The battle over who will become the next Vice-Chancellor of Nnamdi Azikiwe University, Awka, has been settled with the appointment of Prof. Joseph Ikechebelu. His appointment follows the expiration of Prof. Charles Okechukwu Esimone’s five-year tenure on June 4th, 2024. Before this recent development, Ikechebelu served as the Deputy Vice-Chancellor of the university, while the second Deputy Vice-Chancellor had retired.
The Federal Government, through the National Universities Commission (NUC), confirmed Ikechebelu’s appointment. The NUC directed all outgoing Vice-Chancellors of federal universities to hand over to the next most senior Deputy Vice-Chancellor, in accordance with existing regulations governing federal universities.
In a statement signed by the Acting Executive Secretary of the NUC, Chris J. Maiyaki, outgoing Vice-Chancellors are also required to provide a detailed handover report, including key activities, ongoing projects, university assets, financial statements, and other pertinent information.
Prof. Ikechebelu’s appointment as Acting Vice-Chancellor will remain until a substantive Vice-Chancellor is appointed, although he is eligible to contest for the position while serving in this interim role. This directive has resolved the contentious race to succeed Prof. Esimone, which had seen candidates engaging in various tactics, including frivolous petitions and spreading false information against their opponents.
The statement from the NUC reads:
“I write to convey the directive of the Honourable Minister of Education that Vice-Chancellors of Federal universities, who are completing their tenures, should hand over their responsibilities to the next most senior Deputy Vice-Chancellor of the university, in line with existing regulations. This ensures Vice-Chancellors do not remain in office beyond their designated end dates.
This measure aims to ensure a smooth and seamless transition in university leadership, maintaining stability and continuity for effective administration and academic performance. Outgoing Vice-Chancellors are also requested to ensure a detailed handover report, including key activities, ongoing projects, university assets, financial statements, and other pertinent information, is part of the handover process.
The Federal Ministry of Education appreciates the contributions of all outgoing Vice-Chancellors and expects their cooperation in ensuring a smooth transition process. This directive is effective immediately, and compliance is mandatory.
Please accept the renewed assurances of my highest consideration and best wishes.
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