Department of Chemical Engineering

Drive innovation in industries through chemistry and engineering — Discover how the Department of Chemical Engineering equips students to design processes, develop materials, and solve real-world challenges in a sustainable and impactful way.

About the Head of Department

ENGR DR. J.C. UMEUZUEGBU

ENGR DR. J.C. UMEUZUEGBU

ENGR DR. J.C. UMEUZUEGBU is the current Head of the Department of Chemical Engineering at Chukwuemeka Odumegwu Ojukwu University. A distinguished chemical engineer and academic, he brings years of practical industry experience and academic leadership to the department.

Passionate about excellence in engineering education, Dr. Umeuzuegbu is committed to producing world-class engineers capable of driving industrial innovation and sustainable development. His vision includes expanding research capacity, fostering industry collaborations, and mentoring the next generation of problem-solving engineers.

Department of Chemical Engineering

Established in 2001, the Department of Chemical Engineering at Chukwuemeka Odumegwu Ojukwu University has grown steadily in stature and achievement, becoming a beacon of academic excellence, technological innovation, and industrial relevance.

For over two decades, we have consistently produced graduates who are not only job-ready but also equipped with the entrepreneurial mindset to become job creators.

Leadership Legacy

Our department has been led by visionary Heads of Department whose leadership has driven growth, innovation, and academic distinction:

  • ENGR. PROF. K.O. OKPALA (2003–2005, 2007–2008)
  • ENGR. DR. E.EN. IKEZUE (2005–2007)
  • ENGR. J.C. UMEUZUEGBU (2008–2010)
  • ENGR. P.C. MADUMELU (2010–2012)
  • ENGR. O.O. UDEOBI (2012–2014)
  • ENGR. K.A. BABAYEMI (2014–2016)
  • ENGR. M.N. NWANEKEZIE (2016–2018)
  • ENGR. PROF. E.N. BABAYEMI (2019–2020)
  • ENGR. DR. J.N. EZEUGO (2020–2024)
  • ENGR. DR. J.C. UMEUZUEGBU (2024–Present)

Mission Statement

To produce versatile and result-oriented Chemical Engineers who are innovative, research-driven, and capable of creating employment for themselves and others. Graduates are expected to lead in research, industrial innovation, and contribute significantly to technological development across Nigeria and beyond.

Philosophy & Core Values

At our core is a commitment to producing highly skilled, ethically grounded, and solution-focused engineers. We emphasize:

  • Sound theoretical and practical knowledge of chemical engineering principles
  • Strong ethical conduct in professional practice
  • Development of creative, problem-solving skills for engineering responsibilities

Our courses provide in-depth knowledge in:

  • Process design
  • Plant operations
  • Safety systems
  • Environmental sustainability
  • Industrial process optimization

We encourage locally relevant research utilizing indigenous materials to solve Nigeria-specific challenges.

Programmes Offered

B.Eng

Bachelor of Engineering in Chemical Engineering

PGD

Postgraduate Diploma in Chemical Engineering

M.Eng

Master of Engineering in Chemical Engineering

PhD

Doctor of Philosophy in Chemical Engineering

Each programme meets evolving industry needs while fostering innovation, entrepreneurship, and academic excellence.

Admission Requirements

Undergraduate Admission (UTME):

Five credit passes in SSCE or equivalent (max two sittings) in:

  • English Language
  • Mathematics
  • Physics
  • Chemistry
  • One other science subject

Direct Entry:

  • GCE 'A' Level passes in Mathematics, Physics, and Chemistry
  • OR OND (Upper Credit) in relevant field plus UTME requirements

Notable Achievements

  • Development of innovative research projects in environmental protection and alternative energy
  • Successful industry partnerships for student training (SIWES) and staff research
  • Alumni in top positions across industries, academia, and research institutions nationally and internationally

Future Targets

  • Strengthen research base with specialized laboratories and research centers
  • Expand international university and industry collaborations
  • Introduce professional certification programmes for practicing engineers
  • Promote commercialization of student-led innovations

Engineering the Future

The Department of Chemical Engineering is deeply committed to excellence in education, research, and innovation. With our strong foundation and clear vision, we continue producing graduates who redefine Nigeria's engineering landscape.

We welcome prospective students, industry partners, and research collaborators to our dynamic hub of chemical engineering excellence.