Soludo celebrates Omenugha, commends her leadership as COOU VC

From Aloysius Attah, Onitsha

Anambra State Governor, Professor Chukwuma Soludo, has praised the Vice Chancellor of Chukwuemeka Odumegwu Ojukwu University (COOU), Professor Kate Omenugha, describing her appointment as a well-deserved recognition of competence, integrity, and excellence.

Governor Soludo made the remarks yesterday during a Thanksgiving Mass held at St. Paul’s Catholic Church, Nnobi, to celebrate Professor Omenugha’s appointment as Vice Chancellor and the 70th birthday anniversary of her husband, Dr. Michael Omenugha.

He said he settled for Omenugha because she is the best for the job, her long time experience in the education sector and for fighting against examination malpractice, including shutting down of over 486 WAEC miracle centres across secondary schools in the state during her era as commissioner for education.

The governor said his administration remains committed to promoting merit, excellence, and transparency in public appointments, stressing that Professor Omenugha emerged as the most qualified candidate after a thorough and credible selection process.

He urged Nigerians to embrace merit as the guiding principle for leadership appointments, rather than sentiments or sectional interests.

Governor Soludo commended Professor Omenugha’s outstanding record in public service, expressing appreciation that her wealth of experience and dedication has repositioned Chukwuemeka Odumegwu Ojukwu University for greater academic excellence, innovation and global competitiveness.  The governor also drew attention to the growing environmental challenges confronting Anambra State, particularly flooding and gully erosion. He described environmental degradation as one of the greatest threats facing the state and called on communities, stakeholders, and residents to work together to protect the environment and preserve the land for future generations.

In her response, Professor Kate Omenugha expressed profound gratitude to God for His faithfulness and thanked Governor Soludo for the confidence reposed in her.

She also appreciated family members, friends, colleagues, and well-wishers who joined in celebrating the special occasion and pledged to justify the confidence placed in her through dedicated service and purposeful leadership.