Tansian University Seeks Peace, Unity as New Acting VC Assumes Office, Honours Late Umeoduagu

By Our Correspondent

The Tansian University community has been urged to embrace peace, unity, and security in honour of the late Acting Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Nnamdi Umeoduagu, who was remembered for his steadfast commitment to the institution’s progress.

This call was made by the Chancellor and Chairman of the Board of Trustees (BOT), Very Rev. Fr. Prof. E.S.C. Obiorah, during the formal handover ceremony to the new Acting Vice-Chancellor, Very Rev. Fr. Prof. Nnamdi Nwankwo.

This was contained in a press statement made available to our correspondent on Wednesday and signed by Fidelis Nwakwesili, Chief Press Secretary, Tansian University, Umunya, Anambra State.

The event, held at the university’s Law Auditorium on Tuesday, October 13, 2026, was well-attended by academic and non-academic staff.

Describing the late Prof. Umeoduagu as an exceptional administrator, the Chancellor noted that despite his brief tenure, he made remarkable contributions that left an enduring impact on the university.

In recognition of his service and legacy, the Chancellor disclosed that the institution has resolved to establish a memorial in his honour.

The Chancellor further explained that the appointment of the new Acting Vice-Chancellor followed a rigorous interview process conducted by the Board of Trustees prior to Prof. Umeoduagu’s passing.

He described Very Rev. Fr. Prof. Nnamdi Nwankwo as an erudite scholar with an outstanding reputation in the education sector.

He called on all members of the university community to cooperate fully with the new administration to strengthen the institution’s credibility and position Tansian University as one of Nigeria’s leading centres of academic excellence.

In his remarks, the Pro-Chancellor, Prof. Ellis Idemobi, acknowledged the inspiration he drew from the late Prof. Umeoduagu’s brief administration, describing him as a man who fought a good fight and remained steadfast in his service.

He expressed confidence that the late professor’s contributions would continue to inspire the institution, adding that his life and service deserve lasting recognition.

Prof. Idemobi also addressed issues surrounding the university’s leadership transition. He explained that the former Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Nwadialor, had formally handed over the administration to the late Prof. Umeoduagu before proceeding on medical and retirement leave with his full benefits.

According to the Pro-Chancellor, subsequent claims regarding a five-year tenure extension for the former VC are entirely unfounded, as the Board of Trustees never approved such an extension.

Furthermore, Prof. Idemobi dismissed rumors that Tansian University is solely owned by Rev. Fr. Prof. Obiorah, clarifying that the institution is jointly owned by the Catholic Dioceses of Awka and Ekwulobia.

He commended the Chancellor’s leadership, describing his contributions to the development of the university as significant and far-reaching.

In his inaugural speech, the incoming Acting Vice-Chancellor, Very Rev. Fr. Prof. Nnamdi Nwankwo, described his appointment as “one of the miracles of Blessed Iwene Tansi.”

He paid tribute to the late Prof. Umeoduagu, acknowledging his admirable credentials, leadership qualities, and dedication to the institution.

Prof. Nwankwo assured the university community that he has assumed office with a peaceful disposition, renewed determination, and a strong commitment to raising academic standards and advancing the university’s reputation.

He urged staff and students to prioritize personal development, professional excellence, and institutional progress rather than engaging in matters capable of undermining their individual reputations or that of the university.

The highlight of the ceremony were the Chancellor’s and the Pro-Chancellor’s formal presentation of the university’s official documents and a new official vehicle to the incoming Acting Vice-Chancellor.