The Governor of Anambra State, Charles Soludo, has renamed the Uli campus of Chukwuemeka Odumegwu Ojukwu University (COOU) in honour of the late former Governor, Dr. Chinwoke Mbadinuju.
As part of the announcement, the Governor also unveiled a scholarship scheme for 37 first-class graduates of the University. The scholarship will fully fund their postgraduate studies, covering both Master’s and PhD programmes at any public university in Nigeria.
Soludo made these declarations during the university’s 2024/2025 convocation ceremony held at its Igbariam campus. He also approved a cash reward of ₦4 million for the overall best graduating student.
Paying tribute to Mbadinuju, Soludo described him as a foundational figure in the establishment of the University and its first Visitor. He noted that renaming the Uli campus serves as a lasting recognition of Mbadinuju’s contributions to education in the State.
The Governor emphasized that the scholarship initiative and financial rewards are part of his administration’s broader effort to promote academic excellence and strengthen the State’s intellectual capacity.
Addressing the graduating students, Soludo urged them to go beyond their academic success and take on the responsibility of contributing to national development. Referencing the song Which Way Nigeria by Sunny Okosun, he challenged them to actively participate in shaping a better future for the country.
He also reaffirmed his commitment to improving staff welfare, revealing plans to engage the university’s management and governing council in discussions aimed at establishing a sustainable financial framework for the institution.
The event also featured the formal presentation of Matthew’s Kukah as the new Chancellor of the University. In his remarks, Kukah expressed appreciation for the appointment and commended the institution’s progress, while encouraging alumni to support the University through active engagement and resource mobilization.
In her address, the Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Kate Omenugha, described the 16th convocation ceremony as a significant milestone. She noted that the successful hosting of the event marked the return of regular convocation ceremonies at the University.
She further highlighted that, for the first time in its 25-year history, the University hosted two foreign ambassadors at the ceremony, reflecting its growing international recognition.
The event concluded with a strong message on the importance of aligning academic achievement with a commitment to national growth and transformation.
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