Unizik Honours Orogbu, Ubah, Ekwunife, Esimone, and Others at Maiden Alumni Convergence

By Gabriel Chy Alonta

The authorities of Nnamdi Azikiwe University, Awka, have conferred various awards of recognition upon eminent Nigerians, including the House of Representatives Member for Awka North and South Federal Constituency, Prof. Oby Lilian Orogbu; Senator representing Anambra South, Dr. Patrick Ifeanyi Ubah; Iyom Uche Lilian Ekwunife; and Prof. Charles Okechukwu Esimone, FAS, for their outstanding contributions to the University and humanity at large.

These recognitions were bestowed upon the personalities on Friday, April 12, 2024, during the inaugural Alumni Convergence organized by the University, held at the ASUU-NAU Secretariat.

Other notable award recipients include Chief Hyacinth Johnpaul Chidiebere, Chief Jerry Patrick Onuokaibe, George Agu, Dr. Chibuzor Morah, Hon. Gabriel Chukwunwendu, Engr. Ojukwu Ibezim, Christian Chukwuebuka, Prof. Joseph Ugboaja, Chief Kenechukwu Okoli, Chief Christian Ndubueze Ezeokoli, Associate Prof. Chris Onyebuchi Ifediora, Prof. Joseph Eberendu Ahaneku, Chief Dr. Kizito Okonkwo, Engr. Kingsley Emeka Nwafor, Dr. Evaristus Afiadigwe, and Dr. Elias Nnanna Igwe.

During the event, Prof. Orogbu, who also chaired the occasion, emphasized that the gathering was primarily aimed at raising funds for the infrastructural upgrade of the university, while also serving as a reunion for alumni. She remarked, “Many of us who are alumni of Unizik may have lost contact with some of our peers over the years, and this meeting today presents an opportunity to reconnect.”

“As someone who has experienced this institution both as a student and as a lecturer, I am deeply passionate about elevating the status of Unizik. With the caliber of individuals Unizik has produced over the last three decades, it is disheartening that we are still discussing fundraising for the completion of the Alumni building today.”

“I am confident that after this event, a substantial amount will be raised not only to complete the Alumni building but also to construct enough hostels to accommodate every student on campus and provide other facilities that will solidify our alma mater’s position as one of the leading universities in sub-Saharan Africa. I also anticipate pledges of endowments from some of us here to bolster various faculties in the university,” she added.

The Guest Speaker, Prof. Chike Okoye, delivered a lecture on the topic, “The Role of Alumni, Friends, and Stakeholders in the Development of the Institution,” stressing the importance of alumni involvement in university development. He emphasized the need for Alumni Associations to execute worthwhile projects and contribute to the University’s advancement.

Representing the Keynote Speaker, Sen. Patrick Ifeanyi Ubah, Mr. Ebuka Onyekwele highlighted the indispensable role of alumni in institutional development, emphasizing that no university can fulfill its potential without alumni support. He called for synergy among alumni and critical stakeholders of the University.

In his address, the Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Charles Okechukwu Esimone, FAS, represented by the Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Administration), Prof. Joseph Ikechebelu, underscored the importance of Alumni Associations in university development. He cited examples of other Nigerian universities that have utilized alumni associations to achieve significant milestones, urging Unizik alumni to emulate such initiatives. The Vice-Chancellor expressed regret that no major infrastructure development could be attributed to Nnamdi Azikiwe University Alumni Association.

The Vice-Chancellor further stated that the University administration convened the event to raise funds towards the completion of the Alumni Building Complex and sensitize alumni to be more involved in the University’s development. Engr. Emeka Nwafor, President of Unizik Alumni Association, expressed gratitude to all who have contributed to the building of the Alumni building and expressed optimism about its timely completion.

Dr. Evaristus Afiadigwe, Chairman of the Unizik Alumni Convergence, called for increased support for the University to enhance its standing among top-tier universities. He emphasized the importance of having infrastructure befitting a University and urged alumni to prioritize the welfare of students.

In a vote of thanks, Dr. Nwachukwu Obiakor, Coordinator of Unizik Alumni Relations, on behalf of the Planning Committee, expressed gratitude to all who attended the occasion and called on all University Alumni (Home and Abroad) to contribute to the development of their alma mater.

This writer reports that the award recipients expressed their appreciation for the honour and pledged continued support for the University’s advancement. Facility tour of the ongoing Alumni Building Complex climaxed the event.