Professor Okechukwu Esimone, a distinguished professor of Pharmacy and former vice-chancellor of Nnamdi Azikiwe University (UNIZIK), has been named Public Servant of the Year at the upcoming Anambra Man of the Year (AMTY) Awards. The ceremony which is scheduled for 22 March 2025, in Anambra State, is a recognition of his transformative leadership and contributions to academic excellence during his tenure as Vice-Chancellor from 2019 to 2024.
Independent reports mentions that UNIZIK witnessed significant advancements in research, infrastructure development, and global rankings, under his administration.
Esimone’s tenure saw the university achieve a global ranking of 501+ in the Times Higher Education (THE) Young Universities Ranking, securing 5th place in Nigeria. In the Sub-Saharan Africa rankings, UNIZIK placed 31st overall and 4th in Nigeria. He also elevated the university from the 4047th position in global rankings to 1501+, making it the 8th best university in Nigeria, up from 10th in 2023.
His strategic leadership attracted over US$200 million in private sector investments and endowment projects, securing partnerships with the Federal Inland Revenue Service (FIRS), Bank of Industry (BOI), BUA Group, T.Y. Danjuma Foundation, and Dangote Group. These collaborations facilitated key infrastructural projects and academic development.
Beyond academics, Esimone championed administrative reforms, digitalised university processes, and improved hostel facilities. His commitment to environmental sustainability led to the establishment of an 18-hole golf course, a zoo, and a tree-planting initiative in collaboration with the Nigerian Conservation Foundation.
Expressing gratitude for the honour, he stated that the recognition is a testament to the collective efforts of the UNIZIK community in driving excellence and innovation in higher education.
Established in 2020, the AMTY Awards celebrate individuals making remarkable contributions to the development of Anambra State.
, has been named Public Servant of the Year at the upcoming Anambra Man of the Year){kind=link}