Dr. Njideka Phina Onyekwelu is an extraordinary academic, researcher, and leader who has carved a niche for herself in the field of business administration and management.
With an illustrious career spanning education, research, consultancy, and healthcare administration, she is a model of intellectual excellence and impactful leadership. Her contributions extend beyond academia, influencing organizational practices, community development, and societal growth in Nigeria and beyond.
Dr. Onyekwelu’s educational background is both diverse and rigorous, establishing a foundation for her outstanding career. She holds a PhD in Business Administration from Chukwuemeka Odumegwu Ojukwu University, awarded in 2019, after earning her MSc in Business Administration and an MBA from Anambra State University and Imo State University respectively. Her Professional Diploma in Education, obtained in 2019, further emphasizes her dedication to teaching and the development of future leaders. These achievements reflect her commitment to blending theoretical expertise with practical application, a hallmark of her career.
As a Lecturer at Nnamdi Azikiwe University, Awka, Dr. Onyekwelu has become a respected academic voice in the areas of human resources management, strategic management, and entrepreneurship development.
Her engaging teaching style, coupled with her ability to inspire students, has made her an invaluable asset to the university. Over the years, she has guided numerous students through complex academic challenges, supervising undergraduate and postgraduate theses on topics such as employee retention strategies, workplace culture, and organizational performance. Her role as a mentor extends beyond academics, as she provides both professional and personal guidance to her students, preparing them for the demands of a competitive world.
Dr. Onyekwelu’s contributions to research are a significant aspect of her professional legacy. Between 2017 and 2021, she published extensively on topics that bridge the gap between theory and practice in business management. Her 2021 study on “Social Media: A Requisite for Attainment of Business Sustainability” underscores the transformative role of technology in modern business practices. Similarly, her work on “Strategic Thinking and Competitive Advantage of Small and Medium Scale Enterprises in South East Nigeria” demonstrates her focus on fostering innovation and adaptability in a challenging economic landscape. These publications, among others, not only enhance academic knowledge but also offer practical insights for improving organizational efficiency and achieving sustainable growth.
Before transitioning fully into academia, Dr. Onyekwelu made remarkable strides in healthcare administration. As Chief Hospital Manager at All Hallows Hospital and Maternity in Onitsha, she played a pivotal role in transforming the institution’s operations. From 2015 to 2019, she introduced strategic reforms that enhanced financial management, staff performance, and patient satisfaction. Her ability to align organizational goals with community needs reflects her visionary approach to leadership. Since 2019, she has brought this expertise into the consultancy space, providing tailored solutions to organizations across industries. Her work as a consultant highlights her ability to combine academic rigor with practical problem-solving, making her a sought-after advisor for businesses seeking strategic guidance.
Dr. Onyekwelu’s influence extends far beyond her professional roles. She is deeply committed to community development and advocacy, particularly in promoting education and inclusivity. As President of the Association of Medical Doctors’ Wives in Onitsha, she led initiatives that bridged healthcare and community welfare, emphasizing the importance of collaboration in solving societal challenges. Her involvement in numerous committees and professional organizations further underscores her dedication to using her expertise for the betterment of society.
Dr. Onyekwelu’s achievements have been recognized through her memberships in prestigious organizations, such as the African Institute of Strategic Managers and the Nigerian Institute of Management. These affiliations are a testament to her commitment to professional excellence and continuous development. As a Fellow of these esteemed institutions, she represents the highest standards of ethical practice and leadership in her field.
The story of Dr. Njideka Phina Onyekwelu is one of resilience, innovation, and impact. Her career exemplifies the power of education and leadership to drive change, both within organizations and in society at large. Whether mentoring students, publishing groundbreaking research, or consulting for businesses, she remains steadfast in her mission to create a legacy of excellence. Dr. Onyekwelu is not just an academic or a leader; she is a visionary shaping the future of business administration and inspiring a generation to aim higher.