The leadership echelon of Nigeria universities is structured in such a way that empowers the Vice-Chancellor as the head of administration while the Deputy Vice-Chancellors subordinate him. Leadership of universities in Nigeria is set out by the law establishing them – state and federal universities alike.

Whereas most universities have multiples of Deputy Vice-Chancellors (DVCs) positions as the next in command after the Vice Chancellor, the Enugu State University of Science and Technology, ESUT, has just a DVC

This is in contrast to what is obtainable in other institutions. To name a few,, while the University of Nigeria Nsukka operates with three DVCs –  DVC Academic, DVC Admin Nsukka and DVC Admin Enugu campus, Ahmadu Bello University (ABU) has two  Deputy Vice-Chancellors, one for Academic affairs and another for Administration

At State universities, the Imo State University (IMSU) operates two Deputy Vice-Chancellorship structure, one for Academic Affairs (DVC Academics) and the other for Administration (DVC Admin). Similarly, Abia State University (ABSU) has two Deputy Vice-Chancellors (DVCs): one for Academic matters and one for Administration issues.

One thing is clear aforesaid, there ought to be at least two DVCs in a university to oversee academic and administrative affairs. Interestingly, ESUT has just one.

To ascertain the rationale behind ESUT having just one Deputy Vice-Chancellor position, ESUT Monitor spoke extensively with the Acting Chairperson of the Academic Staff Union of Universities, ASUU, ESUT Branch, Comrade Dr Andrew Apeh.

Dr Apeh who expressed concern that having just one DVC is hampering effective administration in ESUT, however explained the reason.

According to him, “every university operates under its own establishing law, and ESUT’s existing law provides for only one Deputy Vice Chancellor. However, during ASUU’s recent engagements with the university management, the union formally requested for the creation of two Deputy Vice Chancellor positions, and the management responded positively, promising to look into the matter.

“Let me remind you that introducing a new structure in the management of the university requires going through the Enugu State House of Assembly to amend the existing law that established ESUT. I am confidence that once the legal processes are completed, the university will implement the changes.

He emphasized that adding at least one Deputy Vice-Chancellors in the echelon would ease the administrative burden currently placed on the Vice-Chancellor and foster more effective communication between lecturers and the university management.

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Compiled By ESUT Monitor

The Minister of Innovation, Science, and Technology, Uche Nnaji, has resigned from President Bola Tinubu’s cabinet amid controversies surrounding his academic records and allegations of certificate forgery.

Nnaji, who was appointed in August 2023, announced his resignation in a letter to the President on Tuesday, expressing appreciation for the opportunity to serve.

Following investigation by Premium Times, the University of Nigeria, Nsukka (UNN), disowned the Bachelor of Science degree certificate in the possession of the former Minister, saying the politician did not complete his studies at the institution and was never issued a certificate.

According to the paper, Simon U. Ortuanya, the Vice-Chancellor of UNN, stated that although Nnaji was admitted to the institution in 1981, he did not complete his studies and was never awarded a degree.

The platform added that authorities at the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) also confirmed that the certificate of national service being paraded by Nnaji was strange to it and could not be authenticated.

Confirming the development in a statement on Tuesday, the Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, said, “President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has accepted the resignation of Geoffrey Uche Nnaji, the Minister of Innovation, Science, and Technology, following some allegations against him. President Tinubu appointed Nnaji in August 2023.

“He resigned today in a letter thanking the President for allowing him to serve Nigeria. Nnaji said he has been a target of blackmail by political opponents. President Tinubu thanked him for his service and wished him well in future endeavours.”

Nnaji’s resignation comes amid a lingering controversy over alleged certificate forgery and questions surrounding his academic qualifications from the University of Nigeria, Nsukka.

Nnaji and the Enugu State Government had traded words over allegations that he presented forged certificates.

The dispute intensified after the Federal High Court in Enugu rejected Nnaji’s bid to stop the University of Nigeria from releasing his academic records.

