TDNnamdi Azikiwe University (UNIZIK), Awka, has appointed renowned Nigerian business leader and governance advocate, Valentine Chineto Ozigbo, as a Visiting Associate Professor at its Business School.
The appointment, effective February 12, 2026, underscores the university’s commitment to bridging academic scholarship with real-world leadership experience.
UNIZIK Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Bond Ugochukwu Anyaehie, announced the appointment.
Prof. Anyaehie said the decision reflects the institution’s drive to enrich its MBA programme with practitioners whose professional journeys offer insights beyond traditional classroom learning.
“Universities achieve their greatest impact when knowledge and real-world experience intersect.
“Mr. Ozigbo’s distinguished career in corporate leadership and governance offers our MBA students an invaluable opportunity to learn leadership and ethics from someone who has practiced it at the highest level,” Anyaehie stated.
Ozigbo: Profile
Ozigbo, the immediate past President and Group CEO of Transcorp Plc, brings over three decades of senior leadership experience across Nigeria’s financial and corporate sectors.
His career spans roles at Transcorp Hotels Plc, United Bank for Africa, Diamond Bank, and Bank PHB (now Keystone Bank).
There he earned a reputation for institutional leadership, governance reform, and strategic transformation.
Beyond corporate boardrooms, Ozigbo has been a prominent voice in civic engagement and public policy.
He champions ethical stewardship and governance standards in both business and public life.
Why the Choice of Ozigbo
The Director of UNIZIK Business School, Prof. Pius Okoye, emphasized the value of integrating industry leaders into academia.
He said: “Leadership and ethics form the bedrock of sustainable organisations.
“Mr. Ozigbo’s professional journey offers our students a rich practical perspective on responsible leadership.
“We are delighted to have him contribute to shaping the mindset of our MBA students.”
Call to Service
Reacting to the appointment, Ozigbo described it as an opportunity to invest in the next generation of leaders.
“Leadership is ultimately about responsibility, integrity, and service.
“I consider it a privilege to engage with students who will shape the future of our institutions and our country.
“If my experience can contribute to strengthening ethical leadership in any way, then the effort is worthwhile,” he emphasised.
Ozigbo acknowledged his numerous honours.
These include:
- Seven Star Leadership Award (2025),
- Honorary doctorate from Tansi University, and,
- Traditional chieftaincy titles
He, however, noted his preference for simplicity.
He said: “I am grateful for the recognitions that have come my way over the years, but I remain most comfortable being addressed simply as Mr. Valentine Ozigbo.
“Titles are appreciated, but what matters most is the work we do in service to society.”
The appointment is on a pro bono basis, with Ozigbo set to teach a course on Organisational Leadership and Ethics.
He will be offering practical perspectives on governance, institutional responsibility, and the challenges of leading large organisations in a rapidly evolving global environment.
