UNIABUJA Names Professor Hakeem Fawehinmi as New Vice-Chancellor
The Governing Council of the University of Abuja (UNIABUJA), chaired by Distinguished Senator Dr. Olanrewaju Tejuoso, has approved the appointment of Professor Hakeem Babatunde Fawehinmi as the substantive Vice-Chancellor of the institution.
The announcement was made during the 80th Extraordinary Meeting of the Council held on Friday, November 7, 2025. According to the resolution, Professor Fawehinmi’s appointment will take effect from Tuesday, February 10, 2026, for a single, non-renewable term of five years.
Leadership Transition at UNIABUJA
In the same meeting, the Council approved an extension of tenure for the Acting Vice-Chancellor, Professor Mathew Adamu, who will continue in office until February 10, 2026. Professor Adamu was appointed by the Federal Government on August 11, 2025, and has since steered the university during its transition period.
The decisions were reached after thorough deliberations by the Council to ensure a seamless leadership succession that aligns with the university’s long-term goals.
Profile: Who Is Professor Hakeem Babatunde Fawehinmi?
Professor Hakeem Babatunde Fawehinmi is a renowned Professor of Clinical Anatomy and Biomedical Anthropology, widely respected for his extensive career in academic leadership, medical education, and research.
With decades of service, Professor Fawehinmi has built an impressive record of scholarship and administration, previously serving at the University of Port Harcourt in the following capacities:
- Head, Department of Anatomy (2005–2009)
- Associate Dean, Faculty of Basic Medical Sciences (2010–2012)
- Dean, Faculty of Basic Medical Sciences (2012–2014)
- Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Academic) (2016–2020)
His experience on numerous university boards, statutory committees, and academic panels has cemented his reputation as a forward-thinking administrator and advocate for quality higher education.
Academic and Professional Excellence
Beyond administration, Professor Fawehinmi is celebrated for his remarkable research achievements and contributions to professional bodies both locally and internationally.
He has served as:
- Secretary-General and NEC Member, Nigerian Medical Association (Rivers State, 1999–2000)
- Editor-in-Chief, Journal of Anatomical Sciences
- President, Society of Experimental and Clinical Anatomists of Nigeria (2014–2016)
Professor Fawehinmi is also a Fellow of the Royal Anthropological Institute of Great Britain and Ireland (FRAI) and a Fellow of the Academy of Medicine Specialties of Nigeria (FAMedS).
He has authored over 100 peer-reviewed publications and 37 conference abstracts, while participating in over 70 international conferences and training sessions across Africa, Europe, the Middle East, and North America.
A seasoned mentor, he has supervised more than 100 undergraduate projects, 15 master’s dissertations, and 13 doctoral theses. His 2014 inaugural lecture at the University of Port Harcourt, titled “Different Tailors for the Same People; Same Surgeon for Different People,” remains a highly cited work in academic circles.
Innovations and Global Recognition
Professor Fawehinmi has attracted national and international research grants and holds a Federal Government patent for his innovative AMRG Anthropometry Chair—a tool designed for precision body measurement.
He has also played a key role in facilitating Memoranda of Understanding (MoUs) between Nigerian and foreign universities, strengthening academic collaborations and research exchange programs.
Recognized in the 2021 Africa Scientist Rankings by the Alper-Doger Scientific Index, Professor Fawehinmi continues to serve as an external examiner and assessor for several top-tier universities, including the University of Exeter, United Kingdom.
Personal Life
Professor Fawehinmi is married to Dr. Hadeezat O. Fawehinmi, a lecturer at the University of Port Harcourt. The couple is blessed with five children.
UNIABUJA’s Message of Confidence
In a statement, the University of Abuja’s Governing Council expressed confidence that Professor Fawehinmi’s leadership, academic depth, and visionary approach will further strengthen the institution’s mission of excellence in teaching, research, and character development.
With his vast experience and international recognition, the university community and the wider academic sector eagerly anticipate a new era of innovation and progress under his stewardship.
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