By Ikenna Nwokedi
The Executive Committee (EXCO) members of the Senior Staff Association of Nigerian Universities (SSANU) UNIZIK Chapter on Wednesday, 10th July 2024 paid a courtesy visit to the institution’s Acting Vice-Chancellor, Professor Joseph Ikechebelu.
In her remarks during the courtesy visit, the Chairperson of the Union, Comrade Dr. Njideka Nwangwu expressed the delight of the Union over the appointment of Prof. Ikechebelu as the Acting Vice-Chancellor of the University. The Union leader thanked the Acting Vice-Chancellor for the role he played in the most recent turbulence in the University which portrays him as father figure and champion in conflict management and resolution.
Comrade Nwangwu said the message on the outcome of the dialogue was convened to the Congress which was appreciated and welcomed by the Union. She emphasized that the Union has promised to work with his administration in the actualization of his vision while praying for the success of his administration.
Responding, UNIZIK Acting Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Ikechebelu thanked the Union for the visit and support to his administration. The Ag. VC emphasized the importance of peace and dialogue which was crucial to the Union’s EXCO embarking on the visit while stressing that a working condition between the Union and the present administration will led to a better UNIZIK and a legacy for the state and the country at large.
Prof. Ikechebelu highlighted his administration’s short term goal of HPS Squared Philosophy which translates to ‘Happy Productive Staff’ and ‘Happy Progressive Students’, the Ag. VC disclosed that his administration need prayers and support of all in moving UNIZIK to greater heights.
Prof. Ikechebelu informed that the University is working so hard to improve the present condition of the institution which is why it channeled its effort in ensuring that there is constant power which was restored to the institution and has lasted for more than a month since 6th June 2024 just two days after the administration came on board as part of the “BLESSED UNIZIK” vision. The scholar further disclosed that he runs an open door policy and open to advices and suggestions all geared towards taking the institution to greater heights.
Also present during the visit were the Union’s Vice-Chairperson, Comrade Uchechukwu Okafor; Public Relations Officer, Comrade Confidence Okafor; Assistant Secretary, Kennedy Udechukwu; Woman Leader, Ijeoma John-Rufus and Financial Secretary, Uche Sam-Chinweze