ENGLISH AND LIT STUDIES

COURSE OVERVIEW

Welcome to the Department of English and Literary Studies, the creative heartbeat of Godfrey Okoye University, Enugu, where language meets technology; culture merges with innovation. In this era of Artificial Intelligence and the Fourth Industrial Revolution, our department equips students not just to interpret the world but also to reshape it through the power of words, stories, and digital media.

We nurture critical thinkers, eloquent communicators, ethical leaders, and content creators who can thrive across diverse industries—from digital publishing and creative media to natural language technologies, diplomacy, and cultural entrepreneurship

Vision

To be Africa’s leading hub for innovative scholarship in the English language and literary studies, cultivating global citizens who inspire social change through words and ideas.

Mission

To train students in cutting-edge language and literary skills, foster interdisciplinary creativity, promote African cultural heritage, and integrate digital technologies into humanistic education.

WHY CHOOSE OUR PROGRAMME?

Choosing the Department of English and Literary Studies at Godfrey Okoye University, Enugu is choosing excellence, prestige, and limitless global opportunities. This is the department of the Vice Chancellor, Rev. Fr. Prof. Christian Anieke, a linguist par excellence; a man who stands tall as a testament to the trust and pride in line with our vision statement.

Here, you will study under some of the most celebrated names in African and global literary and language scholarship:

Prof. Romanus Egudu – One of Nigeria’s foremost literary griots, a legendary poet and a wordsmith, whose works shaped modern African literature.

Prof. Michael Amadihe Ezugu – The only mythologist in South Eastern Nigeria, widely acclaimed for his groundbreaking expertise in African orature and indigenous myths.

Prof. Regina Udaba – A leading authority in stylistics and linguistics. She  is known for her captivating classes on the writer and their craft, which inspires generations of scholars.

Prof. J. T. Obasikene –A Distinguished drama and theatre expert whose productions and scholarship bridge traditional theatre and contemporary performance.

Assoc. Prof. Ifeanyi Ugwu – A dynamic media and theatre specialist who couches innovation into creative communication and performance studies.

Dr. Chijioke Edward (HOD) – A visionary and student-centered leader who personally connects students to global opportunities, mentorships, and research placements.

 Beyond these giants, our department is filled with young, vibrant, and deeply caring lecturers who nurture students academically, emotionally, and professionally.

We don’t just teach the English language and Literature — we launch global careers.

Our department is constantly in collaboration with top notch international universities like the University of Northumbria, UK, giving our students rare access to exchange programmes, joint research, and global networks.

Here, you become part of a close-knit scholarly family- driven by passion, creativity, and a relentless push towards excellence in the 4th Industrial Revolution. You won’t just graduate with a degree — you will emerge as a global thinker, a cultural ambassador, and a voice that matters.

RESEARCH AND INNOVATION

The Department of English and Literary Studies at Godfrey Okoye University is rapidly emerging as one of the most innovative and research-active humanities centres in Nigeria, blending traditional scholarship with cutting-edge explorations in technology, culture, and pedagogy.

We are proud to be prioritising interdisciplinary research, as seen in our recently hosted international workshop titled “Doing Interdisciplinary Literary Research,” led by Dr. Daniel Chukwuemeka (Leverhulme Early Career Fellow, Northumbria University, UK). This workshop brought together scholars across language, literature, cultural studies, and digital humanities to inspire new ways of reading and researching texts in a rapidly changing world.

The department is also set to launch its own scholarly journal, the Gouni International Journal of English Language, Literature, and Pedagogy, which will serve as a global platform for original research, critical essays, and creative scholarship. In addition, plans are underway to inaugurate the Christian Anieke Annual Poetry Anthology, a prestigious collection honouring the Vice Chancellor and celebrating the best of African poetic talent within and beyond our campus.

Recent groundbreaking research projects from our students and faculty demonstrate our commitment to blending linguistic, literary, cultural, and technological perspectives:

The Portrayal of Poor Parenting in Lola Shoneyin’s The Secret Lives of Baba Segi’s Wives – Umeayo Mmesoma Olivia

Portrayal of Career Dilemmas and Societal Perceptions of English and Literary Studies Graduates in Achebe’s No Longer at Ease and Tartt’s The Secret History – Olive Chimeziri

Migration in Chimamanda Adichie’s Half of a Yellow Sun – Praise Mmesoma Okpunkpara

Influence of AI Tools on the Enhancement of Written English Proficiency among First-Year Arts Undergraduates at Godfrey Okoye University – Eze Cynthia Adaeze

Influence of Artificial Intelligence on English Language Learning among Final-Year English Students at Enugu State University of Science and Technology – Chukwudi Ebubechukwu Zita

Language of Memes in Shaping Modern English Usage among Students of Godfrey Okoye University, Enugu – Edeh Francisca

Reclaiming Power in a Patriarchal Society in Cheluchi Onyemelukwe Onuobia’s The Son of the House – Nzeh Favour Olaedo

Our department is home to fast-rising young scholars and seasoned academics whose mentorship nurtures the next generation of thinkers and creators. Through our research clusters, writing labs, and collaborative workshops, we continue to position our students and staff as global voices in English language, literature, discourse studies, and educational innovation.