The court had ruled that the institution was within its rights to release the minister’s academic details in response to a freedom of information request, a decision that fuelled further public scrutiny.

Nnaji, however, maintained that he was being blackmailed by political opponents determined to tarnish his reputation.

…Enugu State Govt. Denies Involvement

The Enugu state government has distanced itself from the ongoing certificate controversy involving the Minister of Innovation, Science, and Technology, Chief Uche Nnaji.

Nnaji had on Monday in Abuja accused the Governor of Enugu State, Peter Mbah, of masterminding allegations of certificate forgery levelled against him.

Speaking through his spokesperson, Robert Ngwu, the Minister described the allegation as a politically motivated witch-hunt aimed at discrediting him ahead of the governor’s alleged plan to join the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC).

“Mbah wants Nnaji out of his way. He has given a new name to all his problems. He is seeking a second term in office, and the only way to achieve this is to get Nnaji out of the way. He wants to join APC, but knowing that

However, in a statement issued in Enugu by the Director of Information in the Ministry of Information and Communication, Mr. Chukwuemeka Nebo, the state government denied sponsoring the allegations and urged the minister to “carry his cross” and clear his name before Nigerians.

 “The Enugu State Government dissociates itself completely from these allegations. The Honourable Minister must carry his own cross and clear his name before Nigerians, instead of dragging the government into issues that are entirely personal to him,” Nebo stated.

According to him, Chief Nnaji had earlier invited journalists to a world press conference scheduled for 2:00 p.m. on Monday to address the matter but failed to appear.

“A large number of Nigerian and international journalists gathered on the Minister’s invitation to hear directly from him. But rather than appear before them to answer questions and establish his innocence, the Minister absconded, leaving proxies who could not withstand the barrage of legitimate questions from journalists,” Nebo said.

The statement went on to question several inconsistencies reportedly linked to Nnaji’s academic and NYSC records:

“Did the Minister present a degree certificate to the Senate claiming to have graduated from the University of Nigeria, Nsukka (UNN) in July 1985?

“Is it true that he deposed before a Federal High Court in Abuja that UNN never issued him any degree certificate, and if so, how did he obtain the certificate he submitted to the Senate?”

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The race for the next substantive vice chancellor of the University of Nigeria, Nsukka is not merely an administrative process. It is a defining moment that reflects the hopes of a university community seeking leadership that will elevate the institution beyond the achievements of its predecessors, much like a parent wishing their child to surpass them.

Since the end of Prof.  Charles Igwe’s tenure in June 2024, the lingering question has been: who will lead UNN into its next chapter, and can that person reposition it for national and global relevance?

Following Igwe’s exit, the university has had three acting vice chancellors: Prof. Romanus Ezeokonkwo, who served from June to August 2024; Prof. Polycarp Chigbu from August 2024 to February 2025; and Prof. Oguejiofo Ujam, who has been in office since February 2025. Each provided relative stability, especially Ujam, who openly acknowledged the reality that UNN had fallen behind its peers in academic leadership.

By stating publicly that “UNN is no longer leading in primary academia”, Ujam issued a challenge to himself and the incoming VC: the need to rebuild the university’s lost glory and reposition it as Nigeria’s premier institution capable of competing globally.

As the university concluded its senate elections on 28 July to select representatives to the joint Council and Senate Selection Committee, those selected should know that the choice of a new leader carries the aspirations of the entire community and broader expectations that UNN will once again lead both nationally and continentally.

The Senate election took place amid deep-seated regional tensions that have defined the succession debate. Statism, the growing tendency to prioritise candidates based on their regional origin rather than merit, re-emerged as a divisive theme.

This sentiment has been especially pronounced since Igwe’s departure, with what seemed to be organised protests and campaigns calling for the appointment of a VC from the host community.

Some stakeholders, citing UNN’s location and history, argued that it was the turn for a native to lead the institution.

