Professor Philip Ogbonna a distinguished academic, Catholic priest, and passionate advocate for ethical governance and societal development. His work spans education, leadership, and human rights, making him one of Nigeria’s most respected scholars and administrators. His recent appointment as the Pro-Chancellor of Imo State University, Owerri, Imo State, further highlights his dedication to fostering academic excellence and institutional transformation.
Prof. Ogbonna grew up in a family that valued education and moral integrity. From an early age, he exhibited intellectual curiosity and a deep sense of responsibility, which guided his academic and spiritual journey.
His desire for knowledge and service to humanity led him to study philosophy, a discipline that would later define his career. He obtained advanced degrees, culminating in a Ph.D. in Philosophy, and became an authority in leadership studies, governance, and ethics.
Prof. Ogbonna has had an illustrious academic career, serving as a Professor of Philosophy at Imo State University, Owerri, and the Claretian Institute of Philosophy, Nekede. His contributions to education extend beyond Nigeria, as he has also served as a visiting professor at Jordan University in Morogoro, Tanzania.
His impact on philosophical studies in Africa is remarkable. He founded the Soren Kierkegaard Academic Society West Africa, the first philosophical society of its kind in sub-Saharan Africa, to promote critical thinking and ethical reasoning among African scholars. Through his teachings and research, he has mentored numerous students, many of whom have gone on to become leaders in various fields.
In addition to his academic work, Prof. Ogbonna has been a strong voice for ethical leadership and good governance. He has delivered several public lectures on the importance of education in shaping national development and character building.
His advocacy extends to public policy and human rights. As the Director of Research at Global Africans Against Slavery (GLAAS), he has led initiatives to combat modern slavery and human trafficking. GLAAS focuses on raising awareness, conducting research, and advocating for policies that protect vulnerable communities. Under his leadership, the organization has been instrumental in exposing the realities of contemporary slavery and proposing solutions to eradicate it.
Prof. Ogbonna has also been involved in peace and security initiatives. As Founder of Ya Kesho Africa Conference, Peace on Earth Foundation and Deputy Vice-Chancellor of Imo State University, he has convened conferences aimed at fostering dialogue and strategies for conflict resolution, particularly in preparation for elections as well as demobilising non state actors and youth restiveness.
Recognizing his academic excellence and leadership capabilities, Governor Hope Uzodinma appointed Prof. Ogbonna as the Pro-Chancellor of the Imo State University, Owerri, Imo State. This appointment reflects his commitment to advancing higher education and promoting a culture of integrity in academic institutions.
As Pro-Chancellor, he is expected to bring transformative leadership to IMSU, ensuring that the university becomes a centre of excellence. His focus will likely include enhancing research, improving faculty development, and creating a conducive learning environment for students.
Prof. Ogbonna has consistently emphasized the need for ethical leadership in governance. He believes that many of Nigeria’s challenges stem from a lack of accountability and moral responsibility among political leaders. In his public addresses, he has argued that education should not only be about acquiring knowledge but also about instilling values that promote justice and national progress.
He has been critical of certain professional groups, stating that educated individuals, including lawyers and politicians, have sometimes contributed to societal problems through unethical practices. He advocates for citizen participation in governance, encouraging communities to hold leaders accountable and demand better services.
Prof. Ogbonna is deeply committed to grassroots development. He has urged town union leaders and community youth organizations to take proactive steps in addressing insecurity and other societal issues. Drawing inspiration from historical movements such as the Aba Women’s Resistance of 1921, he encourages communities to unite against oppression and social injustices.
His work with civic organizations further demonstrates his dedication to the welfare of the Igbo people and Nigeria as a whole. Through his leadership, he continues to champion causes that promote peace, security, and national development.
Prof. Philip Ogbonna’s life and career exemplify the power of education, leadership, and advocacy in shaping society. From his academic contributions to his role in fighting modern slavery and his recent appointment as Pro-Chancellor of Imo State University, he remains a beacon of ethical leadership and intellectual excellence.
As he embarks on this new role at IMSU, stakeholders in Nigeria’s education sector and beyond anticipate transformative changes that will further solidify his legacy as a scholar, leader, and advocate for justice. His unwavering commitment to truth, service, and ethical governance continues to inspire generations to pursue education not just as a means of acquiring knowledge but as a tool for building a better society.
