The College of Physical and Applied Sciences (COLPAS) at Michael Okpara University of Agriculture, Umudike (MOUAU) in Abia State has conferred the “Infrastructure Development Philanthropist Award” on Nigerian industrial chemist, business mogul, and science education advocate Chika Ikenga. The honour was presented during the college’s inaugural two-day international conference held on May 6 and 7, 2026, at the college hall. The conference was themed “Advancing Physical and Applied Sciences for Sustainable Development in a Digital World.”
Conference Highlights
Professor Ifeanyi Otuokere, Dean of COLPAS, emphasized that the conference served not only as a platform for sharing research but also as a space to inspire collaboration, challenge assumptions, and foster partnerships capable of driving real-world solutions. The Local Organising Chairman, Professor Okenwa Igwe, described the event as a pivotal milestone in advancing physical and applied sciences, providing participants the opportunity to exchange knowledge, experiences, and ideas that would strengthen collaboration and promote meaningful discussions.
Ikenga’s Contributions
MOUAU previously honoured Ikenga in 2021 with an Honorary Doctorate in Business Administration (D.B.A.) for his contributions to science, chemistry, science education, business, and society, including the digital transformation of the COLPAS Industrial Chemistry Laboratory. During the conference, Ikenga was further recognized for his strong support of industry-academic partnerships, funding various research projects, and co-authoring over ten published research papers.
Six other individuals—three men and three women—were also honoured alongside Ikenga. They include Dr Akanimo Edet Jonah, Dr Chris Okoro Kalu, Mr Okike Cyprain Kanu, Professor Joy Chioma Nwabueze, Lady Dr Rebecca Aghadinazu, and Professor Idowu Eluwa.
Vice-Chancellor’s Remarks
The university’s seventh Vice-Chancellor, Professor Ursula Ngozi Akanwa, who is also the first female to hold the position, flagged off the conference. Represented by Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Academics) Professor Elechi Nneoma Obasi, the VC urged researchers to cultivate curiosity, creativity, and critical thinking, while encouraging participants to build lasting professional connections beyond the conference.
Keynote and Sessions
The keynote speaker, Professor Udoinyang Inyang from the University of Uyo, addressed the conference theme. Experts including Professors Edeh Michael Onyema (Computer Science), Everestus Obinwanne (Mathematics), Jude C. Igwe (Chemistry), Chikwendu Emenike Orji (Physics), and Victor U. Ukaegbu (Geology) presented papers during plenary sessions. Discussions focused on reforming science curricula to integrate sustainability thinking and digital tools such as machine learning and data analysis from the first year of study. Participants advocated stronger partnerships between universities and the private sector, alongside increased investment in Research and Development (R&D) by government and industry players.
Presentations showcased the use of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in green processes, healthcare business intelligence, and smart poultry farm monitoring. Researchers also explored innovations in sustainable chemistry, geo-innovation, computational mathematics, statistics, and responsible AI applications. Participants concluded that interdisciplinary collaboration and digital advancement remain critical to achieving sustainable development in Nigeria and beyond.
Ikenga’s Background
According to the citation read in his honour, Ikenga is a visionary entrepreneur and investor with over three decades of experience in chemicals, oil and gas, power, and beauty sectors. He founded Eunisell Limited Group, a leading specialty chemicals and oilfield services company that plays a major role in Nigeria’s industrial and energy landscape. The citation noted that his entrepreneurial success stems from his ability to identify untapped opportunities and transform them into impactful ventures. It further highlighted his commitment to innovation, people development, and social impact, including support for R&D as a catalyst for business growth.
Ikenga also spearheaded the acquisition of Interlinked Technologies Plc, where he currently serves as Chairman. His beauty company, Recare Cosmetics, became the first Nigerian firm to acquire a South African beauty brand, Hairsavvy Cosmetics. Beyond business, the University of Nigeria, Nsukka alumnus and member of the Institute of Directors (IoD) is actively involved in community development, with emphasis on education, healthcare, sports, women empowerment, and vocational training for youths.
Reaction
Speaking with The Guardian, Ikenga described the conference as timely and impactful, expressing optimism that its resolutions would produce far-reaching results. Reacting to his award, he said he was delighted by the recognition and dedicated it to chemists, while urging governments to prioritize sustainable investment in education.
