Wigwe University, a rising institution committed to academic excellence and innovation, has appointed two prominent figures to lead its next phase of development. Justice Amina Augie (retd.), a former Justice of the Supreme Court of Nigeria, has been named the new Pro-Chancellor and Chairman of the Governing Council. Professor Marwan Al-Akaidi, a distinguished academic with a rich background in science and engineering, has been appointed as the substantive Vice-Chancellor. These appointments, announced by Professor Fabian Ajogwu, Chairman of the Board of Trustees, signal a strategic move by the university to solidify its foundation and chart a course towards becoming a leading institution of higher learning.
Justice Augie brings a wealth of experience and a distinguished legal career to her new role. Her journey through the Nigerian judicial system, from her early days as a lecturer in prestigious universities like Ahmadu Bello University and the Nigerian Law School to her culminating position as a Justice of the Supreme Court, demonstrates a deep commitment to the law and its application. She earned her law degree from the University of Ife (now Obafemi Awolowo University) in 1977 and was subsequently admitted to the Nigerian Bar in 1978. Her pursuit of knowledge led her to obtain a Master of Laws in Criminology from the University of Lagos, further enhancing her understanding of the intricacies of the legal system.
Justice Augie’s career trajectory reveals a steady ascent marked by dedication and competence. She began her practical legal career as a Chief Magistrate in Sokoto State, gaining valuable experience at the grassroots level of the judiciary. In 1992, she was appointed a High Court judge, marking a significant step in her judicial career. Her consistent performance and demonstrated expertise led to her elevation to the Court of Appeal in 2002, where she served for 14 years, adjudicating on complex legal matters and contributing to the development of jurisprudence in Nigeria. The pinnacle of her judicial career came in 2016 when she was appointed to the Supreme Court of Nigeria, the highest court in the land. In this role, Justice Augie played a pivotal role in shaping legal interpretations and ensuring the just application of the law.
Professor Al-Akaidi’s appointment as Vice-Chancellor builds upon his significant contributions to Wigwe University. Having served as the acting Vice-Chancellor, Dean of the College of Science and Computing, and Deputy Vice-Chancellor for Research and Innovation, Professor Al-Akaidi possesses a deep understanding of the university’s structure, operations, and aspirations. His academic credentials are equally impressive, holding a doctorate in Optical and Communications Engineering from Loughborough University, UK, a renowned institution for its focus on science and technology. This background positions him well to lead the university’s efforts in promoting scientific discovery and innovation.
Professor Al-Akaidi’s experience extends beyond the confines of Wigwe University. He has spearheaded educational innovations in blended and online learning across the UK and the Middle East, demonstrating his adaptability and commitment to modernizing educational practices. His prolific research output, including over 300 publications in international journals, underscores his commitment to advancing knowledge in his field. Furthermore, his mentorship of over 45 PhD students highlights his dedication to nurturing the next generation of scholars and researchers.
The appointments of Justice Augie and Professor Al-Akaidi represent a significant step for Wigwe University. Justice Augie’s legal acumen, extensive experience in the judiciary, and demonstrated leadership qualities provide a strong foundation for her role as Pro-Chancellor. Her understanding of the intricate workings of institutions, coupled with her unwavering commitment to integrity, will be invaluable in guiding the university’s governance. Professor Al-Akaidi’s academic prowess, experience in leading educational innovation, and commitment to research and mentorship make him an ideal choice for Vice-Chancellor. Together, these two leaders bring a complementary set of skills and experiences that promise to propel Wigwe University towards achieving its ambitious goals of fostering academic rigour, scientific discovery, and an entrepreneurial spirit. Their appointments herald a new era for the university, marked by a commitment to excellence and a vision for a brighter future.
