By Peter Eze

The Mass Communication Department at Enugu State University of Science and Technology (ESUT) has witnessed a rich tapestry of leadership transitions since its inception decades ago. From its founding pioneer, Prof. David O. Edeani, to the present head, Dr. Chidiebere Anthony Ezinwa, each leader has played a pivotal role in shaping the department’s growth and development.

Founding Visionary: Prof. David O. Edeani

Prof. David O. Edeani, a scholar of rare intellectual brilliance, not only served as the department’s head but also as the dean of the Faculty of Management Science at ESUT. He laid the department’s foundations during his two-year tenure.

Academic Excellence: Dr. Tony Ezenweze Onyishi

Tony Ezenweze Onyishi, a PhD holder with international experience, assumed leadership in 1985. His focus on academic excellence and departmental programme development left an indelible mark.

Bridging Academia and Practice: Prof. Ike Ndolo

Prof. Ike Ndolo (PhD), who joined ESUT in 1992, strengthened the link between academia and industry during his five-year leadership.

Ethical Commitment: Barr Hillary Chidi Ozoh

Barr Hillary Chidi Ozoh, a distinguished alumnus, led the department with a strong commitment to ethical standards, fostering professional excellence during his tenure from 1998 to 2001.

Media Law and International Communication: Prof. Sunny Udeze

Prof. Sunny Udeze, a professor of Mass Communication, coordinated the department’s activities for five years, with a focus on media law, international communication, advertising, public relations, and development communication.

Effective Administration: Prof. Linus Ogbuoshi

Prof. Linus Ogbuoshi’s credibility and commitment marked his tenure from 2010 to 2012. He ensured smooth departmental affairs and a conducive learning environment.

Prof Ogbuoshi is the current chairman of ACSPN (Association of Communication Scholars and Professionals of Nigeria), Enugu chapter.  He strengthened the postgraduate programme.

Breaking Barriers: Prof. Mrs. Clementina Oby Okafor

Prof. Mrs. Clementina Oby Okafor became the first female professor to head the department, overseeing its day-to-day operations effectively from 2012 to 2015. She brought innovations and ideals that helped to reposition the department.

Continued Excellence: Prof. Christian Chimdubem Ngwu

Prof. Christian Chimdubem Ngwu’s commitment to the department’s mission marked his five-year term from 2015 to 2020. Pragmatic and unassuming, he transformed the department during the period of his stewardship.

Vision for the Future: Prof. Ifeanyichukwu Didiugwu

Prof. Ifeanyichukwu Didiugwu, who assumed the position in 2020, initiated the current departmental building and maintained a strong supervisory role over students. Considered a disciplinarian, Prof. Didiugwu, eminently referred to as the “HOD Emeritus,” took the department to a new height within his four years of headship.

A New Era: Dr. Barrister Chidi Anthony Ezinwa

Dr. Chidi Anthony Ezinwa (PhD), known for his integrity and hard work, took the reins in September 2023. He continues the department’s tradition of excellence by actively guiding students and assessing their performance. A visionary who wants to digitalize the department, it is to his credit that, after less than two months in office, ESUT Monitor was restored.

The ESUT Mass Communication Department’s journey through leadership transitions highlights a steadfast commitment to academic excellence, ethics, and professionalism. It lays a strong foundation for future generations of communicators to thrive and excel.