Following the breaking news of Six ESUT Graduates who bagged First-Class Honours at the 2024-2025 Nigerian Law School Bar Finals, ESUT Monitor had an exclusive interview with one of the great ambassadors of the university, Mr Onovo Chiagozie Precious.

In this interaction, Mr Onovo recalled how his failed mission to achieve First-Class Houours at the undergraduate level in ESUT spurred him to aim for the coveted prize at the Nigeria Law School, Port Harcourt Campus.

The young scholar who hails from Nkanu East, Enugu State, wishes to major in Corporate and Commercial law.

What was you feeling like when you got the report?

I felt most satisfaction and pride. Achieving a First-Class at The Nigerian Law School is a feat I have dreamed for ever since I stepped into ESUT Law Faculty and I felt proud that I achieved this heart-desire. I had a reminder on my app that displays everyday at 8am that reminded me every morning before lectures of my ultimate goal while at The Nigerian Law School. I also had a community of people that targeted First-Class as friends while on campus.

What are your experiences at the Port Harcourt Campus?

What I consider the most formative experience at the Nigerian Law School is the realization that the academic requirement was bulky, while there was relatively little time to prepare. This realization shaped my stay and experience on campus as it directly led to dropping time consuming habits which would not lead to my goal of attaining a First-Class. At The Port Harcourt campus where I attended, I had an amazing time as the lecturers were adept at teaching, the lecture hall was well air conditioned and spacious which enhanced learning, while the bar aspirants from ESUT also had a community where we exchanged ideas, asked questions amongst one another and offered a helping hand, all in a bid to ensure that no bar aspirant from ESUT was left behind.

Did you graduate with First-Class at your undergraduate level?

I did not graduate with First-Class from ESUT. I finished with a Second-Class Upper Division and emerged as the 7th best graduating student in my class of 2023. Regarding what I did differently at The Nigerian Law School, I’ll put it down to two things: clarity and determination. Having not made my desired grade at undergraduate level, I sought clarity as to my shortcomings, and with a better understanding of what led to them, I became even more determined to make a First-Class, especially since I believe I was not far off it at undergraduate level. Determination of the type which amounts to spending 15-hours out of every 24 in each day either studying, revising, working on class tasks and virtually spending all day at the library, up until closing hours.

What is your message to junior ones?

My message to the junior ones is to cultivate a habit of studying and diligence. The Nigerian Law School can be brutal in their assessment and expectations and only a well-equipped mind can navigate the storm. Whatever grade you desire, you must commit to putting in the effort from the very first day, up until the last, there are no days off.

Would you practise?

I intend to practice as a Corporate and Commercial lawyer, while also having time and resources for litigious issues.

What is your aspiration?

⁠My aspiration is to navigate my time at the bar successfully and God willing, to make it to the bench after years of stellar practice.

The post “I Spent 15 Hours Each Day, Readying, Attending Lectures at Law School” – Chiagozie Onovo, ESUT First-Class Law Sch. Graduate appeared first on ESUT Monitor.

ESUT VC with Amaka Okoli

What began as a routine academic engagement quickly transformed into a remarkable and exciting experience as my first visit to the Vice-Chancellor’s office turned into an atmosphere filled with warmth interaction and unexpected delight.

On the 23rd of March 2026, being Tuesday. There was an interview session which was scheduled by ESUT Monitor to have an interaction with the Vice-Chancellor of ESUT, Prof Aloysius-Michaels Okolie,  which took place in his office. That very day, I was not just apprehensive about the interview, the thought of entering the VC’s office for the first time (would there be a second time? Why not…) being faced to face with the man so revered within and outside the university. The Most Outstanding VC in Nigeria!  

I was also proud of myself because I had to count it as a great opportunity to sit with the Vice-Chancellor of the university, in total control.  

Though I would also count it as an achievement in my field as a student trying to build myself because not everyone has gotten the opportunity to have a face to face discussion with the Vice Chancellor, which will forever remain a memory that I can never erase out of my mind.

The interview session which took place in his office was initially approached with a sense of nervous anticipation because I kept wondering how the atmosphere would look like.

As it was my first time, my expectation was to see a possible intimidating environment where strict protocols and serious expressions would dominate, though I was questioned by some officials on uniforms on the purpose of my visitation  but the reality proved to be entirely different because they sound friendly. Particularly when I told them “I am a reporter with ESUT Monitor, we have interview with the VC”. Their faces beamed with more friendliness I was accorded much respect and ushered into the expansive office of the VC.

Upon my arrival at the Vice Chancellors office, the calm and organised environment immediately gave me a tone of professionalism most especially when I was directed to the door step of his office by the secretary

Beyond the setting was a welcoming and friendly reception from staff members who created the atmosphere that helped to ease my tension and nervousness. At first, entering inside his office I didn’t just meet with the Vice Chancellor, I also met the Deputy Vice-Chancellor, Prof Chike Nwoha and the Registrar Mr Ambrose Ugwu who both watched and listened carefully as we “interrogated” the VC

The Interview session itself began as it gave me an unforgettable memory because I felt that the interaction would be a strict one but it evolved into a lively and engaging conversation. The Vice Chancellor demonstrated not only an administrative authority but also a personable approach throughout the session.

