UNIZIK Honors Former Governor Ezeife, A Key Figure in Securing Federal Status
UNIZIK staff and students pay tribute to former Anambra State Governor Dr. Chukwuemeka Pius Ezeife, recognizing his critical role in transforming the university into a federal institution.
Mary Nwaeze 
The Nnamdi Azikiwe University (UNIZIK) community, led by its Vice-Chancellor, Professor Charles Okechukwu Esimone, FAS, gathered at the International Conference Center in Awka to pay their respects to the late former Governor of Anambra State, H.E. Dr. Chukwuemeka Pius Ezeife (Okwadike), who recently passed away. The event saw a significant turnout of university staff and students who wished to honor the legacy of Dr. Ezeife, a pivotal figure in the history of the institution.
During the commemoration, Vice-Chancellor Esimone addressed the mourners, highlighting the profound impact that Dr. Ezeife had on Nnamdi Azikiwe University. He noted that during his tenure as Governor, Dr. Ezeife played a crucial role in securing federal status for the university, then a state institution. Through his tireless efforts, Dr. Ezeife led the lobbying campaign to persuade the Federal Government to take over the university, transforming it into a federal institution.
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"During his tenure as Governor, Okwadike tenaciously fought for the establishment of this University as a federal institution," Prof. Esimone stated. "He led the lobbying efforts and successfully persuaded the Federal Government to take over the then state University, transforming it into a federal university."
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The Vice-Chancellor further remarked that the legacies of UNIZIK, named after the highly revered Dr. Nnamdi Azikiwe, would not be complete without acknowledging Dr. Ezeife's significant contribution. "Today, the legacies of UNIZIK, named after the highly revered Dr. Nnamdi Azikiwe, cannot be fully appreciated without acknowledging the significant contribution of this former governor," he added.
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The university community's delegation, consisting of staff and students, gathered to offer their condolences and prayers. "We are here with staff and students to pay our last respects. Our prayer is that the good Lord, in recognition of his accomplishments, will grant him eternal rest," Prof. Esimone concluded.
The legacy of Dr. Ezeife is expected to resonate through the years as his efforts laid the foundation for the institution's current federal status and ongoing success. His contributions have not only benefitted the university but also inspired a sense of commitment and excellence among its stakeholders.
