Chukwuemeka Odumegwu Ojukwu University (COOU), Igbariam, has held its third annual memorial lecture in honor of the late Dim Chukwuemeka Odumegwu Ojukwu, a revered Igbo leader and nationalist.
The event, themed *“Harnessing the Power of Education for National Transformation: Lessons from Chukwuemeka Odumegwu Ojukwu’s Vision,”* brought together dignitaries, academics, and stakeholders from diverse sectors at the ETF Auditorium of the university.
Governor Chukwuma Soludo, represented by Deputy Governor Dr. Onyekachukwu Ibezim, highlighted Ojukwu’s legacy, describing him and other past heroes as pioneers of progressivism. He noted that the Igbo people’s excellence stems from their ability to harness knowledge, urging Nigerians to reflect on the effects of division and violence and to strive for unity to achieve collective aspirations.
In her address, Acting Vice-Chancellor of the university, Professor Kate Omenugha, emphasized Ojukwu’s enduring influence. She affirmed her commitment to ensuring that COOU embodies the values of its namesake, including integrity, equity, and resilience.
Delivering the lecture, former Minister of Aviation Chief Osita Chidoka underscored the role of education in empowering the Igbo people. He, however, lamented that individual successes have not translated to collective progress. Chidoka called for a holistic education model that integrates civic responsibility and shared values to drive communal advancement.
Former Minister of Information, Dr. Labaran Maku, used the platform to appeal to President Bola Tinubu to release detained separatist leader Nnamdi Kanu as a means to address agitations in the Southeast. He also urged Igbo leaders to unite and assert their potential to lead Nigeria.
Chairman of the occasion and former Vice-Chancellor of COOU, Professor Greg Nwakoby, recounted the university’s history and the vision of Ojukwu, whom he described as a nationalist advocating for a just and equitable Nigeria. He noted that Ojukwu’s call for confederacy has gained renewed relevance as Nigerians increasingly seek decentralized governance.
The event also featured a documentary on Ojukwu’s vision and a gathering of notable personalities, including Anambra State House of Assembly Education Committee Chairman Hon. Anayo Okpalaeke, Education Commissioner Professor Ngozi Chuma-Udeh, and traditional ruler Igwe Alex Onyido.
The lecture served as a platform for reflection on Ojukwu’s enduring legacy and the role of education in achieving societal transformation.
