₦airaland Forum

aefunai theatre arts students showcase carnival arts to promote nigerian culture, employability
Students of Theatre Arts, Alex Ekwueme Federal University Ndufu-Alike Ebonyi State (AEFUNAI), recently highlighted its Carnival Arts course, “Introduction to Carnival Arts,” through a vibrant parade featuring students in colorful, self-made traditional costumes that depicted the different tribes and tongues in the countryt. This initiative aims to promote cultural preservation and develop entrepreneurial and employability skills among students.

The course, a longstanding part of the department’s curriculum, exposes 300 level students to various areas of life, including costume-making, choreography, make-up artistry, and carnival business. It equips them with practical skills for self-employment after graduation.
Dr. Ekuwe Ruth Epochi-Olise, the Head of the Department, emphasized the importance of the Carnival Arts course, stating that it has always been a significant part of their offerings that adds vibrancy to the campus. She reminisced about her first time overseeing the course in 2020 when students wore traditional African attires for their presentations.

She noted that a recent course in theatre entrepreneurship reinforced her belief that theatre studies provide excellent prospects for self-reliance. She observed that students personally sourced and purchased the costume materials, created the outfits themselves, and applied their own make-up, developing skills that many have successfully turned into income-generating ventures.

The theatre professional further noted that students who were not directly involved in the course are inspired by their peers, many of whom aspire to replicate similar carnival initiatives in their home communities during the yuletide period, a time when many people return to their villages.
Drawing on the example of the annual Calabar Carnival, she encouraged students to bring the concept back home and use it as a means to earn a living during the festive season.
Dr. Casmir Oyamuchara, the course lecturer of Carnival Arts, stated that the course is part of a larger departmental effort to prepare students for self-employment rather than relying on white-collar jobs. He explained that graduates from the program are well-equipped to provide services in custom-made costumes, choreography, and carnival arts packaging, describing carnival arts as a viable and burgeoning industry in Nigeria and globally.
Oyamuchara, who doubles as a practicing dancer with a PhD in Dance Studies, emphasized the department’s philosophy of training students to create jobs and employ others rather than merely seeking employment. He pointed out various career paths available to theatre graduates, including fashion design, choreography, directing, and carnival arts, and noted the growing number of self-employed alumni from the department.
Kindness Ebere, a third-year student who participated in the showpiece, shared her thoughts on what the course and the carnival tradition mean to her. She highlighted the carnival's role in preserving culture and raising awareness of their production. She remarked that the carnival practice helps preserve and promote the ethnic cultures while creating public awareness around indigenous traditions.
Nwani Bright, another third-year student, noted that traditional attire is often not seen outside described the initiative as a way of using traditional dress, sometimes blended with contemporary Western styles, in a concept he referred to as "hybridity," to keep culture visible and relevant.
Chukwujekwu Chinaza, also a third-year student, noted that his goal was to raise awareness and to promote cultures that are indigenous to Nigeria, stressing the need for the preservation of traditions from extinction.

Ogayi Chisom Joshua, another participant, described the exercise as a demonstration of students' creativity in using color and materials to represent culture. He noted that theatre students are adept at blending local fabrics into bright, colorful designs, allowing them to showcase talents and cultures often underrepresented in broader society. He regarded the course as a valuable and important part of the curriculum.
The Carnival Arts course continues to serve as a bridge between cultural preservation and practical enterprise training within AEFUNAI's Department of Theatre Arts, reinforcing the university's commitment to producing graduates who are both culturally grounded and economically self-reliant.

The University Community is hereby notified that the Admissions Committee has approved that candidates who applied for admission into Alex Ekwueme Federal University, Ndufu-Alike (AE-FUNAI) but have not been offered admission yet, are eligible to apply for supplementary admission into any of the underlisted programmes where they are suitably qualified, putting into consideration their JAMB UTME and O’Level subject combinations for the programmes.
ELIGIBILITY CRITERIA FOR SUPPLEMENTARY ADMISSION ARE AS FOLLOWS:
1. Candidates who applied for admission into AE-FUNAI, whether they registered for the AE-FUNAI Post-UTME or not, are eligible. Such candidates must have scored 150 marks and above in JAMB UTME and have not been offered admission yet.
2. Candidates must put into consideration their JAMB UTME and O’Level Subject combinations before applying for the underlisted programmes.
3. Candidates must effect change of course on JAMB CAPS to the advertised programmes they may wish to apply for.
LIST OF PROGRAMMES FOR SUPPLEMENTARY ADMISSION:
S/N FACULTY PROGRAMME UTME MINIMUM SCREENING SCORE
1 Faculty of Agriculture 1. Agribusiness and Management



150


2. Agricultural Economics
3. Agricultural Extension and Rural Development
4. Soil Science
5. Crop Science
6. Animal Science
7. Fisheries and Aquaculture
2 Faculty of Basic Medical Sciences 1. Anatomy
160
2. Physiology
3 Faculty of Education 1. Education/English and Literary Studies







150
2. Educational Management
3. Guidance and Counseling
4. Biology Education
5. Chemistry Education
6. Mathematics Education
7. Physics Education
8. Human Kinetic and Health Education
9. Agricultural Science and Education
10. Business Education
11. Economics Education
12. Computer Science Education
13. Technology Education with options in:
(i) Mechanical Technology Education
(ii) Building Technology Education
(iii) Woodwork Technology Education
(iv) Electrical and Electronics Technology Education
(v) Automobile Technology Education
4 Faculty of Environmental Sciences 1. Geography and Climate Change 150
5 Faculty of Arts 1. Theatre Arts




150
2. English
3. Fine and Applied Arts
4. French
5. Linguistics
6. Linguistics/French
7. Linguistics/Igbo
8. Igbo
9. Music
10. History and Strategic Studies
11. Philosophy
12. Religion and Cultural Studies
6 Faculty of Management Sciences 1. Banking and Finance
150
2. Public Administration
7 Faculty of Biological Sciences 1. Biology
150
2. Biotechnology
3. Biochemistry
160
4. Microbiology
8 Faculty of Physical Sciences 1. Chemistry


150
2. Mathematics
3. Statistics
4. Geology
5. Applied Geophysics
6. Physics
9 Faculty of Social Sciences 1. Economics

150
2. Political Science
3. Sociology
4. Psychology

PROCEDURES FOR APPLYING FOR SUPPLEMENTARY ADMISSION
Interested candidates are required to obtain the application form from the AE-FUNAI supplementary admission portal. Please note that candidates are encouraged to visit apply.funai.edu.ng for additional information on the JAMB UTME and O’Level subject requirements for the advertised programmes.

MODE OF PAYMENT AND REGISTRATION PROCEDURE
Eligible candidates are required to pay a processing fee of N5, 000 only being supplementary admission registration fee.
• Visit the Supplementary portal: apply.funai.edu.ng
• Provide your JAMB Registration Number to validate your profile
• Provide a valid email address and phone number
• Verify your email with OTP sent to your email
• Proceed to make payment by making a transfer of the complete amount to the given account number
• Click ‘I have made payment’ after transferring the complete amount to proceed to registration
• Visit your email to confirm registration acknowledgement
APPLICATION DEADLINE
Application will end on Friday 25th September, 2026.
NOTE: There will be no extension.

Signed:



T. Ifeanyi Igwe Esq. (Ph.D.)
Registrar
For support:
E-mail: info@funai.edu.ng
Hotlines: 07031810065, 08120454195 and 08038099920.
(Call between 9.00am and 4.00pm; Monday - Friday only).

aefunai researchers clinch prestigious £20,000 british museum grant to preserve akwete weaving heritage
In a major boost to Nigeria’s cultural preservation efforts, researchers from Alex Ekwueme Federal University Ndufu-Alike, Ebonyi State have secured a highly competitive £20,000 international research grant from the Endangered Material Knowledge Programme, EMKP, at the British Museum, London.
The award, granted under the 2025–2026 funding cycle, will fund the project titled: “Ahia-Akwete Multi-Heddle Cloth Weaving Production of the Akwete People in Nigeria.”

The groundbreaking initiative will systematically document, digitally archive, and preserve the intricate multi-heddle weaving techniques, cultural symbolism, and indigenous knowledge systems of the Akwete Ndoki people of Abia State. The goal is to safeguard this endangered craft for intergenerational transmission and global academic research.
The EMKP selection panel cited the project’s robust methodology, exceptional multidisciplinary team, and the urgent need to preserve the Ahia-Akwete tradition as key reasons for its selection from a pool of global applicants.
The award letter was presented to the Vice-Chancellor of the university, Prof. Daniel Nwachukwu by the Director of Research, Prof. Robert Onyeneke in company of the Principal Investigator, Chiaka Adaure Nnodi, and Co-Applicant, Dr. Charles Okwuowulu.
Commending the team, Prof. Nwachukwu described the achievement as “a testament to AE-FUNAI’s growing global research footprint.”
“This is a proud moment for our university. You have brought international visibility and distinction to AE-FUNAI. I charge all staff to emulate this excellence by pursuing competitive grants that advance knowledge and elevate our institution’s global standing,” the Vice-Chancellor stated.
The multidisciplinary research team is composed of Chiaka Adaure Nnodi - Principal Investigator, Department of Fine and Applied Arts, Dr. Charles Okwuowulu - co-applicant, Reader in Film Studies, Departments of Theatre Arts and Mass Communication; Rosemary Chinyere George, Chinda Michael Ezebunwor and Ogobuchi Otuu Idam, and Dr. Chiemela Ogbonna - Pan-Atlantic University, Lagos; I
This milestone further reinforces AE-FUNAI’s strategic commitment to community-engaged scholarship, digital heritage preservation, and impactful global collaborations.
For more information on the project, visit the official EMKP archive page: https://www.emkp.org/ahia-akwete-cloth-weaving/.

notice of extension of registration for ae-funai 2026/2027 academic session post-utme/direct entry screening to friday, august 14, 2026

This is to inform the general public of the extension of the registration period for the 2026/2027 academic session Post-Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (Post-UTME)/Direct Entry Screening Exercise of Alex Ekwueme Federal University, Ndufu-Alike (AE-FUNAI), Ebonyi state, to FRIDAY, AUGUST 14, 2026.
Interested candidates who must have scored 150 and above in the 2026 UTME and who made Alex Ekwueme Federal University Ndufu-Alike, Ebonyi State their first choice institution in their application for admission in the 2026 Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME) are qualified to apply. However, candidates are advised to check the minimum UTME screening score for the respective programmes listed below to guide their choices.
Prospective candidates who did not choose AE-FUNAI as their first choice institution but wish to study in the university are eligible to apply for PUTME screening. However, such candidates MUST make a Change of Institution/Course to AE-FUNAI on the JAMB Portal before FRIDAY, AUGUST 14, 2026. This is also applicable to Direct Entry (DE) candidates.
MODE OF PAYMENT AND REGISTRATION PROCEDURE
Eligible candidates are required to pay a processing fee of N2, 000 only.
• Visit PUTME/DE Application Portal: apply.funai.edu.ng
• Provide your JAMB Registration Number to validate your profile
• Provide a valid email address and phone number
• Verify your email with OTP sent to your email
• Proceed to make payment by making a transfer of the complete amount to the given account number
• Click ‘I have made payment’ after transferring the complete amount to proceed to registration
• Visit your email to confirm registration acknowledgement.
NOTE: The screening mode for the 2026/2027 academic session PUTME shall be through the process of internal screening of candidates’ results.
All candidates are requested to ensure that their O/Level and Direct Entry results are uploaded on JAMB Central Admissions Processing System (CAPS) on or before FRIDAY, AUGUST 14, 2026. Any PUTME application without O’ level/ A’ level result upload on JAMB CAPS will not be processed.


