Professor Austin Nosike’s Appointment as Vice-Chancellor of James Hope University
Professor Austin Nosike, a distinguished economist and management scholar, has been appointed Vice-Chancellor of James Hope University, Lagos, Nigeria. His appointment, effective August 8, 2025, was officially announced by the University’s Board of Trustees, following a rigorous selection process involving the Joint Governing Council, Senate, and a dedicated Search Team. Professor Nosike brings a wealth of experience to this role, spanning three decades in higher education across Africa, America, Europe, and Asia. His extensive background encompasses teaching, research, consulting, and administrative leadership in both public and private institutions.
Professor Nosike’s career trajectory reveals a remarkable breadth and depth of engagement with the academic world. Prior to his appointment at James Hope University, he held senior management positions at several prestigious institutions, including the International University of Equator in Burundi, the University of Kigali in Rwanda, Copperstone University in Zambia, and the Ugandan Pentecostal University. His international experience also includes visiting professorships and scholarly appointments at institutions such as Kigali Independent University, Universidad de Basque Country in Spain, and Open Christian University in the USA. He also served as President of the Development Africa Consortium and the African Academy of Economics, further highlighting his leadership within the academic and development spheres.
As Vice-Chancellor, Professor Nosike assumes the mantle of Chief Executive, Chief Accounting Officer, and Academic Head of James Hope University. His responsibilities include overseeing the university’s day-to-day operations, ensuring compliance with all regulations and statutes, and providing strategic advice to the Governing Council on financial and administrative matters. His leadership is crucial for maintaining peace, order, and effective management within the university, upholding its image, and promoting its core values. He chairs the Senate and Congregation, playing a central role in shaping the university’s academic direction and furthering its mission.
James Hope University, licensed by the Federal Government of Nigeria in 2021, is a relatively young institution founded through the philanthropic vision of Jim Ovia. Mr. Ovia’s commitment to education and national development led to the establishment of the James Hope College Foundation, which paved the way for the university’s creation. With a focus on providing world-class education, the university aims to contribute significantly to Nigeria’s progress and its integration into the global higher education landscape. Professor Nosike’s appointment signifies a pivotal moment in the university’s development, bringing in a leader with the experience and vision to guide its growth and establish its reputation for academic excellence.
Professor Nosike’s academic journey began in journalism, human rights activism, and public relations, before transitioning to a distinguished career in academia and management consultancy. He has facilitated numerous human capital development initiatives, organized over 100 international conferences, and consulted for various governments, international agencies, and NGOs. His research interests are diverse, encompassing globalization, corporate governance, development management, business environment, public policy, finance, and human rights, among other areas. His multifaceted background further enriches his leadership capabilities and underscores his commitment to a holistic approach to education.
Beyond his academic and administrative achievements, Professor Nosike boasts a remarkable list of accolades, fellowships, research grants, and awards. His contributions to scholarship have been recognized internationally, including the First Prize Essay Award in the 1992 International Essay Competition for Nigerian University Students. He has also received fellowships from institutions like Central European University and the International Institute of Human Rights, along with research grants and awards from various organizations. His inclusion in prestigious biographical directories such as Marquis Who’s Who in the World and the International Who’s Who of Professionals further testifies to his global recognition. Professor Nosike’s extensive publications, comprising over 200 books, articles, and conference papers, demonstrate his prolific scholarship and thought leadership. He has also served as editor and editorial board member for numerous academic journals, actively shaping the discourse in his fields of expertise. This impressive body of work establishes his credibility as a leading scholar and reinforces the significance of his appointment for James Hope University.
