~ As Gov pays homage to Mbadinuju for establishing institution
Chukwuemeka Odumegwu Ojukwu University (COOU), Anambra State on Saturday rounded off a weeklong exercise for the combined convocation ceremony of the institution.
The event ended with the award of higher degrees and honorary doctorate to distinguished personalities in the state, including the wife of the governor of the state, Dr Mrs Nonye Soludo.
Mrs Soludo was awarded a honorary doctorate in public health and nutrition, for championing healthy lifestyle in the state through her NGO, Healthy Living with Nonye.
Acting Vice Chancellor of COOU, Prof Kate Omenugha said the award, which is dubbed Ojukwu Legacy Award was to encourage people who have distinguished themselves in several field.
Other awardees included; the South East chairman of Manufacturers Association of Nigeria (MAN), Mrs Ada Chukwudozie; traditional ruler of Ogidi kingdom, Igwe Alex Onyido; business men, Engr Chidozie Mbanefo and Chief Christopher Ndubuisi.
The university was established in 2000 by then Governor of the state, Late Dr Chinwoke Mbadinuju.
Governor of Anambra State, Prof. Charles Soludo, who was at the event commended his predecessor, Mbadinuju for founding Chukwuemeka Odumegwu Ojukwu University, describing him as a visionary leader that has not been adequately celebrated.
Speaking at the combined convocation ceremony of the university on Saturday, Soludo praised Mbadinuju as a great leader whose foresight led to the establishment of an institution that has since become a source of pride for the state.
He said: “This 25th anniversary of the university we are celebrating today was the brainchild of a remarkable man,”
“Dr. Chinwoke Mbadinuju, the first civilian governor of Anambra State between 1999 and 2003, is the founder of this university. Yet, he has not been properly honored for this contribution.” he said.
Soludo recalled that the university originally started at the Uli campus, a vision brought to life by Mbadinuju’s dedication.
“May his soul rest in peace. I believe Anambra State has not done enough to celebrate him. We will find a meaningful way to immortalize the founder of this university, Dr. Chinwoke Mbadinuju,” he assured.
The governor emphasized the need for the state government to recognize Mbadinuju’s legacy more fully, ensuring that his contributions are remembered and celebrated appropriately.