AVAILABLE PROGRAMMES AND CUT-OFF MARKS
S/N FACULTY PROGRAMME UTME MINIMUM SCREENING SCORE
1 Faculty of Agriculture 1. Agribusiness and Management



150


2. Agricultural Economics
3. Agricultural Extension and Rural Development
4. Soil Science
5. Crop Science
6. Animal Science
7. Fisheries and Aquaculture
2 Faculty of Basic Medical Sciences 1. Anatomy
160
2. Physiology
3 Faculty of Education 1. Education/English and Literary Studies







150
2. Educational Management
3. Guidance and Counseling
4. Biology Education
5. Chemistry Education
6. Mathematics Education
7. Physics Education
8. Physical and Health Education
9. Agricultural Science and Education
10. Business Education
11. Economics Education
12. Computer Science Education
13. Technology Education with options in:
(i) Mechanical Technology Education
(ii) Building Technology Education
(iii) Woodwork Technology Education
(iv) Electrical and Electronics Technology Education
(v) Automobile Technology Education
4 Faculty of Engineering and Technology 1. Chemical Engineering 150
2. Civil Engineering

160
3. Electrical/Electronic Engineering
4. Mechanical Engineering
5. Mechatronics Engineering
5 Faculty of Environmental Sciences 1. Architecture
150
2. Fine and Applied Arts
3. Geography
6 Faculty of Humanities 1. Theatre Arts




150
2. English
3. French
4. Linguistics
5. Linguistics/French
6. Linguistics/Igbo
7. Igbo
8. Music
9. History and Strategic Studies
10. Philosophy
11. Religion
7 Faculty of Management Sciences 1. Accountancy
170
2. Business Administration
3. Banking and Finance
150
4. Public Administration
8 Faculty of Biological Sciences 1. Biology
150
2. Biotechnology
3. Biochemistry
160
4. Microbiology
9 Faculty of Physical Sciences 1. Computer Science 180
2. Chemistry


150
3. Mathematics
4. Statistics
5. Geology
6. Applied Geophysics
7. Physics
10 Faculty of Social Sciences 1. Mass Communication 170
2. Criminology and Security Studies

150
3. Economics
4. Political Science
5. Sociology
6. Psychology
11 Faculty of Law 1. Law 230
12 College of Medical Sciences 1. Medicine and Surgery 250
13 Faculty of Health and Allied Sciences 1. Nursing Science 240
2. Medical Laboratory Science 210
3. Human Nutrition and Dietetics 160

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION
1. Candidates for Medicine and Surgery, Law, Nursing Science and Medical Science Laboratory programmes must have obtained their O’ Level Results at one sitting only.
2. Candidates should be guided by the UTME and O’ level subject requirements as are available on the University website.
3. Prospective candidates who may wish to register for the Post-UTME through the
AE-FUNAI ICT Centre, should visit the University CBT Centre at Zone A in the University Campus OR Centre for Educational Services (JUPEB/Pre-Degree School), Aguogboriga Estate, Abakaliki.
4. During registration, candidates are advised to use GSM numbers that are easily accessible to them. This is important for fast and easy communication.
5. Candidates should note that at any point of the screening and admission exercise, if any false information is discovered, such candidate’s application would automatically be disqualified.
For Enquiries: Call these phone numbers between 8.00 am and 6.00 pm, Monday–Friday only:
07031810065, 08120454195 and 08038099920.
Signed:


T. Ifeanyi Igwe Esq.
Registrar

aefunai marks 8th inaugural lecture: prof. ezeonu describes ultrasound as "whispers of life”
Alex Ekwueme Federal University, Ndufu-Alike, Ebonyi State on Thursday held its 8th Inaugural Lecture in a ceremony that blended scientific rigor with public engagement, as Paul Olisaemeka Ezeonu, a Professor of Obstetrics and Gynaecology delivered a lecture titled "Ultrasound as Whispers of Life: From Conception to Birth."
The event, held at the University’s senate Chamber, attracted scholars, healthcare professionals, staff, students and guests from across Ebonyi State and beyond.
Declaring the inaugural lecture open, the Vice-Chancellor of the university, Professor Daniel Nwachukwu, described the theme as a convergence of science, technology, and compassionate healthcare. He said quality maternal care must begin with accurate diagnosis and evidence-based intervention, principles that anchor AE-FUNAI’s mission in health training and service delivery.
“At AE-FUNAI, we are committed to supporting innovative research, strengthening medical education, and producing healthcare professionals who will serve Nigeria and the global community,” the Vice-Chancellor stated.
He commended Professor Ezeonu for his sustained contributions to Obstetrics and Gynaecology, noting that inaugural lectures are not only academic milestones but also platforms for demonstrating the University’s impact through teaching, research, and community service.

“I charge all academics to pursue research that aligns with national development priorities. Such work advances public good and further positions AE-FUNAI as a center of excellence,” Prof. Nwachukwu added.

Delivering the lecture, Professor Ezeonu traced the evolution of ultrasound from its scientific foundations to its life-saving applications in modern medicine.
He explained the physics of ultrasound as sound waves vibrating at over 20,000 cycles per second, beyond human hearing, which penetrate body tissues to reveal internal structures. He credited early discoveries to Pierre and Marie Curie’s work on piezoelectricity in the 1880s, and to the landmark 1959 application in Glasgow by obstetrician Dr. Ian Donald and engineer Tom Brown, which established ultrasound as a cornerstone of prenatal care.

Professor Ezeonu further noted that the technology has since become indispensable in obstetrics, gynaecology, cardiology, radiology, and emergency medicine worldwide.

The lecture took on a distinct local resonance as he situated the technology within Ebonyi communities and also likened ultrasound to a dibia and an elder who speaks softly: “Ultrasound, in this sacred journey, is like the elder who plays softly at dawn. It doesn’t shout; it whispers.” He described the equipment not merely as a machine, but as a storyteller that mediates the relationship between mother and child.
While concluding his lecture, Professor Ezeonu emphasized that ultrasound is more than a diagnostic instrument. “It is a storyteller that speaks when a mother seeks care, that reassures fathers, and that gives families a glimpse of the future they anticipate,” he said.
He urged healthcare practitioners to deploy ultrasound with competence, ethics, and compassion, and to ensure equitable access for women regardless of location or socioeconomic status.

Prof. Ezeonu also commended Primary Health Centres for extending the technology to rural communities across Nigeria.
“As AE-FUNAI continues to invest in medical training and equipment, let the whispers of life be heard early and honored faithfully, so that more families can be guided safely from conception to birth,” he concluded.

aefunai students make global impact as two teams qualify for russia–africa young scientists forum in st. petersburg
Alex Ekwueme Federal University Ndufu-Alike, Ebonyi State, has recorded a major international breakthrough with two of its student research teams selected to represent the University, Nigeria and the African continent at the Russia–Africa Forum of Young Scientists: Future Engineers of the World–Foundation for Sustainable Development holding in St. Petersburg, Russian Federation.
The two AE-FUNAI teams scaled the highly competitive Selection Stage and have been formally invited to present their research output at the in-person stage of the Forum.

This double qualification underscores AE-FUNAI’s growing reputation as a hub for research, innovation, and interdisciplinary collaboration.
The first team is comprised of multidisciplinary scholars drawn from the Departments of Civil Engineering, Geophysics, and Computer Science under the academic supervision of the Director of Research and Development, Engr. Prof. Onuegbu O. Ugwu. They include: Ikpa Chidozie–team leader, Ugota Chibuike, Nwojiji Emmanuella, Onela Patience and Agu Jeremiah, and their research work is an : AI-Driven Infrastructure Solution titled “An AI-Driven Framework for Rapid Soil Stability Assessment Towards Sustainable Infrastructure Development”
The project leverages Artificial Intelligence to provide rapid, data-driven assessment of soil stability, offering practical solutions for safer and more sustainable infrastructure development.
The members of the second team are comprised of students from the Department of Biology, Faculty of Biological Sciences under the academic supervision of Head, Department of Biology, Dr. Chioma Ogochukwu Anorue. They include: Okoli Uchechukwu Favour – team leader, Enyiazu Onyinyeoma Esther, Ani Mary-Ann Ginika, Uzodinma Precious Mmesoma and Odinammwa Ekene Paschel. Their research work is a Climate-Smart Agriculture Solution geared towards “Transforming Rice Husk Waste into Climate-Smart Organic Soil Amendments for Enhanced Soil Health, Water Use Efficiency, Agricultural Productivity, and Food Security in Nigeria.”

The research addresses waste-to-wealth conversion and climate resilience by turning rice husk waste into organic soil amendments that boost food security and environmental sustainability.
Speaking on the achievements, the Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Daniel Nwachukwu, congratulated the students, supervisors, and the Directorate of Research and Development for making the university proud.
“The selection of two AE-FUNAI teams for this prestigious international platform reflects our increasing competitiveness, global visibility, and capacity to produce graduates who solve real-world problems.


“These projects in AI for infrastructure and climate-smart agriculture align perfectly with AE-FUNAI’s strategic vision of becoming a globally competitive, research and innovation-driven institution. We are immensely proud of these young scholars and we wish them resounding success as they fly the flag of AE-FUNAI, Nigeria, and Africa in St. Petersburg”, the Vice-Chancellor stated.

Concluding, Prof. Nwachukwu reaffirms his administration’s commitment to advancing research excellence, sustainable development, and international academic collaboration, while producing globally competitive graduates equipped to tackle critical national and global challenges.

nuc, tetfund drive entrprenurship education reform as ae-funai trains academic staff on effectuation

In line with its commitment to fostering innovation, employability, and entrepreneurial capacity among graduates, The National Universities Commission (NUC), with the support of the Tertiary Education Trust Fund, (TETFUND) and Garthee Enterprise Trust Limited, (GETrust), has organized a 3-day intensive training programme on “Teaching Entrepreneurship Using Effectuation” for academic staff of Alex Ekwueme Federal University, Ndufu-Alike (AEFUNAI), Ebonyi State.
The programme explores contemporary pedagogical approaches to entrepreneurship education, with emphasis on teaching non-business students and integrating the globally acclaimed “Effectuation” methodology into classroom practice, geared towards equipping lecturers with innovative pedagogical approaches for developing entrepreneurial mindsets among students.
The training held at the University's E-Library from July 13 to 15, 2026, forms part of ongoing efforts by the National Universities Commission to reposition entrepreneurship education in Nigerian universities from a predominantly theoretical discipline to a practical, innovation-driven and solution-oriented field capable of producing job creators rather than job seekers.

Declaring the training open, the Vice-Chancellor, Professor Daniel Nwachukwu, represented by the Director of Academic Planning, Professor Amobi Ekwe said the training comes at a critical time when universities are expected not only to impart knowledge but also to equip students with the skills, mindset, and competences required to thrive in an increasingly dynamic and competitive world, stressing that entrepreneurship education has become a vital tool for fostering innovation, creativity, resilience, and self-reliance.

He described the programme as timely and strategic in addressing Nigeria's growing unemployment challenge and the need for universities to produce graduates equipped with entrepreneurial competencies.
He noted that entrepreneurship education has become an indispensable component of higher education globally; stressing that university must go beyond traditional classroom instructions to cultivate creativity, innovation, resilience and problem-solving skills among students.

While commending the NUC, TETFund and GETrust for initiating the programme, the Vice-Chancellor urged participants to take full advantage of the training by actively engaging with facilitators and adopting innovative teaching methodologies that would inspire students to identify opportunities, create value and contribute meaningfully to national development.

He also recognized the strategic importance of the programme in advancing the University’s commitment to quality teaching, and successful implementation of the entrepreneurship components of the CCMAS, noting that the introduction of entrepreneurship studies across disciplines represents a deliberate effort to ensure that graduates possess not only academic knowledge but also practical competencies required in a dynamic global economy.
He added that the programme would help lecturers understand modern approaches to entrepreneurship instruction and assessment, particularly for students whose primary disciplines are outside business and management studies.
Speaking during the programme, the Director Centre for Entrepreneurship and Employability, Prof. Emmanuel Nweze stressed the need for a paradigm shift in the teaching of entrepreneurship, noting that entrepreneurship should be viewed as a process of developing attitudes, behaviors and competencies that enable individuals to recognize opportunities and create solutions to societal problems.

The training sessions featured, Professor, Nasir Abdullahi and Dr. M. I Aminu, who explained that students from disciplines such as engineering, agriculture, medicine, education, humanities and the natural sciences often possess technical expertise but may lack entrepreneurial awareness but, the training affords lecturers the opportunity to design learning experiences that connect entrepreneurial concepts to students' respective disciplines.

Highlighting the Key pedagogical strategies to include: Experiential learning; project-based instruction; case studies and simulations; problem-solving exercises; industry engagement; mentorship programmes; reflective learning practices; and collaborative innovation projects.
He maintained that effective entrepreneurship teaching requires lecturers to serve as facilitators of learning rather than mere transmitters of knowledge.

