By Ikenna Nwokedi.
The Members of the Anambra Caucus in the Federal House of Representatives on Friday, 28th June 2024 paid a courtesy visit to the Acting Vice-Chancellor of Nnamdi Azikiwe University, Awka, Professor Joseph Ikechebelu.
The delegation was led by Hon. Afam Ogene representing Ogbaru Federal Constituency and accompanied by other members such Hon. Dominic Okafor (Aguata), Hon. Chinwe Nnabuife (Orumba North and South), Hon. Ifeanyi Uzokwe (Nnewi North, Nnewi South, and Ekwusigo), Hon. Engr Emeka Idu (Onitsha North and South), Hon. Chinwe Gwacham (Oyi/Ayamelum) and Chief Peter Aniekwe Udeogalanya (Anambra East and Anambra West Federal constituencies).
In his remarks, Hon. Ogene congratulated Prof. Ikechebelu on his recent appointment as the institution’s Chief Executive, the lawmaker informed that their visit was driven by the desire to ensure that Anambra receives its due share from the annual federal allocation in the appropriation bill.
“Let me first congratulate you on your appointment as the new Vice-Chancellor of this great University named after ZIK of Africa and we are confident that in due course your appointment will be made Substantive. As members of the House of Representatives, we are committed to representing our people effectively and see Nnamdi Azikiwe University as a critical partner in this effort. Our collaboration is not isolated but synergistic with other Honourable members,” Ogene said.
The lawmaker reassured the Acting Vice-Chancellor of the caucus’ dedication to fostering a strong partnership and collaboration with the university towards securing the resources from Abuja geared towards societal growth and development.
Responding, UNIZIK Acting Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Ikechebelu expressed his gratitude for the visit emphasizing that the gesture is a demonstration of the firm support and commitment to the university’s progress. The scholar informed that UNIZIK is open to partnership and fruitful collaborations that will enhance its visibility in both infrastructure and academic standing.
Prof. Ikechebelu also disclosed that the University is currently ranked as the fourth best institution in Nigeria for institutions under 50 years of age. He affirmed that the collaboration will be strengthened with the caucus for better collaboration towards the growth of the University.
In her vote of thanks, Hon. Nnabuife reassured the Acting Vice-Chancellor and the university community of the caucus’ unwavering support and re-emphasized the caucus willingness towards a fruitful synergy beneficial to the University
Present during the visit were the Acting Registrar, Mr. Samuel Ufoh; University Librarian, Dr. Stella Anasi; Special Adviser to the Vice-Chancellor (SAVC) on Academic Matters, Prof. Frederick Odibo; Chief Legal Officer of the University, Prof. Meshach Umenweke and facilitator of the visit, Prof.Emma Ezenwaji.
