Some leadership tenures come and go with little remembrance, while others leave a lasting imprint on institutions and the people they serve. The leadership journey of Dr. Romanus Nwoma at Alex Ekwueme Federal University Ndufu-Alike belongs to the latter category—a period defined by innovation, academic growth, and enduring achievements.
On September 3, 2025, Dr. Nwoma officially concluded his tenure as Head of the Department of English and Literary Studies at AE-FUNAI. While his administrative role came to an end, the impact of his leadership continues to shape the department’s future.
An Associate Professor of African Literature, Dr. Romanus Nwoma had the distinction of serving two separate terms as Head of Department (2020–2021 and 2023–2025). Across both tenures, he championed academic excellence, institutional development, and intellectual advancement, positioning the department for greater national and international recognition.
Under Dr. Nwoma’s leadership, the Department of English and Literary Studies pursued an ambitious goal: establishing itself among Nigeria’s leading departments in the field. His administration focused on creating opportunities that would enhance teaching, research, creativity, and professional development for students and staff.
One of the most notable achievements of his tenure was the launch of the Writers’ Village Project, an innovative initiative designed to serve as a creative and intellectual hub for writers, researchers, and literary scholars.
The university approved approximately 31,127.952 square meters of land for the project, marking a significant step toward creating a dedicated space for literary engagement and scholarly collaboration. Initial development activities, including landscaping and tree planting, commenced with support from the university management and key stakeholders.
The project received backing from the university leadership, including Vice-Chancellor Sunday Elom, reflecting a shared commitment to expanding academic infrastructure and fostering creativity.
A major highlight of Dr. Nwoma’s administration was curriculum enhancement through the implementation of the National Universities Commission (NUC) 30% curriculum flexibility framework.
The department introduced new courses such as ENG 113 (Public Speaking I) and ENG 114 (Public Speaking II), aimed at strengthening students’ communication, presentation, and leadership skills. These additions were designed to improve graduate employability and prepare students for success in an increasingly competitive global environment.
The department also strengthened its international outlook through a partnership with Ben Voth of Southern Methodist University. The collaboration enabled virtual teaching sessions in rhetoric and public speaking, providing students with exposure to global perspectives and contemporary communication practices.
This partnership bridged geographical boundaries and connected AE-FUNAI students with international academic resources and expertise.
During Dr. Nwoma’s tenure, the department recorded significant progress in postgraduate education. Several Master’s and PhD candidates successfully completed their studies, including students admitted during his earlier administration.
The department’s research culture was further strengthened by the contributions of respected scholars such as A. N. Akwanya and other distinguished academics who continued to mentor emerging researchers and foster critical scholarship.
Another landmark achievement was the successful organization of the department’s inaugural International Conference and Literary Art Festival. The event brought together scholars, students, writers, and literary enthusiasts from different backgrounds to engage in discussions on literature, culture, creativity, and contemporary global issues.
The conference elevated the department’s profile and reinforced its commitment to academic excellence and intellectual exchange.
As Dr. Romanus Nwoma concluded his tenure as Head of Department, colleagues, students, and stakeholders reflected on a period marked by visionary leadership, academic innovation, and institutional growth.
From the Writers’ Village initiative and curriculum reforms to international partnerships and postgraduate development, his administration delivered projects and policies that continue to shape the Department of English and Literary Studies.
More than a tenure in office, Dr. Nwoma’s leadership represents a lasting legacy of transformation, one that will continue to influence AE-FUNAI’s academic landscape for years to come..
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