In a surprising twist, moments of humour and laughter became part of the discussion as I threw a question concerning the date of resumption.

“My Vice-Chancellor, Sir, when will the school vacate for Easter celebration and when will the second semester resume?” I asked him

His response at first came in a friendly manner which made us all to burst into laughter and that made a unique blend showing me the act of professionalism and friendliness. It also allowed for a more open and confident exchange of ideas.

Of course my experience also highlighted the importance of human connection and taught me that communication involves inclusiveness.

After the session, I described my experience as an enlightened and enjoyable one and that was “within me”. Though I didn’t just go alone, I had the honour of being in company of the ESUT monitor News Editor, Onyekachukwu Agu who led the and our amiable lecturer, but not just a lecturer but a man filled with determination and integrity in person of Mr Amaechi Agbo (MC Mazi), the Staff Adviser of ESUT Monitor

The Visit concluded on a positive note, leaving a lasting memory as I personally took a photograph with the Vice Chancellor while the others joined in. a picture I would treasure

As a student of Mass Communication, practicing my field of profession, such encounter serves as important milestones, not only academically but also a personal experience because it built my confidence and communication skills.

Indeed what started as a simple interview with nervousness became a memorable one that inspired my confidence on my future academic pursuit because I know that i have not failed until I quit to try.

And the unique attribute about all this is the fact that it was my first assignment as an ESUT Monitor reporter, an honour I am appreciative of, always.

Amaka Okoli is a 300 level student of Mass Communication and a member of ESUT Monitor Newspaper Reportorial Team

The post My First Interview with ESUT VC: From Apprehension to Excitement, Memory to Treasure appeared first on ESUT Monitor.

Ahead of the 21^st Convocation Ceremony of ESUT slated to hold on Saturday, November 22, 2025, ESUT Monitor has today commenced the publication of the Best Graduating Students from Faculties.

Our first publication is from the Faculty of Physical Sciences where Juliet Omeche emerged the Best Graduating Student for the 2023/2024 academic year

Miss Omeche in this exclusive interview detailed her academic journey in the Department of Geology and Mining at ESUT, How she became the second First-Class graduate of the department since inception and the challenges within.

Excerpts

First and foremost, tell us your full name?

My name is Juliet Omeche. I’m from Udi Local Government Area in Enugu State.

You graduated from ESUT?

I graduated from the Department of Geology and Mining, from the Faculty of Physical Sciences, in the year 2024.

Why Geology and Mining?

To be honest, I applied for Medicine and Surgery. I’ve always wanted to read Medicine and Surgery. But admission was not forthcoming. I applied two times, I didn’t get Medicine and Surgery.

 So, I remember in my secondary school, I always said, if I don’t get into the medical sector, then I would also want to try the Oil and Gas industry. But Geology came trhough because, at that time, I didn’t write Mathematics in my JAMB, so I could not apply for engineering courses. And it was easier to get into Geology at the time, I applied and got the admission.

After your four-year programme, you come out as the best graduating student from your faculty. Did you plan for it?

Yes, I did. Getting into Geology and Mining in Year 1, during the orientation, the lecturers and professors mentioned that they do not or they don’t usually have First Class graduates from the department.

Since the inception of Geology, it’s was only one person who had First Class.

It was more of a challenge to me, I wanted to break that jinx so they don’t say that to the next orientation set or batch and

 I did, worked towards it, planned for it and I got it.

How did you go about your academic activities?

I wouldn’t say I am a bookworm type of person because, all through my days in the university, I never attended a night class.

My strategy was I always to attend all my classes. I never missed a class.

That way, I get to hear directly from the lecturer and get to understand what each course is about. Then after every lecture, I go back home and read to understand. The next step I do is to, tutor my coursemates, because they normally come to me for assistance and to teach them. Doing that, I get mastered to the courses and everything about them.

It was easier for me to pass my exams that way and to excel in the courses. The target was never to get a ‘B’ in my results. It was ‘A’ ahead.

 Anytime I get a ‘B’, I would go back to the lecturer to understand why I couldn’t get that particular question or why I couldn’t understand that course. After their explanations, I would go back to read to understand better. That was my strategy. I attend classes, I read to understand after every lecture, and I also tutor my other coursemates.

Also, my reading schedule was from evening till dusk. I read from 7:00pm to 12:00 Midnight.

I also prioritize my sleep as much as I prioritize my reading schedule, my my academic life. There was always a balance, I tried to balance between the two, so that one does not suffer.

In other words, you considered ‘B’ grade as a failure?

I don’t consider ‘B’ as a failure. But, to me, I have always wanted to be an ‘A’ student. Anything short of ‘A’ to me is a failure, but in general terms, I don’t consider ‘B’ a failure.

