Renowned Nigerian communication scholar, public relations leader, and Associate Professor of Mass Communication at Achievers University, Owo, Dr Chike Walter Duru, has been appointed a Research Fellow of INTI International University, Malaysia, in recognition of his distinguished contributions to strategic communication, media studies, governance, international development and communication research.
The appointment, which takes effect from May 20, 2026, to December 31, 2028, places Dr Duru among an international network of scholars committed to advancing collaborative research, innovation, and global academic engagement.
According to the appointment letter signed by the Vice Chancellor of INTI International University, Professor Joseph Lee, the fellowship is designed to promote excellence in research, enhance institutional research standards, and foster international scholarly collaboration.
As a Research Fellow, Dr Duru will participate in a broad range of academic and research activities, including collaborative research projects, international conferences, research symposiums, postgraduate supervision, guest lectures, research consultancy, curriculum development, and scholarly publications. The fellowship also provides opportunities for research funding and institutional support for the dissemination of research outputs.
The appointment represents another milestone in the career of one of Nigeria’s most accomplished strategic communication and development experts.
Dr Duru currently serves as the Head of the Department of Mass Communication at Achievers University, Owo, where he combines academic leadership with extensive practical experience gained across the public, private, humanitarian, and international development sectors.
With more than two decades of professional experience, Dr Duru has distinguished himself through exemplary leadership in strategic communication, governance reform, humanitarian response, media management, public affairs, stakeholder engagement, and institutional capacity development.