GERMANTOWN, MD, September 26, 2025 /24-7PressRelease/ -- Lawrence "Larry" Awosika, PhD, has been selected for inclusion in Marquis Who's Who. As in all Marquis Who's Who biographical volumes, individuals profiled are selected on the basis of current reference value. Factors such as position, noteworthy accomplishments, visibility, and prominence in a field are all taken into account during the selection process.

Prof. Larry Awosika has established a distinguished career in marine geophysics, marked by significant leadership roles and groundbreaking achievements. For the past 20 years, he has served as a technical adviser and marine geophysicist with the Nigeria High Powered Presidential Committee on Extended Continental Shelf. In this capacity, he analyzes seismic and geological, geophysical and hydrographic data for major projects, reviews state countries' submissions for continental shelf claims under the United Nations Commission on the Limits of the Continental Shelf (CLCS) and participates in critical discussions and evaluations regarding submission of Nigeria to the CLCS. He advises also on maritime oceanic boundaries. His expertise in marine geophysics has been instrumental in shaping Nigeria's approach to maritime boundary delineation and resources management.

Prior to his current role, Prof. Awosika serves as a member of the United Nations Commission on the Limits of the Continental shelf (CLCS) in New York, USA, from 1997 to 2023. During his tenure, he made history as the first Black chairman of a United Nations commission, serving for five years, while earlier served as vice chairman of the commission. While in the Commission, he served as chairman for many sub-commissions appointed to consider States submission to the CLCS for extended continental shelf. His leadership was pivotal in advancing international scientific collaboration and policy development related to oceanography and marine boundaries. Prof. Awosika's contributions earned him international recognition, particularly within the United Nations and at the UN Expo, where he is acknowledged as a leading oceanographer/marine scientist from Africa.

Earlier in his career, Prof. Larry Awosika held the position of director of marine geology/geophysics at the Nigerian Institute of Oceanography and Marine Research. In this role, he oversaw research initiatives that advanced Nigeria's scientific standing in oceanography. Notably, he was selected as the only Black scientist to join a United States vessel NOAA R/V Mt. Mitchell, Leg VIA. from May 20 to June 30, 1992 to assess the environmental impact of the oil spill during the Gulf War, demonstrating his involvement with the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration of the United States of America. His academic prowess was also evident when his master's thesis in Culpeper, Virginia USA was recognized as one of the best in hydrology statewide, and he successfully mapped subsurface intrusive as confines of groundwater.

Throughout his career, Prof. Awosika has received numerous accolades for his work, including the Award of Excellence in Oceanography from the IOC/UNESCO Paris. He is credited as co-author of nine publications that have contributed to advancements in marine science. Prof. Larry Awosika was also a member of Scientific Steering Committee for Land Ocean Interaction in the Coastal Zone (LOICZ) of the International Geosphere Biosphere Programme (IGBP) 1996-2002 as well as a member of the Advisory Committee for the International Sea Bed Authority (ISA) Secretary-General's Award for Excellence in Deep Sea Research, International Seabed Authority, Kingston Jamaica.

Some of his international awards include: Emeritus member of the United Nations Joint Group of experts on the Scientific Aspects of Marine Protection (GESAMP); Commander - Federal Republic of Equatorial Guinea Merit award by the President of Equatorial Guinea for outstanding services during the Nigeria/Equatorial Guinea Maritime Boundary Negotiations; Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) award presented for contributing to the award of the NOBEL PEACE PRIZE for 2007 to the IPCC; Distinguished service award from the Chinese Society of Oceanography 2023.

Prof. Larry Awosika's academic journey began with a bachelor's degree in geology, cum laude, from Howard University in Washington, D.C., followed by a master's degree in geophysics from George Washington University in Washington, D.C. He later earned a Doctor of Philosophy in geophysics from the University Ile Ife Nigeria in collaboration with the Southampton University in London. These academic achievements provided a strong foundation for his expertise and success in marine geophysics.

Prof. Awosika attributes his accomplishments to focus, self-awareness and perseverance—qualities he believes are essential for setting meaningful goals and overcoming obstacles. Inspired by his father, a road engineer, Prof. Awosika developed an early interest in earth sciences while accompanying him to construction sites, which ultimately guided him toward a career in geology.

Beyond his professional achievements, Prof. Awosika is deeply committed to fostering inclusivity and equal opportunity within his field and community. He advocates for treating everyone equally and ensuring that no one is looked down upon or denied opportunities based on their background. He enjoys networking with young people to guide them in their pursuits and emphasizes the importance of hard work and maintaining high standards. Drawing from personal experience with his daughter's pursuit of fashion design against conventional expectations, Prof. Awosika encourages parents to support their children's passions.

Looking ahead, Prof. Awosika seeks comfort and fulfillment through helping others within his means. His primary focus is making a positive difference in people's lives by providing support and opportunities wherever possible.

Prof. Awosika is married to Mrs. Olusola and blessed with four beautiful and successful daughters.

About Marquis Who's Who®:
Since 1899, when A. N. Marquis printed the First Edition of Who's Who in America®, Marquis Who's Who® has chronicled the lives of the most accomplished individuals and innovators from every significant field of endeavor, including politics, business, medicine, law, education, art, religion and entertainment. Who's Who in America® remains an essential biographical source for thousands of researchers, journalists, librarians and executive search firms around the world. The suite of Marquis® publications can be viewed at the official Marquis Who's Who® website, www.marquiswhoswho.com.

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