Shun cultism, other deviant behaviours, UNIZIK VC tells freshers at Matriculation

From Aloysius Attah, Onitsha

Vice Chancellor, Nnamdi Azikiwe University, Prof. Ugbochukwu Bond Anyaehie has charged newly admitted students of the institution to shun cultism and other anti-social behaviours as the university has zero tolerance for all form of deviant attitudes and would not hesitate in wielding the big stick against such defaulters.

The Vice Chancellor who spoke in Awka weekend, while delivering the matriculation address to the newly admitted students for the 2025/2026 academic session, said the momentous occasion remains a significant milestone in the academic journey of the new students.

He noted that having overcome the challenges of securing a place in one of Nigeria’s most competitive universities, the matriculation celebration was a testament to their hard work and dedication even as he congratulated the new students and their proud parents and guardians.

He recalled that having been appointed to the position of the Vice-Chancellor of the University few Months ago, his mission is to steer Nnamdi Azikiwe University to become one of the top-ranking Universities in Nigeria, using a three-pronged strategy: prioritizing students’ welfare, bringing Innovation to Institutional growth and Development and support for research, and community service.

He disclosed to the new students that Nnamdi Azikiwe University, presently has seventeen (17) Faculties with various academic programmes, most of which are accredited by relevant professional bodies, including the Medical and Dental Council of Nigeria (MDCN); Council for the Regulation of Engineering in Nigeria (COREN), Institute of Chartered Accountants of Nigeria (ICAN) among others.

On the students responsibilities and expectations, the Vice Chancellor said Nnamdi Azikiwe University strives to provide a comprehensive and supportive learning environment, equipping the students with the necessary tools and resources to excel academically.

He said that for a students to successfully complete the degree program, it’s vital to fulfill specific obligations to the University and listed those key responsibilities to include:early registration of courses, regular attendance and participation in classes and avoiding any form of examination misconduct

“Any form of examination misconduct, including sorting (bribery, coercion, or collusion to influence exam results or grades), will be met with severe penalties, such as suspension for up to three years, outright expulsion, or other disciplinary actions as deemed fit by the University. Let’s uphold academic integrity.”

He warned also that any form of certificate forgery or submission of fake certificates earns the offender earns the offender immediate expulsion from the University.

“Cultism is strictly prohibited and punishable by expulsion. Other serious offenses, such as robbery, rape, or violent behavior, will be met with expulsion and prosecution under state laws. The University has zero tolerance for such actions, and offenders will face severe consequences. Additionally, students are expected to adhere to the University’s dress code policy, promoting a respectful and professional environment”

“Your time at Nnamdi Azikiwe University will be a transformative journey, and with diligence, perseverance, and divine guidance, you will undoubtedly achieve academic excellence and earn a distinguished degree” The Vice chancellor stated.

Shun cultism, other deviant behaviours, UNIZIK VC tells freshers at Matriculation

From Aloysius Attah, Onitsha
Vice Chancellor, Nnamdi Azikiwe University, Prof. Ugbochukwu Bond Anyaehie has charged newly admitted students of the institution to shun cultism and other anti-social behaviours as the university has zero tolerance for all form of deviant attitudes and would not hesitate in wielding the big stick against such defaulters.

The Vice Chancellor who spoke in Awka weekend, while delivering the matriculation address to the newly admitted students for the 2025/2026 academic session, said the momentous occasion remains a significant milestone in the academic journey of the new students.

He noted that having overcome the challenges of securing a place in one of Nigeria’s most competitive universities, the matriculation celebration was a testament to their hard work and dedication even as he congratulated the new students and their proud parents and guardians.

He recalled that having been appointed to the position of the Vice-Chancellor of the University few Months ago, his mission is to steer Nnamdi Azikiwe University to become one of the top-ranking Universities in Nigeria, using a three-pronged strategy: prioritizing students’ welfare, bringing Innovation to Institutional growth and Development and support for research, and community service.

He disclosed to the new students that Nnamdi Azikiwe University, presently has seventeen (17) Faculties with various academic programmes, most of which are accredited by relevant professional bodies, including the Medical and Dental Council of Nigeria (MDCN); Council for the Regulation of Engineering in Nigeria (COREN), Institute of Chartered Accountants of Nigeria (ICAN) among others.

On the students responsibilities and expectations, the Vice Chancellor said Nnamdi Azikiwe University strives to provide a comprehensive and supportive learning environment, equipping the students with the necessary tools and resources to excel academically.

He said that for a students to successfully complete the degree program, it’s vital to fulfill specific obligations to the University and listed those key responsibilities to include:early registration of courses, regular attendance and participation in classes and avoiding any form of examination misconduct

“Any form of examination misconduct, including sorting (bribery, coercion, or collusion to influence exam results or grades), will be met with severe penalties, such as suspension for up to three years, outright expulsion, or other disciplinary actions as deemed fit by the University. Let’s uphold academic integrity.”

He warned also that any form of certificate forgery or submission of fake certificates earns the offender earns the offender immediate expulsion from the University.

“Cultism is strictly prohibited and punishable by expulsion. Other serious offenses, such as robbery, rape, or violent behavior, will be met with expulsion and prosecution under state laws. The University has zero tolerance for such actions, and offenders will face severe consequences. Additionally, students are expected to adhere to the University’s dress code policy, promoting a respectful and professional environment”

“Your time at Nnamdi Azikiwe University will be a transformative journey, and with diligence, perseverance, and divine guidance, you will undoubtedly achieve academic excellence and earn a distinguished degree” The Vice chancellor stated.