Professor Philip Afaha has been appointed the pioneer Vice-Chancellor of the newly established Akwa Ibom State University of Education, Afaha Nsit.
The appointment was announced by Akwa Ibom State Governor, Umo Eno, during the 2026 Teachers’ Day celebration, and later confirmed by the school in a statement on Tuesday.
His appointment follows the enactment of the law establishing the Akwa Ibom State University of Education and the transformation of the Akwa Ibom State College of Education, Afaha Nsit, into a full university.
Afaha is a historian and administrator who previously served as Deputy Vice-Chancellor, Administration, at the University of Abuja.
He joined the University of Abuja in January 2013 and rose through the ranks to become a Professor of History and Intergroup Relations in 2021.
During his time at the institution, he served as Head of the Department of History and Diplomatic Studies, Director of the Institute of Legislative Studies, Director of the Abuja Leadership Centre, and Director of the TETFund Centre of Excellence, among other positions.
In May 2023, the Governing Council of the University of Abuja appointed him Deputy Vice-Chancellor, Administration, a role in which he provided leadership in the institution’s administrative affairs.
Afaha holds a bachelor’s degree, obtained in 1995, and a master’s degree, obtained in 2004, both in History from the University of Uyo. He went on to earn his PhD in History, specialising in Intergroup Relations, from the University of Abuja.
Born on December 8, 1972, in Akai Ubium, Nsit Ubium Local Government Area of Akwa Ibom State, Afaha has authored and co-authored more than 50 publications, according to the statement announcing his appointment.
His scholarly interests span global political dynamics, social movements and international relations, with particular focus on areas including U.S.-Nigeria economic diplomacy.
He has also undertaken academic and professional engagements in Nigeria and abroad.
In 2025, he was appointed Special Adviser on Policy and Strategy to the Edo State Governor, and in May 2026, he became an adjunct professor at the University of KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa.
Afaha is also a recipient of the NYSC National Merit Award and has contributed to youth development and professional advancement through his mentorship and service to various organisations, including the Akwa Ibom State Corpers Forum, Abuja Chapter.
As the pioneer Vice-Chancellor, Afaha will oversee the development of the university’s academic and administrative structures as the institution begins operations.
“His appointment marks another significant chapter in the academic and professional career of one of Akwa Ibom’s accomplished scholars and administrators,” the statement said.
He is expected to provide the academic and administrative leadership required to lay a strong foundation for the institution and position it as a centre of excellence in teacher education and professional development.
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