Prof. Agbalagba Emerges as New Vice Chancellor of FUPRE
By Wilson Macaulay
The Federal University of Petroleum Resources, Effurun (FUPRE), Delta State, has appointed Prof. Ezekiel Oghenenyerhovwo Agbalagba as its new Vice Chancellor.
Engr. Bello Gachi Issa, the Pro-Chancellor and Chairman of the Governing Council, announced the appointment 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.
The Governing Council Chair emphasized that Prof. Agbalagba’s appointment followed due diligence and adherence to due process. He commended the professor’s academic experience, leadership qualities, and dedication to excellence, which made him the preferred choice for the role.
Outgoing Vice Chancellor, Engr. Prof. Akpofure Rim Rukeh, expressed confidence in the selection process, stating that the transition was smooth and transparent. He noted that Prof. Agbalagba has the expertise and vision to elevate FUPRE to greater academic heights. The new Vice Chancellor is expected to serve a single term of five years.
Profile of Prof. Agbalagba
The new Vice Chancellor of the Federal University of Petroleum Resources Effurun Delta State is a Professor of Environment and Radiation Physics.
Born in Agbarha-Otor, Ughelli North LGA Delta State, Prof Agbalagba received his Bachelor of Science in Pure and Applied Physics from the Delta State University, Abraka in 2000; M.Sc. in Environmental Radiation Physics, in 2007 and a Ph.D in Nuclear and Radiation Physics from the University of Port Harcourt, Rivers state, in 2012.
Prof. Ezekiel Oghenenyerhovwo Agbalagba today is a renowned Nigerian academic and expert in nuclear and radiation health physics of international repute.
His academic journey began at the Bayelsa State College of Arts and Science, Yenagoa, where he lectured from 2003 to 2010. During this period, he also served as a Research Assistant at the University of Port Harcourt. Before this appointment he was, he was the Dean of the Dean of the College of Science FUPRE. He is also one time Chairman of Academic Staff Union ASU
FUPRE Chapter.
Prof. Agbalagba’s research focuses on:
Radiation and radionuclide assessment in the Niger Delta’s oil and gas industry
Background ionizing radiation in Nigerian cities
Radioactivity pollutant transportation modeling
Noise pollution in urban and industrial areas
Non-ionizing radiation from GSM masts and mobile phones
Environmental impact assessments
A prolific scholar, he has authored four books, co-authored over 60 scientific papers in prestigious local and international journals, and presented more than 40 conference papers.
His academic achievements include delivering FUPRE’s 6th Inaugural Lecture on September 5, 2024. He is also the Managing Editor of the FUPRE Journal of Scientific and Industrial Research.
Additionally, Prof. Agbalagba 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 academic pedigree, his leadership is expected to advance FUPRE’s growth and research excellence over the next five years.