Professor Aminu further pointed out the Core Effectuation Principles to include; Bird-in-Hand, Affordable Loss, Crazy Quilt, Lemonade and Plot in the Plane Principles as principles when integrated into classroom would help students develop entrepreneurial confidence, adaptability and resilience.

The training concluded with an interactive quiz session that encouraged active participation, reinforced key concepts of entrepreneurship and effectuation, and provided participants with an opportunity to assess their understanding of the lessons learned.

AE-FUNAI STUDENTS SELECTED FOR PRESTIGIOUS RUSSIA–AFRICA YOUNG SCIENTISTS FORUM IN ST. PETERSBURG

Alex Ekwueme Federal University Ndufu-Alike, AE-FUNAI, has recorded another major international research milestone with the selection of its student team for the Russia–Africa Forum of Young Scientists: Future Engineers of the World – Foundation for Sustainable Development.

The AE-FUNAI team successfully scaled the competitive Selection Stage and has been invited to the in-person stage of the Forum holding in. St. Petersburg, Russian Federation.

The 5-member multidisciplinary team comprises: Ikpa Chidozie – Team Leader, Ugota Chibuike,
Nwojiji Emmanuella, Onela Patience, and Agu Jeremiah.

They will present their research project titled: "An AI-Driven Framework for Rapid Soil Stability Assessment Towards Sustainable Infrastructure Development", at the research event in Russia.

The project was developed by students from the Departments of Civil Engineering, Geophysics, and Computer Science, under the academic supervision of Engr. Prof. Onuegbu O. Ugwu, Director of Research and Development.

This achievement underscores AE-FUNAI’s growing global reputation in research, innovation, artificial intelligence, and sustainable infrastructure development. It also highlights the impact of the University’s drive for interdisciplinary collaboration and research excellence.

The Vice-Chancellor, on behalf of University Management, congratulates the students, their supervisor, and the Directorate of Research and Development for this outstanding feat.

“The selection of our students for this prestigious international platform reflects AE-FUNAI’s increasing competitiveness and visibility on the global academic stage

“We are proud of this team and wish them every success as they represent AE-FUNAI, Nigeria, and the African continent in St. Petersburg", the Vice-Chancellor stated.

This milestone underscores AE-FUNAI commitment to producing globally competitive graduates and advancing solutions that address critical development challenges.

Alex Ekwueme Federal University, Ndufu-Alike, Ebonyi State, has recorded a major milestone as thirteen pioneer graduates of its Faculty of Law were recently called to the Nigerian Bar, becoming the University's first set of qualified legal practitioners.

The graduates were admitted as Barristers and Solicitors of the Supreme Court of Nigeria at a Call to Bar ceremony held over three days July 7, 8, and 10, 2026 at the Body of Benchers Complex, Abuja, following the completion of their mandatory training at the Nigerian Law School.

The new legal luminaries include: Okibe Emmanuel, Amaukwu Promise, Oguike Crescentia, Eziefule Augustina, Amuzie Chinedu, Obiahu Blessing, and Chukwuemeka Franklyn. Others are: Chidiebere Prince Nka, Ifeanaonwu Rosemary Kosiso, OhaAkachukwu, Okechukwu Amarachi Sharon, Okeosisi Miracle Amarachi, and Mamah Uchechi Jane Frances.

Reacting to the achievement, the Vice-Chancellor of the university, Professor Daniel Nwachukwu, described the Call to Bar as a proud and validating moment for the University.

"This is a landmark achievement. Our pioneer law graduates have made AE-FUNAI proud by scaling the final hurdle to practice law in Nigeria. It is a proof that the foundation we laid for the Faculty of Law is solid, and that our commitment to academic excellence is producing results", the Vice-Chancellor said.
Professor Nwachukwu congratulated the new lawyers and their parents, and charged them to uphold the ethics, integrity, and excellence of the legal profession as they begin their careers.
"Law is a noble profession. Go out there and distinguish yourselves. Be advocates of justice, defenders of the rule of law, and good ambassadors of AE-FUNAI," he added.

The Dean, Faculty of Law, Prof. Eseni Azu Udu, commended the new lawyers for their resilience, describing them as the product of rigorous academic training, moot court exposure, and clinic Legal education designed to prepare them for both Law School and legal practice.

"Today, our vision for the Faculty of Law has come to fruition. These pioneers are trailblazers. We expect them to set the standard for those coming behind them," Prof. Azu stated.
The Faculty of Law, AE-FUNAI, was established to produce lawyers with strong analytical, ethical, and advocacy skills. With this pioneer Call to Bar, the University joins the league of institutions producing qualified legal practitioners for the Nigerian Bar, he noted.

Responding on behalf of her colleagues, Okechukwu Amarachi Sharon expressed gratitude to the University's management, lecturers, and parents for their support throughout their academic journey.

"We are grateful to AE-FUNAI for the foundation, training, discipline, and mentorship we received, which prepared us for this day. We promise to uphold the dignity of the legal profession and to make our alma mater proud wherever we practice," she said.

president ae-funai women association, faculty of law advance university’s green agenda with major tree-planting drive
The President of Alex Ekwueme Federal University Ndufu-Alike Women Association (AE-FUNAI WA), Dr. Nkiru Nwachukwu and the Faculty of Law, have reaffirmed the University’s commitment to environmental sustainability with a large-scale tree-planting exercise held on campus.
The initiative aligns with AE-FUNAI’s Green Initiative, a strategic programme designed to deliver a cleaner, healthier, and more climate-resilient campus.

Leading the exercise, President of AE-FUNAI WA, Dr. Nwachukwu, said the campaign was aimed at beautifying the university environment and actively combating climate change.

"Over 40 seedlings of royal palm, queen palm, Philippine palm, araucaria, and golden pandanus were planted across strategic locations, from the University’s Main Gate to the Senate Building to beautify the campus and combat climate change, and promote environmental sustainability", she said.

At the Faculty of Law, Dean of the Faculty, Prof. Eseni Azu Udu, described the exercise as a demonstration of the Faculty’s commitment to sustainable development and environmental responsibility.

“Trees are essential to human survival. They purify the air, mitigate climate change, and enhance our learning environment. This must not be a one-off event. Planting is only the beginning. Nurturing these trees is our collective responsibility and a legacy for generations to come”, he said.

Also speaking, Director of the University Green Initiative, Dr. Ifeanyi Chukwu, commended the Faculty of Law for its leadership. He noted that the Green Initiative seeks to raise environmental awareness and mobilize every faculty and department to take ownership of the University’s ecosystem.

“Tree planting remains one of the most effective tools to fight climate change, improve biodiversity, and create a healthier environment for teaching and research. We call on all faculties to embrace this movement. Our future depends on the actions we take today”, he stated.

The exercise underscores AE-FUNAI’s ongoing drive to integrate climate-conscious practices into academic life and campus operations, as the University positions itself as a model green campus in Nigeria.

100 days of renewal: aefunai vc charts course for academic and intellectual excellence
By Elom Iyke Ubochi
Alex Ekwueme Federal University Ndufu-Alike, Ebonyi State, is marking a new chapter in its history as its 4th substantive Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Daniel C. Nwachukwu clocks 100 days in the office. Having assumed office on February 11, 2026, the Vice-Chancellor has moved swiftly to reposition the university as a hub of academic rigor, ethical governance, and innovation-driven growth.

VC, Prof. Daniel C. Nwachukwu

A Vision Anchored on Excellence
From day one, the Vice-Chancellor set a clear mandate: make AE-FUNAI a destination for scholarship, character, and impact. His vision is anchored on three pillars—academic excellence, administrative integrity, and student-centered leadership, all geared towards making the university an epicenter of academic and intellectual excellence.

Speaking during his inauguration, Prof. Nwachukwu emphasized that “a university must be more than a place of certificates. It must be a space where ideas are born, character is formed, and solutions for society are engineered.” That philosophy has guided every of his actions and activities in the last 100 days.
Driving Ethics and Decentralizing Governance
One of the earliest signals of change was a push for ethical governance and administrative accountability through the maiden AE-FUNAI Retreat 2026 with the theme, "A New AE-FUNAI Rising". Processes are being streamlined to reduce bottlenecks, while powers have been decentralized to faculties and departments to encourage ownership and faster decision-making. Additionally, the Vice-Chancellor has also mandated the election of Faculty Deans, giving opportunity to faculty boards to select their deans in free and fair elections, and thus promoting democratic governance in the university.


A landmark move was granting the College of Medical Sciences semi-autonomous status. The decision is already easing operational coordination and creating room for the college to expand clinical training and research partnerships. He has also mandated that the position of the College Provost will be by election, not appointment as it was before he assumed office.
To track the key performance indicators (KPIs) he established for all faculties, a quarterly performance review was set up where deans of various faculties are expected to present a quarterly report to the university management on their achievements, challenges and way forward. With this, it will be easy to evaluate the progress made in meeting strategic academic goals of the university, and to make sure the administration remains on track.
Student-Centered Administration
Students have felt the impact directly. Hostels across campus are undergoing renovation, with new mattresses (650) and fans (120) distributed to improve living conditions of students. Specifically, the renovation of the females’ hostel C has been completed. For many students, these changes have made an immediate difference in their day-to-day comfort while focusing on their academic activities.

VC, Prof. Daniel Nwachukwu (4th R) accompanied by principal officers and Dean, Students Affairs, distributing the mattresses to students

The administration is advancing the digitalization of the Bursary and Registry departments. Once fully deployed, the system will simplify students' admission and registration processes, issuance of graduation clearance, transcript processing, and other student-centered services, cutting delays and reducing manual bottlenecks, and thereby eliminating the incidence of alleged extortion among staff. The digitization of inter and intra university transfer process has been completed. Candidates can now access and fill application forms online on the university website.
The Vice-Chancellor through one of his strategic contacts with the member representing OHANIVO Federal Constituency in the National Assembly, Hon. Nkemkanma Kama, attracted a 10-year scholarship award for 20 indigent students of the university by OPAY Digital Services worth N60M. This is unprecedented in the annals of the institution.

Academic Growth and Accreditation Milestones
Academic quality has been a major focus. Under his watch, the university secured the full accreditation of 10 of its academic programmes from the National Universities Commission; thereby strengthening AE-FUNAI’s standing with regulatory bodies and boosting confidence among prospective students, parents, partners and other stakeholders. Some of the fully accredited programmes include: Business Administration, Criminology & Security Studies, Public Administration, among others. It is instructive to note that the programmes were presented for accreditation by the immediate past administration of the university before their exit.

In a forward-looking step, the university has launched the Institute for Future Skills and Innovation, with a flagship focus on Artificial Intelligence. The institute is designed to equip students and staff with practical, industry-relevant skills in AI, data science, and emerging technologies, positioning AE-FUNAI to contribute meaningfully to Nigeria’s digital economy.
VC, Prof. Daniel C. Nwachukwu (C) in photograph with Management of AG Zara, a private investor/developer for students’ hostels when they visited the university



Establishment of New Academic Programmes
To keep the university dynamic, competitive, and responsive to the changing demands of the 21st century knowledge-based economy, Prof. Nwachukwu within the first 100 days of his leadership got the university senate approval for the establishment of new strategic academic programmes in the various faculties of the institution.

This was aimed at expanding knowledge frontiers and responding to evolving societal needs, and to equip students with relevant skills and expertise that align with industry demands, technological advancements, and national developmental goals.
By introducing innovative programmes, the university is poised to attracting a broader pool of students, strengthening its academic reputation, and enhancing research opportunities, and thereby making our graduates more employable, deepening faculty engagements and enhancing partnership with industry and government.
The newly created academic programmes and their housing faculties include:
 Faculty of Arts: Hotel Management and Tourism.
 Faculty of Biological Sciences: Zoology, Environmental Biology, and Plant Science and Biotechnology.
 Faculty of Environmental Sciences: Urban and Regional Planning, Estate Management, Surveying and Geoinformatics, and Quantity Surveying.
 Faculty of Health and Allied Sciences: Medical Radiography, Physiotherapy and Optometry.
 Faculty of Management Sciences: Marketing.
 Faculty of Social Sciences: Social Work, and Library and Information Science.

