The Extraordinary True Story of a Serial Survivor

The True Story of a Serial Survivor

Destined to Survive

by Emeritus Professor Mark Anikpo

A bullet to the chest. A nation at war. The rise of a scholar who refused to be broken. Mark Anikpo’s life is a gripping testament to resilience, faith, and the power of purpose.

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ABOUT THE BOOK

A Chronicle of Defiance

Destined to Survive chronicles the extraordinary life of Emeritus Professor Mark Okeke Chibuko Anikpo—soldier, scholar, activist, survivor, and family patriarch.

Born in Enugu in 1945, his journey stretches from youthful promise at the College of the Immaculate Conception (C.I.C.) through the fire of the Nigerian Civil War, where he survived a bullet wound that should have ended everything. Yet he returned—not defeated, but sharpened. He graduated with First Class Honours from the University of Nigeria, Nsukka (UNN),

Destined to Survive chronicles the extraordinary life of Emeritus Professor Mark Okeke Chibuko Anikpo—soldier, scholar, activist, survivor, and family patriarch.

Born in Enugu in 1945, his journey stretches from youthful promise at the College of the Immaculate Conception (C.I.C.) through the fire of the Nigerian Civil War, where he survived a bullet wound that should have ended everything. Yet he returned—not defeated, but sharpened. He graduated with First Class Honours from the University of Nigeria, Nsukka (UNN), earned a PhD at  Cambridge, and went on to play a pioneering role in building the University of Port Harcourt.

This is more than a memoir. It is a testimony of resilience, a chronicle of miraculous recoveries, and a sweeping story told across continents—Denver, Ahoada, Pyongyang, and beyond. It unveils the intricate politics of academia, the burdens of leadership, and the heroism found within family, faith, and national service. Above all, Destined to Survive delivers a timeless message:

Every trial can become triumph when purpose leads the way.

earned a PhD at  Cambridge, and went on to play a pioneering role in building the University of Port Harcourt. This is more than a memoir. It is a testimony of resilience, a chronicle of miraculous recoveries, and a sweeping story told across continents—Denver, Ahoada, Pyongyang, and beyond. It unveils the intricate politics of academia, the burdens of leadership, and the heroism found within family, faith, and national service. Above all, Destined to Survive delivers a timeless message:

Every trial can become triumph when purpose leads the way.

The Man Behind the Story

A life devoted to knowledge, justice, and uplifting others.

About the Author

Emeritus Professor Mark Okeke Chibuko Anikpo, FSSAN

A distinguished Sociologist and scholar. He holds a First-Class Honours degree from the University of Nigeria, Nsukka, and a PhD from the University of Cambridge, England. A Fulbright Senior African Scholar, his academic career includes serving as Head of Department, ASUU Chair/Zonal Coordinator, Dean of Social Sciences, Deputy Vice-Chancellor, and Acting Vice-Chancellor to mention a few. He is a Fellow of the Social Science Academy of Nigeria (FSSAN). He is married to Dr. (Mrs.) Fanny Anikpo, and they are blessed with four sons and many grandchildren.

Experience the Story That Has Inspired Thousands

A memoir of survival, leadership, faith, and the triumph of the human spirit. Available in hardcover, paperback, and e-book editions.

The official home of Destined to Survive, the powerful autobiography of Emeritus Professor Mark Anikpo. Learn more about the author, explore excerpts, and discover the remarkable story behind the book.

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