…As varsity unveils book on Esimone’s Vice Chancellorship
From Aloysius Attah, Onitsha
Chancellor of Nnamdi Azikiwe University, Awka, Da Jacob Buba Gyang has praised the level of incremental progress and developments recorded in Nnamdi Azikiwe University by successive administrations who have been at the helm of affairs in the institution.
Gyang , the Gbong Gwom Jos who spoke on Sunday in Awka during the End of Tenure Thanksgiving and book launch on the Vice Chancellorship of the outgoing Vice Chancellor, Prof Charles Esimone also also lauded the harmonious working relationship and seamless transitions witnessed among the succeeding Vice Chancellors which he said has contributed to the various success stories and achievements recorded in the university named after the Great Zik of Africa.
“I’ve seen a seamless transition and harmonious working relationship since my appointment as Chancellor from the time of Ahaneku down to Esimone and I’m even seeing it now being extended to the incoming (referring to Prof Joseph Ikechebelu, the Deputy Vice Chancellor, Administration) whom will be handed over in Acting Capacity on Tuesday “
“Not only the smooth transition but the collaboration existing here. I have not been confronted with any issue of serious disagreement of sort in this university. They are human beings and even if there are, they have handled it well and also go ahead to deliver the good they are employed here to do. And I sincerely stand here to say a good congratulations to the Vice Chancellor and all the staff and even students of UNIZIK because I’ve not heard of any disagreement or unrest among the students too.
“The management and successive ones have carried themselves with dignity and their wives too and I pray that God will continue to bless UNIZIK”
On the book unveiling, he said the book chronicling Prof. Esimone’s stewardship will inspire the incoming administration to also toe the path of excellence so that his own tenure will also record tremendous impact.
He also lauded the Awka community and Anambra people in general for the wonderful relationship existing between the town and gown and the contributions of the business community to the growth and development of the university.
The Book Reviewer, Prof Ifeanyi Nzekwe described the book as a masterpiece that tried to document Esimone’s scorecard which he noted that the outgoing Vice Chancellor has exhibited excellent leadership skills while in office which manifested in what he called Diversity, Equity and Inclusivity (DEI).
He described Esimone as a Champion of Resourcefulness and Motivation noting that Esimone’s ability to bequeath a Central Laboratory to the university, his innovations in Information, Communications Technology (ICT) and digitalization of the university under his leadership stands him out as a performer.
Unveiling the book, Sir Emeka Offor represented by his Chief of Staff, DIG Chris Ezike (Rtd) described the book as a mentorship guide and leadership compass both for the incoming administration and all others involved in leadership and administration anywhere.
Speaking with reporters, the outgoing Vice Chancellor, Prof. Esimone said he feels fulfilled having enthroned a proper academic culture in the university through the promotion of teaching and research, two concepts he said led to the enhancement of UNIZIK in both global and local rankings.
He urged his successor to improve on the sound foundations laid and improve on them and even do more while also reaching out so as to attract more projects and endowments for the university.
Various goodwill messages poured out in torrents for Prof Esimone from the university community, traditional rulers, senior staff association, disability groups, and pharmaceutical society of Nigeria among others.
The ceremony was attended by various personalities including his predecessor vice chancellor, Prof Joseph Ahaneku, Council Members Prof Meshach Umenweke, Prof Lasbrey Asomugha, Rev. Prof. BonaChristus Umeogu among others.