The College of Physical and Applied Sciences (COLPAS) of the Michael Okpara University of Agriculture, Umudike (MOUAU), Abia State, has honoured Nigerian industrial chemist, industrialist, business mogul, and science education facilitator, Chika Ikenga, with the “Infrastructure Development Philanthropist Award.”

The honour was conferred on Ikenga during the college’s maiden two-day international conference themed, “Advancing Physical and Applied Sciences for Sustainable Development in a Digital World,” held on May 6 and 7, 2026, at the college hall.

Dean of COLPAS, Professor Ifeanyi Otuokere, said the conference was more than a platform for sharing research and ideas, describing it as a space to inspire collaboration, challenge assumptions, and foster partnerships capable of driving real-world solutions.

Also speaking, the Local Organising Chairman, Professor Okenwa Igwe, described the conference as a pivotal milestone in advancing physical and applied sciences.

According to him, the gathering provided participants the opportunity to exchange knowledge, experiences, and ideas that would strengthen collaboration and promote meaningful discussions.

It would be recalled that MOUAU, in 2021, conferred Ikenga with an Honorary Doctorate in Business Administration (D.B.A.) in recognition of his contributions to science, chemistry, science education, business, and society, including the digital transformation of the COLPAS Industrial Chemistry Laboratory.

During the conference, Ikenga was further acknowledged as a strong supporter of industry-academic partnerships through his collaborations with university researchers, funding of several research projects, and co-authorship of more than 10 published research papers.

Six others — three men and three women — were also honoured with various awards alongside Ikenga. They include Dr Akanimo Edet Jonah, Dr Chris Okoro Kalu, Mr Okike Cyprain Kanu, Professor Joy Chioma Nwabueze, Lady Dr Rebecca Aghadinazu, and Professor Idowu Eluwa.

Flagging off the conference, the university’s 7th and first female Vice-Chancellor, Professor Ursula Ngozi Akanwa, said the event offered a unique opportunity for scholars to exchange ideas and collaborate across disciplines during plenary and technical sessions.

Represented by the Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Academics), Professor Elechi Nneoma Obasi, the VC urged researchers to cultivate curiosity, creativity, and critical thinking, while encouraging participants to build lasting professional connections beyond the conference.

The keynote speaker, Professor Udoinyang Inyang of the University of Uyo, spoke on the conference theme, while experts including Professors Edeh Michael Onyema (Computer Science), Everestus Obinwanne (Mathematics), Jude C. Igwe (Chemistry), Chikwendu Emenike Orji (Physics), and Victor U. Ukaegbu (Geology) presented papers during plenary sessions.

Discussions at the conference focused on reforming science curricula to integrate sustainability thinking and digital tools such as machine learning and data analysis from the first year of study. Participants also advocated stronger partnerships between universities and the private sector, alongside increased investment in Research and Development (R&D) by government and industry players.

Presentations showcased the use of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in green processes, healthcare business intelligence, and smart poultry farm monitoring, while researchers explored innovations in sustainable chemistry, geo-innovation, computational mathematics, statistics, and responsible AI applications.

Participants concluded that interdisciplinary collaboration and digital advancement remain critical to achieving sustainable development in Nigeria and beyond.

According to the citation read in honour of Ikenga, he is a visionary entrepreneur and investor with over three decades of experience spanning chemicals, oil and gas, power, and beauty sectors. He founded Eunisell Limited Group, a leading specialty chemicals and oilfield services company playing a major role in Nigeria’s industrial and energy landscape.

The citation noted that Ikenga’s entrepreneurial success stems from his ability to identify untapped opportunities and transform them into impactful ventures.

It further highlighted his commitment to innovation, people development, and social impact, including support for research and development as a catalyst for business growth.

Ikenga also spearheaded the acquisition of Interlinked Technologies Plc, where he currently serves as Chairman, while his beauty company, Recare Cosmetics, became the first Nigerian firm to acquire a South African beauty brand, Hairsavvy Cosmetics.

Beyond business, the University of Nigeria, Nsukka alumnus and member of the Institute of Directors (IoD) is actively involved in community development, with emphasis on education, healthcare, sports, women empowerment, and vocational training for youths.

Speaking with The Guardian, Ikenga described the conference as timely and impactful, expressing optimism that its resolutions would produce far-reaching results.

Reacting to his award, he said he was delighted by the recognition and dedicated it to chemists, while urging governments to prioritise sustainable investment in education