The Vice-Chancellor of Nnamdi Azikiwe University (UNIZIK), Awka, Professor Ugochukwu Bond Stanley Anyaehie, has 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.
Speaking during the visit, Prof. Anyaehie said the purpose of the visit was to seek the royal blessing of the monarch, identify with the people of Awka as members of the host community, and strengthen the relationship between the university and the traditional institution.
“We have come primarily 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 Vice-Chancellor 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 the people of the community.
The Vice-Chancellor acknowledged the contributions of Awka indigenes occupying strategic positions within the university and solicited the cooperation of the wider community for his administration.
Prof. Anyaehie also assured the Awka community that qualified indigenes would be given fair opportunities to gain admission into the university, provided they meet the stipulated admission requirements, 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 would continue to operate as a responsible institution within its host community.
Speaking on the occasion, the Director of the Emeka Anyaoku Institute of International Studies and Diplomacy, Nnamdi Azikiwe University, Professor A.U. Nnonyelu, 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 taking the initiative to visit the palace of the Awka monarch.
Also speaking, the President-General of Awka Kingdom, Chief Fred Chinwuba, welcomed the Vice-Chancellor and his delegation and assured 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 the kola nut in accordance with Igbo tradition.
Speaking through the Traditional Prime Minister, Ozo High Chief Benjamin Okoye, the monarch prayed that all obstacles confronting the university would become a thing of the past. He also expressed hope for a stronger and more beneficial collaboration between Awka Kingdom and Nnamdi Azikiwe University.
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 Awka Kingdom for the warm reception accorded the university delegation.
Prof. Asigbo 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.
