Newly appointed head of the public relations unit, Michael Okpara University of Agriculture Umudike, Ubadire Aguwa has said the vice chancellor, Maduebibisi Ofo Iwe is leading the university to a global space to transform it to a centre of premium academic excellence.
He stated this when he paid a courtesy visit to the Correspondent’s Chapel of the Abia State council of the Nigeria Union of Journalists in Umuahia, the state capital.
He said since Iwe assumed office in 2021, the certified food scientist has taken many steps to reposition the university to make it visible not only in the country but also at the global stage.
“One of the greatest legacies he will leave behind is his embarking on moving the university to its permanent site. As I speak, erection of the structures is ongoing,” he stated.
He said he came to solicit the partnership of the chapel “to let the world know about the ongoing re-engeering in the university”, assuring that there will be no gap in communication between the university and the chapel.
Aguwa, who urged the members of the union to sustain the publicity they had “been giving the university over the years,” underscored the need for them to hear the university’s side of every story concerning the institution for balancing.
“When we err, let us know about it. We will accept such error and make necessary amendments. We will work with you for the good of the university and also look at your own challenges,” he added.
Responding, the chairman of the chapel, Obinna Ibe lauded Aguwa for the visit and recognising the need to seek the partnership of the chapel, adding that Aguwa has begun on a good note.
Ibe, who assured him of the support of the chapel “as thoroughbred professionals and ethically,” pointed out that the chapel is facing lack of office equipment, logistics, and other challenges that require immediate attention.
The vice chairman of the chapel, Steve Oko, noted how the members had been publicising activities of the university and urged Aguwa to rekindle the relationship that led to it.
