Celebrating Professor Emeritus Felix Ebhodaghe Okieimen: A Beacon of Academic Excellence

By Dr Ohio Okhaide Ojeagbase FICA, FIDR

The recent conferment of the title Emeritus Professor upon Professor Felix Ebhodaghe  Okieimen by the prestigious University of Benin is a testament to a life dedicated to excellence in academics, research, and service. Professor Okieimen's towering achievements stand as a beacon of inspiration, not just for the University of Benin, but for the academic and scientific community across Nigeria and beyond. 

Professor Felix Ebhodaghe Okieimen is called “Professor of Professors”,  has been a distinguished academia at the University of Benin in Nigeria, making significant contributions to the field of polymer chemistry and materials science. He has spent several decades at the University of Benin's Department of Chemistry, where he has conducted extensive research in areas including:

• Polymer chemistry and technology
• Development of bio-based materials
• Environmental chemistry
• Materials science and engineering

Under his leadership, he helped establish and develop research capabilities at the University of Benin. His work has contributed to the development of local technological solutions using natural resources and polymeric materials.

With a career spanning many decades, Professor Okieimen has made indelible contributions to the field of polymer science, authoring and co-authoring 551 academic journals, over 12 books, a patent to his credit a feat that solidifies his place as one of Nigeria’s intellectual doyens. His scholarly works have not only advanced the frontiers of polymer science but have also contributed to global knowledge, cementing his status as a world-class academic.  Professor Okieimen has mentored many students, professors, who have gone on to successful careers in academia and industry.

As a former Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Academics), Dean of Physical Sciences, and Dean of Post Graduate Studies at the University of Benin, Professor Okieimen exemplified exceptional leadership, mentoring countless students and academics while fostering an environment of rigorous scholarship. His commitment to nurturing intellectual growth has left a legacy that will resonate for generations. 

Beyond his professional accolades, Professor Okieimen is a symbol of integrity, diligence, and unwavering passion for knowledge. His recognition as an Emeritus Professor is a well-deserved honor for an academic giant whose work has elevated Nigeria's global reputation in science and research.  We celebrate Professor Felix Ebhodaghe Okieimen, an academic deity whose life’s work inspires us all to strive for excellence and leave an enduring legacy. May his achievements continue to illuminate the path for future scholars as we build our economy to make Nigeria Great. 

This intellectual deity was sited as one of Nigeria’s All Time most prolific scholars in 2017. Professor Okieimen is married to Engr Professor Charity Okieimen and they are both blessed with children and grand children.

A pivotal moment occurred in your office back in 2000. When you reviewed my Industrial Chemistry results from the first semester of my final year - a remarkable 4.68 GPA - you asked with genuine curiosity, 'Ohio, where have you been hiding these academic talents all along?' I shared that I had dedicated myself to spiritual leadership as the founding Campus Fellowship Pastor. Your response that day became a guiding light in my journey. 'From now on,' you said, 'carry yourself as First Class material wherever life takes you, regardless of your final CGPA.' Those words continue to fuel my purpose today as I help build businesses and create pathways for others to succeed in the marketplace. 

Congratulations, Professor Emeritus Felix Ebhodaghe Okieimen! 

With utmost respect and admiration sir.

From:

Dr Ohio O. Ojeagbase FICA, FIDR

Chief Private Investigator / CEO

Kreeno Debt Recovery & Private Investigation Agency