From Aloysius Attah, Onitsha
The Governing Council of Nnamdi Azikiwe University, Awka, has appointed Prof. Carol Arinze-Umobi as the Acting Vice Chancellor.
Pro-Chancellor and Chairman of the Governing Council, Barr. Olugbenga Kukoyi, in a letter dated 16/05/2025 sighted by Sunday Sun, said Umobi’s appointment, effective from 19th May 2025, was sequel to her nomination by the Senate of the University and subsequent appointment by the Governing Council as provided by Section 5 (13) of the Universities (Miscellaneous Provision, Amendment) Act 2003.
The appointment letter stated that by virtue of Section 5 (14) of the Act, Umobi’s term of appointment shall not exceed a maximum of period of six months, or until a substantive Vice Chancellor is appointed, whichever comes first.
While congratulating Umobi on the appointment, the Pro-Chancellor expressed hope that she would lead the university with distinction within the acting period.
Meanwhile, the Federal Ministry of Education has acknowledged being notified of Umobi’s appointment and also confirmed that her appointment followed due statutory procedures.
Director, Press & Public Relations, Federal Ministry of Education, Boriowo Folasade, in a statement said the selection process was conducted in line with due process, as provided under Section 5(13) of the Universities (Miscellaneous Provisions) (Amendment) Act, 2003—through nomination by the University Senate and subsequent approval by the Governing Council.
Folasade stated that in her capacity as Acting Vice-Chancellor, Professor Arinze-Umobi is expected to oversee the day-to-day administration of the university, coordinate academic and administrative activities, and ensure the effective functioning of the institution.
“The Ministry acknowledges this appointment as a reflection of adherence to statutory governance procedures and expresses confidence in Professor Arinze-Umobi’s ability to provide stable and result-oriented leadership during this transitional period.
“The Federal Ministry of Education remains committed to upholding transparency, university autonomy, and merit-based leadership across Nigeria’s tertiary institutions,” he stated.