How was it like navigating the school for the four years you were in Geology and Mining?

It was quite easy. I made a lot of friends that walk around. Like I said, I wasn’t the bookworm type of a person that’s always inside reading. I moved around, I had social life. It was quite easy to navigate around ESUT, from park to, as far as the EDC complex, I was able to get there. In fact, I don’t think there is any corner of ESUT that I didn’t go past. It was really easy.

Would you Consider teaching as a career if offered?

For now, I want to actually pursue a career in the Oil and Gas industry.

And if tutoring in ESUT or maybe lecturing in any other higher institution comes, it can be a side thing, I don’t mind.

Where is Juliet Omeche currently?

I’m in Lagos, working in an oil and gas drilling firm as a Business Development Executive.

Still undergoing my National Youth Service Corps one year programme. I will be through in December

Your initial plan was to be a medical person.

Yeah, to become a medical doctor,

Now you’ve become a Geologist.

Yes.

Do your regret not being a medical doctor

I don’t regret it. I feel I’m in a better space right now.

Where will Omeje Juliet be in the next five years?

In the next five years, I see myself as a Geoscientist in one of the IOCs, that’s the International Oil Companies. I am also working towards that by taking courses in seismic interpretation and reservoir modelling. That way, I can streamline my career path into becoming a Geoscientist in the IOCs.

Which of the lecturers in your department would you miss very much? And why?

I would miss Dr. Chineye Onyeabor. Because she was more of a mentor to me. Even though she can be a handful I mean, when she wants something, she must get it. If she fixes lectures, you must be there on time. 

Most of my coursemates didn’t really like that. It really didn’t sit well with them. But I think it was more of a training. Through Dr. Onyeabor I got to understand LinkedIn and how it works. And that was towards my graduation. Because of her, I was able to explore LinkedIn. And that was how I got a job even before the end of my service year. So I’ll say I’d miss her a lot.

What did you do in LinkedIn that was able to offer you that opportunity?

I think it was my profile optimization. I positioned myself well through my profile. So the recruiters reached out to me by merely looking at my profile, and they put me up for recruitment exercise and interviews, aptitude test, and I was able to scale through.

What is your advice to students who aspire to attain your feat?

My advice to these people is one, believe in yourself. Because for me, I believed in myself that I could break that jinx. I went ahead, lecturers said there’d been no First-Class, just one, in Geology and Mining. I thought about it, and I believed that I could do it.

Secondly. I would advise that they be consistent in whatever they’re doing. There is no particular strategy to making First-Class. I would not say this is a particular way you should study or not. If you find yourself studying in whatever way you feel it’s right for you, be consistent because consistency pays at the end of the time.

Then, another advice I’ll give to them is to practice effective time management, because it helps. You don’t delay one or make one suffer. Practice effective time management, create a study schedule. And then, you make sure to rest.

Find time to network with people, have a social life. In as much as you want to be the best graduating student or a first-class graduate, have social life because it would help. And have your rest time, your sleep time, and bedtime. Make sure to rest, prioritize your rest and your study. I would also advise that they seek help when needed. If you don’t understand a particular course, or topic in a course, seek help from maybe a coursemates or the lecturer.

What is Juliet Omeche’s hobby?

My hobby is traveling. I love to travel. I like exposure, so I will select more of places I’ve not been to before. I also love to research. Right now, I have a journal.

You know, it was my project that I researched on and my lecturers and external supervisor found it interesting, and then they asked that I publish it.

The post ESUT Convocation: Juliet Omeche Emerges Best Graduating Students in Faculty of Physical Sciences appeared first on ESUT Monitor.

By Amaechi Agbo

In this exclusive interview, the new University Librarian of ESUT, Dr Uzoamaka Ogwo, shared her plans, with ESUT Monitor. Her elation after her appointment as well as plans for the Library and challenges it’s facing.

The Interview was anchored by Amaechi Agbo. Excerpts.

Profile

My name is Dr. Uzoamaka Ogwo, by the special grace of God, the new University Librarian of Enugu State University of Science and Technology (ESUT) Library.

I am a professional and certified librarian with over 15 years of experience in librarianship. I have Masters and Doctorate degrees in Library and Information Science.

Before my appointment as ESUT University Librarian, I was the Librarian, National Center for Energy Research and Development, University of Nigeria, Nsukka,  a research institute domiciled at the UNN and also a Senior Lecturer, in the Department of Library and Information Science, UNN.

I have skills in general library management and my passion in librarianship is to bring digital transformation in libraries, a platform that can enable users have seamless access to information anywhere, anytime without physical boundary.  I have strong passion for the development of an innovative library environment that will be able to serve the university community, the students and faculty members for teaching, learning and research.

Resuming Work In ESUT As The University Librarian

I felt so much elated and grateful to God to have assumed office as the University Librarian of ESUT. No doubt, it is a privilege and an opportunity to serve the university community. I saw it as a privilege and a call to serve in this capacity, to bring new innovations, developments and digital transformation in ESUT library; so it is an opportunity and a privilege to serve.

