Prof. Joseph Ikechebelu has assumed office as the Vice-Chancellor of Nnamdi Azikiwe University, Awka, in acting capacity.
In accordance with the directive from the Federal Government through the National Universities Commission (NUC), Prof. Joseph Ikechebelu, who previously served as the Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Administration) of the institution, has been appointed to oversee the Office of the Vice-Chancellor following the end of Prof. Charles Esimone’s tenure on June 3, 2024.
The appointment was ratified by the Senate of Nnamdi Azikiwe University at a special meeting held in the University auditorium on Monday. As per the NUC directive, all outgoing vice-chancellors of federal universities are required to hand over their responsibilities to their most senior Deputy Vice-Chancellor to ensure a smooth transition in leadership and maintain stability within the institutions.
Prof. Ikechebelu, being the only Deputy Vice-Chancellor at UNIZIK, has taken over from Prof. Esimone and is set to lead as Acting Vice-Chancellor until a substantive appointment is made. He expressed his commitment to introducing new initiatives aimed at enhancing various aspects of university administration, including addressing issues such as power challenges, security concerns, digitization, and beautification of the institution.
Meanwhile, Prof. Charles Esimone highlighted some of his achievements during his tenure, which included significant improvements in staff development, revenue generation for the university, infrastructure projects like student hostels and medical facilities, as well as academic initiatives such as inaugural lecture series and research centers.
