By Cajetan Mmuta, Awka
The Governing Council of the Nnamdi Azikiwe University, (UNIZIK) Awka, Anambra State has appointed Professor Carol Arinze-Umobi as the new Acting Vice Chancellor of the institution.
Prof. Arinze-Umobi emerged as the Acting VC after the dramatic sack of the former Acting Vice Chancellor of the university, Prof. Joseph Ikechebelu.
A letter by the pro-chancellor and Chairman of the Governing Council of the University, H.E. Ambassador Gregory Mbadiwe and made available to newsmen in Awka the state capital on Saturday.
Amb. Mbadiwe disclosed in the letter that the appointment, is for six months.
There was heavy presence of soldiers that almost overran the nooks and crannies of the university which heightened tension amongst lecturers and students of the institution.
The latest appointment of Prof. Arinze-Umobi to head the varsity in Acting capacity brought to 33 years such a feat was attained since the past 33 years UNIZIK was established.
According to the letter which was conveyed to the female Acting Vice Chancellor, the tenure is per the provisions of Section 4 of First Schedule, Nnamdi Azikiwe University Act CAP 139, LFN 2004 as amended by the Universities (Miscellaneous Provisions) (Amended) Act 2007.
Part of the letter reads, “The Governing Council has approved your appointment as Acting Vice-Chancellor of Nnamdi Azikiwe University, Awka on the recommendation of the University Senate”.
It further emphasized that the appointment is for a period not later than six (6) months, effective Monday, July 22, 2024, noting that, “the terms and conditions of your appointment are as approved by the Federal Government for all Federal Universities.”
Ambassador Mbadiwe stated, “On behalf of the Governing Council, I extend our warmest congratulations on your appointment. We have full confidence in your ability to lead our esteemed institution during this period and wish you great success in this role.”
It also informed that a copy of the letter of appointment has been forwarded to the Honourable Minister of Education for the information of the Visitor to the University.
“Once again, congratulations on your appointment”, he stated.
During an official announcement of Professor Arinze-Umobi as the New Acting Vice-Chancellor to the University community earlier, the pro-Chancellor and Chairman of the Governing Council, Ambassador Mbadiwe informed the university community told the gathering that, “We are gathered here to formally announce and celebrate the appointment of Professor Carol Arinze-Umobi as the Acting Vice-Chancellor of our esteemed Nnamdi Azikiwe University, Awka.”
Professor Arinze-Umobi brings a wealth of experience and expertise to this role. As a Professor of Human Rights Law and former Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Administration), she has demonstrated exceptional leadership and dedication to our institution.
“I must emphasize that the tenure of this appointment is for a period not more than 6 months”, he said
Mbadiwe added, “During this time, Professor Arinze-Umobi with the guidance of the Council, is expected to fast track the process of recruiting a substantive Vice-Chancellor who will manage and lead the affairs of the university for 5 years following her acting period. This underscores the transitional nature of her role and the important task ahead.”
He added that her appointment comes at a crucial time for the university.
“We face challenges, but also great opportunities for growth and innovation. Professor Arinze-Umobi’s proven track record in administration and her commitment to academic excellence make her ideally suited to guide us through this period and to oversee the selection process for our next long-term leader.
I am confident that under her stewardship, Nnamdi Azikiwe University will continue to uphold its legacy of academic excellence, research innovation, and community service. Her vision aligns perfectly with our institution’s goals of fostering a culture of intellectual curiosity, integrity, and social responsibility”, he maintained.
While stressing that the Council has full confidence in the abilities of the newly appointed Acting Vice Chancellor, Mbadiwe said, “We look forward to supporting your initiatives and working closely with you to elevate our beloved institution to greater heights, both during your tenure and in the crucial transition to new leadership.
He therefore called on all to extend their warmest congratulations and full support to Professor Carol Arinze-Umobi as she assumes the critical role, adding, “Together, we will write the next chapter in the illustrious history of Nnamdi Azikiwe University.
