Iwendi appointed as IEEE distinguished lecturer For 2025-2026 term

A Nigerian Professor of Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Head of the Centre of Intelligence of Things(CloTh), at the University of Bolton, UK, now University of Greater Manchester, Celestine Iwendi, has been appointed as an Institute of Electrical and Electronic Engineers (IEEE) Communications Society (ComSoc) distinguished lecturer for the 2025-2026 term.

This prestigious recognition highlights Professor Iwendi’s expertise and contributions to advancing technology and innovation in areas such as Artificial Intelligence (AI), IoT, network security, and sustainable technologies.

During the 2025 to 2026 term, his lecture topics will focus on: The Future of AI in Wireless Sensor Networks: Enhancing Security and Efficiency’, Harnessing AI and Machine Learning for Sustainable Communication Systems, Next-Generation Network Security: Leveraging Blockchain and AI for Cybersecurity, AI-Driven Innovations in the Internet of Things: From Concept to Application and The Role of AI in Managing and Mitigating Risks in Supply Chains and Global Trade.

Announcing the appointment, University of Bolton explained that as a distinguished lecturer, he would represent their University on a global platform, delivering lectures and collaborating with IEEE ComSoc Chapters worldwide to inspire innovation and drive impactful discussions.

The University states: “The IEEE Communications Society promotes technological innovation and fosters creation and sharing of information among the global technical community. The Society provides services to members for their technical and professional advancement and forums for technical exchanges among professionals in academia, industry, and public institutions.

“As a globally recognised scholar and leader in Artificial Intelligence and wireless communication systems, he serves as the Head of the Centre of Intelligence of Things (CIoTh) at the University of Bolton, UK, now University of Greater Manchester, Bolton UK where he spearheads research in AI, IoT, network security, and sustainable technologies.

“As a Senior Member of the IEEE and a Manchester Conference Bureau Ambassador, Professor Iwendi is deeply engaged in fostering innovation, academic collaboration, and industry partnerships.”

On their parts, ComSoc, said the Nigerian with a PhD in Electronics from the University of Aberdeen, Scotland, and a Master’s in Communication Engineering from Uppsala University, Sweden, Professor Iwendi has an academic career spanning over two decades.

ComSoc noted that his groundbreaking research addresses global challenges, including secure wireless sensor networks, AI-driven sustainability, and advanced robotics.

“He has published extensively in high-impact journals, with many of his works featured in the top 25 per cent globally cited publications.

Iwendi has held prestigious roles, such as the Chair of the IEEE Computer Society Worldwide Election Committee (2024) and Distinguished Speaker for ACM.

“He is an active mentor to PhD students across institutions worldwide and contributes as an external examiner for leading universities and his teaching philosophy combines innovative pedagogy with hands-on research, empowering the next generation of scientists and engineers,” ComSoc stated.

Driven by a passion for sustainable development, Professor Iwendi aligns his work with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), focusing on advancing AI technologies for healthcare, education, and environmental conservation, while his influence extends to industry collaborations, with expertise in implementing AI solutions for supply chains, cybersecurity, and IoT applications.

Recognised for his contributions, Professor Iwendi has been featured in Elsevier’s list of the World’s Top 2 per cent Influential Scientists and honoured by the Royal Academy of Engineering under the Exceptional Talent Scheme. Through his work, he continues to inspire innovation and drive impactful research globally.