Anambra State Governor, Professor Chukwuma Soludo, has approved the appointment of new members to the Governing Council of the Chukwuemeka Odumegwu Ojukwu University (COOU) in Igbariam.

The official announcement regarding these strategic appointments was made on Tuesday by the Governor’s Chief Press Secretary, Christian Aburime.

Professor Peter Azikiwe Onwualu has been selected as the new Chairman and Pro-Chancellor of the university’s Governing Council. His appointment is seen as a major move to provide expert guidance and stable leadership to the state-owned institution during this period of academic development.

As a seasoned professor of Agricultural Engineering, Onwualu currently serves as the Vice Chancellor of the African University of Science and Technology, Abuja. His extensive professional history also includes a tenure as the Director-General and Chief Executive Officer of the Raw Materials Research and Development Council, bringing a blend of academic and administrative expertise to the role.

The state government highlighted Onwualu’s deep technical background, noting that he is a fellow of 12 professional bodies and has authored over 200 publications and 10 patents. Furthermore, he has contributed significantly to agricultural and materials engineering in Nigeria, as well as holding key roles with the National Universities Commission and the World Bank-funded Pan African Materials Institute.

In addition to the leadership of the Pro-Chancellor, Governor Soludo appointed four other distinguished individuals to round out the Governing Council.

The new members are Chief Christopher Ndubuisi, HRH Igwe Chidiume Oranu, Professor Josephat O. Ogbuagu, and AIG (retd.) Sir Chris Ezike.

According to the official statement, the selection of these individuals was deliberate. The government aims to leverage their collective, diverse experiences to influence the university’s vision and governance, ensuring the institution remains competitive and effective in its academic pursuits.

Governor Soludo, who serves as the Visitor to the university, expects the council to significantly improve the quality of education and research. The government believes that bringing such high-profile professionals into the governing structure will help foster greater academic excellence and ensure long-term institutional sustainability.

These appointments mark a significant step in the administration’s effort to fortify the university’s leadership and training standards. By filling these vital positions, the state government hopes to streamline the university’s operations and advance its goals as a leading tertiary institution in the region.