While such views reflect genuine emotions, the elevation of ethnic or regional identity over merit undermines the credibility of the selection process. The university risks becoming a casualty of identity politics, drifting away from its academic mission.

It is then important to revisit the vision of the institution’s founder, Dr Nnamdi Azikiwe. From its founding in 1960, UNN was conceived as a truly indigenous, yet globally oriented university. It was to be a centre of excellence for all Nigerians regardless of background. Azikiwe envisioned a research-focused institution that delivers world-class education while responding to the country’s needs.

UNN’s motto, “to restore the dignity of man”, was more than a slogan; it was a call to lift Nigerians to global standards through education.

This ideal has attracted major global collaborations, such as the selection of UNN by UNESCO to host an International Institute for Biotechnology.

These achievements affirm the university’s founding ambition, which is now at risk of being eroded by parochial interests.

Even more troubling is the encroachment of partisan politics into academic processes. With the 2027 general elections looming, political actors appear increasingly interested in shaping leadership decisions within public universities. UNN is not immune.

Reports of politicians attempting to influence the VC selection process are unsettling. Some are believed to be seeking to install loyal proxies who may favour them during the coming election cycle.

This development compromises the university’s autonomy and casts doubt on the impartiality of the process.

As the Chair of the Governing Council, Engr. K. O. Ojo, is expected to announce the new vice chancellor after over a year of transitional leadership. The responsibility before him and the Council is to uphold the integrity of the selection process as defined by the university’s laws.

According to existing statutes, including the “Yellow Book” cited by the Senate, the process must focus on academic and administrative experience. Candidates must be of good repute. More importantly, the selection board must assess them based on merit, not politics or regional sentiment. This is why Nigerians, and indeed anyone with merit, excel in education, politics and industry in the developed world.

The ideal choice must be someone who can unify the university community, safeguard its academic values, and inspire confidence among staff and students.

The example of the current acting vice chancellor is instructive. Since assuming office in February,  Ujam has stabilised the institution, restored academic order, and navigated the transition without controversy.

 His short tenure has been marked by calm, purposeful leadership and inclusive administration.

This period stands in contrast to the turbulence that often accompanies leadership changes in Nigerian public universities.

Under his guidance, academic activities resumed in full, and a sense of normalcy returned. His leadership proves that merit and clarity of vision, not politics or ethnicity, are what the university needs.

The next vice chancellor must study this model and build on it, rather than return to the politics and patronage that have hindered real progress.

UNN must not become a battleground for sectional interests.

It must remain a beacon of excellence and integrity.

The challenges ahead are daunting, and whoever assumes office must be ready to act decisively. The university is facing a severe shortage of student accommodation, outdated infrastructure, and an overstretched academic workforce. These issues require urgent attention.

The new administration must prioritise campus security, upgrade research and teaching facilities, and adopt modern technologies to enhance both learning and administration.

 The digital and practical transformation of the institution where students engage in both theory and practice cannot be delayed any further.

Stabilising the academic calendar is also key, as frequent disruptions have marred the university’s reputation. Staff welfare must be central to the new VC’s strategy, as no university can thrive without motivated and well-supported lecturers.

Above all, the next leader must uphold the autonomy of the university. They must resist political interference and reaffirm UNN’s role as a centre for intellectual freedom and innovation.

For the senate and governing council, they should know that when regional considerations become the dominant factor in leadership selection, institutional trust is eroded.

 Talented candidates may be discouraged, and the university’s position as a leading academic institution may be further weakened.

This moment offers UNN a chance to make a statement that Nigerian universities can still be guided by merit, integrity, and the pursuit of excellence. The eyes of the nation, and indeed other institutions across Africa, are watching.

Dr Mbamalu, a Jefferson Journalism Fellow, member of the Nigerian Guild of Editors, and media consultant, is the publisher of Prime Business Africa

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A Chartered Librarian and an Alumnus of UNN with Masters and Doctorate degrees in Library and Information Science, Dr Ogwo was until her appointment in March 2025, the Librarian , “National Centre for Energy Research and Development” UNN, and also a Senior Lecturer in the Department of Library and Information Science, UNN .

