Dr. Nnakelu Chukwudalu Eriobu is a clinical research scientist, medical doctor, and public health professional with over a decade of experience in advancing health outcomes through innovative research and clinical interventions. A graduate of the College of Medicine, University of Nigeria Teaching Hospital, Dr. Nnakelu holds a Doctor of Medicine (MD) degree and a Master of Public Health (MPH), demonstrating his commitment to addressing public health challenges through both clinical expertise and robust research.

Since 2013, Dr. Nnakelu has been an integral part of the Institute of Human Virology Nigeria (IHVN), a premier research and public health institution affiliated with IHV Baltimore, Maryland, USA. He has led multiple high-impact clinical trials as Principal Investigator, including landmark studies such as D2EFT, ITAC, TICO, COHIVE, VATICO, and STRIVE, many of which contributed to advancing treatment modalities during the COVID-19 pandemic. His work has been featured in leading journals such as The Lancet and The New England Journal of Medicine. Currently, he serves as the Chair of IHVN’s Ethics Committee and co-chairs the NIH-funded STRIVE Abatacept Trial protocol team.

Dr Nnakelu is the project manager of the EXCEL RITE. In this role, he collaborates closely with the Principal Investigator, Dr. Charles Mensah, to provide strategic oversight, streamline project implementation, and ensure the timely achievement of key milestones. Dr. Nnakelu’s responsibilities include coordinating multidisciplinary teams, managing project resources, monitoring progress, and fostering effective communication among stakeholders.