Professor Blessing Nathan Romey Jaja has been appointed Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Administration) of the Rivers State University, with effect from November 2025. A distinguished academic, medical professional, researcher, and seasoned administrator, he brings decades of cumulative experience in university teaching, biomedical research, healthcare systems engagement, and institutional leadership.

Born on 17 May 1971 in Opobo Town, Opobo/Nkoro Local Government Area of Rivers State, Nigeria, Professor Jaja began his early education at St. Paul’s Primary School, Opobo Town (1976–1982), where he obtained his First School Leaving Certificate (FSLC). He proceeded to Baptist High School, Port Harcourt, earning his West African School Certificate (WAEC) in 1987. His formative years reflected strong academic promise and a growing interest in the sciences, which laid the foundation for his future career in medicine and research.

He studied Medicine at the University of Port Harcourt, graduating in 1998 with a Bachelor of Medicine, Bachelor of Surgery (MBBS). Motivated by a deep intellectual curiosity about the structure and function of the human body, particularly the nervous system, he pursued postgraduate studies in Anatomy. He obtained a Master of Science (M.Sc.) in Anatomy with Distinction from the University of Lagos (2005–2006), distinguishing himself through academic excellence and research engagement. He further advanced his scholarly career at the University of Toronto, Ontario, Canada (2010–2014), where he earned a Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.), with research focus in Neuroscience and related Biomedical Sciences.

Professor Jaja’s academic and research career spans both national and international institutions, reflecting a blend of global exposure and local commitment. He previously served as a Senior Lecturer at Niger Delta University, Bayelsa State, where he contributed significantly to teaching, curriculum development, and student mentorship.

Internationally, he was a Research Associate in the Neuroscience Research Program at the Li Ka Shing Knowledge Institute, St. Michael’s Hospital, Toronto, Ontario, Canada. He also served as a Research Associate in the Department of Genetics and Development at the Krembil Research Institute, Toronto Western Hospital, University Health Network, Ontario, Canada. In these roles, he participated in multidisciplinary research initiatives and contributed to advancements in neuroscience and clinical research.

Since 2017, he has served as Professor of Neuroscience and Clinical Anatomy at Rivers State University.
In this capacity, he has been actively involved in teaching undergraduate and postgraduate students, supervising research projects, mentoring young academics, and strengthening the academic profile of the institution.

Prior to his appointment as Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Administration), he served as a Senior Lecturer in the College of Medical Sciences, Rivers State University, and distinguished himself as the University Orator, a role that underscored his eloquence, intellectual depth, and engagement with the academic community.

Professor Jaja has held several notable leadership and professional roles, demonstrating strong administrative capacity and commitment to service. He served as Assistant Secretary of the Nigerian Medical Association (NMA), Rivers State Branch (2008–2010), contributing to professional advocacy and organizational development. Since 2012, he has served as Coordinator of the Subarachnoid Haemorrhage International Trialists’ Collaboration, facilitating international research collaboration and knowledge exchange. He was Secretary of the Local Organizing Committee for the 6th Annual Scientific Conference of the Society of Experimental and Clinical Anatomists of Nigeria, held at Niger Delta University, Bayelsa State.

Between 2023 and 2025, he served as Chairman of the Finance and General Purpose Committee (F&GPC) and Chairman of the Tenders Board of the Rivers State Primary Health Care Management Board (RSPHCMB), where he provided strategic oversight in financial governance, procurement processes, and institutional accountability. These roles further reflect his experience in public sector administration and policy implementation.
Professor Jaja is a member of several professional bodies and has participated in numerous local and international professional development programmes. Over the course of his career, he has earned certifications, scholarships, grants, and awards in recognition of his scholarly contributions and professional excellence.

Professor Blessing N. R. Jaja is married and a devoted father of three children. His career reflects a sustained commitment to medical education, neuroscience research, healthcare advancement, institutional administration, and professional service. His appointment as Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Administration) marks another milestone in a career defined by academic distinction, leadership integrity, and dedication to the advancement of higher education in Nigeria and beyond.