Anambra First Lady Mrs. Nonye Soludo has been conferred with an Honorary Doctorate in Public Health and Nutrition by Chukwuemeka Odumegwu Ojukwu University (COOU), Igbariam Campus.
The conferment ceremony took place at the University’s convocation arena Igbariam, on Saturday during its 11th to 15th combined convocation ceremonies.
Angel Network News (ANN) reports that Mrs Soludo was honoured with the award for championing healthy lifestyle in the state through her NGO, Healthy Living with Nonye.
The Varsity also award higher degrees and honorary doctorate to other distinguished personalities in the state, including the South East Chairman of Manufacturers Association of Nigeria (MAN), Lady Ada Chukwudozie, the traditional ruler of Ogidi kingdom, Igwe Alex Onyido; business men, Engr Chidozie Mbanefo and Chief Christopher Ndubuisi.
In her acceptance speech, Mrs. Soludo promised to continue her support for the growth and development of the University.
The Governor’s wife thanked the institution for the award and also expressed her profound gratitude to all for their support
In her address, Acting Vice Chancellor of the University, Prof Kate Azuka Omenugha said the award, which is dubbed Ojukwu Legacy Award was to encourage people who have distinguished themselves in several field.
The VC appreciated members of the University community and other guests for honoring the Varsity’s invitation. She 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.”
Prof. Omenugha expressed gratitude to Governor Chukwuma Soludo for his numerous support to the university community, underscoring openness to partnerships that can enhance educational opportunities.
“We appreciate the governor for his unwavering commitment to our institution,” she noted.
Governor Soludo, while speaking, commended his predecessor, Late Dr Chinwoke Mbadinuju for founding Chukwuemeka Odumegwu Ojukwu University in the year 2,000 during his administration, describing him as a visionary leader that has not been adequately celebrated.
Soludo praised late Mbadinuju as a great leader whose foresight led to the establishment of an institution that has since become a source of pride for the state.
The Governor recalled that the university originally started at the Uli campus, a vision brought to life by Mbadinuju’s dedication. He reflected on the transformation of COOU since his administration took office.
Soludo stated that government alone cannot fast track the speed of development without partnerships with the private sector and communities.
“The university is far different from what it used to be since my last time here,” he stated, reinforcing the need for partnerships with the private sector and local communities to expedite development.
“This 25th anniversary of the university we are celebrating today was the brainchild of a remarkable man,” “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 honored for this contribution.
“Late Dr. Mbadinuju is not celebrated enough here. We must find something significant to immortalize him. I celebrate all men of goodwill who love and believe in education as the bridge to the future,” Governor Soludo further added.
Also addressing the audience, Pro-Chancellor of COOU, Prof. Chidi Odinkalu emphasized the importance of communal engagement and forward-thinking in education.
“We have celebrated our heritage this week, and we intend to forge a vibrant future for this university,” he said, identifying a university community as an environment where disagreement can occur in a spirit of cordiality. “I encourage everyone to join in and actively participate in this journey.”
The 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 affirmed.
The ceremony was well-attended, with notable figures such as Deputy Governor Dr. Onyekachukwu Ibezim, Speaker of the State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Somtochukwu Udeze, Hosue of Rep member representing Ihiala, Dr. Paschal Agbodike, traditional rulers, and other dignitaries.
