Appointments

Professor Ini Jona joins the Editorial Board of The Journal of Tropical Research.

July 1, 2024

Professor Jona, Ini Nka, born on November 9, 1956, has established a distinguished career in the field of Physical and Health Education. He hails from Nigeria, a nation known for its rich cultural heritage and commitment to educational advancement. Professor Nka’s journey in academia and sports has been marked by numerous achievements, underscoring his dedication to the development and promotion of sports, particularly for individuals with disabilities.

Early Life and Education

Professor Nka’s academic journey began at the prestigious Ahmadu Bello University in Zaria, where he earned his Diploma in Physical and Health Education in 1981. His passion for sports and education led him to pursue further studies, obtaining a B.Sc. in Physical and Health Education in 1984. His quest for knowledge did not stop there; he earned a Master of Arts in Physical Education with a specialization in Adapted Physical Education from Obafemi Awolowo University, Ile-Ife, in 1991, followed by a Ph.D. in the same field in 1999.

Professional Career

Coaching and Early Career

Before his foray into academia, Professor Jona  honed his skills as a coach at the Cross River State Sport Council in Calabar. His coaching career set the stage for his future endeavors in sports and education. In 1987, he joined the University of Uyo as a Teaching Assistant in the Department of Physical and Health Education. His dedication and expertise quickly earned him a series of promotions, culminating in his appointment as a full Professor in 2011.

Academic and Administrative Roles

Throughout his tenure at the University of Uyo, Professor Jona  has held various significant positions. He served as the Acting Head of the Physical and Health Education Department in 2005, Director of Sports from 2006 to 2011, and Head of the Department from 2013 to 2016. His leadership extended beyond departmental responsibilities as he chaired the Sports Committee in 2015, showcasing his ability to lead and inspire both students and colleagues.

Research and Publications

Professor Nka’s research interests primarily focus on Adapted Physical Education. He has undertaken several important studies, including an evaluation of the physical and anthropometric status of educable mentally retarded pupils in Uyo, Akwa Ibom State, and the effectiveness of combined weight-bearing exercise and aquatic activities in reducing osteoporosis in high-risk groups. His prolific writing has produced numerous publications, significantly contributing to the body of knowledge in his field.

Selected Publications

  1. Sports Facilities and Equipment in Ahmadu Bello University: Its Impact on Students’ Participation and Performance – An unpublished Bachelor’s degree project.
  2. An Evaluation of Sport Programmes for Handicapped Pupils in Selected Primary Schools in Nigeria – An unpublished Master’s thesis.
  3. Effect of Circuit and Interval Training Programmes on Physical Performance – An unpublished Ph.D. dissertation.

Conferences and Presentations

Professor Jona  is a prominent figure at national and international conferences. His presentations often focus on sports science, adapted physical education, and the promotion of inclusive sports programs. Some notable presentations include:

  1. “Fluid and Electrolyte Regulation during Endurance Performance” at the National Conference of the Nigerian Association of Sports Science and Medicine (NASSM), Ibadan.
  2. “Enhancing Sports Performance of Autistic Children” at the National Conference of Nigeria Association of Physical Health Education and Recreation (NAPHER), Lagos.
  3. “Strategies of Impacting HIV/AIDS Information to the Blind in Southern Nigeria” at the International Council for Health, Physical Education, Recreation and Dance (ICHPER), Ghana.

National and Community Service

Professor Nka’s contributions extend beyond academia into national and community service. He has served in various capacities, including:

  1. Chairman of the Accreditation Committee and Coordinator of NUGA Zone D (2006 – present).
  2. Coach for the Nigerian Table Tennis Team at the World University Games in Beijing (2001) and the African University Games in Bauchi (2004).
  3. Technical Adviser and Vice Chairman of the Akwa Ibom State Committee on Sport for the Disabled (2004 – present).
  4. National Chairman of University Table Tennis Coaches.
  5. Chairman of the Akwa Ibom State Table Tennis Association (2009 – 2014).

Awards and Recognitions

Professor Jona  has received several distinctions and awards, recognizing his outstanding contributions to sports and education. He was honored with the Full Sport Honour at Ahmadu Bello University, a testament to his exceptional skills and dedication to sports.

Membership in Professional Bodies

His professional affiliations are extensive, including memberships in:

  1. Nigeria Association of Physical Health Education and Recreation (NAPHER).
  2. Nigeria Association of Sport Science and Medicine (NASSM) since 1992.
  3. International Association of Adapted Physical Activity (IFAPA) since 1993.

Impact and Legacy

Professor Jona, Ini Nka’s career is a testament to his unwavering commitment to the advancement of physical and health education. His efforts have significantly impacted the lives of many, particularly individuals with disabilities, by promoting inclusive sports and adapted physical education. His leadership, research, and dedication continue to inspire students, educators, and sports professionals alike, ensuring a lasting legacy in the field of sports science and education.

Professor Nka’s story is one of passion, dedication, and a relentless pursuit of excellence. His contributions to academia, sports, and community service underscore the vital role of educators in shaping the future of sports and education in Nigeria and beyond.