The Federal University of Petroleum Resources, Effurun (FUPRE), Delta State, has appointed Prof. Ezekiel Oghenenyerhovwo Agbalagba as its new Vice Chancellor.
The Pro-Chancellor and Chairman of the Governing Council, Engr. Bello Gachi Issa, made the announcement during a press briefing at the university’s Conference Hall.
He revealed that 39 candidates applied for the position, but Prof. Agbalagba emerged as the most outstanding candidate after a rigorous selection process.
Engr. Issa emphasized that the appointment followed due diligence and adherence to due process, highlighting Prof. Agbalagba’s academic experience, leadership qualities, and dedication to excellence as key factors in his selection.
The outgoing Vice Chancellor, Engr. Prof. Akpofure Rim Rukeh, described the transition process as smooth and transparent, expressing confidence that Prof. Agbalagba possesses the expertise and vision to propel FUPRE to greater academic and research heights.
Prof. Agbalagba, a distinguished scholar in Environmental and Radiation Physics, hails from Agbarha-Otor, Ughelli North LGA, Delta State. He obtained his Bachelor of Science in Pure and Applied Physics from Delta State University, Abraka, in 2000, followed by a Master’s degree in Environmental Radiation Physics in 2007.
He later earned a Ph.D. in Nuclear and Radiation Physics from the University of Port Harcourt in 2012.
His academic journey began at the Bayelsa State College of Arts and Science, Yenagoa, where he lectured from 2003 to 2010 while also serving as a Research Assistant at the University of Port Harcourt.
Before his new appointment, he was the Dean of the College of Science at FUPRE and had previously served as the Chairman of the Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU), FUPRE Chapter.
Over the years, Prof. Agbalagba has gained recognition for his extensive research in radiation and radionuclide assessment in the Niger Delta oil and gas industry, background ionizing radiation in Nigerian cities, and radioactivity pollutant transportation modeling.
His work also covers noise pollution in urban and industrial areas, non-ionizing radiation from GSM masts and mobile phones, and environmental impact assessments.
A prolific academic, he has authored four books, co-authored over 60 research papers in reputable local and international journals, and presented more than 40 conference papers.
He delivered FUPRE’s 6th Inaugural Lecture on September 5, 2024, and currently serves as the Managing Editor of the FUPRE Journal of Scientific and Industrial Research.
In addition to his academic achievements, he is a certified Nuclear Security Specialist in radionuclide waste security management, accredited by the World Institute of Nuclear Security, Australia.
With his vast experience and expertise, his leadership is expected to enhance FUPRE’s academic and research excellence over the next five years.
