Lawrence Nwimo, Awka
After several weeks of unease and crisis, Professor Benard Ifeanyi Odoh has emerged as the 7th substantive Vice Chancellor of Nnamdi Azikiwe University, Awka.
Odoh was appointed on Tuesday by the Governing Council of the institution led by the Pro-Chancellor and Chairman of Council, Amb. Greg Mbadiwe.
Odoh, a 49-year-old Professor of Geophysics is of the Department of Applied Geophysics, Faculty of Physical Sciences of the University.
He hails from Ezza North LGA of Ebonyi State, and was Secretary to State Government in Ebonyi, during the administration of Engr David Umahi.
Announcing the appointment after a rigorous selection process and interview of the 18 applicants for the position, Mbadiwe disclosed that Odoh scored the 1st position from the pool of the applicants for the plum job based on his evidence-based significant experience in University Teaching, Research and Administration.
Mbadiwe while handing over the appointment letter to Odoh said: “This appointment is in accordance with the provisions of Section 4 of First Schedule, Nnamdi Azikiwe Act CAP 139,LFN 2004 as amended by the Universities (Miscellaneous) (Provisions) (Amended ) Act 2007.
“Your Appointment is for a period of five years, effective Tuesday, 29th October 2024. The terms and conditions of your appointment are as approved by the Federal Government for all Federal Universities,” the letter stated.
In a brief acceptance speech, Prof Odoh thanked members of the Governing Council and the Vice Chancellor Selection Team for finding him worthy for the important assignment. He promised not to let them down and to also work day and night to improve the university in all facets.
“I’m the first alumni of this university to be appointed to this position. I have my first, second and third degrees here so I understand our challenges. Let me assure every one of us, I know there are prejudices and concerns but you are going to judge me by performances not on hearsay. I will serve you well and our university will make progress,” he said.
