ASUP Confers Pan-African Leadership Honour on Wesley University Vice-Chancellor

The African Student Union Parliament (ASUP) has conferred its Pan-African Leadership Hall of Fame Award on the Vice-Chancellor of Wesley University, Samuel Sunday Obeka, in recognition of his contributions to educational development, leadership, and social impact across the continent.

The award was presented on March 4, 2026, during a courtesy visit by an ASUP delegation to the institution as part of its ongoing advocacy campaign across African universities.

The delegation was led by Nigeria’s ASUP representative, James Uneze, alongside Dominic Mensah, Deputy Speaker of the Parliament from the University of Ghana, and Etongo Hanacine, Director of Gender Matters.

Addressing university officials, Uneze said the recognition reflects Prof. Obeka’s influence in advancing academic standards and promoting ethical leadership in Africa. He noted that the honour aligns with ASUP’s broader campaign against drug abuse among students and the increasing wave of youth migration from the continent.

According to him, the Parliament identified the Vice-Chancellor as a standout figure whose leadership embodies integrity, moral discipline, and commitment to societal development.

Other members of the delegation echoed similar sentiments, commending the Vice-Chancellor’s administrative approach and the institutional progress recorded under his leadership.

In his response, Prof. Obeka expressed appreciation for the recognition, describing the initiative by African student leaders as a strategic effort to spotlight impactful leadership across the continent.

He disclosed that upon assuming office in 2022, the university faced severe structural and academic setbacks, including limited programme accreditation and the absence of key faculties such as law and medical sciences.

He said targeted reforms and institutional restructuring have since repositioned the university, with academic programmes expanding from 23 to about 64. The administration has also restored previously dormant academic activities and strengthened operational stability.

The Vice-Chancellor further highlighted improvements in staff welfare, noting that salaries are now paid consistently on the 15th of every month, in contrast to previous delays.

He added that the university has implemented a policy enabling graduates to receive their original certificates on the day of convocation, a move aimed at addressing longstanding delays common in the Nigerian university system.

Prof. Obeka also revealed that the institution now runs postgraduate programmes up to PhD level in Community Health in collaboration with the National Association of Community Health Practitioners of Nigeria.

In addition, the university has introduced inclusive education initiatives, including specialised facilities and support systems for hearing-impaired students.

He noted that collaboration with the National Universities Commission has further positioned the institution as one of the few in Nigeria approved to offer theology programmes up to doctoral level.

Prof. Obeka expressed confidence that the engagement with ASUP would strengthen inter-institutional collaboration and encourage responsible student leadership across Africa.