A press statement issued by the Director of Public Relations, ESUT, Mr Ikechukwu Anioma, notes that Dr Ogwo also served in some other Tertiary and Research institutions including Bowen University (Library Department ) Iwo, Osun State and Institute of Management and Technology IMT, (Department of Library and Information Science) Enugu.

A member of many professional associations including the “Nigerian Library Association” NLA and “Solar Energy Society of Nigeria” where she currently serves as the Financial Secretary, Dr Ogwo has authored many books and scholarly articles that are published in reputable journals.

Her research interests span from Cloud Computing, Digital Libraries, Open Access, Social Networking, ICT in Libraries ,and Entrepreneurship in Libraries etc.

Dr Ọgwụ becomes the second UNN staff to be appointed ESUT University Librarian after Dr Jonas Ezema left the the position in 2023 after serving his five year term with extended one year duration.

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The Vice-Chancellor, Enugu State University of Science and Technology, ESUT, Prof Aloysius-Michaels Okolie has urged students of the university to make judicious use of the Nigerian Education Loan Fund (NELfund) provided by the Federal Government.

The VC gave the charge on Friday in Enugu during the South East sensitization visit by the NELFund to three tertiary institutions in Enugu – Enugu State University of Science and Technology (ESUT), University of Nigeria, Nsukka (UNN) and the Institute of Management and Technology (IMT).

The sensitization workshop held at the Moot Court Auditorium of UNN, Enugu Campus, had ESUT VC, UNN VC as well as IMT Rector in attendance. Other high profile individuals at the workshop include the Senior Special Assistant to the President on Community Engagement for South East, Barr Chioma Nweze; the Managing Director/Chief Executive of NELfund, Mr Akintunde Sawyerr, among others.

Delivering his speech, ESUT Vice-Chancellor commended the Federal Government for initiating the student loan fund adding that the the management of ESUT has put machineries in place to ensure seamless application by the students.

While charging the students to leverage on the opportunity, he noted that ESUT management
Has employed the services of computer experts to help the students in their applications.

“I want to commend the management of NELfund for this sensitisation in South East tertiary institutions. It is here that misconceptions will be corrected and students guided appropriately on how to apply for the loan.

“At ESUT, we encourage students to apply for the loan because this is their money. We have deployed the services computer experts to guide them in their application. I have no doubt, whatsoever, that this programme by the government will aid education at this level in the country,” he said.

Addressing the students from the three institutions, Barr Chioma Nweze urged them to make best use of the opportunity to actualise their educational dream. She explained that the application for the loan, which is interest free, is session based, that student can apply for each session.

She stressed that repayment of the loan takes effect two years after the beneficiaries have concluded their national youth service.

She explained criteria required for the application. “Students can apply using their JAMB registration number, matriculation number, BVN, NIN, no surety is needed. Outside the school fees, NELfund also gives ₦20,000 to ₦40,000 stipends for students’ upkeep. NELfund operates through any bank of the students’ choice,” she said.

Highlights of the sensitization workshop was disbursement of ₦5000 each to the first 100 students to arrive at the venue of the meeting. Barr Nweze who made the pledge prior to the commencement of programme, gave the students the money adding that the gesture was to encourage them for seeing the need to attend the programme.

ESUT Monitor can authoritatively report that NELfund has disbursed students loans to 59 institutions including five from the South East region.

Institutions from the South-East that have already benefited from the loan include: Federal Polytechnic, Nekede, Imo State; Ebonyi State University; Abia State University; Michael Okpara University of Agriculture, Umudike; and Alex Ekwueme Federal University, Anambra State, sharing ₦467 million among them.

