By Martin Nwoko
The newly appointed Vice Chancellor of Kingsley Ozumba Mbadiwe University Ogboko, Prof. Ikechukwu Dozie has assumed duty as the substantive Vice Chancellor of the institution.
Professor Ikechukwu Dozie, Vice Chancellor (On black suit) being blessed by Traditional rulers and stakeholders of host communities of KOMU
The new VC first visited the traditional rulers of Umuma-Ebenmano Clan in Ideato South LGA at the palace of the clan head, HRH Eze G. A Ezeihikeibee V, Ezekwesiri of Umuma Isiaku Acient Town where other traditional rulers in the area received him.
Receiving Prof. Dozie in his palace, Eze G.A Ezeihikeibee welcomed the new VC and his team, and assured them of a peaceful stay.
Introducing Prof. Dixie to the traditional rulers, Rev. Fr (Dr) Donatus Uzoma stated that they did not come on their own but as a result of the announcement made by the Imo State Government appointing a new VC for KOMU hence Prof. Dozie decided to familiarize himself with Ndi Eze in the area before assuming his position as the Vice Chancellor of Kingsley Ozumba Mbadiwe University, Ogboko.
Addressing the traditional rulers, Prof. Dozie who has worked assiduously to reposition the school since May 19,2021 when he was appointed Vice Chancellor stated that he decided to seek audience and as well familiarize with the traditional rulers who are custodians of the culture and traditions of the Umuma-Ebenmano Clan in Ideato South LGA. He disclosed that the primary mission of the university is simply teaching, research and community service.
Prof. Dozie thanked Governor Hope Uzodinma for finding him worthy to serve in the capacity as Vice Chancellor of the University. He also applauded the former Governor, Senator Rochas Okorocha for his vision in establishing the university which is the 42nd state owned University and the 143rd University in Nigeria’s University system.
The VC maintained that Kingsley Ozumba Mbadiwe University was established through the enactment of the Kingsley Ozumba Mbadiwe University (Establishment) Law No. 1 of 2021, Imo State of Nigeria by Senator Hope Uzodinma on 18th February, 2021 which repealed the law that established the former Eastern Palm University.
Speaking further, the VC hinted that the University needs the support of government and critical stakeholders, especially the traditional rulers and host communities. He assured that he will do his best in ensuring that the university performs its Corporate social responsibilities to the host communities.
The traditional rulers used the occasion to pray for Prof. Dozie to ensure he succeeds in office as the Vice Chancellor of Kingsley Ozumba Mbadiwe University Ogboko.
The meeting attracted lots of traditional rulers in the area among whom are HRH Eze Amb. Christopher C. O. D, Eshi lll of Umueshi Osuohia, HRH Eze P. O Duru Eze Ononaobi ll Eniyin ll of Umulewe Acient kingdom, HRH Eze G. O Egenekwu Ogwuru Mbaike (lV) of Ogboko Acient Kingdom and many others.
The VC, a Professor of Microbiology also visited the University to interact with some staff of the institution. He assured the staff of a good working relationship and that the state government does not have any plan to disengage them from service but rather urged them to show commitment and zeal to work in the institution.
In his vote of thanks, the Chairman, Committee of Deans in the University, Dr Anthony Nwadiugwu congratulated Prof. Dozie on his new appointment and welcomed him on behalf of other staff of the University. He said that their hope has been rekindled following his appointment,stressing that the university will start witnessing enormous transformation that will take the institution to greater heights.
