By Ikenna Nwokedi 

The Governing Council of Nnamdi Azikiwe University (UNIZIK), Awka, has given the nod over the  reappointment of Professor Carol Chinyelugo Arinze-Umobi as the institution’s Acting Vice-Chancellor. 

The decision by the Governing Council was conveyed in a letter dated May 16, 2025 and endorsed by the Pro-Chancellor and Chairman of the Governing Council, Barrister Olugbenga Kukoyi. 

According to the letter, the appointment, which takes effect on Monday, May 19, 2025, is for a period of six months, in accordance with Section 5(13) of the Universities (Miscellaneous Provisions) Amendment Act 2003.  

The letter read: "This letter aims to formally notify you of your appointment as Acting Vice-Chancellor of Nnamdi Azikiwe University (UNIZIK), Awka, effective 19th May, 2025. This follows your nomination by the Senate of the University and subsequent appointment by the Governing Council as provided by Section 5 (13) of the Universities (Miscellaneous Provision, Amendment) Act 2003 "the Act".

"By virtue of Section 5(14) of the Act, your term of appointment shall not exceed a maximum period of six (6) months, or until a substantive Vice-Chancellor is appointed, whichever comes first.

"Your responsibilities as Acting Vice-Chancellor will include, but not limited to: Being responsible for the day-to-day running of the University as the Chief Executive; Leading and managing the University's academic and administrative functions; Representing the University in various capacities; Serving as a member of the Governing Council and other relevant committees; and Ensuring the smooth and efficient operation of the University, you will be responsible for adhering to the University's policies and procedures.

"The terms and conditions of your appointment are as approved by the Federal Government of Nigeria and the Governing Council of the University. While we congratulate you on your appointment, we hope that you will lead the University with distinction during the acting period," the letter read.

The Federal Ministry of Education has also formally acknowledged the appointment. In a press release signed by Boriowo Folasade, Director of Press and Public Relations on behalf of the Minister of Education, the Ministry affirmed that due process was followed in line with statutory requirements while also expressing confidence in Professor Arinze-Umobi’s leadership.  

The statement read: "The selection process adhered strictly to the provisions of the Universities Act, involving nomination by the University Senate and subsequent approval by the Governing Council. The Ministry is satisfied that due process was observed and commends the university for upholding transparency and merit-based leadership."

The Federal Ministry of Education reiterated its commitment to university autonomy, transparency, and meritocracy in the appointment of leaders across Nigeria’s tertiary institutions.

Prof. Arinze-Umobi, the new acting Vice-Chancellor of UNIZIK, is a Professor of Laws majoring in Human Rights Law at the Faculty of Law in UNIZIK. Prof. Arinze-Umobi once served as a two-term Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Administration) of the institution from July, 2016 to June, 2020.