Contrast between ESUT Library and UNN Library

What I find different from ESUT Library when contrasted with UNN library is the fact that ESUT is a State University Library while UNN is Federal. ESUT library still have a lot to be done in terms of digital/e-library development which is one of my missions, to see that the library is elevated to the level that anybody can access it from any parts of the globe.

There are a lot to be done here starting from identification of the library to having a functional digital library system. Fundamentally, there are obvious needs and they are my priorities and assignments of being here, such as Web OPAC (Online Public Assess Catalogue), Institutional Repository, functional databases, mobile  library system that could enable users to have unrestricted access to the library from any parts of the world anytime, anywhere without any physical boundaries. The library is the center, the academic hub of every university and we have to elevate it to that standard.

Work Environment

I must tell you the truth, I had a very warm welcome to ESUT Library. The staff have been very friendly and supportive. There is an ambiance of good working environment and cooperation that one would want to navigate to contribute more to improve on what is already on ground.

Challenges?

Of course, every establishment has its own challenges and ESUT library is not an exception. Fundamentally, funding is the major challenge we are facing. There are a number of digital transformations, innovations and services that we need fund to deploy such as computers softwares, web OPAC, functional databases,  learning commons, Makerspace, smart technologies such as RFID (Radio Frequency Identification), AI Tools, maintenance of the library building, landscaping of the library environment etc.

The  whole library environment needs a touch – renovation – because the library is the image of every academic institution, it is the centre, the heartbeat  and the pivote point around which every academic activities revolves. Hence, the library needs a facelift, and all those things require fund.

The good news is that our indefatigable Vice-Chancellor, Professor Aloysius-Michaels Okolie and the entire management have been so supportive and making frantic efforts to seeing that all these challenges are being fixed gradually. Recently, the issue of signage system, internet access, has been fixed and we are very optimistic that every other needs in the library will be a thing of history in no distant time by God’s grace.

Environment Cleanup

When I came in, the library environment was not what a library vicinity should be like. However, with the approval of our Talk-and-do Vice Chancellor, the library environment has been cleared and graded. Very importantly, we now have signage system for easy identification of the library.

Plan To Landscape The Library Environment

Having graded the environment, which is one step, we are still very optimistic that the management will plan towards landscaping of the library environment to improve its aesthetics and maintain a serene environment conducive for our users.

UNN Dominating ESUT on Appointments

(Laughs). That is because we are Super Lions and Lionesses and the University of Nigeria Nsukka (UNN) products are always the best. I am not just looking at the issue of dominance as you pointed out but on the impact. Dr Jonas Ezema (former University Librarian) did his best as well as my other predecessors. Not forgetting Professor Jacinta Eze who handed over to me.  The VC is currently transforming the university to a global standard with his disruptive innovative agenda, infrastructural development and digital transformation. I am also here to make my own impact of introducing digital transformation to the library.

Extending it beyond that front, you also have to give the Enugu State Government trumps up for always getting the best for ESUT particularly when you realize that these people are “Ndi Enugu”. It is a plus to the University, to Enugu State and to humanity.

Is that to say that ESUT is not producing capable hands as well? NO! To the contrary, remember that few months ago, the former Dean of Faculty of Law in ESUT, Professor Simon Uchenna Ortuanya, was appointed the Vice-Chancellor of UNN. And he made history as the first Nsukka person to head the University. My take is simple, Ndi Enugu nwere mmadu (Enugu has capable people) in all ramifications and I am happy and grateful to the Governor, the council members, the Vice-Chancellor, the management and the entire university community. Together we will propel ESUT and Nigerian educational system to greater heights.

The post EXCLUSIVE INTERVIEW: “My Appointment As University Librarian a Privilege, Opportunity To Serve” – Dr. Uzoamaka Ogwo, New ESUT Librarian  appeared first on ESUT Monitor.

Ahead of Thursday, June 5th World Environment Day, Mr Michael Odenigbo, spoke EXCLUSIVELY to ESUT Monitor on why he is attempting to break the Guinness World Record (GWR) on the most number of trees planted by an individual within 24 hours.

The record for the most trees planted by an individual in 24 hours is 23,060, achieved by Antoine Moses of Canada in La Crete, Alberta, on July 17, 2021. This record was achieved in 14 hours and 51 minutes of straight planting.

However, Mr Odenigbo is aiming to suppass the record by planting 27, 000 moringa trees in 24 hours. The tree planting, expected to cover four hectares of land will take place at the Enugu State University of Science and Technology (ESUT) on June 5.

Excerpt:

My name is Michael Odenigbo, a Nigerian climate advocate from Enugu State.

Why are you attempting the Guinness World Record on tree Planting?

Right from childhood, I always have passion for planting of trees and nature in general. I’ve been into climate advocacy for some time now. However, currently, I want to take my climate advocacy to an international level.