Rebranding of Faculties & Departments
To realign identity, structure and academic focus to reflect contemporary educational and societal demands, Prof, Nwachukwu embarked on a deliberate rebranding of some faculties and departments for greater relevance, clarity and competitiveness in a rapidly changing world. By adopting new names, mandates or curricula, faculties and departments can signal innovation, attract special funding, and appeal to prospective students seeking admissions into the university.

Ultimately, rebranding will enhance the university visibility, fosters interdisciplinary collaboration, and eliminates outdated/ambiguous identities that may hinder growth, and thereby strengthens the faculties and departments, improves stakeholders confidence, and ensures that academic units align with global best practices. Some of the rebranded academic units include:
 The School of Postgraduate Studies was changed to College of Postgraduate Studies with the appointment of Prof. Nwabueze Elom as the Acting Provost.
 The Faculty of Humanities was changed to Faculty of Arts.
 The Department of Fine & Applied Arts was relocated to the Faculty of Arts from the Faculty of Environmental Sciences where it was hitherto housed.
 Department of Physical and Healthy Education was changed to the Department of Human Kinetics and Health Education.
 Demerging of Department of Statistics/Mathematics into separate departments.

Additionally, the Vice-Chancellor has mandated all academic departments to rebrand their names and contents to improve visibility and make it more appealing to prospective students and enhance employability.

VC, Prof. Daniel C. Nwachukwu (C) interacting with some students during one of his campus tours meant to feel the pulse of students

Promoting Staff Welfare
Prioritizing staff welfares fosters a sense of value and belonging, which directly boosts morale and organizational commitment. When staff feel supported through fair compensation, training opportunities, among others, they are more motivated to perform at their best. Ultimately, sustained investment in staff welfare reduces absenteeism, ‘presenteeism’, and drives higher productivity across board.

Based on this, the Vice-Chancellor has prioritized staff welfare, ensuring that no staff is shortchanged, undermined or victimized. He appointed a new TETFund Desk Officer for Academic Staff Training & Development and Conferences and also reconstituted the TETFund Committee to enhance openness, transparency and fairness in the selection of staff. He further approved and directed the immediate upgrade of all qualified junior staff that were omitted in the last upgrade exercise organized by the immediate past administration of the university. This has elicited commendations from the Executive Council of the local branch of NASU.

Solar panels mounted to at the University Medical Centre uninterrupted power supply

Building Partnerships for Infrastructure and Research
Recognizing that government funding alone cannot meet the university’s infrastructure needs, Prof. Nwachukwu has opened doors to strategic partnerships with the organized private sector and good-spirited and philanthropic individuals to invest and support the university’s drive for infrastructural development.

Collaborations with INNOSON Motors and Zobis Wires and Cables are in motion; creating opportunities for research, internships, and technology transfer. A private investor, AG-Zara has also been brought in to develop new students’ hostel facilities, expanding on-campus accommodation without placing additional strain on the university’s budget.

VC, Prof. Daniel Nwachukwu in a partnership handshake with the CEO, ZOBIS Cable,
Mr. John Ezeobi

Another key project is the proposed partnership for an Integrated Water Processing Plant in the university, aimed at ensuring sustainable supply of portable water for the university community and beyond while serving as training ground for engineering and environmental science students, and more importantly increasing the internally-generated revenue base of the university.


Through the strategic engagement of the Vice-Chancellor, the Deputy Whip of the Nigerian Senate and Senator representing Ebonyi North in the National Assembly, Onyekachi Nwebonyi pledged to erect a Faculty of Law auditorium in the university worth about N200M. When completed, the project will be a landmark edifice in the heart of the university, and thus cementing the reputation of the law programme as one of the flagship academic programmes in the university.
The university has acquired a property under lease agreement to be used as the university guest house. The property which is located at Abakaliki is being renovated, and will mitigate the huge financial resources expended on hotel accommodation for university guests especially during accreditations, council meetings, among others. This is a stop-gap intervention until the university completes its guest house.

Affiliate Institutional Engagements
To expand the university’s reach, Prof. Nwachukwu’s administration is increasing access to the degree programmes of the institution for students through the establishment of more partner colleges authorized to run its academic programmes. For our university, affiliates enhance visibility, grow enrollment, and generate additional revenue while maintaining academic standard and integrity through shared curricula and accreditation. Consequently, within the 100 days of this administration, the university entered into affiliate agreement with Marist Polytechnic, Enugu and AE-FUTHA College of Nursing Sciences, Abakaliki. These strategic collaborations will strengthen AE-FUNAI’s regional impact and reinforces its reputation as a hub of academic and intellectual development.

Creation of New Centers
To drive specialized and specific agenda outside the traditional academic departments of the university, and to improve its internally-generated revenue, the Vice-Chancellor secured the approval of Senate for the creation of some new centers. They include:
a. AE-FUNAI Business School to be located at Abakaliki with Prof. Abel Ezeoha as Director.
b. Centre for Distance Learning with study centers at Abuja, Lagos, Enugu, Onitsha, Aba, among others, with Prof. Philip Omoke as Director.
c. Centre for Advancement and Strategic Contacts with Dr. Nkiru Obande-Ogbuinya as Acting Director.

Improving Physical Infrastructure on Campus
Immediately on assumption of Office, Prof. Nwachukwu embarked on campus tour to have a real feel of the state of physical infrastructure on campus. Having had an on-the-spot assessment of the state of things, he knew that he had his work well cut out. He therefore pledged to ensure a massive new infrastructural development on campus and the renewal of dilapidated ones, as well as to ensure that the ongoing projects that were bequeathed to him by the immediate past Vice-Chancellor were completed on scheduled. He got in touch and put pressure on the contractors to deliver the projects on schedule. Today, most of these projects like the Faculty of Social Sciences buildings and Department of Architecture building are at advanced stages of completion.
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VC, Prof. Daniel C. Nwachukwu inspecting the university 1.8 MW hybrid solar power plant

Prof. Nwachukwu has embarked on the lightening of the university campus through the mounting of about 150 solar street lights spanning from the university main gate to the senate building down to the College of Medical Sciences and Faculty of Law axis. This intervention which was through the support of Hon. Nkemkanma Kama has provided security cover for both staff and students at night.

Within this period, the Vice-Chancellor has supervised sweeping improvement in the physical infrastructure on campus. Suffice to say that approval for the rehabilitation of the Faculties of Biological Sciences and Faculty of Physical Sciences auditoriums have been secured, and when completed it will improve the teaching and learning environment.

New building projects are about springing up at different places on campus. They include: The Faculty of Health and Allied Sciences building, Students’ hostel by TETFund, and another Students’ hostel to be funded by the Federal Ministry of Finance, among others.
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VC, Prof. Daniel C. Nwachukwu during his campus tour pointing to some contractors on the places for the mounting of solar street light at the university main gate

Through the approval of the Vice-Chancellor, the University Medical Centre is now being powered by an independent solar light, ensuring uninterrupted power supply needed for efficient health service delivery. The era of epileptic power supply at the centre is over. This was achieved through funding from the Tertiary Institution Social Health Insurance Programme (TISHIP).

New-look VC’s office

In addition, Prof. Nwachukwu embarked on a massive renovation of the Vice-Chancellor’s office and VC’s waiting room to make it 21st century-compliant and befitting of the office. It now wears a new astounding look. He also ensured the construction of 3 conveniences at the VC’s conference room. Staff and visitors alike do not have to go outside the room during event in search of places to ease themselves.

Under his leadership, the university appointed 4 companies for the cleaning, vegetation control, sewage and solid waste disposal to ensure a clean, green, beautiful and eco-friendly campus for environmental sustainability both at the campus and at the teaching hospital. A university-wide environmental committee has been created to oversee and monitor the activities of the cleaning companies to ensure they discharge their duties efficiently.

Engaging Host Communities for Sustainable Peace and Development
Sustainable peace and development on campus has long been slowed down by land disputes involving original landowners. Prof. Nwachukwu's administration has prioritized dialogue and engagement with critical stakeholders to resolve these issues amicably. Progress in these conversations will create a clearer path for new academic buildings, research centers, and student facilities.


As part of its Community Service, the university under the leadership of Prof. Nwachukwu awarded university scholarships to three senior secondary school students from the host community. In a keenly contested essay competition organized by the Centre for Community and Extension Services among secondary school students in Ikwo, Ezaka Ferdinand Ifeanyi of Urban Secondary School Ndufu- Echara and two others were awarded scholarships for their sterling performances at the competition. This is a way of supporting and giving a sense of belonging to members of the university host communities, and thereby promoting a strong town/gown relationship.

Humanizing Leadership
Beyond policy and projects, what has stood out in the first 100 days of Prof. Nwachukwu's administration is an approachable leadership style. He has maintained an open-door engagement with staff and staff unions, students, and the host community, listening as much as he communicates. That tone has helped build trust and a sense of shared ownership in the university’s future.

More poignantly, the Vice-Chancellor has approved the full payment of death benefits of some deceased staff, thereby restoring hope to deceased families that were forlorn before his assumption of office. This is a profound demonstration of his milk of human kindness and staff-centric leadership, and it will surely galvanize and motivate the staff to discharge their official responsibilities

Looking Ahead
At 100 days, the administration is clear that this is only the beginning. The focus now shifts to scaling up the digital systems, expanding lecture halls and hostel accommodation, enhancing the quality of academic activities, consolidating partnerships, increasing the institution’s global ranking and visibility, and ensuring that the Institute for Future Skills becomes a reality and a regional reference point for AI and technology education in Nigeria.

For a university still young in Nigeria’s higher education landscape, the message is profound: AE-FUNAI is not waiting for the future. It is building it under the leadership of Prof. Daniel C. Nwachukwu as Vice-Chancellor.

Elom Iyke Ubochi is the Public Relations Officer of Alex Ekwueme Federal University Ndufu-Alike, Ebonyi State

aefunai vc directs immediate upgrade of qualified junior staff, as nasu reaffirms commitment to industrial peace
The Vice-Chancellor of Alex Ekwueme Federal University Ndufu-Alike, Ebonyi State, Prof. Daniel C. Nwachukwu, has directed the immediate upgrade of all qualified junior staff of the institution omitted from the last upgrade exercise.
The Vice-Chancellor gave the directive when the Executive Council of the Non-Academic Staff Union of Universities (NASU), AE-FUNAI branch, paid him a familiarization visit, where the Union reaffirmed its commitment to industrial peace, growth, and institutional progress.

The meeting, held on Monday in the Vice-Chancellor’s conference room, was aimed at establishing a collaborative relationship between the union and university administration. Leading the delegation, Branch Chairman, Comrade Chibuike Igwe emphasized NASU’s readiness to work with management to foster a supportive and productive environment for staff and students.

Comrade Igwe assured the Vice-Chancellor that the union would prioritize constructive dialogue over conflict and pledged NASU’s steadfast support for the university’s development goals. He, however, drew attention to the exclusion of staff who recently earned additional academic and professional qualifications from the latest upgrade exercise.

According to him, several non-academic staff had improved their qualifications in line with institutional expectations and career progression requirements, only to be omitted from the upgrade. He urged the Vice-Chancellor to conduct a thorough review of the process to ensure that affected staff receive due recognition and advancement, noting that failure to address the omissions could undermine staff morale and confidence in the administration.
In his response, Prof. Nwachukwu commended the NASU executive for their friendly and constructive approach, describing it as a reflection of maturity and institutional responsibility. He acknowledged the seriousness of the concerns raised and assured the delegation that the matter would be addressed with urgency and thoroughness.


The Vice-Chancellor emphasized that staff welfare and professional growth remain a top priority for his administration. He therefore directed the Registrar to ensure the immediate upgrade of all qualified junior staff that had genuinely improved their qualifications but were omitted from the last exercise.

He further encouraged the NASU leadership to continue to lead with integrity, transparency, and a strong commitment to members’ welfare, stressing that a responsible and well-organized union is a vital partner in the university’s pursuit of academic excellence and institutional distinction.

The visit ended on a positive note, with both parties expressing optimism for a productive, harmonious, and mutually beneficial working relationship.

aefunai alumni council visits vc, seeks digital reforms to enhance graduate services
The Executive Council of the Alex Ekwueme Federal University Ndufu-Alike Alumni Association, led by its President, Mr. Victor Onyekachi Ngwoke, has paid a courtesy visit to the Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Daniel Nwachukwu where it sought for digital reforms to enhance graduate services in the institution.

Speaking on behalf of the association, Ngwoke expressed delight at having a visionary leader of the Vice-Chancellor’s pedigree at the helm of affairs of the university.

