UNIZIK to Build World-Class Digital Library as VC Unveils Bold Vision

The Vice-Chancellor of Nnamdi Azikiwe University (UNIZIK), Awka, Prof. Ugochukwu Bond Stanley Anyaehie, has reaffirmed his administration's commitment to transforming the University's Library into a world-class, technology-driven centre for learning, research, and innovation through strategic investments in digital infrastructure, reliable internet connectivity, sustainable power supply, and modern facilities.

Prof. Anyaehie made this known while receiving the University Librarian, Prof. Jacinta U. Eze, and members of the University Library Management Team during a courtesy visit to his office at the Council Chamber.

Speaking during the visit, Prof. Eze thanked the Vice-Chancellor for granting the audience and for his unwavering support towards the growth of the University Library. She explained that upon assuming office, she carried out a comprehensive assessment of the library system, identifying its strengths as well as critical areas requiring urgent intervention.

She noted that despite existing challenges, the library is staffed by dedicated professionals who have continued to record significant achievements. According to her, these include the rehabilitation of the library's website, intensified awareness campaigns on available library resources, and the successful organisation of a three-day strategic capacity-building programme for library personnel.

Prof. Eze further revealed that the Library's long-term vision is to evolve from a predominantly manual system into a fully digital library that meets global standards and effectively supports teaching, learning, and research.

She, however, drew attention to several challenges affecting efficient service delivery, including ageing infrastructure, obsolete equipment, defaced walls, inadequate binding machines, poor internet connectivity, and insufficient manpower. She appealed to the Vice-Chancellor to support efforts aimed at addressing these issues.

In his response, Prof. Anyaehie commended the University Librarian for the remarkable progress recorded within her short period in office, describing her appointment as timely and well deserved. He assured the management team that the University's ongoing development projects would significantly enhance library services.

The Vice-Chancellor disclosed that the University's solar power project is nearing completion and will soon guarantee stable electricity supply across the campus. He also announced that the deployment of one of the most robust internet networks in the institution's history is at an advanced stage, stressing that his administration remains committed to providing sustainable infrastructure that will support academic excellence.

He further assured the delegation that all concerns presented had been noted and would receive the necessary attention, adding that plans are underway to renovate and upgrade the library building as part of the University's comprehensive infrastructure renewal agenda.

Earlier, the Digital Librarian, Dr. Blessing Nnenna Otubelu, expressed appreciation to the Vice-Chancellor for revitalising the University's digital library initiative and for his strong commitment to digital transformation. She also advocated the creation of a dedicated scholarly research space to provide staff and students with a conducive environment for quality academic research, while reaffirming the Library's commitment to supporting the University's vision through efficient and innovative service delivery.

Also present during the visit were the University Public Relations Officer, Comrade Aloysius E. Attah; Dr. Nwona Nzewi, Medical Librarian; Dr. Victoria Ezejiofor, Serials Librarian; Dr. Angela I. Ndanwu, Africana Librarian; Mrs. Uju Nwafor-Orizu, Health Science Librarian; Dr. Obiozor Ekeze, Acquisition Librarian; Dr. (Mrs.) Okafor Kelechi, Circulation Librarian; and Mr. Onwuka Ogbonna Anya, Personal Assistant to the University Librarian.

This version adopts a more polished, newspaper-style structure with a stronger opening, tighter paragraphs, and smoother transitions while preserving all the essential details.