By Chukwuka Ogbonnaya
The Acting Vice-Chancellor of Nnamdi Azikiwe University (Unizik), Prof. Joseph Ifeanyichukwu Ikechebelu, has reaffirmed the institution’s dedication to fostering peace, unity, and academic excellence. Speaking during a press conference held today at the University Council Chamber, Prof. Ikechebelu described recent challenges faced by the institution as “traumatic.” However, he assured the University community, the Nigerian public, and the global academic audience that Unizik is firmly back on track.
Expressing profound gratitude, Prof. Ikechebelu thanked President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, for his prompt intervention in resolving the crisis. “President Tinubu gave us a listening ear, conducted due diligence, and ensured that justice prevailed. His timely intervention has restored our confidence in his leadership,” he remarked.
The Acting Vice-Chancellor also commended the Minister of Education, Dr. Olatunji Alausa, the Minister of State for Education, the Acting Executive Secretary of the National Universities Commission (NUC), Mr. Chris Maiyaki, and other key stakeholders for their roles in resolving the impasse. He described their collective efforts as a testament to their commitment to the stability and growth of Nigeria’s university system.
Prof. Ikechebelu emphasized that his administration’s immediate focus is to promote unity and reduce tensions within the institution. “We are committed to bringing everyone together to work as one family. The management has already met and passed resolutions aimed at achieving lasting peace. Our mantra is: Happy Productive Staff and Happy Progressive Students. Unizik is re-energized and ready to excel,” he assured.
Addressing lingering issues such as unpaid staff salaries, Prof. Ikechebelu reiterated the University’s commitment to resolving them. “We will not relent in ensuring that all outstanding salaries are paid. By God’s grace, every affected staff member will be absorbed and compensated,” he stated.
He also reaffirmed his administration’s dedication to the BLESSeD mantra, which underscores core principles of *Beautifying and Lighting Up Unizik,* fostering *Excellence,* ensuring a *Safe and Secure* environment, and leveraging innovation to *Digitize Unizik*. “These values form the foundation of our vision for a thriving, world-class institution. Unizik is back, ready to reclaim its pride of place,” he said.
Prof. Ikechebelu extended his gratitude to the Medical and Dental Consultants Association of Nigeria (MDCAN), the Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU) Unizik chapter, and the national body for their resilience throughout the challenges.
The Acting Vice-Chancellor was accompanied by principal officers, including the Acting Registrar, Mr. Victor Modebelu; the Bursar, Mr. Gozie Egwuatu; the Librarian, Prof. Stella Anasi; the Provost of the College of Postgraduate Studies, Prof. Philomena Igbokwe; the Provost of the College of Health Sciences, Nnewi, Prof. Gerald Udigwe; the Special Adviser to the Vice-Chancellor on Academic Matters, Prof. F.J.C. Odibo; the Director of Academic Planning, Prof. Angela Ufelle; the Dean of Student Affairs, Prof. Makodi Biereenu-Nnabugwu; the Chief Legal Officer of the University, Prof. Meshach Umenweke; the Chief Safety Officer, Mr. Ken Chukwurah; the Director of Works, Engr. Iyke Onwuemene; the Director of Medical Services, Prof. Lasbery Asomugha; and the Director of Procurement, Arc. Damian Oduche.
Prof. Ikechebelu’s administration remains steadfast in its mission to create a harmonious and academically vibrant Unizik, ensuring the University continues to be a beacon of excellence.