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The Vice-Chancellor of Nnamdi Azikiwe University, Professor Bond Ugochukwu Stanley Anyaehie, has expressed the university’s readiness to support efforts aimed at improving the welfare, security, and living conditions of students residing off-campus, particularly in the Ifite axis of Awka.

Professor Anyaehie gave the assurances on Friday, 19th June, 2026, during a joint meeting/ inauguration of a tripartite committee comprising members of the Awka Capital Territory Development Authority (ACTDA) Awka South Local Government Area, the University’s Student Affairs Unit on the security, improved living conditions and welfare of students living off-campus around the Ifite axis, held at the Council Chambers of the institution.

Addressing the committee, the Vice-Chancellor emphasised the need for proper planning and accountability in the implementation of welfare programmes for students. He stressed that funds should not be collected indiscriminately and called for a well-structured approach to funding initiatives targeted at improving students’ welfare.

He noted that while the university remains committed to supporting the initiative, managing students’ welfare would have been easier if accommodation were fully controlled by the institution.

According to him, the challenges associated with off-campus living require collaboration among stakeholders, including landlords, government agencies, and the university community.

Professor Anyaehie further suggested engaging landlords in the Ifite area to negotiate more affordable rental rates for students, describing the move as a practical way of easing the financial burden on students and their families.

Earlier, the Dean of Student Affairs, Professor Kingsley Uboji, explained that the delegation was brought together by the Anambra State Government to inaugurate a committee dedicated to enhancing the welfare of students living in the Ifite axis and other university host communities.

He said the committee would focus on improving students’ living conditions, safeguarding lives and property, and addressing welfare concerns affecting students residing outside the campus environment.

Also speaking, the Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of ACTDA, Mr. Ossy Onuko, stated that the visit was part of efforts to establish a Students’ Welfare and Regeneration Committee for students living off-campus.

According to him, the initiative is designed to promote a cleaner and more conducive environment for students while creating a platform for dialogue between students, landlords, and relevant authorities on issues affecting their welfare.

He added that the committee would help strengthen cooperation among stakeholders and ensure that students enjoy better living conditions within the host communities.

Among those present at the meeting were the Mayor of Awka South Local Government Area, Prince Chinedu Okafor; the Managing Director/CEO of ACTDA, Mr. Ossy Onuko; Mr. Nwafor Christopher, representing Awka South; and other stakeholders.

The meeting ended with a shared commitment to fostering stronger collaboration between the university, government agencies, and community leaders to enhance the welfare and overall well-being of students living within the Awka capital territory.