The Governing Council of the University of Abuja (UNIABUJA), chaired by Distinguished Senator Dr. Olanrewaju Tejuoso, has officially approved the appointment of Professor Hakeem Babatunde Fawehinmi as the substantive Vice-Chancellor of the institution.
The announcement was made during the 80th Extraordinary Meeting of the Council held on Friday, 7th November 2025. The appointment takes effect from Tuesday, 10th February 2026, for a single, non-renewable term of five years.
EducationNGR also learnt that Professor Fawehinmi currently serves as the pioneer Vice-Chancellor of the Nigerian British University, a private tertiary institution based in Abia State.
Leadership Transition at UNIABUJA
The Council further approved the extension of the tenure of the Acting Vice-Chancellor, Professor Mathew Adamu, until 10th February 2026. Professor Adamu, who was appointed by the Federal Government on 11th August 2025, will continue to oversee the affairs of the university until Professor Fawehinmi assumes office.
This smooth transition, according to the Council, reflects UNIABUJA’s commitment to strong governance and administrative stability within the institution.
Profile of Professor Hakeem Babatunde Fawehinmi
Professor Fawehinmi is a respected Professor of Clinical Anatomy and Biomedical Anthropology known for his outstanding academic leadership and contributions to medical education in Nigeria.
He has held several key positions at the University of Port Harcourt, including:
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Head of Department of Anatomy (2005–2009)
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Associate Dean, Faculty of Basic Medical Sciences (2010–2012)
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Dean, Faculty of Basic Medical Sciences (2012–2014)
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Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Academic) (2016–2020)
His experience spans teaching, research, and administration, with active participation in several university committees and boards that have enhanced institutional development.
Professional Contributions and Achievements
Professor Fawehinmi has made notable contributions to the medical and academic community both nationally and internationally. He has served as:
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Secretary-General, Nigerian Medical Association (Rivers State Chapter, 1999–2000)
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Editor-in-Chief, Journal of Anatomical Sciences
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President, Society of Experimental and Clinical Anatomists of Nigeria (2014–2016)
He is a Fellow of the Royal Anthropological Institute of Great Britain and Ireland (FRAI) and a Fellow of the Academy of Medicine Specialties of Nigeria (FAMedS).
A prolific researcher, Professor Fawehinmi has authored over 100 peer-reviewed publications and presented 37 abstracts at various international and local conferences. He has also supervised more than 100 undergraduate projects, 15 master’s dissertations, and 13 Ph.D. theses.
His 2014 inaugural lecture at the University of Port Harcourt, titled “Different Tailors for the Same People; Same Surgeon for Different People,” remains widely cited.
He has also received multiple national and international research grants and holds a Federal Government patent for his innovative AMRG Anthropometry Chair used for body measurement.
Recognized among top African scientists in the 2021 Alper-Doger Scientific Index, Professor Fawehinmi continues to serve as an external examiner and assessor for universities within and outside Nigeria, including the University of Exeter (UK).
He is married to Dr. Hadeezat O. Fawehinmi, a lecturer at the University of Port Harcourt, and their union is blessed with five children.
Closing Note
The appointment of Professor Hakeem Babatunde Fawehinmi marks a new chapter for the University of Abuja, reflecting a focus on innovation, academic excellence, and administrative continuity. The university community and stakeholders look forward to his leadership as he prepares to assume office in February 2026.