The Chairman of the Manufacturers Association of Nigeria (MAN), South East Zone, Lady Ada Chukwudozie, has commended Anambra State Governor Chukwuma Soludo for appointing Professor Kate Omenugha as the substantive Vice-Chancellor of Chukwuemeka Odumegwu Ojukwu University (COOU).
Chukwudozie described the appointment as a significant step towards strengthening leadership in higher education, expressing confidence that Omenugha’s experience and track record would contribute to the continued growth of the state-owned institution.
In a statement, the MAN South East chair congratulated the newly appointed vice-chancellor, noting that her emergence reflected the governor’s commitment to merit, competence and excellence in public appointments.
She said Professor Omenugha possesses the academic credentials, administrative experience and leadership qualities required to advance the university’s vision and improve its standing among tertiary institutions in Nigeria.
According to Chukwudozie, the appointment is expected to usher in a new phase of innovation, academic excellence and institutional development at the university.
She also praised Governor Soludo for what she described as his administration’s sustained investment in education and human capital development, noting that quality leadership remains essential to building globally competitive universities.
The MAN official expressed optimism that the new vice-chancellor would promote stronger collaboration between academia and industry, particularly in research, innovation and skills development that can drive economic growth.
She stressed the importance of universities producing graduates equipped with practical knowledge and entrepreneurial skills capable of meeting the evolving demands of the manufacturing sector and the wider economy.
Chukwudozie further encouraged Professor Omenugha to prioritise academic excellence, staff development, student welfare and strategic partnerships that would enhance the university’s reputation both nationally and internationally.
She said closer engagement between higher institutions and the private sector would foster research-driven solutions to industrial challenges while creating opportunities for innovation and employment.
The MAN South East chairman also called on members of the university community to support the new vice-chancellor in delivering her mandate, emphasising that collective effort would be vital to achieving sustainable progress.
Professor Omenugha is widely recognised for her contributions to education and public service, having previously held several leadership positions within Anambra State’s education sector.
Stakeholders in the state’s education community have expressed optimism that her appointment will strengthen governance at Chukwuemeka Odumegwu Ojukwu University and accelerate reforms aimed at improving teaching, research and community engagement.
The appointment comes as universities across Nigeria continue to pursue greater academic competitiveness, improved infrastructure and stronger partnerships with government and industry to enhance the quality of higher education.
Observers say effective leadership at tertiary institutions remains critical to advancing research, innovation and workforce development, all of which are essential to Nigeria’s long-term socio-economic growth.
With Chukwudozie’s endorsement adding to the growing support for the appointment, expectations are high that Professor Omenugha’s tenure will contribute to the continued development of Chukwuemeka Odumegwu Ojukwu University as a centre of academic excellence and innovation.
