Elochukwu Benjamin
Awka
The national leadership of the Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU) has commended the Vice-Chancellor of Chukwuemeka Odumegwu Ojukwu University (COOU), Prof. Kate Azuka Omenugha, for her leadership style and commitment to the welfare of staff and students, while calling for sustained efforts to improve staff welfare.
The commendation came during a courtesy visit by the ASUU national delegation to the Vice-Chancellor at the University’s Igbariam Campus.
The visit, which was attended by the Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Administration and Environmental Sustainability), Prof. Anselem Nweke, and the Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Academics), Prof. Obiora Ejiofor, provided an opportunity for both parties to strengthen existing relations and discuss issues affecting the university community.
The Chairperson of ASUU-COOU, Comrade Ibekilo Bruno, welcomed members of the National Executive, led by senior officials of the union.
Speaking on behalf of the delegation, the Convener, Comrade Ike Odimegwu, said the visit was aimed at fostering stronger collaboration between the union and the university management while drawing attention to issues bordering on staff welfare and other matters of mutual interest.
He also praised Prof. Omenugha’s leadership and commitment to the development of the institution.
Also speaking, Comrade Jangfa Timothy Zhimwang lauded the Vice-Chancellor’s student-centred leadership, citing an inscription outside her office that reads, “Do not exploit my students because if you do, I will rise and defend them.”
He described the message as a reflection of a leader who is genuinely committed to protecting students from exploitation and abuse.
While commending her approach, Zhimwang urged the Vice-Chancellor to sustain her advocacy for improved staff welfare, expressing confidence in her leadership.
Similarly, Comrade Maria Chinecherem Uzonwanne described Prof. Omenugha as “a mother with the heart of a mother,” praising her support for the union, compassion and vision, which she said have inspired confidence among staff.
Responding, Prof. Omenugha thanked the ASUU delegation for the visit and the cordial relationship between the union and the university management.
She reaffirmed that staff welfare remains a top priority of her administration, noting that the management has continued to engage relevant stakeholders to ensure that staff concerns receive the attention they deserve.
The Vice-Chancellor disclosed that the Pro-Chancellor and Chairman of the Governing Council, Prof. Peter A. Onwualu, has been working closely with the university management to present staff welfare issues to the Visitor to the University and Governor of Anambra State, Prof. Chukwuma Soludo.
She expressed optimism that staff would soon witness positive developments, adding that the governor remains committed to the growth and development of COOU.
Prof. Omenugha also reiterated her administration’s commitment to maintaining dialogue, mutual respect and collaboration with all staff unions, stressing that the institution’s progress depends on unity of purpose.
According to her, the university will continue to pursue policies that promote academic excellence, staff motivation and institutional development in line with its 3Vs mantra of Values, Viability and Visibility.
The visit ended with an exchange of goodwill, renewed commitments to collaboration and a group photograph.
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