In a ceremony marked by warmth and collegiality, Professor Joseph I. Ikechebelu has formally handed over leadership to Professor Carol Arinze-Umobi as the Acting Vice-Chancellor of Nnamdi Azikiwe University, Awka.
The brief handover event was held today, Monday 19th May 2025, at the Vice-Chancellor’s office and was attended by principal officers of the university, including the Acting Registrar, Mr. Victor Modebelu, and the University Bursar, Mr. Gozie Egwuatu. Also present were key directors from various departments and units.
In his valedictory remarks, Prof. Ikechebelu expressed gratitude to God for guiding him through his six-month tenure and reflected on his accomplishments under the BLESSeD Vision for the university. Notable achievements include the construction of a new perimeter fence, renovation of the university’s beautiful gate, improvement in power supply, digitisation of academic records, commissioning of a new hostel block, and enhanced campus security.
He also highlighted a major milestone during his tenure, the visit of the President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, His Excellency Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, who commissioned the newly completed building of Emeka Anyaoku Institute for International Studies and Diplomacy on May 8, 2025.
Prof. Ikechebelu expressed deep appreciation to the President, the Minister of Education, Dr. Tunji Alausa, the Pro-Chancellor, Barrister Olugbenga Kukoyi, and members of the Governing Council for their unwavering support.
In her remarks, the Acting Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Carol Arinze-Umobi, expressed deep gratitude to God Almighty for the privilege of being appointed to serve in this capacity. She extended her sincere appreciation to the outgoing Acting Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Ikechebelu, for the comprehensive handing-over note, which she affirmed would serve as a valuable guide in her administration.
Prof. Arinze-Umobi emphasised her commitment to a leadership vision centred on “Feeling the Pulse of Students and Staff,” pledging to deliver her best within the shortest possible time. She prayed for the wisdom of Solomon to lead effectively and reiterated her resolve to run an inclusive administration. In closing, she called on all members of the university community to unite and support her leadership as the institution moves forward.
The ceremony culminated with the formal presentation of handover documents to the new Acting Vice-Chancellor, symbolising a smooth transition of leadership at the helm of the university.