ASUU National Leadership Visits COOU Vice-Chancellor, Commends Commitment To Staff And Students’ Welfare

The national leadership of the Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU) has commended the Vice-Chancellor of Chukwuemeka Odumegwu Ojukwu University (COOU), Professor Kate Azuka Omenugha, for her commitment to staff and students’ welfare.

The ASUU delegation made the commendation during a courtesy visit to the Vice-Chancellor at the Vice-Chancellor’s Conference Room, Igbariam Campus, on Wednesday, July 22, 2026.

The visit provided an opportunity for the union and university management to strengthen their relationship and discuss issues affecting staff welfare, institutional development and the continued growth of the university.

The meeting was attended by the Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Administration and Environmental Sustainability), Professor Anselem Nweke, and Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Academics), Professor Obiora Ejiofor.

Welcoming the delegation, ASUU-COOU Chairperson, Comrade Ibekilo Bruno, introduced members of the national executive team led by senior officials of the union.

Speaking on behalf of the delegation, Comrade Ike Odimegwu, the Convener, appreciated Professor Omenugha for her leadership and efforts towards advancing the university.

He explained that the visit was aimed at promoting stronger collaboration between ASUU and the university management while highlighting issues concerning staff welfare and other areas of mutual interest.

Another member of the delegation, Comrade Jangfa Timothy Zhimwang, praised the Vice-Chancellor’s student-centred leadership style, referencing her inscription, “Do not exploit my students because if you do, I will rise and defend them,” which he described as evidence of her commitment to protecting students’ interests.

He encouraged the Vice-Chancellor to continue advocating for improved staff welfare, expressing confidence in her leadership and ability to drive positive change within the institution.

Similarly, Comrade Maria Chinecherem Uzonwanne described Professor Omenugha as a compassionate leader whose support for the union and concern for the university community have continued to inspire confidence among staff members.

Responding, Professor Omenugha thanked the ASUU national leadership for the visit and acknowledged the cordial relationship between the union and the university management.

She reaffirmed that staff welfare remains one of the major priorities of her administration, noting that management has continued to engage relevant stakeholders to address concerns affecting staff members.

The Vice-Chancellor disclosed that the Pro-Chancellor and Chairman of the Governing Council, Professor Peter A. Onwualu, has been working closely with the university management to ensure that staff welfare issues receive the attention of the Visitor to the university, Professor Chukwuma Charles Soludo, CFR.

She expressed optimism that improved conditions for staff would be achieved soon, adding that the state government remains committed to the development of COOU.

Professor Omenugha further pledged that her administration would continue to promote dialogue, mutual respect and collaboration with all staff unions, stressing that unity and collective commitment are essential to achieving institutional progress.

She assured the delegation that the university would continue implementing policies aimed at strengthening academic excellence, staff motivation and sustainable development in line with its Values, Viability and Visibility (3Vs) agenda.

The visit concluded with renewed commitments to cooperation between ASUU and COOU management, alongside a goodwill presentation and group photograph.