University of Port Harcourt Marks Smooth Transition in Research and Development Leadership
The University of Port Harcourt has recorded a seamless transition in academic leadership as Professor Iyeopu Minakiri Siminialayi formally bowed out as Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Research and Development), handing over the mantle of leadership to Professor Angela Frank-Briggs.
Professor Siminialayi, who assumed office on 19th August 2021 and was re-elected in 2023, completed his tenure with a distinguished record of strengthening the University’s research capacity, fostering innovation, and championing development-oriented initiatives. His stewardship left an indelible mark on UNIPORT’s research ecosystem.
At a brief but memorable handover ceremony, Prof. Siminialayi expressed profound appreciation to the Vice-Chancellor, Professor Owunari Abraham Georgewill, the University Senate, colleagues, and staff for their unwavering support during his tenure. He emphasized that the office of DVC (R&D) remains pivotal in advancing UNIPORT’s research visibility, driving innovation, and nurturing vital collaborations with industry and government. He urged his successor to consolidate on the strong foundations already laid.
In her acceptance remarks, the new Deputy Vice-Chancellor (R&D), Professor Angela Frank-Briggs, expressed deep gratitude to the Vice-Chancellor and Senate for the confidence reposed in her. She pledged to build upon the achievements of her predecessor by prioritizing high-impact research, innovation-driven initiatives, and global partnerships designed to position UNIPORT as a leading hub of academic and research excellence.
Commending the transition, Vice-Chancellor Professor Owunari Abraham Georgewill described Prof. Siminialayi’s tenure as one marked by dedication, diligence, and measurable progress. He also congratulated Prof. Frank-Briggs on her appointment, expressing confidence that her wealth of experience and visionary leadership would further elevate the University’s research and development agenda.
