By Peace Udugba
Governor Chukwuma Charles Soludo has officially inaugurated the 8th Governing Council of Chukwuemeka Odumegwu Ojukwu University (COOU), charging the newly appointed members with the responsibility of driving institutional reforms and promoting academic excellence.
Speaking during the inauguration ceremony held at the Light House in Awka, Governor Soludo described the appointment as a significant responsibility, noting that the council assumes office at a critical period in the university’s development.
“You have a lot of heavy lifting to do,” the governor said. “I am confident that with the new leadership of the council, you will provide nothing short of excellence.
Work with the greatest level of integrity, conscientiousness and passion. Consider what is best for the university and future generations. We are all birds of passage.
What matters is the positive change you leave behind during your service. That should be your guiding principle.”
The governor also highlighted some of the challenges confronting the institution, expressing concern over the inactivity of the previous governing council, which he described as inexplicable.
He further raised issues regarding the integrity of recent academic recruitment exercises, stressing the need for transparency and accountability in the university system.
Governor Soludo expressed confidence in the ability of the new council to reposition the institution, particularly under the leadership of the new Pro-Chancellor and Chairman of Council, Professor Peter Onwualu.
“With Professor Peter Onwualu as your Chairman and Pro-Chancellor, your problems are solved. Just get going. Take the university to realize its manifest potential. With the calibre of men and women of knowledge, expertise and determination on the council, I am confident that you will succeed,” he stated.
Responding on behalf of the council, Professor Onwualu pledged a new era of transformation and institutional strengthening for the university.
“This will be a different council,” he assured. “We intend to make COOU one of the top three state universities in Nigeria. The challenge of weak institutions is a national problem, but we are determined to build a strong and competitive university. We also look forward to the continued support of the governor in achieving this vision.”
The newly inaugurated council is chaired by Professor Peter A. Onwualu as Pro-Chancellor and Chairman. Other members include Igwe Dr. Chris Oranu Chidume, Professor O.J. Ogbuagu, Chief Christopher Ndubuisi and retired Assistant Inspector-General of Police, Chris Ezike.
Also serving on the council are the Vice-Chancellor, Professor Kate Azuka Omenugha; Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Administration and Environmental Sustainability), Professor A.C. Nweke; Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Academics), Professor Obiora Ejiofor; and Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Development and Uli Campus Affairs), Professor Sylvia Okonkwo.
Additional members include Professor Matthias O. Ananti, Professor Ogonna Ifebi, Professor Nkeiruka Orji, Professor MaryJude Igbodika and Dr. Chukwunonso Ekesiobi.
The inauguration marks the beginning of a new chapter for COOU as the institution seeks to strengthen governance, improve academic standards and enhance its position among Nigeria’s leading universities.