He noted that the Alumni body is actively working to address challenges confronting graduates, particularly the delay in transcript processing, which has caused some members to lose employment and postgraduate admission opportunities.
He appealed to the university management to prioritize the digitalization of the clearance process. According to him, this would save alumni the stress and financial burden of traveling long distances to the campus for documentation.

In his response, Prof. Nwachukwu commended the Alumni Association for its initiative and unwavering support. He described alumni as the “real owners of the university” and acknowledged that AE-FUNAI alumni across the globe are making significant contributions to their alma mater.

“You will be proud of your university and the current administration,” the Vice-Chancellor assured, and pledged to accord the Alumni Association its rightful representation in the Governing Council.

Prof. Nwachukwu further disclosed that the digitalization of the Registry and Bursary departments is already captured in the administration’s action plan, and that the digitalization of the clearance process will commence soon.

The highlight of the visit was the presentation of architectural drawings for the proposed Alumni Secretariat to the Vice-Chancellor, and the reaffirming of commitment to collaboration for the growth and development of AE-FUNAI.

AE-FUNAI Holds Essay Competition, Awards Scholarships to Ikwo Secondary School Students

The Centre for Extension and Community Services, Alex Ekwueme Federal University Ndufu-Alike, Ebonyi state, has organized a one-day essay competition and award ceremony for secondary school students from the five communities in Ikwo Local Government Area.

Held under the university’s community service initiative, the event aimed to promote education and address societal attitudes toward the education of boys and girls in the area.

Speaking at the event, the Acting Director of the Centre, Dr. Chinyere Lilian Nkama, said the initiative followed the success of an earlier agricultural training programme for participants from Alike, Echara, Unweka, Mgbabau, and Okpitumo communities. That programme trained participants in micro livestock production, piggery, cucumber, and fruit farming as alternative income sources.

Dr. Nkama explained that the Centre shifted its focus to education because of its critical role in societal transformation and national development.

“Education is more than literacy and schooling. It builds character, strengthens critical thinking, supports skills acquisition, and drives personal development. It fosters progress in families and society, balances preferences, and promotes equality and equity regardless of gender,” she said, quoting Nelson Mandela: “Education is the most powerful weapon which you can use to change the world.”

She noted that the essay competition was designed to reopen discussions on the preference for male over female education in Ikwo communities—a practice often rooted in the belief that a girl’s education ends in the kitchen. The competition, she said, would shape students’ perspectives through cognitive, affective, and psychomotor learning while promoting critical thinking, value reorientation, and creative writing skills.

Dr. Nkama announced that outstanding participants would receive scholarships covering two academic sessions upon gaining admission into AE-FUNAI, regardless of their course of study. The first and second runners-up will receive scholarships covering one academic session and consolation prizes of ₦50,000 each.

She thanked the Vice-Chancellor and university management for approving the scholarships and supporting the event. She also commended the assessors from the Department of English and Literary Studies for their transparency in selecting the winners and praised teachers for preparing the students.

Representing the Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Daniel Nwachukwu, the Deputy Vice-Chancellor, Administration, Prof. Celestine Affiukwa, urged the students to take education seriously and use the opportunity provided by the university for personal and community transformation.

“The presence of a university within a community brings transformation. Focus on the benefits you can derive from this institution to pursue academic excellence and contribute positively to your communities,” Prof. Affiukwa said. He also called on participants to embrace sportsmanship as winners emerged across categories.

The highlight of the event was the presentation of awards to the students who secured first, second, and third positions.

Ezaka Ferdinand Ifeanyi of Urban Community Secondary School, Ndufu Echara, emerged as the winner of the essay competition.

ADVERTISEMENT FOR 2026/2027 ACADEMIC SESSION POST UTME/DIRECT ENTRY SCREENING
This is to inform the general public that registration for the 2026/2027 academic session
Post-Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (Post-UTME)/Direct Entry Screening of Alex Ekwueme Federal University, Ndufu-Alike, (AE-FUNAI), Ebonyi State, shall commence on Monday, 25th May, 2026 and end on Tuesday, 30th June, 2026.
Interested candidates who must have scored 150 and above in the 2026 UTME and who made Alex Ekwueme Federal University, Ndufu-Alike, Ebonyi State their first choice institution in their application for admission in the 2026 Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME) are qualified to apply. However, candidates are advised to check the minimum UTME screening score for the respective programmes listed below to guide their choices.
Prospective candidates who did not choose AE-FUNAI as their first choice institution but wish to study in AE-FUNAI are eligible to apply for PUTME screening. However, such candidates MUST effect Change of Institution/Course to AE-FUNAI on the JAMB Portal on or before Tuesday, 30th June, 2026. This is also applicable to Direct Entry (DE) candidates.
AVAILABLE PROGRAMMES
S/N
FACULTY
PROGRAMME
UTME MINIMUM SCREENING SCORE
1
Faculty of Agriculture
1.    Agribusiness and Management . 150
2.    Agricultural Economics
3.    Agricultural Extension and Rural Development
4.    Soil Science
5.    Crop Science
6.    Animal Science
7.    Fisheries and Aquaculture

2
Faculty of Basic Medical Sciences
1.    Anatomy. 160
2.    Physiology

3
Faculty of Education
1.    Education/English and Literary Studies. 150
2.    Educational Management
3.    Guidance and Counseling
4.    Biology Education
5.    Chemistry Education
6.    Mathematics Education
7.    Physics Education
8.    Physical and Health Education
9.    Agricultural Science and Education
10. Business Education
11. Economics Education
12. Computer Science Education
13. Technology Education with options in:
(i) Mechanical Technology Education
(ii) Building Technology Education
(iii) Woodwork Technology Education
(iv) Electrical and Electronics Technology Education
(v) Automobile Technology Education


4
Faculty of Engineering and Technology
1.    Chemical Engineering. 150
2.    Civil Engineering. 160
3.    Electrical/Electronic Engineering
4.    Mechanical Engineering
5.    Mechatronics Engineering


5
Faculty of Environmental Sciences
1.    Architecture. 150
2.    Fine and Applied Arts
3.    Geography


6
Faculty of Humanities
1.    Theatre Arts. 150
2.    English
3.    French
4.    Linguistics
5.    Linguistics/French
6.    Linguistics/Igbo
7.    Igbo
8.    Music
9.    History and Strategic Studies
10. Philosophy
11. Religion

7
Faculty of Management Sciences
1.    Accountancy. 170
2.    Business Administration
3.    Banking and Finance. 150
4.    Public Administration

8
Faculty of Biological Sciences
1.    Biology. 150
2.    Biotechnology
3.    Biochemistry. 160
4.    Microbiology


9
Faculty of Physical Sciences
1.    Computer Science. 180
2.    Chemistry. 150
3.    Mathematics
4.    Statistics
5.    Geology
6.    Applied Geophysics
7.    Physics

10
Faculty of Social Sciences
1.    Mass Communication 170
2.    Criminology and Security Studies. 150
3.    Economics
4.    Political Science
5.    Sociology
6.    Psychology


11
Faculty of Law
1.       Law. 230


12
College of Medical Sciences
1.    Medicine and Surgery. 250


13
Faculty of Health and Allied Sciences
1.    Nursing Science. 240
2.    Medical Laboratory Science. 210
3.    Human Nutrition and Dietetics. 160
 
ADDITIONAL INFORMATION
·       Candidates for Medicine and Surgery, Law, Nursing Science and Medical Science Laboratory programmes must have obtained their O’Level Results at one sitting only.
·       Candidates should be guided by the UTME and O’level subject requirements as are available on the University website.
 
1.     Prospective candidates who may wish to register for the Post-UTME through the
AE-FUNAI ICT Centres, should visit the:

* University CBT Centre at Zone A in the University Campus
OR
* Centre for Educational Services (JUPEB/Pre-Degree School),
Aguogboriga Estate, Abakaliki.
2.     During registration, candidates are advised to use GSM numbers that are easily accessible to them.  This is important for fast and easy communication.
Candidates should note that at any point of the screening and admission exercise, if any false information is discovered, such candidate’s application would automatically be disqualified.
MODE OF PAYMENT AND REGISTRATION PROCEDURE
Eligible candidates are required to pay a processing fee of N2,000 only.
Visit the University website: www.funai.edu.ng, go to ADMISSIONS at the top menu
Click on Apply Now
Provide your JAMB Registration Number to validate your profile
Provide a valid email address and phone number
Verify your email with OTP sent to your email
Proceed to make payment by making a transfer of the complete amount to the given account number
Click ‘I have made payment’ after transferring the complete amount to proceed to registration
Visit your email to confirm registration acknowledgement.
The screening mode for the 2026/2027 academic session PUTME shall be through the process of internal screening of candidates’ results.
All candidates are requested to ensure that their O/Level and Direct Entry results are uploaded on JAMB Central Admissions Processing System (CAPS) on or before Tuesday, 30th June, 2026. Any PUTME application without O’level/ A level result upload on JAMB CAPS will not be processed.
For Enquiries: Call these phone numbers between 8.00 am and 6.00 pm, Monday – Friday only.
07031810065, 08120454195 and 08038099920.
Signed:
 
 
T. Ifeanyi Igwe Esq.
Registrar

The Faculty of Environmental Sciences (FES), Alex Ekwueme Federal University Ndufu-Alike Ikwo (AE-FUNAI), held its 2026 distinguished service awards ceremony where distinguished staff were recognized for their exceptional dedication, professionalism, and contributions to the faculty’s growth and development.
The annual ceremony, held at the Iruka Centre, AE-FUNAI, forms part of the faculty’s strategy to promote a culture of excellence and sustain high performance across its departments and units.



Representing the Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Romanus Ejiaga commended the faculty for the initiative, describing staff recognition as a strategic investment in human capital development. He conveyed the Vice-Chancellor’s goodwill and praised the faculty leadership for fostering a culture that rewards hard work and inspires service to the university and the nation.

“This award is a well-deserved tribute to staff whose contributions have shaped the identity and reputation of the Faculty of Environmental Sciences,” Prof. Ejiaga said.
The Dean of the Faculty of Environmental Sciences, Prof. Godwin Iriwheri reaffirmed the faculty’s commitment to merit-based recognition. He noted that the 2026 awards were conferred solely on staff that had shown outstanding dedication and impact on the faculty’s development.
He urged awardees to display their certificates and plaques prominently in their various offices as a reminder to maintain and surpass their current standards of excellence.



Delivering the keynote lecture at the event, Prof. Robert Onyeneke, Dean of the Faculty of Agriculture, challenged environmental scientists to uphold integrity, accountability, and transparency in service delivery. He stressed that these values are essential for repositioning environmental science as a driver of national development.

“Environmental science professionals play a critical role in shaping Nigeria’s physical, ecological, and socio-economic landscape. They must rise to the challenge with renewed purpose and patriotism,” Prof. Onyeneke stated.
He added that sustainable development requires a workforce grounded in ethical conduct and visionary leadership, urging professionals to demonstrate commitment even when unobserved. He encouraged the faculty to set a benchmark for excellence within AE-FUNAI and across Nigerian universities by engaging actively in policy, planning, and environmental governance.
“The environment is not an afterthought; it is the foundation of every development goal. Environmental scientists should see themselves as builders of the nation,” he said.
Speaking on behalf of the awardees, Dr. Samuel Echem expressed gratitude for the recognition, describing it as humbling and motivating. He thanked the faculty leadership for valuing staff dedication and urged colleagues to uphold the standards that earned them the honour.
“This award is not the end of the journey but a call to serve even more,” Dr. Echem said.
The ceremony highlights the faculty’s commitment to excellence, professionalism, and staff motivation as pillars of institutional growth.

ae-funai governing council seeks royal backing for university development in visit to alake of egbaland
The Pro-Chancellor and Chairman of the Governing Council of Alex Ekwueme Federal University Ndufu-Alike, Ebonyi State, Engr. Dr. Anthony Nebo recently led other members of the Governing Council on a courtesy visit to the Chancellor of the University, HRM Oba (Dr.) Michael Aremu Adedotun Gbadebo, Alake and Paramount Ruler of Egbaland, at his palace in Abeokuta, Ogun State, where they sought for royal backing in their quest to drive rapid academic and infrastructural development in the university.



