Scholar and Administrator
Introduction
Addison Mark Wokocha was one of the foremost scholars of education from the Niger Delta region of Nigeria. He also excelled as a top-flight administrator in his public service career spanning over three decades.
Early Life and Family Background
Addison Mark Wokocha was born on June 16, 1948, in Omoku, Ogba/Egbema/Ndoni Local Government Area of Rivers State, Nigeria. He grew up under the guidance of religious parents, with his father being the first indigenous Bishop of the First African Church Mission in Rivers State.
Educational Background
Addison attended Saint Stephen’s United Native African (UNA) School, Omoku, and later, Baptist High School, Port Harcourt, where he excelled academically. He pursued higher education at the University of Nigeria, Nsukka, earning a B.Sc. in Plant Science in 1976. He furthered his studies with an M.A. in Philosophy of Education and a Ph.D. in Philosophy of Education from the University of Port Harcourt in 1989. Addison’s academic excellence was recognized internationally, earning him several honorary doctorates.
Career Highlights
Addison’s career began at the Ministry of Agriculture, Rivers State, but his passion for teaching led him to the Rivers State School of Basic Studies (SBS). In 1989, he joined the Rivers State University of Science and Technology (now Rivers State University) as a lecturer and rose to the rank of Professor of Educational Philosophy in 1998. He later became the Provost of the Federal College of Education (Technical), Omoku, and the Rivers State College of Education, Port Harcourt, where he left indelible marks of transformation and development.
Leadership at TRCN
As Registrar/Chief Executive of the Teachers Registration Council of Nigeria (TRCN) from 2008 to 2016, Addison engaged in the effective professionalization of teaching in Nigeria, significantly elevating the status of registered and licensed teachers both locally and globally. His efforts led to the endorsement of TRCN as the headquarters of the African Forum of Teaching Regulatory Authorities (AFTRA) in 2010, the African regional branch of the International (World) Forum of Teaching Regulatory Authorities (IFTRA). Under his leadership, TRCN’s staff welfare improved, and the council was elevated from a Category D to a Category B Agency. Addison advocated for further elevation to Category A, believing strongly in the importance of the teaching profession.
Achievements and Recognitions
Professor Wokocha was rich in experience, serving as an external examiner, a resource person for the appointment of provosts, and the president of professional societies. He was honored with numerous fellowships, awards, and chieftaincy titles in recognition of his contributions to education and community development.
Some of his notable achievements include:
- Best Performed Provost Award by TRCN and Nigeria Students’ League in 2004.
- External Examiner for 11 Nigerian Universities and Colleges (1995-2005).
- Chairman, Academic Advisory Council, London Graduate School, and Visiting Professor, Commonwealth University Belize.
- Establishment of the Addison Wokocha International Centre for Education and Teaching Library, Okposi.
Retirement and Community Service
After his federal and state appointments, Addison returned to teaching at Rivers State University in 2016 and retired on September 30, 2018. He was a dedicated community leader, promoting development and inspiring future generations through his exemplary leadership and mentorship.
Personal Life and Legacy
Addison was married to Mrs. Nkechi Vivian Wokocha, and their marriage was blessed with six children. A devout Christian, he was actively involved in the First African Church Mission Incorporated. Addison Mark Wokocha passed away on March 6, 2019, in Abuja, Nigeria, leaving behind a legacy of excellence and service in education and administration.
