Prof. Christian Uzoma Onyeji

Professor Christian Uzoma Onyeji is a celebrated composer, musicologist, and educator who has spent decades advancing the study and performance of African music. After completing his undergraduate and master's degrees in music at the University of Nigeria, Nsukka, he pursued further education at the University of Pretoria, where he earned his PhD. As a professor of music at the University of Nigeria, Nsukka, he became a trailblazer by becoming the first living professor in his department at the young age of 42. His academic journey has been marked by leadership roles, including serving as the Head of the Department of Music, Dean of the Faculty of Arts, and Associate Dean of Postgraduate Studies. Professor Onyeji's research on indigenous music, particularly the music of the Batswana people of Southern Africa, has earned him international recognition. With over 100 academic publications to his name, he has presented his findings at numerous global conferences and workshops. Outside of his academic and research pursuits, Professor Onyeji is an accomplished musician who regularly performs at international music festivals and educational events. His work continues to influence the field of African music studies and cultural preservation

Experience & Activities

Gender: Male
Hometown: Umuafa Village, Atta, Ikeduru LGA, Imo State

Contact Information:
Email: christian.onyeji@unn.edu.ng, uconyeji@yahoo.com

Academic Background:

  • PhD – University of Pretoria, Republic of South Africa (2002)
  • MA (Music) – University of Nigeria, Nsukka (1995)
  • BA (Hons) Music – University of Nigeria, Nsukka (1990)

Career Highlights:

  • Professor of Music, University of Nigeria, Nsukka (appointed in 2009, became the first living professor in the Department of Music at 42)
  • Former Head of the Department of Music (2005–2006), Associate Dean of Faculty of Arts (2011–2012), Associate Dean of Postgraduate Studies (2014–2016), and Dean of the Faculty of Arts (2016–2018).
  • Extensive research on indigenous music, with a focus on the Batswana tribe of South Africa, and other African music traditions.
  • Regular participant in international conferences and workshops, with more than 100 academic publications in national and international journals.

Research Focus:
Professor Onyeji is an internationally recognized composer, educator, and researcher specializing in African music, particularly the traditional music of Southern Africa.

Hobbies:
He is passionate about music and performs internationally, alongside his work as an educator and researcher.