PROGRAMME DURATION

The BA (Hons) English and Literary Studies programme at Godfrey Okoye University runs for a standard duration of four (4) academic years for students admitted through UTME and three (3) years for Direct Entry students.

 

The MA English and Literary Studies programme is designed to be completed within one (1) year and six (6) months, offering an intensive and research-driven curriculum that prepares graduates for advanced scholarship, teaching, and professional practice in the evolving fields of language, literature, and pedagogy.

 

In this department, you will study under some of the most celebrated names in African and global literary and language scholarship

ENGLISH AND LITERARY STUDIES FACULTY MEMBERS

  • Prof. Michael Amadihe Ezugu, Ph.D

    Prof. Michael Amadihe Ezugu is a distinguished scholar of English language and literature and a revered mythologist in South Eastern Nigeria. He earned his B.A., M.A., and Ph.D. in English from the University of Nigeria, Nsukka, and furthered his training at the University of Stirling, Great Britain. Over the course of his career, he has served in various academic leadership roles at the Federal Polytechnic, Idah, and the Institute of Management and Technology, Enugu, before joining Godfrey Okoye University.

  • Chukwuike JT

    is particularly interested in conflict discourses, and inter/multicultural contexts of medical communication, especially those that influence patient-centred doctoring or engender clinical conflicts.

  • Tochi Amara

    Tochi Amara holds B.A. and M.A. degrees in English and Literary Studies from the University of Nigeria, Nsukka, where she is currently pursuing her doctorate. She has been teaching since completing her first degree in 2005 and brings a strong passion for pedagogy alongside her academic expertise. Her work engages English Literature, Literary Theory, and World Literatures.

  • Chiamaka Chukwunwike

    She is a doctoral scholar at the University of Nigeria, Nsukka, with published articles in Okike: An African Journal of New Writing and the Journal of Performance Media and Humanities, among others. She currently serves as an Assistant Lecturer at Godfrey Okoye University, Enugu.

  • Dike Vivian Chioma

    Dike Vivian Chioma is a Nigerian scholar and doctoral student at Godfrey Okoye University, Enugu. She holds a B.A. in English and Literary Studies from Madonna University, Elele, and an M.A. in English and Literary Studies from Rivers State University. Her research explores the intersections of language, digital humanities, and discourse, with a focus on how language shapes cultural narratives and digital communication.

  • Chizurum Rachel Ugwu

    Chizurum Rachel Ugwu joined Godfrey Okoye University as a Graduate Assistant in 2016 and became an Assistant Lecturer in 2021. She holds a B.A. in English and Literary Studies (Second Class Honours, Upper Division) and an M.A. in Literature (Distinction) from the University of Nigeria, Nsukka, where she is currently pursuing her doctorate. Her master’s dissertation examined Solitude in Wole Soyinka’s The Interpreters.

  • Vitalis Chinemerem Iloanwusi

    Vitalis Chinemerem Iloanwusi is a Nigerian writer, literary activist, and emerging scholar whose work traverses trauma narratives, childhood suffering, race, creative pedagogy, and the healing power of literature. A first-class graduate of English and Literary Studies Education at Godfrey Okoye University, he writes across genres: fiction, nonfiction, and poetry, often centering broken children, segregated communities, and survivors of silence.

  • Rev. Fr. Prof. Christian Anieke

    Vice Chancellor, Godfrey Okoye University, Enugu Professor of English and Literary Studies

    Rev. Fr. Prof. Christian Anieke is the pioneering Vice Chancellor of Godfrey Okoye University, Enugu, and a renowned Professor of English and Literary Studies. A Catholic priest, scholar, and visionary educational leader, Prof. Anieke combines academic excellence with pastoral commitment, making him a model of intellectual and moral authority in higher education.

  • Dr. Chijioke Edward

    Head of Department, English and Literary Studies Godfrey Okoye University, Enugu

    Dr. Chijioke Edward is a linguist and scholar of English whose work focuses on sociolinguistics, identity construction, discourse analysis, and media studies. He holds a Ph.D. in English and Literary Studies from the University of Nigeria, Nsukka, along with an M.A. and B.A. in English and Literary Studies, and an NCE in English.

  • Prof. Romanus N. Egudu

    Emeritus Professor of English Godfrey Okoye University, Enugu

    Prof. Romanus N. Egudu is a renowned scholar of English and African literature, widely celebrated for his pioneering contributions to the study of West African and Igbo poetry. Formerly of the University of Nigeria, Nsukka, and later the University of Benin, he currently serves as an Emeritus Professor at Godfrey Okoye University, Enugu. Over the decades, he has taught and mentored several generations of acclaimed writers and academics, both in Nigeria and internationally.

  • Prof. Regina O. Udaba

    Professor of English and Literary Studies Godfrey Okoye University, Enugu

    Prof. Regina O. Udaba is a scholar of English language and literature with expertise in applied linguistics, stylistics, and literary discourse. She teaches courses in stylistics, linguistics, and language studies, and her scholarship engages topics such as Achebe’s poetry, child naming in Igbo society, linguistic analyses of Soyinka’s works, and cultural nuances in African and European literary traditions.

