MEET OUR ESTEEMED CHANCELLOR: SENATOR DR. IFEANYI ARTHUR OKOWA, CON
A Leader of Vision, Excellence, and Impact
At the helm of Margaret Lawrence University is Senator Dr. Ifeanyi Arthur Okowa, a medical doctor, politician, public servant, statesman, and visionary whose life is marked by service, excellence, and transformative leadership. As Chancellor, Dr. Okowa brings a unique blend of deep intellect, wisdom, and experience in ensuring the university remains a beacon of innovation and academic distinction.
Dr. Okowa’s journey into leadership began at the prestigious University of Ibadan, where he pursued a degree in Medicine and Surgery. Graduating as a medical doctor at the young age of 22 in 1981, he subsequently embarked on a career as a physician, driven by a passion for improving public health and uplifting lives. His private medical practice soon became a cornerstone of his service to society, as he worked tirelessly to provide accessible and quality healthcare, often at no cost to the indigent. This commitment to public service shaped his outlook, propelling him from a successful medical career into politics. Dr. Okowa’s transition from medicine to politics and public service was born out of a desire to extend his impact beyond healthcare and into the broader fabric of society. His political career, spanning over three decades, reflects his ability to lead with integrity and deliver tangible results at local, state, and federal levels.
Key Milestones in Public Service:
1.Championing Grassroots Development (1991): As Chairman of Ika North-East Local Government Council in Delta State Dr. Okowa laid the foundation for his governance philosophy: putting people first. His tenure was marked by initiatives that improved local infrastructure and enhanced quality of life.
2.Driving Reforms in Delta State: Serving as Commissioner for Agriculture, Water Resources, and Health under Governor James Ibori(1997-2007), and later Secretary to the State Government (2007-2011), Dr. Okowa introduced transformative policies that boosted food security, expanded clean water access, modernized healthcare services, and improved the performance and efficiency of the Delta State Government bureaucracy.
3.A Voice in the Senate (2011–2015): Representing Delta North in the Seventh Senate of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, Dr. Okowa made significant contributions to national development by championing bills and policies aimed at improving education, healthcare, and infrastructure. As Chairman, Committee on Health, he played a pivotal role in the formulation and passage of the National Health Act 2014. The lawencompasses the legal provisions required to regulate and ensure quality healthcare services in Nigeria.
4. Governor of Delta State (2015–2023): Twice elected as Governor of Delta State in 2015 and 2019, Dr. Okowa implemented the SMART (later Stronger Delta) Agenda, which embodies policy priorities for sustainable social and economic development through job and wealth creation, rural-urban integration, and urban renewal. His eight-year tenure of Delta State was characterized by massive infrastructural renewal, youth empowerment, economic inclusivity, and far-reaching reforms in the health and education sectors. Under his watch, Delta became the first state in the country to implement the mandatory health insurance policy for all residents in the state towards the attainment of the United NationsUniversal Health Coverage. Among his legacies in the education sector was the establishment of six new model technical colleges and three new universities in the state.
5. National Statesman (2023): Dr. Okowa was the Vice-Presidential Candidate of the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) in the 2023presidential election, solidifying his reputation as a model public servant, savvy politician, gifted administrator, and exemplary leader.
As Chancellor, Dr. Okowa brings his extensive leadership experience and passion for human capital development to Margaret Lawrence University. His vision is to position the university as a global leader in education, research, and innovation. Dr. Okowa is dedicated to fostering an environment where students can thrive, pursue cutting-edge research, and become leaders equipped to address the world’s challenges.
Awards and Recognitions
Dr. Okowa’s exceptional leadership has earned him numerous accolades, including:
• Commander of the Order of the Niger (CON), one of Nigeria’s highest honors.
• Man of the Year 2017 (Daily Independent).
• Man of the Year 2018 (Silverbird Television),
• Governor of the Year 2018 (Vanguard),
• Governor of the Year 2018 - Human Capital Development - (African Independent Television)
• Zik Prize in Leadership Award 2020 for his outstanding achievements in road infrastructure and socio-economic development.
• Best Governor on Human Capital Development (2020) by the Nigeria Economic Summit Group.
• Most Youth-Friendly Governor Award by the National Youth Council of Nigeria.
• Alumni of the Year 2016 by the University of Ibadan.
These awards highlight his unwavering commitment to excellence, innovation, and public service.
A Legacy of Transformation and Inspiration
Senator Dr. Ifeanyi Arthur Okowa is a man whose life has been dedicated to public service. His leadership trajectory is one of dedication, vision, and a relentless drive to empower others. As Chancellor of Margaret Lawrence University, he inspires the community to aim higher, think deeper, and contribute meaningfully to society. Under his stewardship, Margaret Lawrence University is poised to reach new heights as a hub of excellence, innovation, and global relevance.