Nnamdi Azikiwe University, Awka, Anambra State, has witnessed a significant leadership change as the institution’s Governing Council announced the removal of the Acting Vice-Chancellor, Joseph Ikechebelu, and the appointment of a new acting vice-chancellor, Carol Arinze-Umobi.
Mr. Ikechebelu, a professor and former deputy vice-chancellor (administration) of the university, assumed the role of acting vice-chancellor in early June, following the expiration of the tenure of Charles Esimone, a professor. However, the reasons for Mr. Ikechebelu’s removal have not been disclosed.
The letter announcing Mr. Ikechebelu’s removal and the appointment of Mrs. Arinze-Umobi was signed by Gregory Mbadiwe, the pro-Chancellor and Chairperson of the council. The appointment of Mrs. Arinze-Umobi, a female professor, will officially commence on Monday, 22 July 2024, and is expected to last for six months, in line with the provisions of the Nnamdi Azikiwe University Act CAP 139, LFN 2004, as amended by the Universities (Miscellaneous Provisions) (Amended) Act 2007.
The council’s confidence in Mrs. Arinze-Umobi’s ability to lead the esteemed institution during this period was expressed in the appointment letter. Additionally, it was noted that the terms and conditions of her appointment are in accordance with the federal government’s approval for all federal universities. The appointment letter has been forwarded to the Minister of Education, Tahir Mamman, who will subsequently inform President Bola Tinubu about the development.
Amidst these changes, reports have surfaced regarding the presence of soldiers at the university premises prior to the council’s meeting, sparking apprehension among some university students. The circumstances surrounding the presence of the soldiers and its connection to the leadership changes remain unclear.
The dismissal of the acting vice-chancellor and the subsequent appointment of a new acting vice-chancellor mark a significant transition in the leadership of Nnamdi Azikiwe University. While the reasons for Mr. Ikechebelu’s removal have not been disclosed, the appointment of Mrs. Arinze-Umobi underscores the importance of stable and effective leadership in the academic environment.
As the university prepares to transition to new leadership, it is essential to maintain a focus on academic excellence, student welfare, and institutional development. The incoming acting vice-chancellor, Mrs. Arinze-Umobi, is expected to lead the institution with diligence and dedication, ensuring continuity in academic and administrative operations.
The university community and stakeholders will be keenly observing the developments in the coming months, as the newly appointed acting vice-chancellor takes on the responsibility of guiding the institution forward.
