Anambra State Governor Chukwuma Soludo has praised first civilian governor of the state, the late Dr. Chinwoke Mbadinuju, for establishing Chukwuemeka Odumegwu Ojukwu University.
He described the former governor as a visionary leader who was yet to receive adequate recognition.
Soludo spoke at the university’s 11th to 15th combined convocation ceremonies during which his wife, Nonyelu Soludo, was conferred with honorary Doctorate Degree (Honoris Causa) in Food Science and Nutrition in recognition of her outstanding contributions to the field.
He also celebrated his other predecessors as well as other stakeholders who made various contributions to the university.
He said: “Dr. Chinwoke Mbadinuju, the first civilian governor of Anambra State between 1999 and 2003, is the founder of this university. Yet, he has not been properly honoured for this contribution.
“This 25th anniversary of the university we are celebrating today was his brainchild. We appreciate his foresight in founding the institution, which has become a source of pride for the state.
“May his soul rest in peace. I believe Anambra State has not done enough to celebrate him. We will find a meaningful way to immortalise him.
“I celebrate all men of goodwill who love and believe in education as the bridge to the future.”
Appreciating the institution for finding his wife worthy of the honor which he described as well-deserved, Soludo called on other spirited individuals and lovers of education to invest in the university to elevate its status.
Commissioner for Education, Prof. Ngozi Chuma-Udeh, commended the governor’s administration for prioritizing education as a foundation for progress.
“Governor Soludo’s government remains unwavering in its mission to elevate education in our state,” she said.
Acting Vice Chancellor, Prof. Kate Omenugha, highlighted the university’s stable academic calendar, which has remained uninterrupted for several years.
“We are proud to combine five years of academic success into this celebration. This stable academic calendar is a legacy we intend to sustain as we move forward.”
Omenugha thanked the Governor for his numerous support to the university community, underscoring openness to partnerships capable of enhancing educational opportunities.
“We appreciate the governor for his unwavering commitment to our institution,” she noted.
Pro-Chancellor of COOU, Prof. Chidi Odinkalu, emphasised the importance of communal engagement and forward-thinking in education.
Describing university community as an environment where disagreement could occur in a spirit of cordiality, Odinkalu encouraged everyone to actively participate in building a virile institution.
“We have celebrated our heritage this week, and we intend to forge a vibrant future for this university,” he said.
Responding on behalf of the awardees, the Governor’s wife thanked the institution for the award and also expressed her profound gratitude to all for their support.
Personalities at the event were Deputy Governor Dr. Onyekachukwu Ibezim, Speaker of the State House of Assembly, Somtochukwu Udeze, House of Representatives member representing Ihiala, Dr Paschal Agbodike, traditional rulers, among others.
