Dennis Osadebay University (DOU), Asaba, has appointed Professor Joyce Ogho Ogwezi as its new Deputy Vice-Chancellor in charge of Administration, a move being described as a landmark moment for the institution and for gender representation in Nigerian academia.
Professor Ogwezi is widely recognised as a pioneer in the field of Mass Communication. She is the first female professor of the discipline at Delta State University and the first woman to attain the rank across all universities in Delta State.
Her appointment has drawn strong reactions within the academic community, with colleagues hailing it as recognition of years of scholarship, leadership and institutional service.
An Associate Professor of Chemistry at DOU, Dr Akpoveta Vincent, described the decision as historic, saying it reflected “merit, integrity and perseverance”.
“This is a defining moment for the university. Professor Ogwezi’s leadership record and scholarly excellence make her exceptionally qualified for this role,” he said.
Dr Akpoveta added that her rise to the top of university administration would inspire women and young scholars, reinforcing the message that achievement in higher education is driven by excellence and dedication rather than barriers.
He expressed confidence that Professor Ogwezi’s experience would strengthen administrative efficiency and stability at the university, while praising the Vice-Chancellor, Professor Ben Oghojafor, for what he called a merit-based appointment.
Professor Ogwezi’s elevation is being celebrated by academics across Nigeria and beyond, many of whom see her new role as both a personal achievement and a symbolic breakthrough in university leadership.
NIM