According to a list obtained from the NELFUND, Alex Ekueme Federal University Ndufu, Ebonyi State, got N193,377,100; Michael Okpara University, got N71,016,220; Abia State University, had N12,469,5003; Federal Polytechnic, Nkede, Imo State, got N368,400; and Ebonyi State University students got N78,313,000.

A total of ₦50 billion was budgeted for the NELFund in the 2024 with a total of ₦2.1 billion already disbursed

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The President General of Ohanézè Ndígbo Social Cultural Group, Emmanuel Iwunyanu is Dead.

Chief Iwunyanu died on Thursday morning in Abuja at the age of 82.

This was confirmed in a statement on Thursday by Jide Iwuanyanwu, the son of the late business mogul cum politician.

According to the statement, the 82-year-old Iwuanyanwu died on Thursday after a brief illness.

“The Iwuanyanwu family of Umuohii Atta, in Ikeduru Local Government Area of Imo State announces the demise of our patriarch, Engr Chief Emmanuel Chukwuemeka Iwuanyanwu-Ahaejiagamba Ndigbo,” the statement read.

“Chief Iwuanyanwu died on Thursday July 25, 2024 after a brief illness. He was aged 82. Chief Iwuanyanwu before his death was President General of Ohanaeze Ndigbo worldwide and President of Owerri Peoples Assembly.”

Iwuanyanwu is survived by his wife, Lady Princess Frances Iwuanyanwu, many children and grandchildren.

The statement stated that the burial details will be announced later by the family after due consultations.

ESUT Monitor can report that the late business mogul and Politician was born in September 1942 in Umuohii, Ikeduru LGA, Imo state.

He studied Civil Engineering in the University of Nigeria, Nsukka.

He was the 11th leader of Ohanaeze Ndigbo. He is survived by a wife and Children.

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A 100-level female student of the University of Nigeria, Nsukka (UNN) in Enugu State has been found dead.

Identified as Favour Okenyi, the deceased was said to be a student in the Department of Medical Laboratory Science of the university.

She reportedly went missing on Tuesday last week after attending her chemistry practical.

Her corpse was found at the back of Eni-Njoku male hostel within the university premises on Friday evening.

A video clip which showed the corpse dumped inside what appeared to be a gutter has been circulating online.

The lifeless body of Favour was said to be discovered by some students.

While filming the corpse, the students also questioned the gender of the deceased.

Confirming the incident, the spokesperson of the university, Okwun Omeaku, said the institution’s management was shocked by the discovery.

In a statement on Sunday, Omeaku said the university management was collaborating with security agencies and the family of the deceased to uncover the circumstances surrounding her death.

According to him, uncovering the circumstances behind the student’s death would help the university to prevent the recurrence of such incidents in the institution.

The spokesperson said: “The university administration is deeply saddened by the loss of our student and extends heartfelt condolences to the family of the deceased for the tragic death of such a promising young student.

“We implore anyone in possession of useful information that could aid in the investigation to kindly reach out to the university administration.”

Daily Trust Credited

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The 2024 edition of the South East University Games Association (SEUGA) which was held at the Nnamdi Azikiwe University, UNIZIK, Awka Anambra State, saw ESUT team sweep four medals in the competition which ended on 30^th January 2024.

The ESUT football team of the male category stole the show as they won the gold medal after defeating the Lions of University of Nigeria Nsukka (UNN) in the final.

The female Basketball team on the other hand showed their quality as they emerged the gold medallists of the basketball category, and both the male and female teams in the volleyball category settled for a bronze medal respectively.

The female table tennis category also saw the ESUT Team go home with the bronze medal, making it a total of two gold medals and three bronze medals in the bag for the ESUT Team in the just concluded SEUGA 2024.

The ESUT team’s performance gives them the momentum going into further competitions like the upcoming Nigerian University Games Association (NUGA) 2024.

University of Jos, Plateau State, will host the 2024 NUGA Games with the Vice-Chancelor, Prof. Tanko Ishaya expressing assurance that the university is ready to successfully host the games between November and December 2024.

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