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From Aloysius Attah, Onitsha
In a sweeping move to transform from a quiet academic enclave into a vibrant community hub, the Chukwuemeka Odumegwu Ojukwu University (COOU) Igbariam, Anambra State, has fired up the transmitters of its long-dormant campus radio, UniOjukwu106.1 FM, signaling a new era of outreach, culture, and practical innovation of the present administration of Governor Chukwuma Charles Soludo.
The reopening marks the return of the university’s broadcast voice, offering a platform for students, staff, and the surrounding community to engage, learn, and share information.
The radio station situated inside the university’s Mass Communication Department was officially launched by the Varsity’s Vice Chancellor, Prof Kate Azuka Omenugha alongside the State Commissioner for Education, Prof Ngozi Chuma-Udeh, among other invited guests present yesterday.
In her address, the Vice Chancellor, Prof Omenugha, said the radio station is purposefully established to showcase the university’s vision and mission beyond Anambra State, South East region and Nigeria at large. She said the station would also be fired up online.
“Since assuming office as Vice Chancellor, my guiding philosophy has been simple to serve with purpose, to lead with empathy, and to build institutions that outlive individuals.
“We have driven our 3Vs (Values, Viability and Visibility) as a roadmap to success of the University. We have re-branded Chukwuemeka Odumegwu Ojukwu University as The Now University and of the Future.
“Leadership, to me, is not about occupying an office; it is about taking responsibility for people, systems, and possibilities.
“Over the past period, we have worked, sometimes quietly, sometimes visibly, to strengthen academic standards, improve staff and students’ welfare, rebuild confidence in our processes and reposition this University for relevance in a rapidly changing world.
“We have focused on restoring trust, encouraging innovation and creating an environment where excellence can thrive academically, socially and ethnically. The radio station is not a coincidence nor is it symbolic alone. It is strategic”.
“The radio station under my watch will become one of the best University radio stations in Nigeria because it’s technically sound, creatively vibrant, ethically grounded and national respected I commend governor Soludo for being a beacon of hope for all of us, the VC applauded,” she said.
She used the opportunity to announce that the university workers will start receiving their minimum wage in line with the desire of the state government.
The Vice-Chancellor also encouraged students to leverage the station to develop their skills, stating, “Wherever you find talent, nurture it. Keep the station in great use, and handle the equipment with care. This platform is an opportunity to grow, learn, and contribute meaningfully.” She further emphasized the importance of awareness campaigns, including road walks, to ensure that the community knows about the station and its services.
In his remarks, Head of Mass Communication Department, Dr Gideon Nwafor, described the radio station as a welcome development for the University community.
A statement from the Public Relations Unit of the university said the reopening of UniOjukwu 106.1FM represented more than just a technical restoration, butut a strategic step in advancing the university’s 3Vs trajectory—Values, Viability, and Visibility.
“As a value-driven institution, the station promotes ethical communication and intellectual discourse. It serves as a practical training ground for students, enhancing their viability in the media industry, while increasing the university’s visibility across the region.”
