Emeritus Professor • Paediatric Surgeon • Academic Leader
Festus Aghagbo Nwako
Celebrating an extraordinary legacy of excellence in medicine, education, leadership and national development.
"When this male child was born into the Nwako family, well might there, a meteor has risen in the sky."
47+
Years of Service30+
Research Papers8
Medical Books
Former Vice Chancellor
Nnamdi Azikiwe University (1991–1998)
A Legacy Built Through Healing, Leadership & Academic Excellence
Born on 19 October 1933 in Aba, Professor Festus Aghagbo Nwako dedicated his life to advancing paediatric surgery, mentoring generations of medical professionals and transforming higher education in Nigeria.
His remarkable journey spans clinical practice, academic research, university administration, public service and nation building, leaving an enduring legacy that continues to inspire future generations.
Medical Excellence
Pioneer in Paediatric Surgery and distinguished medical educator.
Academic Leadership
Former Vice Chancellor, mentor and educational reformer.
47+
Years in Academic Medicine
7
Years as Vice Chancellor
8
Books Published
30+
Journal Publications
A Lifetime of Leadership & Academic Excellence
More than four decades of distinguished service in medicine, teaching, university administration and healthcare leadership.
Lecturer in Paediatric Surgery
University of Nigeria, Nsukka
Heinz Fellow
Advanced Fellowship in Paediatric Surgery
Senior Lecturer
University of Nigeria
Professor of Paediatric Surgery
Became one of Nigeria's foremost paediatric surgeons and medical educators.
Head of Surgery & Dean of Medicine
University of Nigeria & University of Nigeria Teaching Hospital.
Vice Chancellor
Nnamdi Azikiwe University, Awka
Consultant Paediatric Surgeon
Nnamdi Azikiwe University Teaching Hospital, Nnewi
Emeritus Professor
Nnamdi Azikiwe University
Foundations of Excellence
The educational journey that shaped one of Nigeria's most distinguished medical scholars.
Christ the King Primary School
Aba
St. Patrick's College
Calabar
Science & Mathematics Teacher
St. Patrick's College & Igbo National College
MB, BCh, BAO (Hons)
National University of Ireland
Federal Government ScholarshipMaster of Surgery (Honours)
National University of Ireland
Distinguished Service & International Recognition
A lifetime of leadership, professional excellence and scholarly contributions across medicine and higher education.
Appointments & Leadership
Chairman
Management Board, Abakaliki Specialist Hospital
Honorary Citizen
Louisville & Commonwealth of Kentucky, USA
President
West African College of Surgeons
National Delegate
International Surgical Society
Officer, Order National du Lion
Republic of Senegal
Chairman
Nigerian Institute of Medical Research
Pro-Chancellor
Anambra State University of Technology
Publications & Editorial Work
25+
International Conference Papers
38
Books & Journal Publications
-
Editorial Adviser
Nigerian Journal of Surgery Since 1994 -
Editorial Board Member
West African Journal of Medicine Since 1986
Celebrating a Legacy Through Knowledge
Five distinguished memorial lectures held in honour of Emeritus Professor Festus Aghagbo Nwako.
A reminiscence
Reflections from colleagues, students and distinguished surgeons whose lives were shaped by Professor Nwako.
Prof. Festus A. Nwako
Teacher • Mentor • Surgeon
I knew Professor Festus Nwako in the mid-seventies as a medical student. Ward rounds with him were unforgettable. He demanded excellence, discipline and compassion in equal measure. His greatest lesson was that medicine is not only about knowledge—it is about humanity. That lesson has guided my professional life ever since.
My next encounter with him was as a resident doctor where I served as his Senior Registrar. Professor Nwako remained a remarkable teacher, mentor and clinician whose influence helped shape paediatric surgery in Nigeria.
His calm leadership, fairness and compassion during difficult clinical situations left lifelong lessons that continue to inspire generations of surgeons.
Professor Roland Iheanyichukwu Osuoji
Professor & Consultant Paediatric Surgeon, Lagos State University College of MedicinePreserving a Legacy. Inspiring the Future.
The Foundation advances Professor Nwako's vision through education, mentorship, research and the annual memorial lecture series.
Scholarships
Medical Outreach
Research
Mentorship
Contact Us
hyginusekwunife@yahoo.com