The Governing Council of Nnamdi Azikiwe University has appointed Professor Carol Umeobi, a distinguished professor of law, as the Acting Vice-Chancellor of the institution.
This announcement was made during a press briefing by the Special Adviser to the Vice Chancellor on Public Relations and Special Duties, Dr. Emmanuel Ojukwu. He explained that the appointment was made by the tenth Governing Council of UNIZIK, chaired by Ambassador Greg Mbadiwe and appointed by President Bola Tinubu.
The decision followed the temporary appointment of Professor Joseph Ikechebelu as Vice-Chancellor, pending the council’s selection of an Acting Vice-Chancellor. Dr. Ojukwu clarified that Professor Ikechebelu would resume his role as Deputy Vice-Chancellor Administration and is eligible to contest for the Vice-Chancellor position when it is officially advertised.
Dr. Ojukwu addressed misinformation circulating on social media, refuting claims of there being two Acting Vice-Chancellors at UNIZIK. He emphasized that the absence of a Governing Council for over a year precluded such a situation.
The tenth Governing Council aims to ensure a fair selection process for the substantive Vice-Chancellor by preventing Acting Vice-Chancellors from contesting, thus maintaining an even playing field. This position is supported by the Academic Staff Union of Universities, which advised against appointing someone as Acting Vice-Chancellor if they intend to contest for the permanent role, to avoid giving them undue advantage.
Professor Umeobi’s term as Acting Vice-Chancellor is set for six months. During this period, the University’s Council will advertise the Vice-Chancellor position, shortlist candidates, conduct interviews, and appoint the most qualified individual. Dr. Ojukwu assured that the process would be transparent and aligned with the university’s commitment to honor its namesake, the African hero Nnamdi Azikiwe.
