An environmentalist and analytical chemistry professor at Topfaith University, Mkpatak, in Akwa Ibom State, Prof Nsikak Benson, has been ranked among the world’s top 2% scientists in the 2025 global listing published by Stanford University.
The list, published in collaboration with Elsevier, is widely regarded as one of the most prestigious measures of research impact and recognises the most influential scientists worldwide across diverse disciplines.
Prof Benson’s inclusion in this global ranking is said to be a testament to his academic strength, dedication, and sustained contributions to advancing scientific knowledge.
Over the years, he has built an impressive record of impactful research in environmental and analytical chemistry, addressing critical challenges in pollution monitoring, environmental sustainability, and global health.
This achievement also underscores the growing international reputation of Topfaith University, where Prof Benson served as the pioneer Dean of Computing and Applied Sciences and is currently the pioneer Director, Internationalisation, Linkages and Global Ranking.
The recognition not only enhances the university’s emerging global standing but also serves as a source of inspiration to students and young researchers, motivating them to aim higher and make significant contributions to science and innovation.
Speaking on the recognition, Benson noted that this milestone is not only personal but institutional, as it highlights Topfaith University’s growing global visibility in research and innovation.
“Being recognized among the world’s top 2% scientists is both humbling and inspiring. This milestone is not just a personal achievement, but a reflection of the vibrant research culture we are building at Topfaith University.
“I hope it motivates our students and young researchers to dream bigger, work harder, and provide solutions and impactful innovations that will address societal and global challenges,” he remarked.
He added that “it demonstrates that Nigerian scholars can and do stand shoulder to shoulder with the very best in the world.”
The Vice-Chancellor of Topfaith University, Prof Patrick Ebewo, in his remarks, said: “We are immensely proud of Prof Nsikak Benson’s recognition among the world’s top 2% scientists. His achievement is a testament to his exceptional scholarship and unwavering dedication to advancing knowledge in environmental and analytical chemistry.
“This milestone also underscores Topfaith University’s growing international reputation as a center of excellence in research and innovation. We believe his recognition will inspire other academic staff to aspire to global standards, as we continue to build a university that delivers world-class research and foster global collaborations.”
The Chairman, Board of Trustees, Topfaith University, Mkpatak, Dr Emmanuel Abraham, noted that Prof Benson’s recognition would serve as a reminder that with the right investment in research, innovation, and academic infrastructure, Nigeria can produce scientists of global repute whose contributions shape solutions for humanity.
“It is therefore imperative for government, industry, and academia to deepen support for research and innovation as a pathway to national development and global competitiveness.”
Prof Nsikak U. Benson is a renowned environmental and analytical chemist, widely recognised for his groundbreaking research work in pollution monitoring, environmental sustainability, chemometrics, and the development of biosensors and electrochemical sensors.
His research focuses on developing advanced analytical methods to track contaminants, assess ecological risks, and promote solutions for a cleaner and healthier environment.
A Fulbright alumnus of the University of Wisconsin–Madison, USA, Benson has published extensively in high-impact international journals, with his works receiving global citations and influencing policy and practice in environmental management. His expertise spans marine biogeochemistry, ecotoxicology, and the application of analytical and computational chemistry tools to tackle environmental challenges.
Currently, Benson is also furthering his impactful research as a visiting professor at the Institute of Analytical Sciences, Université Claude Bernard Lyon 1, Villeurbanne, France, where he is collaborating on the development of next-generation electrochemical sensors and biosensors for precise environmental monitoring and health applications.