The visit served to formally introduce the 4th substantive Vice-Chancellor of the university, Prof. Daniel C. Nwachukwu and other Governing Council members to the Chancellor and to discuss partnerships that will advance the university’s development agenda.
Speaking during the meeting, the Pro-Chancellor, Dr. Nebo reaffirmed the Council’s commitment to building strong stakeholder relationships and providing quality leadership to realize the university’s vision. He noted that Prof. Nwachukwu’s appointment as Vice-Chancellor followed a transparent and merit-based selection process, and assured the Chancellor of the Council’s continued support for academic and infrastructural growth.



The Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Nwachukwu expressed appreciation for the Chancellor’s steadfast support to the university and sought his royal blessings as he assumes office. He outlined plans to expand academic programmes through new faculties, strengthen infrastructure, and enhance research and innovation. He also emphasized the importance of strategic partnerships to attract development opportunities and raise the university’s national and international profile.



In his response, His Royal Majesty commended the Governing Council and Management for upholding the institution’s values and promoting a culture of consultation. He specifically praised the university’s leadership for maintaining the hybrid solar power facility, describing it as a model of responsible management and commitment to sustainable infrastructure.

The Alake reaffirmed his support for AE-FUNAI’s growth and urged the leadership to sustain excellence, uphold high academic standards, and continue producing graduates who contribute meaningfully to national development.



The visit reinforced the cordial relationship between the Chancellor and the university leadership and underscored their shared commitment to collaboration, visionary leadership, and the long-term progress of AE-FUNAI.

aefunai faculty of agriculture submits proposal for establishment of university integrated commercial farm
The Faculty of Agriculture, Alex Ekwueme Federal University Ndufu-Alike, Ebonyi state, has submitted a proposal for the establishment of an integrated commercial farm aimed at transforming the university’s farm into a commercially viable agribusiness. A landmark initiative designed to strengthen practical agricultural training, boost food production, and create sustainable income opportunities for the institution and the surrounding community.



Presenting the proposal to the Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Daniel Nwachukwu, the Dean of the Faculty, Prof. Robert Onyeneke explained that the five-year proposal seeks to integrate crop production, livestock, fisheries, and agro-processing under a unified management system. He stated that Priority will be given to high-return enterprises such as ginger, seed yam, broiler production, and catfish farming to generate early revenue, while long-term investments including cattle ranching and orchard development will be introduced gradually.

Onyeneke outlined a monitoring and risk management framework with key performance indicators, reporting schedules, and operational safeguards aimed at ensuring accountability, efficiency and long-term growth. He reiterated the plans for infrastructure rehabilitation, feed milling, processing facilities, market expansion, and export readiness, stressing that the project is expected to promote financial sustainability, research, training, and community development, while positioning AE-FUNAI Integrated Farms Ltd for long-term growth and investment opportunities.
He noted that the farm will be registered with the Corporate Affairs Commission (CAC) to make it a viable and sustainable enterprise, with the Vice-Chancellor serving as Chairman of the Board.



Responding, the Vice-Chancellor, Professor Daniel Nwachukwu commended the Faculty for the initiative, describing the proposal as timely and impactful, adding that business enterprise is the way forward as government subventions cannot sustain university operational activities.
He advised the faculty to partner with privates investors in the running of the business as the university may not properly run it for sustained profit.
He commended them for being the first faculty in the university to have submitted a business proposal to the university management, while assuring them of his administration’s support to make it work.
This is coming at a time the Vice-Chancellor during his campus tour challenged the various faculties and academic departments to identify profitable areas they can invest in to provide solutions to the numerous challenges facing humanity, and also to generate some revenue.

The Vice-Chancellor of Alex Ekwueme Federal University Ndufu-Alike, Ebonyi State, Professor Daniel Nwachukwu, has commended the pioneer staff of the institution for their sacrifices, resilience, and commitment in laying a solid foundation for the growth and development of the university.
Professor Nwachukwu gave the commendation while receiving members of the AE-FUNAI Pioneer Staff Forum during a courtesy visit on him, on Monday, May 18, 2026.
Dr. Joseph Chukwu, presenting the address of the forum to the Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Daniel Nwachukwu

Addressing the delegation, Nwachukwu expressed delight at receiving the pioneer staff, describing them as critical stakeholders whose efforts and sacrifices helped to shape the university into what it is today. He noted that establishing a new institution was never an easy task, especially during the early years when structures, systems, and policies were still evolving.
According to him, the pioneer staff contributed immensely to the growth and development of the institution through their courage, resilience, and dedication to duty.
“I am thrilled to have the pioneer staff of AE-FUNAI in my office today,” he stated, stressing that it is never easy to start something from the beginning looking at the foundation of the university.
Professor Nwachkwu applauded them for setting the pace for others to follow even as he urged them to continue giving their best in their various offices while serving as role models within the university community. He equally assured the pacesetters that their sacrifices and contributions would be rewarded accordingly, adding that the future holds better prospects for them and the institution as a whole.
Speaking further, the Vice-Chancellor appealed for their continued support and cooperation in line with his mission to move the institution to greater heights academically and administratively, disclosing that his administration would give primary consideration to staff children in matters relating to admission and employment opportunities.

Chairman of the forum, Dr. Joseph Chukwu, presenting his address during the visit

Earlier, the Chairman of the Forum, Dr. Joseph N. Chukwu, congratulated Professor Nwachukwu on his appointment as the 4th substantive Vice-Chancellor of the university and pledged their support and prayers towards the success of his administration.
Dr. Chukwu described the pioneer staff as the bedrock upon which the university was built following its establishment in 2011, noting that they played major roles in developing the academic, administrative, and institutional structures of the university. He explained that despite the difficult working conditions and limited resources during the formative years of the institution, the pioneer staff remained committed to the ideals of excellence, discipline, institutional growth, and public service.

VC, Prof. Nwachukwu, (4th L) in a group photograph with some Principal Officers and the Pioneer staff members

The forum further appealed to the Vice-Chancellor to sustain the recognition of pioneer staff through greater inclusion in university committees and other institutional activities. They equally revealed plans to establish the AE-FUNAI Pioneers and Archives Centre, a project aimed at preserving and documenting the history and legacy of the institution.
According to them, the proposed centre would serve as a historical repository for visitors, staff, and students seeking authentic information about the university’s origin and growth, as well as conference halls, offices, and shopping spaces capable of generating revenue for the institution.
The highlight of the gathering was presentation of gift to the Vice-Chancellor by the pioneer staff forum.

The Vice-Chancellor of Alex Ekwueme Federal University Ndufu-Alike, Ebonyi State, Prof. Daniel Nwachukwu, has assured that his administration will deliver accomplishments that would make stakeholders proud by the end of his five-year tenure.
Prof. Nwachukwu gave the assurance when he received former colleagues and staff of the Department of Human Physiology, University of Nigeria Enugu Campus (UNEC), who visited to congratulate him on his appointment as Vice-Chancellor of AE-FUNAI.


“In five years’ time after my tenure, you will be proud of my accomplishments. We have hit the ground running, and will keep the light shining to make a big difference in the university,” he said.

The Vice-Chancellor thanked the delegation for the visit and expressed his willingness to liaise and work with the Vice-Chancellor of UNN to upgrade and transform the infrastructure in the Department of Human Physiology. He also urged the departmental leadership to furnish him with areas of need so he could intervene on a personal level.



Earlier, the Head of the Department of Human Physiology, University of Nigeria, Enugu Campus, Dr. Ifeoma Orizu, said the visit was to identify with one of their seasoned professors whom God had elevated to the position of Vice-Chancellor. She assured him of the department’s continued support, solidarity and prayers as he steers the affairs of AE-FUNAI to enviable heights.

The highlight of the visit was a prayer for the successful tenure of Prof. Nwachukwu and the presentation of a gift.

aefunai hosts 5th owsd southeast conference on translating research into real impact for sustainable development
Alex Ekwueme Federal University Ndufu- Alike, Ebonyi State, hosted the 5th Biennial Conference of the Organization of Women in Science for the Developing World (OWSD), South East Zone, Nigeria Chapter meant to translate research into real impact for sustainable development.
The gathering brought together distinguished scholars, researchers, academics, development experts, policymakers and students from across the country.



Held at the Senate Chambers of the University, the conference was themed ‘’Women in Science Translating Research into Real Impact for Sustainable Development.’’ It focused on the crucial role of women in advancing scientific discoveries, innovation, research commercialization and sustainable development in Nigeria and beyond.

The conference served as the platform for intellectual engagement, and strategic discussions on how research findings can be transformed into practical solutions capable of addressing societal challenges in areas such as climate change, food security, healthcare, education, technology and economic growth.
Declaring the conference open, the Vice Chancellor, Prof. Daniel Nwachukwu, commended OWSD for its consistency in promoting excellence in scientific research and gender inclusion.



He reiterated the administration’s commitment to the advancement of research, innovation and academic excellence, while also assuring participants of his continuous support for initiatives that promote scientific development and sustainable progress. He noted that universities must remain centers of impactful research capable of solving real societal problems and driving national transformation.

Earlier in her welcome address, Chairperson of the Local Organizing Committee, Prof. Laura Okpala, described the gathering as a significant academic milestone for the institution and the South East Zone of OWSD Nigeria. She emphasized the importance of promoting women’s participation in science and research, noting that the conference would further stimulate innovation, mentorship, collaboration and solutions to societal challenges.

Also in her welcome remarks, the Zonal Coordinator of OWSD South East Zone Nigeria, Dr Chioma Anorue, highlighted the vision and commitment of the organization towards empowering women in science and encouraging impactful research across developing nations. She stated that the conference theme was carefully selected to inspire researchers in translating scientific discoveries into practical solutions to improve lives and foster national development.

The keynote lecture was delivered by Prof. Florence O. Nduka, who spoke on the conference theme, “Women in Science Translating Research into Real Impact for Sustainable Development.” In her presentation, she underscored the strategic role of women scientists in advancing research, innovation and technological development. She further stressed the need for stronger institutional support, funding opportunities, policy implementation and mentorship initiatives that would enable women researchers to contribute effectively to sustainable development goals.

Prof. Nduka also challenged participants to move beyond theoretical research by pursuing innovations and scientific solutions that directly address societal needs in areas such as healthcare, agriculture, environmental sustainability, education and technology.
Major highlights of the conference were science quiz competition involving secondary school girls drawn from different schools in Ebonyi to encourage early interests in sciences among girls. They showcased intelligence and scientific potential with outstanding performances which saw the students from Faith Academy Secondary School, Abakaliki emerging as the winner, and an excellent leadership award bestowed by the association on the Vice-Chancellor of the university for his impactful policies and programmes.




The 5th Biennial Conference of the Organization for Women in Science for the Developing world South-East Nigeria ended with renewed commitments from stakeholders to continue supporting women in science and advancing research driven-solutions for national and global development.

AE-FUNAI VC DELIVERS ON PROMISE: 650 MATTRESSES, 120 FANS DISTRIBUTED TO BOOST STUDENTS’ COMFORT IN HOSTELS
In a bold step to improve student welfare and campus living conditions, the Vice-Chancellor of Alex Ekwueme Federal University Ndufu-Alike, Prof. Daniel Nwachukwu, has delivered the first batch of 650 high-quality mattresses and 120 wall fans to students residing in university hostels.
The distribution, carried out on Thursday, fulfills a commitment the Vice-Chancellor made during his March 2026 tour of student hostels to assess infrastructure and listen directly to students’ concerns.



“This is about keeping our word and putting students first,” Prof. Nwachukwu said while handing over the items. “Your comfort matters because a conducive environment is the foundation for academic excellence. This is only the first batch. More is on the way.”

Addressing students directly, the Vice-Chancellor reaffirmed that students’ welfare is central to his administration’s vision. He urged students to remain focused on their studies, uphold the university’s rules, and partner with management to build a university they can be proud of.



“Be patient with us, but be assured that we are working deliberately to solve your challenges and make AE-FUNAI a place where you can learn, grow, and thrive,” he said.
Beyond immediate comfort, Prof. Nwachukwu announced plans to renovate the Abubakar Adamu Rasheed Auditorium before the end of 2026, restoring it to a modern facility befitting the university’s status.
Students welcomed the intervention with enthusiasm. The President of the Students’ Union Government, Comrade Kevin Ipere Nwankwo, praised the Vice-Chancellor for turning promises into action.
“This initiative shows that the administration is listening and acting. Providing new mattresses and fans will make a real difference in students’ daily lives,” he said.



