The Governing Council of the University of Port Harcourt (UNIPORT) has approved the appointment of Prof. Princewill Chike as the institution’s 10th Vice-Chancellor.
The appointment was confirmed following the successful conclusion of the university’s selection process conducted by the 17th Governing Council.
According to a statement issued on Friday in Port Harcourt by the university’s spokesperson, Dr Sam Kpenu, Prof. Chike is expected to assume office on July 13, 2026, upon the expiration of the tenure of the outgoing Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Owunari Georgewill, on the same date.
The statement explained that the selection process was carried out in strict compliance with the provisions of the Universities (Miscellaneous Provisions) Act and the University of Port Harcourt Act.
It added that a Search Team and a Joint Council-Senate Selection Board were constituted to oversee the exercise, ensuring adherence to established procedures governing the appointment of vice-chancellors in Nigerian universities.
The Pro-Chancellor and Chairman of the Governing Council, Senator Mao Ohuabunwa, congratulated Prof. Chike on his appointment and expressed confidence in his capacity to provide visionary leadership that will further strengthen the institution’s academic and administrative growth.
Prof. Chike is a former Commissioner for Health in Rivers State, having served during the administration of former Governor Nyesom Wike.
The university community is expected to formally welcome the new Vice-Chancellor as preparations intensify for the transition of leadership.