  • Ven. Prof. J. T. Obasikene

    Part-Time Professor of English and Drama Studies Godfrey Okoye University, Enugu, Nigeria

    Ven. Prof. J. T. Obasikene is a revered scholar and cleric whose academic contributions span English, Drama, and Communication Studies. He serves as a part-time Professor at Godfrey Okoye University, Enugu, where he brings a wealth of knowledge and experience to students and colleagues.

  • Dr. Justus C. Ugwu

  • Dr. Dele Maxwell Ugwanyi

    Associate Professor of English and Literary Studies Godfrey Okoye University, Enugu

    Dr. Dele Maxwell Ugwanyi is an Associate Professor of English and Literary Studies at Godfrey Okoye University, Enugu. A prolific scholar and literary critic, he is widely recognized for his contributions to African literature, literary theory, gender studies, postcolonial studies, and environmental humanities.

  • Dr. Ojel Clara Anidi

    Senior Lecturer, Department of English and Literary Studies Godfrey Okoye University, Enugu

    Dr. Ojel Clara Anidi is a distinguished scholar of English and Literary Studies who brings a wealth of academic and professional experience to Godfrey Okoye University, where he serves as a part-time Senior Lecturer. He is also a Chief Lecturer at the Institute of Management and Technology (IMT), Enugu. His expertise spans applied linguistics, African literature, stylistics, poetry, history, and culture, making him a versatile academic voice in the field of language and literary studies.

  • Prof. Ifeanyi Ugwu

    Associate Professor of Theatre and Performance Studies Godfrey Okoye University, Enugu, Nigeria

    Assoc. Prof. Ifeanyi Ugwu is a distinguished scholar of Theatre Arts and Performance Studies with extensive contributions to Nigerian drama, folklore, and intercultural performance. His teaching, research, and creative practice engage with traditional Nigerian theatre, popular performance, dramaturgy, and the intersection of theatre with social development.

  • Ijeoma Nina Nwabueze

    Ijeoma Nina Nwabueze is an Assistant Lecturer whose teaching and research engage the intersections of syntax, learning disorders, and language pedagogy. She holds expertise in editing and developing texts on English usage, with a special focus on supporting second-language learners.

ALUMNI PROFILES AND TESTIMONIALS

  • Kaitlin Chimdindu Gee-Akwada

    Kaitlin Chimdindu Gee-Akwada graduated in 2022 with First Class Honours in English and Literary Studies from Godfrey Okoye University. She distinguished herself not only academically but also in leadership, earning the rare honour of serving as Vice Chancellor for One Day after attaining a perfect CGPA of 5.00 in her third year. She describes this achievement as “a moment of faith and discipline—spoken into existence, then achieved through consistency and focus.”

  • Onwuzurike Bianca Chidera

    Bianca Onwuzurike Chidera graduated in 2023 with First Class Honours in English and Literary Studies from Godfrey Okoye University, where she emerged as Best Graduating Student in the Department of English and Literary Studiesand Best Graduating Student in the Faculty of Arts.

  • Iyama Deborah Onyinyechi

    Iyama Deborah Onyinyechi is a graduate of English and Literary Studies from Godfrey Okoye University. During her undergraduate years, she demonstrated leadership and service as a Hostel Moderator, an active member of the Council of Honour (COHON), and Treasurer of the Faculty of Arts Students Association (FASA).

  • Jessica Chukwumalume

    Jessica Chukwumalume is a graduate of English and Literary Studies from Godfrey Okoye University, Class of 2024 where graduated with Second Class Honours (Upper Division). During her time in school, she served actively in leadership positions as a faculty representative and course representative for her department. Through these roles, she distinguished herself as a dedicated leader who valued teamwork, communication, and service to others.

  • Olive Chimeziri

    Olive Chimeziri is a graduate of English and Literary Studies from Godfrey Okoye University, Class of 2024/2025. Throughout her undergraduate years, she distinguished herself by challenging stereotypes associated with the English and Literary Studies department. She consistently worked to reshape perceptions of arts students by showcasing their creativity, intellect, and relevance across academic and social spaces.

  • Umeayo Mmesoma Olivia

    Umeayo Mmesoma Olivia is an emerging intellectual with a strong passion for writing, public speaking, and literary analysis. During her secondary education at Daughters of Divine Love Juniorate (DDL), she served as School Disciplinarian. At Godfrey Okoye University, Enugu, she served as an active member of the Council of Honour (COHON) and an acting Hostel Moderator of All Saints Hostel. She also participated in debates and speech competitions, demonstrating exceptional leadership and communication skills.

  • Okpunkpara Praise Mmesoma

    Okpunkpara Praise Mmesoma is an emerging scholar and entrepreneur with a deep passion for literature, migration studies, and female empowerment. At Godfrey Okoye University, Enugu, she distinguished herself as a vibrant intellectual voice, completing her undergraduate project on “Migration in Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie’s Half of a Yellow Sun.” Her research reflects her keen interest in the intersections of literature, displacement, and human resilience.