Professor Marwan Al-Akaidi is a distinguished and forward-thinking leader in Computer Science and Engineering. His extensive qualifications include a BSc, MSc, and PhD from Loughborough University, one of the top 10 universities in the UK, and he holds prestigious accreditations such as CEng, CITP, FIET, FBCS, FIAP.

With a robust academic background, Professor Al-Akaidi has consistently revitalized institutions, transforming them into dynamic centers of education and research. His illustrious career spans key roles and significant contributions across several renowned institutions.

At De Montfort University (DMU), UK, as Head of the School of Engineering & Technology, Professor Al-Akaidi led the establishment of the Media Studio and the Creative Technology programs in partnership with the BBC. This initiative positioned DMU at the forefront of media production technology education and research, integrating industry expertise with advanced academic curricula. His visionary leadership transformed these programs into benchmarks for innovation in media technology, significantly enhancing DMU’s reputation and influence in the field.

At the Arab Open University (AOU), as Vice President of Academic Affairs, he expanded academic programs across multiple branches, all fully accredited and validated by the Open University (OU) UK. He launched two international journals, contributing to the institution’s global academic discourse. His strategic initiatives at AOU resulted in the widespread implementation of academic programs, which are recognized for their quality and relevance across the MENA region.
At the American University in the Emirates (AUE), Dubai, serving as Vice President for Research and Dean of the College of Computer & Information Technology, Professor Al-Akaidi founded the Blockchain Centre in collaboration with Dubai Blockchain. This groundbreaking initiative as a pioneer in blockchain education. He also organized and chaired two international conferences and numerous international webinars, further solidifying AUE’s status as a leader in emerging technologies.

Moreover, Professor Al-Akaidi has fostered strategic partnerships with leading universities and global corporations such as Rolls Royce, BT, France Telecom, Toyota, and Nokia. These collaborations have enriched academic offerings and provided invaluable industry insights and opportunities for both students and faculty.

His dedication to global collaboration is demonstrated through the successful establishment more than 50 international partnerships and the creation of new university brands and centers across various regions. These efforts have extended the reach and impact of the institutions he has served, reinforcing their roles as influential players in the global academic community.

Beyond his administrative roles, Professor Al-Akaidi is celebrated for his commitment to student mentorship and leadership development. At AOU, he significantly boosted student retention through the Student Retention Enhancement Project. His mentorship philosophy emphasizes nurturing curiosity and empowering students for success beyond the classroom. Additionally, he pioneered Blended, Online, and e-Learning in the MENA region and introduced MOOCs in the middle east.

His innovative teaching methods integrate emerging technologies, interactive tools, and real-world applications, promoting critical thinking and adaptability. His global impact is reflected in his editorial and chair roles at over 40 international conferences, keynote invitations at more than 50 global events, and the supervision of 45 MPhil/PhD students and more than 100 MSc students, who have excelled worldwide. With over 300 publications in reputable international journals and conferences, he has made significant scholarly contributions. He is a QAA (UK) auditor and a member of accreditation panels for IET & BCS, among others. Recently, he was appointed General Director for the Middle East & Turkey for the RUR Universities Ranking, and he is a co-founder of Eurosis and General Chair of the MESM conferences.

Wigwe University is thrilled to welcome him as a transformative leader. With his profound knowledge and vast experience, Professor Al-Akaidi is poised to inspire our students, guiding them on a life-changing journey from academic scholars to fearless leaders of tomorrow.

Dapo Olagunju, joins WU Governing Council with rich experience in global finance and social impact initiatives. As the Head of West Africa at JP Morgan Chase and a co-founder of 234Give.com, Dapo brings invaluable expertise in financial management and social entrepreneurship. His strategic vision and innovative thinking will play a crucial role in guiding our university’s financial planning and investment strategies. Additionally, Dapo’s commitment to social impact will ensure that our institution remains deeply rooted in its mission to serve society.

Dame Aleruchi Cookey-Gam brings invaluable

expertise in law, governance, and public administration. Her distinguished career as the first female Attorney-General of Rivers State and the pioneering Administrator of the Greater Port Harcourt City Development Authority (GPHCDA) positions her as a strategic asset in shaping the university’s direction and policies.

With a Master of Laws (LLM) from the London School of Economics & Political Science (LSE) and a Bachelor of Laws (LL.B.) from the University of Ife, now Obafemi Awolowo University, her academic credentials underscore her commitment to excellence and lifelong learning, enriching the intellectual discourse within the university community.

Drawing from his extensive background in finance and banking, Mr. Emman Chisor-Wabali offers invaluable expertise in financial management and investment strategies to our university. Mr. Wabali is an experienced Economist with extensive Banking (Commercial and

Development Banking) and professional experience in the public and private sector. His career has been marked by integrity, credibility, and passion for progress to governance efforts. A Start-Up Consultant Compliance and Process expert, he has extensive work experience

following his involvement with the Rivers State Bureau of Public Procurement, Rivers State Economic Advisory Council, Technical Committee on the Review and Reform of Nigerian Deposit Insurance and as Corporation NDIC 2007-2008 Controller Investment Appraisal Department, Industrial Development Bank of India Mumbai. Added to all these, Mr. Wabali will be one of two members of the Host Community on the Council.

Paschal Ainoghena Eruaga currently heads the Legal Division of the National Universities Commission, Abuja. He holds law degrees at undergraduate and postgraduate levels from the Universities of Benin and Sunderland, United Kingdom respectively.

Paschal has extensive experience in matters related to university governance. Apart from playing critical roles in the drafting and reviewing Laws in the Nigerian University System, he has worked as a member and headed the Secretariat of several strategic committees in the Commission. He was a member and later Secretary of the Standing Committee on Private Universities and was instrumental in the establishment of several private universities in Nigeria.

Furthermore, he has participated in visitation panels for universities and various Presidential White Paper drafting committees for federal universities. Prior to his employment with the Commission, Paschal worked with the Barclays Bank in the United Kingdom.

Seasoned Legal Luminary and Business Leader His extensive experience in legal practice and

business leadership, brings a unique perspective to our university’s governance. His expertise in corporate governance and regulatory compliance will ensure that our institution operates ethically and transparently. Additionally, Gbenga’s strategic insights into business operations will support our university’s financial sustainability and growth initiatives. He was also a Pro-chancellor of a private university and brings valuable insight from to Wigwe University.