He also commended the ongoing rehabilitation of hostels and appealed for the distribution of the mattresses and fans to reach every student in campus accommodation.
The gesture marks another step in Prof. Nwachukwu’s drive to restore confidence, improve facilities, and strengthen the partnership between management and students. With more interventions underway, AE-FUNAI is positioning itself as a university where student voices translate into visible change.

In line with the Strategic Priority 8: Digital Transformation in its strategic plan, Alex Ekwueme Federal University Ndufu-Alike, Ebonyi State, Nigeria, has announced the launch of the Institute for Future Skills and Innovation (IFSI), a new interdisciplinary academic and innovation hub designed to prepare students and professionals for emerging sectors of the digital economy.

The institute is being developed in partnership with the African Skills and Innovation Network (ASIN), an interdisciplinary network advancing digital learning, innovation ecosystems, and future skills development across Africa.

IFSI will focus on high-impact areas such as artificial intelligence, data science, financial technology, cybersecurity, digital governance, entrepreneurship, and agritech. The institute is designed to combine academic programmes, applied research, and professional training to equip learners with the functional knowledge and practical skills needed in rapidly evolving technology-driven industries.

The Institute will operate through a modern digital-first learning model supported by an advanced Learning Management System and global faculty collaboration. Through this approach, students will engage with instructors, researchers, and industry experts from across Nigeria and around the world.

While highlighting the importance of the collaboration with African Skills and Innovation Network, the Vice-Chancellor of the university, Professor Daniel Nwachukwu, said the establishment of the institute reflects the university’s commitment to preparing students for the realities of the modern global economy.

“The world of work is changing at an unprecedented pace, and universities must evolve to prepare graduates for new industries driven by digital technologies and innovation

“The Institute for Future Skills and Innovation positions AE-FUNAI to equip students with the sellableb skills, creativity, and entrepreneurial mindset required to lead in the digital economy”, he said.

The Institute will initially launch flagship undergraduate programmes in the following fields:
• B.Sc. Artificial Intelligence and Applied Data Science
• B.Sc. Financial Technology and Digital Banking
• B.Sc. Applied Cybersecurity and Digital Forensics
• B.Sc. Digital Business and Innovation
• B.Sc. Innovation, Entrepreneurship and Technology
• B.Sc. Digital Product Design and Emerging Technologies
• B.Sc. Smart Agriculture, Agritech and Rural Innovation

These programmes will be delivered through a blended, online-first model that combines digital lectures, collaborative learning platforms, and real-world innovation projects with periodic in-person activities such as workshops, innovation labs, and capstone demonstrations. Additional undergraduate, postgraduate, professional, and executive offerings will be introduced progressively across the institute’s six academic pathways.

A key feature of the institute is its distributed faculty model, which will bring together leading academics and industry practitioners from Nigeria and internationally. This model enables AE-FUNAI to leverage global expertise while expanding access to high-quality learning.

The institute will operate through six interdisciplinary academic pathways:
• Artificial Intelligence and Intelligent Systems
• Digital Economy and FinTech
• Innovation, Entrepreneurship and Leadership
• Digital Governance and Cyber Systems
• Human-Centered Digital Technology
• Sustainable Systems, Agritech and Rural Innovation

Beyond academic degree programmes, the Institute will also offer professional certificate programmes, executive education, apprenticeships, and corporate training to support workforce development across industries.

According to Professor Chinedu Ekuma, Executive Director of the Institute for Future Skills and Innovation, the institute is designed to expand access to future-focused education while connecting learning to real-world impact.
[08-Apr-26 8:53 AM] Cyborg: “Our vision is to build one of Africa's leading centers for future skills, interdisciplinary technology education, and innovation

“By bringing together global faculty, industry practitioners, and innovation networks, the Institute for Future Skills and Innovation is designed to prepare learners not only to study emerging technologies, but to apply them across artificial intelligence, digital finance, entrepreneurship, cyber and governance systems, human-centered design, and sustainable agritech and rural innovation", he said.

Professor Ekuma added that the institute places strong emphasis on applied learning and innovation, noting that “students in the institute will not only study technology. They will build solutions, launch ventures, and collaborate on interdisciplinary innovation projects that address some of the most pressing challenges facing Africa and the global economy,".

The establishment of IFSI comes at a critical time for Nigeria, where demand for advanced digital and interdisciplinary skills continues to grow rapidly. By developing future-focused programmes and combining academic learning with applied innovation, AE-FUNAI aims to help close skills gaps and strengthen capacity for leadership in the knowledge economy.

The launch of IFSI positions AE-FUNAI among a new generation of universities developing innovative educational models for the digital age. With its emphasis on interdisciplinary learning, industry collaboration, and digital delivery, the institute is expected to strengthen the university’s position as a forward-looking institution advancing technology-enabled education in Nigeria and across Africa.
Further information about the Institute for Future Skills and Innovation is available at:
Website: https://ifsi.funai.edu.ng | https://ifsihub.com
Email: ifsi@funai.edu.ng | info@ifsihub.com

A JOURNEY OF EXCELLENCE: AE-FUNAI @ 15
By Elom Iyke Ubochi
Today, Alex Ekwueme Federal University Ndufu-Alike, Ebonyi State (AE-FUNAI) is celebrating a significant milestone-its 15th anniversary as a university. Established on February 26, 2011, by the Federal Government of Nigeria, the institution has spotlighted growth and progress in teaching, research and community service since its inception.
The university's journey began with three faculties: Basic Medical Sciences, Humanities and Social Sciences, and Science, offering 41 programmes to 293 students. The pioneer Vice-Chancellor, the late Prof. Oye Ibidapo-Obe, laid the foundation for academic excellence, ensuring the university commenced academic activities on November 5, 2012.
Prof. Chinedum Uzoma Nwajiuba took over as the second Vice-Chancellor in 2016, driving massive academic and infrastructural expansion. He was succeeded by Prof. Sunday Oge Elom in 2021, who sustained and expanded the university's achievements. Under his leadership, AE-FUNAI secured significant research grants, improved academic programmes, and enhanced global visibility. Daniel C. Nwachukwu, a Professor of Cardiovascular Physiology, the incumbent Vice-Chancellor assumed office on February 11, 2026, with the mandate of transforming the university into a hub of academic and intellectual excellence.
The university, in the last 15 years, has metamorphosed and grown to 14 faculties, 62 academic departments, and 67 programmess, with a student population of over 18,000. It is instructive to note that all the academic programmes of the university are in strong footing as they have the approval of the National Universities Commission (NUC). Among these, 57 of the programmes have full accreditation, 7 programmes were reaccredited in 2025, and results are being awaited while the remaining others will be facing accreditation in 2026. Currently, the programmes also have recognitions through accreditation and resource verification from relevant professional bodies such as – Council for the Regulation of Engineering in Nigeria (COREN), Medical and Dental Council of Nigeria (MDCN), Institute of Charted Accountants of Nigeria (ICAN), Institute of Charted Bankers of Nigeria (ICBN), Medical Laboratory Scientists of Nigeria (MLSCN), Architects Registration Council of Nigeria (ARCON) and Council for Legal Education. This has enabled our students to graduate timely, and are further mobilized for the national service on schedule without hitches.
AE-FUNAI has achieved notable recognitions, including being ranked among Nigeria's top universities and sub Saharan Africa's emerging institutions. The university has functional partnerships with international institutions such as the French Government on Postgraduate Scholarship – a first of its kind in Nigeria; staff and students exchange programme with the University of Gavle, Sweden; Association of Commonwealth Universities (ACU) on blended learning; staff and students exchange collaborations with Texas-Southern University, USA and Mississippi Valley University, USA, Bi-institutional collaboration with Tub University, Germany, under the sponsorship of the European Union Erasmus + programme, and many others.
The university's infrastructure has undergone significant transformation, with over 5 kilometers of asphalt road network, a hybrid solar power plant, and some modern facilities. AE-FUNAI's commitment to academic excellence is evident in its Language Enhancement Programme (LEP), designed to improve students' communication and critical thinking skills. LEP is a first of its kind in the Nigerian University System. The benefits of this programme have continued to rub-off on our students. Consequently, the institution's students’ public speaking team is ranked in the top 5 in Africa, and top 3 among universities in Nigeria. AE-FUNAI also operates a robust quality assurance system, ensuring that academic standards are maintained and improved on. The university has a Committee on the Verification of Students’ Academic Grades, which reviews the answer scripts of students to ensure that lecturers set proper questions and marking schemes, and do not award frivolous marks nor indulge in block marking. This has enhanced the integrity and quality of the academic certificates of the university.
AE-FUNAI prioritizes research, securing grants from local and international organizations. Faculty members are encouraged and supported to conduct cutting-edge research, advancing knowledge and addressing societal challenges. In line with this, we can make bold to say that nine of our academic staff were ranked among top 2% world scientists in 2025 by Elsevier/Stanford while another two were ranked among top 500 scholars in Nigeria by SciVal for their scholarly output in Scopus (2022-2026). As part of the French Fund, the university is currently producing plastic products from plastic waste. The research is funded by the French government, and the university is one of the five tertiary institutions in Nigeria participating in the project, geared towards promoting environmental sustainability by riding campuses of plastic waste.
Also, AE-FUNAI is one of the principal partners of MIGRATURITY, a new European Union-funded Initiative designed to strengthen the capacity of higher educational institutions in Sub-Saharan African to tackle migration and security challenges. The 4-year programme titled “Building Capacity of Sub-Saharan Africa HEIs in Addressing Migrations and Security Issues,” which runs from 2025 to 2028 brings together institutions from Nigeria, Ethiopia, Italy, Serbia, and Turkey, with the aims of enhancing good governance, peace, and the rule of law by equipping universities with the tools needed to manage migration and related security issues in an inclusive and gender-sensitive manner. The university’s share of the grant is worth 39, 040 Euros, and as a beneficiary institution, AE-FUNAI participates across all seven work packages, which span preparation, gender analysis, social inclusion, communication and dissemination, and full project administration
AE-FUNAI engages with its host community, promoting town-gown relationships and contributing to local economic development. It has contributed significantly to the development of Ndufu-Alike and Ndufu-Echara, its immediate host communities, Ikwo Local Government Area and Ebonyi State at large by jump-starting and sustaining the local economy and providing admission and employment opportunities to qualified indigenes. The university strengthens its ties with its host communities through outreach programmes geared towards helping the local community/people, especially farmers, women and students. Additionally, the University is also in the vanguard of promoting the Igbo culture and language to stop it from going extinct. It does this through the IRUKA Centre- The Centre for the Study of the Future of Ndigbo, and the Centre of Indigenous Clothing, where students and other interested stakeholders are taught how to weave and market some clothings that are indigenous to Ndigbo such as Akwaete and Akwaocha. This has helped in sustaining and celebrating the arts in Igbo land and beyond.

In concluding, as AE-FUNAI celebrates its 15th anniversary, it reflects on its journey from a fledging institution situated in the agrarian community of Ikwo to a reputable university recognised nationally and beyond for the quality and seriousness of its academic activities. With strong and visionary leadership being provided by Prof. Nwachukwu, the university is headed for sustained growth, and poised to becoming a leading institution in Nigeria and sub Saharan Africa through innovation, problem-solving research and academic excellence.

Elom Iyke Ubochi is the Public Relations Officer, Alex Ekwueme Federal University Ndufu-Alike, Ebonyi State

AE-FUNAI WELCOMES 4TH VICE-CHANCELLOR AS PROF. ELOM EXITS AFTER 5 YEARS OF TRANSFORMATIVE LEADERSHIP

Alex Ekwueme Federal University Ndufu-Alike, Ebonyi State, on Tuesday, February 10, 2026, witnessed a historic and seamless transition in leadership as Professor Sunday Oge Elom formally handed over the affairs of the University to Professor Daniel C. Nwachukwu, as the 4th substantive Vice-Chancellor.

Speaking during the handover ceremony, Professor Elom expressed gratitude to God and the University community for the opportunity to serve, reflecting on his five-year tenure which began in February 11, 2021. He described the period as one marked by resilience, collective effort, and remarkable institutional growth despite the numerous challenges his administration encountered.

