In a historic transition for the 34 year old Michael Okpara University of Agriculture, Umudike (MOUAU), the emergence of Professor Ursula Ngozi Akanwa as the institution's 7th Vice Chancellor and its first female head has been officially characterised as a divine act. This declaration was spearheaded by the Pro Chancellor and Chairman of the Governing Council, Fidelis Chukwunweike Edeh, following the formal decoration of Professor Akanwa by the Deputy Vice Chancellor, Professor Nneoma Obasi, and the Registrar, Dr Nkeiruka Mbanasor.
The ceremony was marked by a poignant moment of institutional memory as the university community and student body erupted in a ten minute standing ovation upon the arrival of the third Vice Chancellor, Professor Hilary Edeoga. The jubilant reception served as a vocal recognition of the lasting legacies Edeoga established eight years prior, which have served as the foundational pillars for his successors to build upon.
Reflecting on the selection process, Pro Chancellor Edeh emphasised his firm institutional stance that the new leadership must emerge from within the university’s own ranks to ensure seamless continuity. He attested that Professor Akanwa surpassed the rigorous criteria required for the appointment, noting that while the process was extended to five hours due to external politicisation, the merit of her candidacy remained undeniable. Edeh remarked that the selection represented a moment of liberation for MOUAU, asserting that light had successfully warded off the shadows of interference.
The Pro Chancellor further extended commendations to the outgoing Vice Chancellor, Professor Maduebibisi Ofo Iwe, for his dedicated service and contributions to the university’s growth. In his charge to the new appointee, Edeh urged Professor Akanwa to remain faithful to her spiritual guidance and to maintain an inclusive ear for all stakeholders while allowing divine leadership to direct her ultimate decisions.
Upon being formally robed, Professor Akanwa addressed the assembly, pledging to infuse her administration with maternal passion, femininity, and a deepened sense of godliness. She affirmed her administration’s unwavering loyalty to the Federal Government’s vision, specifically regarding agricultural and educational mandates. Her strategic roadmap aims to transform MOUAU into an intellectual and entrepreneurial hub, prioritising financial autonomy and innovation driven research to bolster national food security.
The appointment has received broad institutional backing, with various staff unions and the Students’ Union voicing their support for the Governing Council’s decision. While pledging cooperation, the unions underscored the importance of inclusive governance to maintain industrial harmony. This sentiment of support was echoed by the Vice Chancellor’s husband, Dr. Michael Akanwa, who assured the public of her capacity to lead and committed the family’s support by reducing her domestic responsibilities to ensure her focus remains on the university’s prosperity.
