Lawrence Nwimo, Awka
The Vice Chancellor of Nnamdi Azikiwe University (UNIZIK), Professor Benard Odoh, has sounded a stern warning to staff and students of the institution, vowing to crack down on disloyalty and indiscipline within the university community.
The VC gave the warning during an interactive session with members of the university community on Tuesday. He emphasised that his administration would not tolerate any form of disloyalty, indiscipline, or unprofessional conduct.
“Now as the VC, time for politics is over. Loyalty with the VC is paramount and we must make sure we maintain the highest standards and professionalism to achieve our results.
“I lead with humility and kindness but I will also be harsh to instill discipline. Behaviour that undermines the integrity and reputation of UNIZIK will be dealt with decisively,” the VC stressed.
Odoh, a 49-year-old professor of Geophysics, was appointed VC on 29th October by Amb. Greg Mbadiwe-led Governing Council, putting to rest the unease and crisis surrounding the position in the institution.
Unveiling his visions at the University auditorium after his church thanksgiving, Prof. Odoh said the sum of N10 billion would be raised through public–Private Partnership through co–funding critical infrastructure and Corporate Social Responsibility.
He said that he will bring disruptive changes that will take the university to greater heights.
He also vowed to strengthen academic activities by introducing new innovations into the system.
Odoh also stated that he will present N100 million bank for grants, noting that the university can longer depend on international and national grants. He stated that the university will begin to reward hard work and punish disloyalty.
“We shall construct a 150 room hotel with events and meeting rooms to provide comfort and security to visitors to the University and its environs through accomodations and conference services.
“We are embarking on the implementation of Coordinated Renewable Energy Solutions/Institution of N100 million quasi-endowment fund to support research in Renewable Energy.
“This will enhance research and development parenting of renewable energy solutions, reduce the University carbon footprint credit taps into intellectual property rights and promote sustainability.”
Odoh continued: “Our administration’s tenure marks not just a transition but a transformation – an opportunity to redefine and elevate Nnamdi Azikiwe University’s role in shaping the future of education in Nigeria and beyond.
“I’m committed to establishing NAU among the top 50 universities in Africa while we reshape and reposition the university to contest for a position in the first 500 in the global ranking of universities through the disruptive development model.
“NAU must evolve into a powerhouse of innovation, where industry-relevant skills are honed, research addresses real-world problems, and seeds of economic stability and self-reliance are down.”
