Meet the New Dean: Prof. Ikechukwu C. Ike-Eze Takes the Helm at Faculty of Engineering
The Faculty of Engineering is pleased to announce the appointment of Professor Ikechukwu Christian-Ezema Ike-Eze as Dean, effective August 2024. He succeeds Professor Emenike Chinedozi Ejiogu, whose tenure as Dean ended in July 2024.
As Dean, Professor Ike-Eze will provide visionary leadership, oversee the Faculty’s strategic development, and foster academic and research excellence. In this capacity, he will serve as the Faculty’s chief administrative officer, chair the Faculty Board, represent the Faculty on the Senate Executive Board, and work with the University’s Leadership Team to further enhance the Faculty’s global reputation.
Academic and Professional Background
Engr. Prof. Ikechukwu Ike-Eze is a distinguished scholar and seasoned administrator. He graduated from Government Technical College (GTC) Nsukka in 1985 and earned a B.Eng degree in Metallurgical & Materials Engineering from the Federal University of Technology Owerri in 1992, emerging as the best in his class. He pursued advanced studies at the University of Nigeria, Nsukka, earning an M.Eng in Industrial Engineering & Management (2001) and a PhD in Materials Technology and Mechanics (2015) from the Department of Mechanical Engineering.
Prof. Ike-Eze commenced his professional journey with the Federal Government Girls College Lejja, Nsukka, before transitioning to academia in 2005 as a Lecturer in the Department of Mechanical Engineering, University of Nigeria, Nsukka. He later joined the Department of Metallurgical & Materials Engineering in 2009, where he rose to the rank of Professor in 2019.
Leadership and Contributions
Throughout his career, Prof. Ike-Eze has held numerous leadership roles. He served as Acting Head (2015–2016) and substantive Head (2021–2024) of the Department of Metallurgical & Materials Engineering. A DVC nominee in 2023, he has actively contributed to various departmental, faculty, and university committees, ensuring a lasting impact on the academic and administrative landscape.
Elected as Dean of the Faculty of Engineering in July 2024, Prof. Ike-Eze brings a wealth of experience and a commitment to fostering global visibility, academic excellence, and infrastructural development within the Faculty.
Notably, Prof. Ike-Eze oversaw the commissioning of the Azura Power over N800 million solar power station, a project initiated by his predecessors (Profs. Obe & Ejiogu). This critical infrastructure provides sustainable energy and serves as a training facility for students. Prof. Ike-Eze is also committed to working with the University of Nigeria Nsukka Faculty of Engineering Alumni Association (UNNEFAA) to further implement the Faculty’s redevelopment plan. He aims to actively engage alumni in securing sponsorships for both large-scale and smaller projects, driving meaningful progress in research, education, and infrastructure.
Research and Professional Affiliations
A prolific researcher, Prof. Ike-Eze specializes in polymer composites, natural fiber/biopolymer processing, and their applications in building and energy systems. His extensive publication record spans local and international journals.
Prof. Ike-Eze is a member of several professional bodies, including the Nigerian Society of Engineers (NSE), Nigerian Metallurgical Society (NMS), and Materials Research Society of India (MRSI), and is a COREN-registered engineer. He is also a fellow of the INSA-JRD-TATA program, with multiple research grants to his credit.
Vision and Personal Life
Prof. Ike-Eze’s tenure as Dean is guided by a vision to partner with relevant agencies and stakeholders to propel the Faculty of Engineering to new heights of global recognition. His agenda includes prioritizing academic innovation, research excellence, and sustainable infrastructure development.
A man of faith, Prof. Ike-Eze credits his life journey to God’s grace and often describes himself as a “child of grace.” He enjoys wrestling and football and cherishes time with his wife and children.
As Dean, Prof. Ike-Eze is committed to building on the successes of his predecessors and charting a transformative path for the Faculty of Engineering.
