Education & Certifications

Okunna obtained a Bachelor of Arts degree from the University of Nigeria, and a Master of Arts degree from the University of Leicester. She then earned a PhD from the University of Lagos.

Career & Expertise

Chinyere Okunna is recognised as the first female professor of Mass Communication in Nigeria, a distinction she earned in 2001. She has focused her academic research on development communication, particularly the role of the media in women’s empowerment within Nigeria’s patriarchal society. Her work has explored how media platforms can advocate for women’s development and address issues of inequality. She has contributed significantly to the academic discourse through publications in renowned journals such as Media Culture and Society and Journal of Development Communication.

As a trailblazer in her field, Professor Okunna’s influence goes beyond research. She played a critical role in expanding the Department of Mass Communication at Nnamdi Azikiwe University, launching postgraduate programmes and initiating a professional diploma in journalism. Her leadership positions include being the first female Dean of the Faculty of Social Sciences at Nnamdi Azikiwe University and now, the Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Academic) at Paul University, Awka.

Chinyere Okunna’s expertise also extends into public service, where she served as Commissioner for Information and Culture, and later, as Commissioner for Economic Planning and Budget in Anambra State. She was a key figure in the Peter Obi administration, contributing to significant developmental projects and serving as the Chief of Staff. Okunna’s public service efforts were instrumental in driving communication strategies for governance and implementing the Millennium Development Goals (MDGs) in Anambra State.

Skill Utilisation

Okunna can speak about journalism, journalism education, and public service.