So I want climate change to be a topic among young people, because it’s not every young person in Nigeria that has interest in going for conferences, or relating with climate change.
Butt we can make climate change a training topic among young people.

I decided to go for this record breaking attempt, where I intend to plant 27,000 trees to set a new world record on most trees planted by an individual in 24 hours which will be taking place from 5th to 6th of June. 5th is world environment day. It is clearly out of passion, for nature and environmental conservation.

How would you sustain your energy doing the 24 hours period of the planting?

I’m human being but again some of us are very strong and fit and we have been practicing for the challenges ahead. Therefore, apart from being fit, I am preparing personally for the physical challenges that will be in place that day. It will not be much of a problem.

What kind of physical challenge do you envisage?

Tree planting is a physical exercise, it demands a lot of strength, constant training and practicing makes it easier.

How will you ensure that the trees you plant are being sustained?

That is a very important question, because sustainability is very essential, without it, the trees, everything about this record will be a waste.
But there is a sustainability plan which I am working with the school, and in the plan I will be partnering with ESUT to be able to take care of the seedlings from the tender until they grow up and become very developed. There is a sustainability plan for that.

What message do you hope to convey through this record?

The major message I want to convey, using this particular record attempts, is about climate change. Young people should understand that climate change is a big problem that affects everybody.

Some people think that climate change only exist on papers and all that, but it affects our daily lives, both in agriculture, the price of goods in the market, and so many other instances.

The climate change is not just a climate problem, it’s not just an environmental problem it is a health problem. It is also an economic problem. Health problem in the sense that the environment you live in, there are so much carbons that are emitted and we need trees to be able control them

In the aspect of economy, it affects adequate agriculture, for instance,, farmers are complain there is no adequate rainfall, it’s one of the problems caused by climate change, including heats and other problems that come.

So the the awareness that I’m trying to create is, I want young people through this Guinness World Record, because Nigerians love Guinness World Record very well, so through that, climate change will become a topic among among them and by so doing we can enhance climate illiteracy in Nigeria and the world at large.

What system do you have in place for your teams?

In terms of financial support system, first of all, I have a support system via the state government because they facilitated the approval of 4 hecters of land by Enugu State University of Science and Technology, which the document has been issued to me as well.

In terms of thenurseries that we are doing here, I will also say that I have not really gotten a systemized support from any institution. It is just based on my own personal fund and friends, and wellwishers that have been supporting in their little ways, which I appreciate so much.

And I’m also looking forward to getting support from various institutions, not just about encouraging us, but also bringing out financial support.

Even if you don’t have financial support, there are some logistics that we will be needing that day and you can come to us and we will let you know the logistics that we need.

Another support is that I have some volunteers who have been, helping me in terms of the process of this nursery. We have been doing this thing for like a month now. So it has not been easy, and I really appreciate them.

But on that day, which is this Thursday, we are appealing for more supporters, more volunteers on ground, because it’s not something that we are going to do alone. Although it is an individual attempt, I will be needing teams that will be supplying the seedlings and this continuous supply is going to be consistent for 24 Hours, and it’s not something that few persons can do, we need as much as people possible, especially students here in ESUT.

Students should try and encourage us by volunteering. This particular record attempt is unique, and not just like others

It’s not about clouds. It’s about environmental protection and climate change is one of the SDG’s that is prioritized by so many governments across the globe. This, students should show concern and volunteer for this.

And there are so many things that student can benefit from volunteering for projects such as this, in a way that is a community development service aside that, it is also an environmental project.

It means that if you partake in it, and we succeed, is going to boost your CV in a lot of ways, in the sense that you will be acknowledged as one of the people that participated in a global project such as this and anywhere you go, you can always identify yourself with these projects, and there are so many doors that it can open for you.

Aside from that, these are project that everybody supposed to show interest in.

How do you document and verify the tree planting?

I’m not the one that will verify it but I’m the one that would document it.

The verification is left for Guinness World Record. Just like I made a post in one of my videos on my social media handle, many people have been going, you know, attempting Guinness without approval.

But in this one, we have approval from Guinness and in my dashboard on Guinness website, there is already a column for uploading of evidence or asking of question or anything that is specially designed for people they have already approved for the attempts.

So once we are done with the attempts, we would simply upload them and all the document that are necessary.

We upload them to Guinness World Record site and wait for their review.

Once they are done with the review, an Email will be sent to us on the outcome of the review.

The post EXCLUSIVE INTERVIEW: “Why I Want To Break Guinness World Record On Most Trees Planted By Individual” – Michael Odenigbo appeared first on ESUT Monitor.

As more commendations continue to pour in over Professor Uchnna Ekwochi’s one year in office as the Provost, ESUT College of Medicine, the Special Assistant on Health to the Enugu State Governor, Dr Yomi Jaye has disclosed that the pProvost has shown greater zeal to deliver in the past 12 months

Speaking in an interview with ESUT Monitor in his office, Dr Jaye who said that he had only known the Provost just over a year ago, noted that with his antecedents in one year, he has the capacity to elevate the College beyond where he met it.

