By Ikenna Nwokedi
Nnamdi Azikiwe University, is set to commence a lecture series in honour of the Traditional Ruler of Onitsha, Igwe Alfred Nnaemeka Achebe.
As part of activities towards the commencement of the Lecture Series, Members of the Obi Alfred Achebe Lecture Series Committee on Wednesday, 26th June 2024 held an extensive meeting with the Obi of Onitsha, Igwe Alfred Achebe, at the Acting Vice-Chancellor’s office to discuss the modalities for advancing the terms of reference towards the success of the upcoming lecture series.
Speaking during the meeting, the Committee Chairman, Prof. Godwin Onu stated that the concept behind honouring Igwe Achebe is remarkable and a right step in the right direction in honouring and immortalizing distinguished personalities who have contributed to education, societal growth and development.
The former Rector of Federal Polytechnic Oko informed that following Senate’s approval, the Vice-Chancellor established a standing committee to oversee the Series.
The scholar pointed out that the committee envisions a centre dedicated to Igbo culture, including a smart dome featuring a library, conference rooms and an environment capturing the essence of Igbo history and heritage while the centre will also be empowered to provide a comprehensive perspective on the Igbo race for history purposes.
In his remarks, UNIZIK Acting Vice-Chancellor, Professor Joseph Ikechebelu, described the project as an ambitious endeavour and a noble course that goes beyond a lecture series but one that portrays the contribution of the distinguished monarch to humanity.
The Acting VC eulogized Igwe Achebe as a prominent traditional ruler whose significant contributions to the Igbo nation remained indelible while promising that the University would leverage on Igwe Achebe’s extensive contacts and connections to elevate the proposed lecture series and the visibility of the institution.
Responding, Igwe Alfred Achebe congratulated Prof. Ikechebelu on his appointment as Acting Vice-Chancellor, while appreciating the University for the honour of the lecture series, noting that the project would foster collaboration between Onitsha and the university, as both are working towards similar goals.
He further commended Prof. Onu for his determination and acknowledged the progress already made.
In a vote of thanks, Prof. Jaja Nwanegbo appreciated the monarch for his contributions toward the education sector and humanity while also assuring that the committee will work assiduously towards making the project a reality.
Members of the committee include the immediate past Dean of the Faculty of Arts, Prof. Greg Obiamalu and former Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Administration) of the University, Prof. Carol Arinze-Umobi. Others are Prof. Patrick Egbunike, Dr. Chinedu Mbalisi and Mrs Urenna Okamgba.
