Imo State University (IMSU), Owerri, has been declared champion of the 2026 MIPLG International Intellectual Property Law Debate Competition, beating top student teams from across Africa in a showcase of legal scholarship and advocacy.
The competition began with 50 essay submissions from universities in Nigeria and abroad.
Organisers shortlisted eight institutions for the final debate stage: University of Dodoma (Tanzania), Bowen University (Nigeria), University of Nairobi (Kenya), University of Ibadan (Nigeria), Ekiti State University (Nigeria), University of Iringa (Tanzania), Strathmore University (Kenya) and Imo State University.
The event provided an international platform for student advocates to engage with contemporary issues in intellectual property law, an area growing in importance for legal practice and policy across the continent.
IMSU’s team represented by two students from the Faculty of Law comprised Iheka Chibuifem Chinemerem and Nnuji Judith Chinenye.
The pair impressed judges with rigorous research, clear analysis and persuasive advocacy, securing the top prize at the conclusion of the final round.
Expressing gratitude after the victory, the team thanked IMSU Vice‑Chancellor Prof. U. U. Chukwumaeze, SAN, FCArb, for his support and encouragement.
They also acknowledged the Dean of the Faculty of Law, Prof. C. K. Okorie, SAN, FCArb, and their supervisor and faculty adviser, Chipuruime Obiagwu‑Udeh, Esq., for their guidance and mentorship.
In his reaction, the Vice-Chancellor, Professor U. U. Chukwumaeze, SAN, FCArb, described the win as a testament to IMSU’s commitment to academic excellence and to preparing graduates who can compete on national and international stages.
“This victory celebrates scholarship, teamwork and the power of preparation."
“It reinforces IMSU’s mission to produce globally competitive graduates.” Prof Chukwumaeze stated.
Dr. Onyekachi Augustus Nwaozor is a Lecturer in the Department of Development Communication Studies, Faculty of Communication and Media Studies, as well as the Acting Public Relations Officer, all in Imo State University, Owerri, Nigeria. He earned a Doctorate Degree (Ph.D) in Mass Communication, Master of Science (M.Sc) in Mass Communication, Bachelor of Science (B.Sc) in Mass Communication and another Bachelor of Science (B.Sc) in Economics, all from Imo State University Owerri, Nigeria. He also earned a Post Graduate Diploma in Education (PGDE), from National Teachers Institute, Kaduna, Kaduna State, Nigeria. Dr. Onyekachi Augustus Nwaozor is a Google Scholar, Media Consultant, a Public Speaker and a Prolific writer. He has authored and co-authored numerous Text Books, Book Chapters, Journal Articles and Conference Proceedings, among others. He is a member of the Nigeria Institute of Public Relations (NIPR) as well as a member of Teachers Registration Council of Nigeria (TRCN)
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