Dr Jaye who spoke glowingly on Prof Ekwochi’s remarkable strides so far, said that his leadership trajectory aligns with His Excellency’s mission to revamp the healthcare system in the state.

A Public health consultant with over 20 years of extensive medical practice across Africa and the United States of America, the SPA however, pointed out that infrastructural development and fostering partnership that would help in the technological advancement of the College are two critical issues Prof Ekwochi’s administration should aim to tackle going forward.

Share with us your profile and duties, Sir

My name is Yomi Jaye and I have the privilege of serving as the Special Adviser on health matters to His Excellency, Barr Dr Peter Ndubuisi Mbah, the Executive Governor of Enugu State.

In that capacity I advise him on anything that pertains to health, primary to secondary healthcare, Colleges of  health, Medicine, Nursing and all institutions that pertain to healthcare as well as the ministry of Health. My role is to give different views from whatever ideas that come in.

I have the privilege of supervising the Enugu State International Hospital, the Teaching Hospital. I have oversights over them. That is why my in-and-out in the College of Medicine is being seeing almost all the time because from his mandate, the Governor made it clear on 29^th May 2023, that he is out to revamp a couple of things and one of them is health and you could see the drive on it. We know that to change things, you need a formidable, highly motivated and well-trained healthcare givers. If we don’t fix the College of Medicine, Schools of Nursing, we cannot achieve anything. Building and structures don’t make a health system, the capacity does. Those are my roles in this government and we are determined to give everything it will take to change the mind-set of people in the health system, raise their morals and make them flow with the mandate of His Excellency’s disruptive approach.

How long have you known the Provost of ESUT College of Medicine and what is your assessment of his administration in one year?

I knew him for only one year, that was when he come to office. One thing that blends with His Excellency and from my background is that anybody that can deliver, irrespective of his background or geographical location, if you can deliver, then, you are a friend, he will give you all the support.

For the Provost, he has demonstrated that he can wear a crown and still be humble. What we see in the medical field is that when you are up there, you become like a demigod, Prof Ekwochi demystified that. He came very real and you could see from the things he has done. For the first time in the College, you could see a bold step of being able to conduct a town hall meeting. That is making yourself to be vulnerable, to be questioned, it doesn’t happen but it happened in the College. He was able to face all the questions the students and staff asked, he sat down and took all of them. It takes a courageous leader to bring yourself to the judgement table and give your people the chance to examine you.

The mentorship programme that they just had recently is a key component of enhancing students’ career development and establishing effective relationship between them and their lecturers. In Western world, you can see your Vice Chancellor, sit and eat together; it does not happen here. In the African setting, once you see your professor coming, you disappear into thin air. The philosophy he is bringing into the College is a long time prospect, the people will see the impact much later.

Personally, I support someone with his kind of leadership and I am going to support him exponentially to succeed. I just knew him one year, not from anywhere, and he has demonstrated that one can wear a crown and still be human.

In which areas would want him to improve on, going forward? 

The two major things should be infrastructural development because in life, you cannot go beyond the space you have.

The space you are in determines your mind-set which in turn defines your growth. We need to relocate or take some part of the College to where it can blossom and do better. The second one is to foster a partnership that will promote technological development and improve experiential learning. Already, he is driving towards that. He is working in line with His Excellency’s goal in the health sector. 

If you were to call him on Wednesday, what would you tell him on the phone?

You have done well so far, but where you are today is not good enough for tomorrow, therefore, move forward and raise your standard.”

The post One Year in Office: “Prof Ekwochi Has Shown Bold Step to Deliver” – Dr Jaye, SPA to Gov. Mbah appeared first on ESUT Monitor.

By Chiekezie Emmanuel and Joy Alinta

In this exclusive interview, the 40^th Inaugural Lecturer, Enugu State University of Science and Technology, (ESUT), Prof Okechukwu Richard Oji shared his thoughts on how he planned the lecture, challenges as well as why he chose the topic of the day.

The 40^th ESUT Inaugural Lecture held at the newly built Barr Dr Peter Ndubuis Mbah 1000-capacity Multipurpose Auditorium drew crème dela crème in academics and polities in Enugu State together and signposted the need for effective boundary management in South East

Professor Oji spoke with our reporters, Chiekezie Emmanuel and Joy Alinta

Excerpts

The 40th Inaugural Lecture

As a professor, I had the opportunity to deliver my inaugural lecture, which showcased my knowledge and expertise in my field. The topic of my lecture was “Politics of the Bridge and Politics of the Fence: Desiderata for Effective Boundary Management in the South East Nigeria.”

I began by explaining the concept of politics, citing various definitions from renowned scholars. I emphasized that politics is a game of contending actors, where one actor attempts to outwit the other. In the context of Nigerian politics, I highlighted the importance of appreciating the country’s political culture and filling the gaps in understanding.

