Professor Emmanuel Umana, JP, PHF

Cert. (Ed.), LLB, BL, M.Sc (POIM), M.Sc (PCR), M.Sc (CRIM), Ph.D (CRIM), FCIS, ACIArb (UK), FCIArb, FICMC, FCTI, FISPN, FCILRM, FNISM, FNIIS, FIIPS, FCIPDM, FCGP (Risk and Loan), CMP, FNIM.

Academic and Professional Background

Professor Emmanuel Umana currently serves as the Vice Chancellor of Obong University, Obong Ntak, Akwa Ibom State, a position he assumed on 1st August, 2025. He is an accomplished Professor of Criminology, Penology, Peace and Security Studies, with a reputation for academic excellence, professional integrity, and visionary leadership. He is also a Visiting Professor at Highstone Global University, Texas, USA, and Deputy Vice (President) Academic at Emmanuel University, South Carolina (Online). His academic versatility is complemented by his qualifications as a Chartered Professional Manager, Chartered Arbitrator, Chartered Mediator, Chartered Conciliator, Strategic Public Negotiator, Chartered Secretary, and Administrator.

A highly regarded scholar, he is recognized by Google Scholar and the African Scholars Network. Beyond academia, he is a Barrister and Solicitor of the Supreme Court of Nigeria, a Paul Harris Fellow, and an active Executive and Council Member of the Nigerian Institute of Management (Chartered). His educational journey spans across New Eden Primary School, Mount Olivet Grammar School Bodija (Ibadan), College of Education Uyo, University of Uyo, Nigerian Law School Lagos, Nigerian Institute of Advanced Legal Studies Lagos, and international institutions including the Centre for Nonviolence and Peace Studies, University of Rhode Island (USA) and Emory University, Atlanta, Georgia (USA).

Fellowships and Professional Affiliations

Professor Umana is a Fellow of numerous prestigious professional bodies, reflecting his cross-disciplinary expertise. These include:

AREAS OF EXPERTISE

- Nigerian Institute of Management (Chartered) - Chartered Institute of Arbitrators (Nigeria and UK) - Institute of Chartered Mediators and Conciliators - Institute of Strategic Public Negotiation - Chartered Institute of Public Diplomacy and Management - Institute of Corporate Administration of Nigeria - Nigerian Institute of Industrial Safety - Chartered Institute of Risk and Loan Management - Chartered Institute of Taxation of Nigeria - International Institute of Professional Security - Institute of African Scholars - Chartered Institute of Secretaries and Administrators of Nigeria (ICSAN) He is also affiliated with the International Association of Project Managers (Nigeria Network), a recognized branch of the global IAPM.

Training, Certifications, and Specialized Knowledge

Professional Summary and Leadership Impact

Professor Emmanuel Umana is a distinguished academic, administrator, and professional whose career reflects an extraordinary blend of scholarship, leadership, and service. With decades of impactful work in law, criminology, peace and security, corporate governance, and administration, he has become a recognized voice in academia and professional circles alike.

As Vice Chancellor, Professor Umana has set a transformative agenda for Obong University, aimed at academic excellence, innovation, and global competitiveness. Under his leadership: - The university has expanded its research culture to align with pressing societal needs. - He has fostered strategic collaborations and partnerships, benefiting both the institution and the wider community. - His leadership emphasizes innovation and applied knowledge, ensuring that students and faculty remain globally relevant. - He promotes inclusive education, creating an enabling environment where students can achieve their full potential. - His governance model prioritizes accountability, efficiency, and visionary planning, positioning Obong University as one of the upcoming leading institution of higher learning.

Beyond administration, he remains actively engaged in research, publications, and professional mentorship, thereby bridging the gap between theory, practice, and policy. His commitment to raising future leaders and scholars reflects his passion for human capital development and societal progress.

As the university continues to experience unprecedented growth, his leadership remains the driving force behind its success. His legacy will be remembered not only for institutional progress but also for his dedication to excellence, service, and humanity. Professor Emmanuel Umana stands as a paragon of intellectual and professional distinction, whose influence extends beyond the walls of academia into law, governance, public service, and international networks.