ROYAL ENDORSEMENT FOR A GREATER UNIZIK
UNIZIK Vice Chancellor Pays Homage to Awka Monarch, Seeks Royal Blessing and Stronger Community Ties
The Vice Chancellor of Nnamdi Azikiwe University (UNIZIK), Awka, Professor Bond Ugochukwu Stanley Anyaehie, on Friday, September 11, 2026, paid a courtesy visit to the traditional ruler of Awka Kingdom, His Royal Majesty, Igwe Gibson Nwosu, Eze Uzu II, at his palace in Awka.
The visit was aimed at seeking the blessings of the monarch and strengthening the relationship between the university and the host community.
Speaking during the visit, Prof. Anyaehie, who disclosed that the visit was to seek the royal blessings of the traditional ruler and to identify as his subjects too,
“We have come primary to identify ourselves as your subjects in Awka kingdom. To tell you that we have assumed that position of assignment given to us by God and the Federal Government to make better and greater, from where my predecessor stopped, the institution domiciled in your kingdom. We cannot function effectively and succeed without your permission and support. With unity of purpose and one mind, we can succeed” the VC said.
He explained that the visit was particularly important because UNIZIK is situated in Awka, stressing the need for the university to maintain a strong and cordial relationship with the traditional institution and people of the community. He acknowledged the support of Awka indigenes occupying strategic positions in the university and sought the cooperation of the larger members of the community for his administration.
The Vice Chancellor also assured the Awka community that qualified indigenes would be given fair opportunities to gain admission into the university, provided they meet the required admission conditions, including sitting for the Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) examination.
According to him, the people of Awka should regard him as their brother, while the university should continue to operate as a responsible institution within its host community.
Speaking on the occasion, Professor AU Nnonyelu of Nnamdi Azikiwe University, Director, Emeka Anyaoku Institute of International Studies and Diplomacy, who is also an indigene of Awka, said the Vice Chancellor's decision to visit the traditional ruler demonstrated his understanding of the importance of the host community to the university.
Prof. Nnonyelu noted that it was difficult for a leader to genuinely love an institution without also showing affection and respect for the community where the institution is located.
He therefore commended the Vice Chancellor for scheduling the visit to the palace of the Awka monarch.
Also speaking, the President-General of Awka Kingdom, Chief Fred Chinwuba (Alufuo), welcomed the Vice Chancellor and his delegation, assuring them of the continued support and cooperation of the Awka community.
Chief Chinwuba said Awka would continue to stand with Nnamdi Azikiwe University at all times and in all legitimate endeavours.
In his response, the traditional ruler of Awka Kingdom, His Royal Majesty Igwe Gibson Nwosu, prayed for the university and its leadership, using kola nut in accordance with Igbo tradition.
Speaking through the Traditional Prime Minister, Ozo High Chief Benjamin Okoye (Otutu Awka), te monarch prayed that all obstacles confronting the university would become a thing of the past and expressed hope for a stronger and more beneficial collaboration between Awka Kingdom and Nnamdi Azikiwe University.
The visit also featured a colourful display by the women of Awka, popularly known as the Ada Awka s, who welcomed the Vice Chancellor and his delegation with traditional songs and dances.
The visit ended on a cordial note, with both the university leadership and Awka Kingdom expressing optimism that the renewed engagement would further strengthen the bond between the institution and its host community.
The Deputy Vice Chancellor (Academics), Professor Alex Asigbo, who gave the vote of thanks, appreciated the the Awka Kingdom for the warm reception accorded the university delegation.
Prof. Asigbo also reaffirmed the university's commitment to maintaining a strong relationship with the community and pledged that the institution would continue to work closely with Awka Kingdom in areas of mutual interest.
Also on the delegation with the Vice Chancellor during the visit included Deputy Vice Chancellor Administration, Prof. Hilda Osisioma, The University Bursar, Dr. Gozie Egwuatu, Director, UNIZIK Advancement Board, Prof Mary Ebele Onwuka, Director, Information and Public Relations, Comrade Aloysius Emeka Attah. Also joined by other key Awka indigenes in the university including Dean Students Affairs, Prof. Kingsley Ubaoji and Prof Vivian Nwogbo, former Dean, Faculty of Education.
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