UNIZIK Hosts Chief Emeka Anyaoku, T.Y. Danjuma in Historic Visit.
The Nnamdi Azikiwe University community witnessed a historic convergence of statesmanship on Thursday, March 19, 2026, as the Pro-Chancellor, Barrister Monsur Olugbenga Kukoyi, and the Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Ugochukwu Bond Stanley Anyaehie, hosted Gen. Theophilus Yakubu Danjuma, former Chief of Army Staff and former Minister of Defence, and Chief Emeka Anyaoku, former Commonwealth Secretary-General.
The visit formed part of a celebratory tour of the Emeka Anyaoku Institute for International Studies and Diplomacy, a landmark project within the University.
In his remarks, General Danjuma expressed profound satisfaction with the quality and pace of work at the Institute, commending the University Management for delivering the project within a remarkable one-year timeframe. He described the development as a rare demonstration of transparency, commitment, and purposeful leadership in institutional advancement.
The event took a warm and reflective turn as General Danjuma recounted his long-standing relationship with Chief Anyaoku, revealing that the renowned diplomat was once his teacher during his formative years at military school. He described Chief Anyaoku as “one of the most brilliant” minds he encountered. In a lighthearted moment, the General joked that his former mentor still looks “very healthy and much younger” than himself—drawing laughter and a standing ovation from the audience.
He also expressed admiration for the infrastructure within Anambra State, particularly the Chinua Achebe International Airport, which he described as modern and impressive.
Responding, Chief Anyaoku disclosed that General Danjuma remains the Institute’s highest benefactor, having donated over one billion naira toward its completion and furnishing. He fondly recalled their relationship, tracing it back to events following the 1970 attempted coup in Trinidad and Tobago, during which General Danjuma distinguished himself while presiding over the court-martial of the coup plotters. He described the General as both generous and compassionate.
In his address, the Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Anyaehie, expressed deep appreciation to Chief Anyaoku for immortalizing his legacy within the University. He noted that Anyaoku’s global reputation significantly boosted the fundraising efforts that made the Institute a reality, emphasizing that the collaboration between both icons serves as an enduring source of inspiration to students and the broader academic community.
The highlight of the visit included the symbolic planting of unity trees by Chief Anyaoku, General Danjuma, and the Pro-Chancellor, alongside a vibrant cultural presentation led by the Director of the Institute, Prof. Au Nonyelu.
In a demonstration of rich Igbo cultural heritage and appreciation, General Danjuma was adorned with traditional regalia, including the “Isiagu” attire, red cap, beads, and the akupe (traditional hand fan), symbolizing honour and respect.
Prof. Nonyelu, in his remarks, described General Danjuma not only as a benefactor but also as a “loyal student and bosom friend” of Chief Anyaoku, noting that his contribution has secured a strong future for diplomatic studies in Nigeria.
The Chief Emeka Anyaoku International Study Centre is now poised to serve as a hub for global research and diplomacy, standing as a lasting testament to the enduring friendship between a distinguished military leader and an accomplished diplomat.
Other dignitaries present at the event included Chief Ben Ndii Obi, former Aviation Minister and ex-Corps Marshal of the Federal Road Safety Corps; Osita Chidoka; the Catholic Bishop of Awka Diocese, Paulinus Ezeokafor; former Acting Vice-Chancellor, Joseph Ikechebelu; members of the Governing Council; principal officers; union leaders; deans; directors; journalists; and other members of the University community.