Nigerian professor Ijeoma Uchegbu named president of Cambridge University college

Ijeoma Uchegbu, a Nigerian professor of pharmaceutical Nanoscience, has been chosen the seventh president of Wolfson College, one of the University of Cambridge’s 31 colleges.

Uchegbu is a professor of pharmaceutical neuroscience at University College London (UCL) and is well-known for her revolutionary work in nanoparticle medication delivery.

She will succeed Professor Jane Clarke on October 1, 2024.

Elated by the news, Chairman/CEO of Nigerians in Diaspora Commission (NIDCOM) Abike Dabiri-Erewa rejoiced with her, describing the appointment as well-deserved.

Mrs Dabiri-Erewa said the appointment of Uchegbu did not come to her as a surprise knowing her pedigree in the field of research and knowledge.

She said her appointment has further confirmed that there is reward for hardwork and Nigerians abroad are endowed with people of integrity and excellence.

Uchegbu completed her pharmacy studies at the University of Benin in 1981 before attending the University of Lagos to obtain her master’s degree.

In the last one week, the NIDCOM boss has had cause to celebrate seven Nigerian achievers on their various global appointments and awards.

They include Olusimbo Ige, first black female commissioner of health in Chicago; Oluwatosin Olateju, first black woman commissioner for public health in Maryland; and UK-based Fene Osakwe, a winner of the Global Cyber Security Educator of the Year.

Others are Asisat Oshoala, Victor Osimhen and Chiamaka Nnadozie who won top prizes at the 2023 Confederation of African Football (CAF) Awards.