From Felix Ikem, Nsukka
Prof. Boniface Nworgu, the Imo State Commissioner for Science and Technology has said that Imo State is overdue to become the Vice-Chancellor of the University of Nigeria, Nsukka (UNN).
Nworgu said this in Nsukka on Friday during the Maiden Heartland Lecture organised by Imo Professors Forum (IPF) in UNN with the theme; “Identity, Determination and Self Realisation through Knowledge-based Idealogy.”
The commissioner who chaired the occasion wondered why Imo State which he described as a critical stakeholder in South East and UNN had not been allowed to produce the Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of the university since 1960 when the institution was established.
“For over half a century of UNN existence nobody of Imo extraction has become the VC of the university, the situation has put a feeling of isolation and marginalisation on the people of the state.
“Even though IPF has many erudite professors who have distinguished themselves in their different areas of study, none has occupied the position of VC since 63 years ago.
“From every angle you view it, Imo State is overdue to produce the VC of UNN and should be allowed to be the next VC, to give people from the state a sense of belonging,” he said.
He commended the executive members of IPF for organising the lecture and noted that the galaxy of personalities present was an indication that IPF was on the right track and had a good reputation.
Speaking, Prof Peter Akah, Chairman of IPF in a remark said that professors of Imo extraction have played a critical role in the university and deserved a slot as VC of the institution.
“The history of UNN will not be complete without giving Imo professors a resounding mention because of their numerous positive contributions to the university, the country, and humanity.
“IPF has promoted the image of UNN both at national and international levels through their academic prowess and quality research work.
“Regrettably, since the inception of the UNN in 1960 (63 years ago) no Imo indigene has occupied the position of VC of the university.
“This time around we are asking that the next VC should come from Imo, we solicit the support of all and sundry to make it a reality,” he said.
Akah thanked the management of UNN for approving the event as well as giving guests a warm reception in the usual hospitality that UNN was known for.
The IPF Chairmen who was former Vice-Chancellor of Imo State University commended guests from far and near for finding time to attend the events despite their tight schedules.
In a remark, Prof Charles Igwe the Vice-Chancellor of UNN, represented by the Deputy Vice-Chancellor Administration, Prof. Romanus Ezeokonkwo commended the forum for organising the function and urged them to put their aspiration to have UNN-VC of Imo extraction in their prayers.
“I commend the forum for this wonderful occasion, I am here to represent the Vice Chancellor who was unavoidably absent.
“I heard all sentiments expressed, on Imo indigene becoming VC of UNN.
“I urge you to put the request and aspiration in your prayers.
” I wish to remind all that, power is not given but power is taken,” he said.
Earlier in a lecture on the theme of the event, Prof. Joe Ahaneku, the Vice-Chancellor of the National University of Science and Technology Abuja urged the South East to recover its identity of unity entrepreneurship and hungry for education which placed the region in the 1960s and 1970s in the global map.
“The zone should be more comfortable than it is now, we should recover the spirit of entrepreneurship, hard work, and hunger for education to move the zone forward,” he said.
Ahaneku urged the academia to stop shying away from politics but should use their wealth of knowledge to transform and sanitise the political system to move the country forward.
“In as much the academia should ensure quality education, they should also use their wealth of knowledge to transform, impact positively and sanitise the political system.
“UNN as a premier university should lead other universities and tertiary institutions in the country in the task to transform every sector of the country including the political system.
The VC expressed appreciation to IPF for finding him worthy to deliver the forum’s maiden lecture.
Chief Emmanuel Iwuanyanwu, the President General of Ohaneze Ndigbo was represented in the occasion by Mr Pat Anyanwu.
His Royal Highness, Eze Peter Ebigbo, the Traditional Ruler of Amafuo Community in Oru West Local Government Area of Imo State, Dr. Anthony Mgbeaharuike, Commissioner for Livestock Development in Imo State were among the dignitaries present during the occasion.