UNIZIK Engineering Professor Earns Prestigious Sigma Xi Induction, Elevates University’s Global Research Profile
Nnamdi Azikiwe University (UNIZIK), Awka, has recorded another remarkable international academic milestone as Engr. Prof. Chizoba May Obele of the Faculty of Engineering was inducted as a Full Member of Sigma Xi, the Scientific Research Honour Society, one of the world’s most prestigious organisations for scientists and engineers.
Founded in 1886, Sigma Xi is the world’s largest multidisciplinary scientific honour society. Membership is by election and is reserved for researchers who have demonstrated outstanding scientific achievement and exceptional promise. The society boasts more than 60 Nobel Laureates among its members and is globally renowned for promoting excellence in scientific research, research ethics, and public engagement in science.
Prof. Obele was elected into the distinguished society in recognition of her outstanding research contributions in advanced materials for marine applications in the Niger Delta, further reinforcing her reputation as one of Nigeria’s leading engineering researchers.
The prestigious international recognition adds to an already impressive academic profile. Prof. Obele previously completed two Postdoctoral Fellowships, both of which were announced in the University Bulletin in 2023. She also emerged First Position Winner at the 2023 PIN/RMRDC National Institutional Awards in Kaduna, Science by Women Fellow (2022), and holds the distinction of being the first Professor in the Department of Polymer Engineering at Nnamdi Azikiwe University.
As a member of Sigma Xi, Prof. Obele joins a global network of distinguished scientists and engineers committed to advancing research integrity, collaboration, innovation, and mentorship. She expressed her commitment to leveraging the platform to attract competitive research funding, expand international collaborations, and strengthen STEM mentorship, particularly for female engineering students at UNIZIK.
Speaking on the honour, Prof. Obele said:
“I am deeply honoured by this recognition. It reflects the unwavering support of Nnamdi Azikiwe University and my research team. I look forward to utilising this platform to advance our research, foster meaningful collaborations, and create greater visibility and opportunities for the University on the global stage.”
The Department of Polymer Engineering and the Faculty of Engineering have congratulated Prof. Obele on the remarkable achievement, describing it as a testament to her dedication to research excellence and a significant contribution to the growing international reputation of Nnamdi Azikiwe University.