UNIZIK Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Charles Esimone, FAS, at the weekend had an interactive session with the University’s Alumni Association, Abuja Chapter as part of his plans in fostering conviviality with critical stakeholders associated with the institution towards achieving his vision for ‘Project 200’.
The meeting held at the Grand Ibro Hotel Annex, Wuse Zone 5 FCT Abuja, saw the Vice-Chancellor engaging the EXCO members of the Alumni Chapter and it’s members in a fruitful discussion and interaction on ways to support the institution and raise its visibility in line with the vision for ‘Project 200’. Speaking at the event, Prof. Esimone harped on the need for the Alumni Association to join the movement towards transforming the institution and ensuring that it becomes the top institution in Nigeria, amongst the first 10 in the continent and first 200 in the world.
The Professor of Biopharmaceutics and Pharmaceutical Microbiology congratulated the Alumni members for being products of the University named after the late Dr. Nnamdi Azikiwe whose name is a brand. The Chief Executive enjoined them to be worthy ambassadors in their dealings, Prof. Esimone also reminded them of their place as major stakeholders in the institution’s dynamics as their advise, contributions and support is always welcomed towards actualization of the vision for ‘Project 200’.
In his reaction, the coordinator, Alumni Liaison Office, Dr. Nwachukwu Obiakor eulogized the Vice-Chancellor for giving him the opportunity to serve the institution in such capacity. The University Don emphasized that with the level of support from the Chief Executive, he is spurred to deliver and galvanize the Alumni body into being part of Prof. Esimone’s plan with ‘Project 200’. Dr. Obiakor enjoined the Alumni to develop a think home philosophy while taking advantage of the Vice-Chancellor’s open door policy and Alumni-friendly disposition to take their pride of place at the citadel of learning.
Reacting also, the Chairman UNIZIK Alumni, Abuja Chapter, Mr. Obi Okeke thanked Prof. Esimone for his high regard for the Alumni body, he assured the Vice-Chancellor that the Chapter will commence a project in the institution before the year runs its course. Echoing the sentiment of Mr. Okeke, the Vice President, North Central zone, Engr. Emeka Nwafor assured the Vice-Chancellor of Abuja Chapter’s willingness to key into his vision via partnering with the institution, he stated his resolve towards facilitating more engagements with Alumni members and friends which will be beneficial to the institution. In his vote of thanks, a member of the NEC, Dr. Obinna Uyaemezina extolled Prof. Esimone’s virtues as a sound academic, he described Prof. Esimone as a blessing to the institution.
Highpoints of the fruitful interaction was a dinner organized by Engr. Sunny Nnacheta on behalf of the Chapter in honour of the Vice-Chancellor as well as retinue of commendations and eulogies by members of the Alumni body in attendance.