I also defined the concepts of “bridge” and “fence,” explaining that a bridge connects two separate entities, while a fence separates them. I emphasized the importance of building bridges to foster cooperation and understanding between different groups.

During the lecture, I recommended the establishment of an Institute of Boundary Studies, which would provide a platform for academics to research and enlighten the public on boundary issues. I suggested that the institute be established at ESUT, where there is adequate manpower to make it flourish.

The lecture was well-received, and I was pleased to see that the Governor was in attendance. I hope that my recommendations will be taken seriously and that the Institute of Boundary Studies will become a reality.

How did you deliver the lecture?

I began by explaining the concept of politics, citing various definitions from renowned scholars. I emphasized that politics is a game of contending actors, where one actor attempts to outwit the other. In the context of Nigerian politics, I highlighted the importance of appreciating the country’s political culture and filling the gaps in understanding.

I also defined the concepts of “bridge” and “fence,” explaining that a bridge connects two separate entities, while a fence separates them. I emphasized the importance of building bridges to foster cooperation and understanding between different groups.

Essence of Inaugural Lecture

I told you earlier in my opening statement that it is showcasing a professor. When you say you are a professor, you have reached the zenith of your academic pursuit. But you cannot just reach the zenith without making a mark. So, what it does is showcase the area you are in academics, and the value you, as a professor, have added to academics. It is an academic exercise through which you get to know the professor and his area of expertise, as well as the value of the professor in the academic environment.

challenges faced

There are so many challenges. One is the content of the lecture. In writing the paper, you have to make sure you appeal to those who will make it possible. There are areas they will disconnect because of communication; the only problem is not communicating to the academic world and university in what we are doing. It has to do with nerve, how are you going to deliver it, what is the style? These are the problems, and also look at the issue of security. Look at the people coming; will they come in peace and go safely? We added enough flesh, content to enrich that work.

Establishment of Institute Boundary Studies.

It is a recommendation. What I have done is a recommendation in revitalizing what I said. Luckily, the Governor was there, and they understood what I said. I want it to be established in ESUT, where we have manpower to make it flourish. We now create the opportunity for academics to research more on boundary issues, enlighten the entire public on what it is all about. I only recommended not just having it there, but it should be introduced in secondary school, primary school levels, so people can appreciate their fellow human beings, so that people can have the opportunity to cohabitate in their various levels. And if you look at that lecture, I suggested using conveyors to that integration. And for us to have adequate peace-building measures in Nigeria, there are people we can use, non-state actors within the economic, social space within the political space, who have a major role to play. Some of them are CSOs, NGOs, who are not state actors. Most importantly, there are traditional institutions, database organizations, youth movements, groups, they can be the consensus who have agreed to move the nation forward, who can decide to make a healthy environment and make sure people have a good value system.

Directorate of ESUT Consultancy Services

Consult is an acronym coming from consultancy services. The job of ESUT Consultancy Services is to have and create an integrative known through which ESUT can excel itself in the outside world, through which ESUT can also create opportunities for you to reach out in terms of generating funds or revenue in the university, in terms of creating partnerships and collaborations between the university and other organizations, not just police implementation but implementation, and also opportunities for trade and industry, and also in technology. In consultancy services, we do so many things. For instance, you might not know I am the Chairman for Engineering Excellency. I read political science; I am not an engineer. It means that there are some values I could add to the university

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By Chiekezie Emmanuel and Alinta Joy

Establishing boundary studies in tertiary institutions has been advocated for to be a yardstick in achieving coherent and adequate peacebuilding measures in Nigeria.

The Director of Consultancy Services, ESUT, and 40th Inaugural Lecturer, Professor Okey Oji, stated this in an exclusive interview with ESUT Monitor in his residence on Monday, explained the reasons for the establishment of boundary studies.

He explained that an inaugural lecture showcases a professor. “When you say you are a professor, you have reached the zenith of your academic pursuit. However, you cannot just reach the zenith without making a mark. You bring the area you have reached for people to examine, and it is an academic exercise through which people know your field. As a professor, you have added value to your profession.

“My recommendation is that ESUT will establish Institute of Boundary Studies, where we have adequate manpower to make it flourish. We can now create opportunities for academics to research more on boundary issues and enlighten the general public on what is being talked about.

“I recommended for it to be established in secondary schools, primary school level, so that people can begin to appreciate their fellow human beings and neighbouring communities, so that people can have the opportunity to cooperate in various labours. It will help to achieve lasting Peace in Nigeria.

“Most of the communal clashes we witness every now then is as a result of boundary disputes and I strongly believe that establish the Instutte of Boundary Studies in Tertiary institutions will address this and ensure adequate peace in Nigeria”, he said

He suggested such institute should work in tandem with conveyors as it is an integrative process, so that there can be “cohesion between the nation’s space, and for us to have adequate building measures. There are people that we can use, non-state actors have a major role to play in economic, social space, political space. It can be CSOs, NGOs who are not state actors. They can be the conveyors, and most importantly, it can be traditionally institutions equally, either Muslim or Christian, youths, movement groups, concerned citizens to build a healthy nation,” Professor Oji emphasized.

