Nnamdi Azikiwe University, Awka, has appointed Professor Benard Ifeanyi Odoh as its 7th Vice Chancellor following a selection process led by Pro-Chancellor and Council Chairman, Ambassador Greg Mbadiwe.
Odoh, a professor in the Department of Applied Geophysics within the Faculty of Physical Sciences, emerged as the top candidate from a pool of 18 applicants.
Mbadiwe formally announced the appointment on Tuesday, presenting Odoh with his appointment letter, which is effective from October 29, 2024, and spans a five-year term.
“Your appointment is in accordance with Section 4 of the First Schedule, Nnamdi Azikiwe Act CAP 139, LFN 2004, as amended by the Universities (Miscellaneous Provisions) Act 2007,” stated Mbadiwe.
In his acceptance speech, Prof. Odoh, thanked the Governing Council and the Selection Committee, promising to work diligently to advance the institution.
“I’m the first alumni of this university to be appointed to this position. I have my first, second and third degrees here so I understand our challenges.
“Let me assure every one of us, I know there are prejudices and concerns but you are going to judge me by performances not on hearsay. I will serve you well and our university will make progress,” he said.
However, the announcement came amid rising tensions, as the university’s Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU) branch protested the selection process, citing concerns about fairness.
Led by ASUU-UNIZIK Chairman, Prof. Kingsley Oborji, union members staged a peaceful demonstration, urging President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to intervene, alleging that Mbadiwe was pushing for a candidate without prior ties to the university.
ASUU members carried signs reading, “Respect Our University,” “ASUU-NAU Wants Due Process,” and “No to Imposition of VC.”
Prof. Oborji called for a transparent selection, warning against potential unrest at the university.
