COOU MANAGEMENT ONBOARDS DIRECTORS OF CENTRES AND HEADS OF UNITS

On Wednesday, 4th February 2026, The Management formally onboarded Directors of Centres and Heads of various Units at the University’s Senate Chamber.

While addressing the newly appointed Heads and Director, The Vice Chancellor, Prof. Kate Azuka Omenugha, emphasized that the Centres are expected to function not merely as administrative structures, but as dynamic learning hubs that will contribute meaningfully to the intellectual and developmental growth of the University. She urged the appointees to remain proactive in the discharge of their responsibilities and stressed the importance of proper documentation and record-keeping.

Prof. Omenugha further noted that prior to her emergence as Vice Chancellor, the University operated without functional Centres, a situation she described as an aberration in a modern university system. She explained that the establishment of these Centres was therefore a deliberate step towards institutional expansion, innovation, and relevance.

Speaking candidly, the Vice Chancellor acknowledged that while some Centres would undoubtedly thrive, others might struggle. However, she pointed out that the success or otherwise of each Centre would largely depend on the level of understanding, commitment, and leadership demonstrated by those entrusted with their administration. She reinforced the values of transparency, accountability, and ethical conduct as non-negotiable principles guiding the operations of all Centres and Units.

Delivering his remark, the lead presenter, Prof. Casmir K. C. Ani charged the appointees to align fully with the University’s 3Vs agenda—Values, Viability, and Visibility. He encouraged them to strengthen the institution through strategic linkages, innovative research outputs, and global outreach. According to him, effective synergy, purposeful collaboration, and well-articulated strategic plans are essential for the sustainable management of the Centres.

He summarized the task ahead as straightforward yet demanding: generate ideas, work with the right people, apply the right strategies at the right time, and allow well-thought-out plans to attract support. Above all, he reminded the appointees that they serve as brand ambassadors of the University in all their engagements.

Congratulations to all who were entrusted with these special appointments.

©️ COOUNewS, 2026.