UNIZIK appoints its first female Vice-Chancellor

On Saturday, Nnamdi Azikiwe University (UNIZIK) in Awka, Anambra State, announced the appointment of Professor Carol Arinze-Umobi, a scholar of Human Rights Law, as its new Vice-Chancellor (VC).

Professor Arinze-Umobi is the first female VC in the history of the institution.

The NIGERIA NEWS 247 reported that her appointment was made by the UNIZIK governing council during its meeting on Saturday, July 20, 2024. Prior to this, Professor Arinze-Umobi served as the Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Administration) at UNIZIK.

Her appointment was confirmed in a letter signed by the Pro-Chancellor and Chairman of the Governing Council, Ambassador Gregory Mbadiwe. According to the letter, her tenure as acting VC will last six months, in accordance with Section 4 of the First Schedule of the Nnamdi Azikiwe University Act CAP 139, LFN 2004, as amended by the Universities (Miscellaneous Provisions) (Amended) Act 2007.

The letter stated: “The Governing Council has approved your appointment as Acting Vice-Chancellor of Nnamdi Azikiwe University, Awka on recommendation of the University Senate. The appointment is for a period not later than six (6) months, effective Monday, July 22, 2024, with the terms and conditions of your appointment as approved by the Federal Government for all Federal Universities.”

Ambassador Mbadiwe extended congratulations on behalf of the Governing Council, expressing confidence in Professor Arinze-Umobi’s ability to lead the institution during this period. He highlighted her extensive experience and dedication to the university, noting her past role as Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Administration).

He added that during her tenure, Professor Arinze-Umobi is expected to expedite the recruitment process for a substantive Vice-Chancellor who will assume a five-year term following her acting period. This emphasizes the transitional nature of her role and the significant responsibilities ahead.

Mbadiwe acknowledged the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead, expressing confidence in Professor Arinze-Umobi’s leadership and commitment to academic excellence. He assured her of the council’s support in elevating the university’s status during her tenure and the transition to new leadership.

“We look forward to supporting your initiatives and working closely with you to elevate our beloved institution to greater heights, both during your tenure and in the crucial transition to new leadership. Together, we will write the next chapter in the illustrious history of Nnamdi Azikiwe University,” Mbadiwe concluded.