“The conveyors can also be nationalists apart from the executives who can decide to make healthy laws that will govern the country and create opportunities for people to work across different unhealthy spaces and make sure you have peaceful coexistence within the country.”

He further said that, citing from his lecture titled “Politics of the Fence, Politics of the Bridge: A Desiderata for Effective Boundary Management in South East Nigeria.” “Looking at this topic, I want to believe that people will start investigating and researching what I mean by politics of fence, politics of bridge,” he said.

He positioned politics as a game with actors, in which one actor at all times comes out to outwit other actors. “Looking at Nigeria’s political culture, you observed the issue of primordial that affect the cultures and values of Nigerian politics. There is a need to appreciate the nature of our politics and also fill the gaps. When you have that bridge-building, what it means also is that there is a common resource that you are trying to find out, and it is the people.”

“If you don’t mix with your neighbours, for instance, you will not have adequate collaboration. When you are mixing up, you are doing cross-border cooperation, having a joint utilization of cross-border resources, so we can use it together and live in peace,” he advised.

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As October 5, 2024 date for the Local Government elections in Enugu State draws closer, the Chairman, Enugu State Electoral Commission (ENSIEC) Professor Christian Chidubem Ngwu granted ESUT Monitor exclusive interaction regarding the election.

Professor Ngwu, a distinguished academic in media and communication studies at Enugu State University of Science and Technology (ESUT), hails from Ishi Egu Owo village in Enugu State’s Nkanu local government area. With degrees from the University of Nigeria, Nsukka (UNN), and a PhD from ESUT, he is a prominent member of the Nigerian Academy of Learners.

Reflecting on his tenure as ENSIEC Chairman, the ENSIEC boss described it as “very enjoyable, smooth, but a little bit hectic,” particularly with the upcoming elections. Despite the challenges, he expressed confidence in managing the increasing workload and ensuring the electoral process runs smoothly.

With the local government elections less than two months away, Chidubem affirmed that preparations are well underway. “We are quite ready,” he stated, highlighting efforts in awareness and mobilization through radio. However, logistical movements are pending due to funding constraints, which they hope to address soon.

Emphasizing the importance of the October 5th election date, Prof Ngwu stated its sacrosanct nature, barring unforeseen circumstances. The primary elections will run from August to 16th, followed by campaigns from September 4th to October 4th.

Discussing the recent Supreme Court ruling on financial autonomy for local governments, the erudite scholar noted it does not affect his office. He elaborated on the collaboration with local government officials, particularly in ensuring security and the smooth delivery of election materials.

Addressing concerns about the independence of state electoral commission, Chidubem acknowledged financial dependency on the state government but maintained operational autonomy. “The state doesn’t dictate for us in most cases,” he asserted, “except for funding and staffing.”

He revealed that 18 political parties are registered for the elections, though the final number of contesting parties will be clear post-primaries. He noted the existence of some parties primarily on paper, requiring additional effort to confirm their participation.

On a personal note, Prof Ngwu described his role as ENSEC Chairman as a significant call to service, a challenge he embraces with dedication. “It’s a call to service and to move away from the sures of the classroom for the meantime. And serving the state in another capacity,” he remarked.

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By Joseph Joy

Department of Applied Biochemistry has the highest number of students offered admission into the Enugu State University of Science and Technology, ESUT for the 2023/2024 academic session.

They are closely followed by departments of Computer Science, Anatomy, Applied Microbiology as well as Mass Communication are among the top five departments in the lists.

A total of 5694 students are offered admission to study various course in the existing 67 first degree programmes in the university.

Meanwhile Coordinator of Adcdmissions, Prof. Igwenagu Chinelo, in an exclusive interview with ESUT Monitor urged the students to remain focused in their endeavour even as she announced that the admission portal has been closed.

Providing insight into the progress of the admission process, Prof. Igwenagu disclosed that out of the approximately 6,200 candidates admitted, 5694 have already accepted their admission offers. However, she expressed concern over the remaining candidates who have yet to take action.

“Some candidates have yet to accept their admissions or print their screening (PUTME) result slip,” Prof. Igwenagu noted.

With the portal shut down on Tuesday, 6th February 2024, Prof. Igwenagu stressed that no further consideration will be given for outstanding issues beyond the deadline.

“To ensure broad dissemination of information, members of the ESUT community are urged to actively engage in spreading awareness.”

She further encouraged individuals to inform their wards, friends, and the general public about the critical importance of accepting approved admissions and completing all necessary documentation before the cut-off date.

The 43rd ESUT Matriculation Ceremony holds today across the faculties in the university. ESUT Monior will Stream the matriculation live on our Facebook page https://web.facebook.com/ESUTMonitorNewspaper

For further updates on the admission process and other developments within the university, readers are encouraged to stay tuned to ESUT Monitor.

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