…….Charges New COOU Governing Council on Reforms, Excellence
Emmanuel lkpeama
Governor Chukwuma Charles Soludo has inaugurated the 8th Governing Council of Chukwuemeka Odumegwu Ojukwu University (COOU), Awka, with a strong charge to reposition the institution for academic excellence, transparency, and sustainable growth.
Speaking during the inauguration ceremony held at the Light House, Awka, Governor Soludo described the assignment before the new council as critical to the future of the university and urged members to approach their responsibilities with integrity, dedication, and a clear vision for institutional transformation.
According to the Governor, the university stands at a crucial point in its development and requires bold leadership capable of driving meaningful reforms.
“You have a lot of heavy lifting to do,” Soludo told the council members. “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. Always consider what is best for the university and future generations. At the end of the day, the question should be: what changed for the better during your tenure?”
The Governor also expressed concern over challenges that have affected the institution in recent years, particularly issues surrounding governance and academic recruitment processes. He noted that his administration remains committed to restoring confidence in the university system and ensuring that merit, accountability, and quality remain central to its operations.
Expressing confidence in the leadership of the new council, Soludo said the institution was well-positioned to achieve its full potential under the guidance of the newly appointed Chairman and Pro-Chancellor, Professor Peter Onwualu.
“With Professor Peter Onwualu as your Chairman and Pro-Chancellor, your problems are solved. Take the university to realize its manifest potential. With the calibre of men and women on this council, I have no doubt that success is within reach,” he stated.
Responding on behalf of the council, Professor Onwualu pledged a new era of purposeful leadership and institutional strengthening, promising to work closely with stakeholders to elevate the university’s standing nationally.
“This will be a different Council,” he assured. “Our goal is to position COOU among the top three state universities in Nigeria. While weak institutions remain a national challenge, we are determined to build a strong and globally competitive university. We look forward to the Governor’s continued support in achieving this vision.”
The newly inaugurated Governing Council is chaired by Professor Peter A. Onwualu and includes distinguished academics, professionals and public servants such as Igwe Dr. Chris Oranu Chidume, Professor O.J. Ogbuagu, Chief Christopher Ndubuisi and retired Assistant Inspector-General of Police Chris Ezike.
Other members include 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.
Also serving on the council are 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 the university as the council assumes responsibility for providing strategic direction and strengthening governance structures aimed at advancing COOU’s academic reputation and institutional development.