the Nigerian Academy of Science, according to a statement released by UNIBEN’s spokeswoman, Benedicta Ehanire, on Wednesday.

Professor Okonofua, who leads the Centre of Excellence in Reproductive Health Innovation (CERHI) at UNIBEN and directs the World Bank projects at the university, was selected through a rigorous nomination process by a committee comprising past presidents of the academy and senior professors across various science disciplines.

Out of the 14 candidates considered from the science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) fields, Professor Okonofua emerged as the chosen candidate during the academy’s recent general assembly.

UNIBEN’s Vice-Chancellor, Lilian Salami, expressed her lack of surprise at Professor Okonofua’s appointment, citing his exceptional qualities and contributions to the institution and society. She praised his unwavering commitment to advancing human well-being and promoting high standards within society.

In addition to his role at UNIBEN, Professor Okonofua oversees the university’s Research and Grants Directorate and previously served as the inaugural Vice-Chancellor of Nigeria’s first University of Medical Sciences in Ondo.

The appointment underscores Professor Okonofua’s esteemed reputation and significant contributions to the field of obstetrics and gynecology, as well as his dedication to fostering scientific excellence and societal development.

(NAN)