According to him, the University recorded significant achievements in academic excellence and expansion, infrastructural development, and research output. He noted that most of the academic programmes of the University now enjoy accreditation from the National Universities Commission (NUC) and relevant professional bodies, a milestone that underscored the administration’s commitment to quality assurance.

He highlighted the successful approval of the Law programme by the Council for Legal Education and the final accreditation of the MBBS programme by the Medical and Dental Council of Nigeria, noting that the pioneer law graduates of the university are already in law school while the pioneer medical graduates are expected to be inducted and sworn in as qualified doctors in March 2026.

He further disclosed that 34 out of 35 academic programmes presented for accreditation received full approval, with one granted interim status.

Beyond academics, he revealed that AE-FUNAI experienced structural expansion with the establishment of new faculties and departments, increasing faculties from 11 to 14, departments from 41 to 54, and academic programmes from 57 to 64. Students' population also grew from about 9,000 to over 14,000 during the period.

Speaking further, Professor Elom emphasized improvements in ICT infrastructure which has enhanced transparency in Students’ Union Government elections, increased research output, and international recognition, including the University’s first-ever ranking by the Times Higher Education (THE), where it placed 4th in Nigeria in Impact Ranking.

As part of a smooth transition, the outgoing Vice-Chancellor stated that a comprehensive handover note containing governance, administrative, asset, and personnel records had been prepared to guide the incoming administration.

While making his acceptance speech, Professor Daniel C. Nwachukwu expressed profound appreciation to the Governing Council for what he described as an open and transparent selection process that culminated in his appointment. He also thanked the University community for the overwhelming support received since his emergence as Vice-Chancellor.

Describing leadership as a call to service rather than a position of privilege, Professor Nwachukwu pledged to lead with integrity, empathy, and inclusiveness while fostering an environment where every voice matters. He acknowledged the challenges ahead but expressed confidence that unity, creativity, and determination would enable the University to turn challenges into opportunities.

He reaffirmed his commitment to building on the achievements of the outgoing administration, embracing innovation, and steering AE-FUNAI to greater academic and global relevance over the next five years.

The ceremony marked a significant chapter in the University’s history, symbolizing continuity, stability, and renewed commitment to excellence in teaching, research, and service.

The highlight of the event was the dedication of the university and the tenure of Professor Nwachukwu to God by Rev. Fr. Ejike Mbaka of the Adoration Ministry, Enugu.

I WILL TRANSFORM AE-FUNAI INTO A HUB OF ACADEMIC AND INTELLECTUAL EXCELLENCE -PROFESSOR NWACHUKWU

The newly-appointed Vice-Chancellor of Alex Ekwueme Federal University Ndufu-Alike, Ebonyi State, Professor Daniel C. Nwachukwu has promised to work tirelessly with all stakeholders including council, staff and students to transform the university into a hub of academic and intellectual excellence.

Professor Chukwu gave the assurance while giving his acceptance speech after his appointment by the Governing Council of the University as the 4th substantive Vice-Chancellor of the institution.

"I promise to justify the confidence reposed in me by working tirelessly with Council, staff and students to transform AE-FUNAI into a hub of academic and intellectual excellence

"My appointment marks a new beginning; I shall leverage on my experience to drive infrastructural growth, academic innovation, ethical standards, and boosts our global visibility and ranking."

The new AE-FUNAI helmsman also thanked the university Governing Council for finding him worthy to serve the university in such an exalted position.

He therefore assured the university community of his commitment to prioritizing their welfare, and working collaboratively to make AE-FUNAI a better place.

Professor Nwachukwu dedicated his appointment to the Mother of Perpetual Help, his beloved wife and children, and all those that stood by him.

He also extended a hand of fellowship to his fellow contestants, enjoining them to unite with him to propel AE-FUNAI to greater heights.

Following his appointment, Professor Nwachukwu shall be assuming office on 11th February, 2026, after the expiration of the tenure of the incumbent Vice-Chancellor, Professor Sunday Elom, on 10th February, 2026.

Elom Iyke Ubochi

BREAKING
AE-FUNAI APPOINTS PROFESSOR DANIEL NWACHUKWU 4TH VICE-CHANCELLOR
The Governing Council of Alex Ekwueme Federal University Ndufu-Alike, Ebonyi State, has appointed a professor of Cardiovascular Physiology, Daniel C. Nwachukwu the 4th Vice-Chancellor of the university..
His appointment was announced on Saturday, 20th December, 2025, after a painstaking and transparent process that involved over 40 seasoned professors.

Nwachukwu who is a Professor of Cardiovascular Physiology in the Department of Physiology, Faculty of Basic Medical Sciences, University of Nigeria, Enugu Campus, was elected the Deputy Vice-Chancellor of UNEC in 2023.

He had his first degree at the University of Lagos in Human Physiology in 1995 and later moved to the University of Benin for his master’s degree in 1997 and PhD in 2012.

Nwachukwu has had an illustrious career in the academia spanning over 26 years having joined the services of UNN as a lecturer in July 1999 and rose to the highest academic rank of a professor in 2016.

He hails from Okposi in Ohaozara LGA of Ebonyi State.
He is married with children

With reference to my communication to the University Community referenced: AE-FUNAI/REG/AA/007/Vol.1 and dated 12th September, 2025, I hereby notify the University Community that due to recent development with regards to the 2025 admission exercise, the Vice-chancellor has directed that the portal for the supplementary admission be reopened with effect from Monday, 3rd November, 2025 and will close on Monday 10th November, 2025.
Consequently, all candidates who applied for admission into Alex Ekwueme Federal University, Ndufu-Alike (AE-FUNAI) but have not been offered admission yet, are eligible to apply for supplementary admission into any of the underlisted programmes where they are suitably qualified, putting into consideration their JAMB UTME and O’Level subject combinations for the programmes.
ELIGIBILITY CRITERIA FOR SUPPLEMENTARY ADMISSION ARE AS FOLLOWS:
1. Candidates who applied for admission into AE-FUNAI, whether they registered for the AE-FUNAI Post-UTME or not, are eligible. Such candidates must have scored 150 marks and above in JAMB UTME and have not been offered admission yet. Furthermore, candidates who did not choose AE-FUNAI as their most preferred institution but wish to do so may now effect change of institution to AE-FUNAI.
2. Candidates must put into consideration their JAMB UTME and O’Level Subject combinations before applying for the underlisted programmes.
3. Candidates must effect change of institution/ course on JAMB CAPS to the advertised programmes they may wish to apply for. In addition, interested candidates should be guided by the programmes minimum cutoff points as indicated in the table below.
LIST OF PROGRAMMES FOR SUPPLEMENTARY ADMISSION:
S/N FACULTY PROGRAMME CUTOFF MARK
1 Faculty of Agriculture 1. Agribusiness and Management
2. Agricultural Economics and Extension
3. Animal Science
4. Crop Science
5. Soil Science
6. Fisheries and Aquaculture


150


2 Faculty of Education 1. Economics Education 160
2. Computer Science Education 160
3. Education/English and Literary Studies






150
4. Educational Administration and Management
5. Guidance and Counselling
6. Biology Education
7. Chemistry Education
8. Mathematics Education
9. Physics Education
10. Physical and Health Education
11. Agricultural Science and Education
12. Business Education
13. Automobile Technology Education
14. Building Technology Education
15. Electrical and Electronics Technology Education
16. Mechanical Technology Education
17. Woodwork Technology Education
3 Faculty of Management Science 1. Banking and Finance 180
4 Faculty of Environmental Sciences 1. Fine and Applied Arts
150
2. Geography
5 Faculty of Humanities 1. Theatre Arts 160
2. English and Literary Studies




150
3. French
4. Linguistics
5. Linguistics/French
6. Linguistics/Igbo
7. Igbo
8. Music
9. History and Strategic Studies
10. Philosophy
11. Religion and Cultural Studies
6 Faculty of Physical Sciences 1. Chemistry


150
2. Mathematics
3. Statistics
4. Geology
5. Geophysics
6. Physics
7 Faculty of Biological Sciences 1. Biology 150
8 Faculty of Engineering and Technology 1. Chemical Engineering 180
9 Faculty of Social Sciences 1. Political Science 180
2. Sociology
160
3. Psychology

PROCEDURES FOR APPLYING FOR SUPPLEMENTARY ADMISSION
Interested candidates are required to obtain the application form from the AE-FUNAI supplementary admission portal. Please note that candidates are encouraged to visit www.funai.edu.ng for additional information on the JAMB UTME and O’Level subject requirements for the advertised programmes.

PROCESS FLOW:
Note: Please, ensure that your preferred programmes must be one of the programmes listed for supplementary admission before you commence the registration process.
To register, follow the steps outlined below:
1. Visit the University website: www.portal.funai.edu.ng
2. Click on 2025/2026 Supplementary Admission Registration.
3. Enter your JAMB Registration Number and generate remita invoice for N5,000.00 being supplementary admission registration processing fee.
4. Proceed to any commercial bank for payment with your Remita invoice.
5. Return to the application page and enter your JAMB Registration Number again.
6. Proceed with the completion of the form.
7. Submit your application.
8. Print out your acknowledgement slip.

APPLICATION DEADLINE
Application will end on Monday 10th November, 2025.

Signed:


T. Ifeanyi Igwe (Esq.)
Registrar
For support:
E-mail: info@funai.edu.ng
Hotlines: 08038099920, 07031810065, 08120454195
(Call between 9.00am to 4.00pm; Monday - Friday only).

https://funai.edu.ng/news/2025-2026-postgraduate-admissions
click to view and apply

aefunai hosts international webinar on family business sustainability in africa with a call for succession planning, accountability, and sound financial management
The Department of Accountancy, Faculty of Management Sciences, Alex Ekwueme Federal University Ndufu-Alike, Ebonyi State, in collaboration with the Department of Accounting, Makerere University Business School, Uganda, and Lucky Family Business Limited, has successfully hosted a one-day international webinar on “Family Business Sustainability in Africa”, calling for succession planning, accountability, and sound financial management as prerequisites for inter-generational continuity and wealth preservation.
The virtual event, which held on Monday, 22nd September 2025, attracted a wide array of participants including scholars, researchers, entrepreneurs, policy makers and families across Africa to discuss the challenges, opportunities, and strategies for ensuring the long-term survival of family businesses on the continent.



In his welcome address, the Head of the Department of Accountancy, AE-FUNAI, Dr. Isaac Ikpor, described family businesses as the backbone of Africa’s economic growth and called for renewed efforts to ensure their survival across generations. He commended the Dean of the Faculty of Management Sciences, Professor Otu Otu Akanu, for his support, while praising the visionary leadership of the Vice-Chancellor, Professor Sunday Elom, for creating an enabling academic environment that promotes research and innovation.

Dr.Ikpor, who also moderated the session, urged participants to embrace practical lessons that would reposition family businesses in Africa to align with global best practices. He further applauded the foresight of the Department of Accountancy in organizing what participants described as a “life-changing” engagement.

Head, Department of Accounting, Makerere University Business School, Uganda, Dr. Rogers Matama

Delivering the keynote lecture, Dr. Rogers Matama, Head of Department of Accounting, Makerere University Business School, Uganda, emphasized the centrality of family businesses in Africa’s socio-economic transformation. He highlighted their roles in job creation, wealth building, and the preservation of indigenous values, which according to him, is the real strength of family businesses which lies not only in financial capital but also in succession planning, governance structures, and adaptability across generations. He cited examples from the Dantata and Dangote families, as well as other global business dynasties, adding that prudent management and reinvestment are critical to long-term sustainability.

He however, warned that poor governance, family rivalries, and lack of financial literacy remain key obstacles to continuity. He therefore, challenged African academics, entrepreneurs, and policymakers to commit to mentoring, accountability, and professionalism in managing family enterprises.
Dr. Matama speaking further, called for a collective action for African families and entrepreneurs to adopt sustainable practices-particularly succession planning, accountability, and sound financial management as prerequisites for inter-generational continuity and wealth preservation.

aefunai governing council approves promotion of 607 staff, conversion, proper placement, upgrade and confirmation of many others
The Governing Council of Alex Ekwueme Federal University Ndufu-Alike, Ebonyi State, at its 45th Regular Meeting held on Thursday, 25th September, 2025, approved the promotion of 607 staff of the institution.
Council also approved the conversion, proper placement and upgrade of a good number of the university staff.
Council further approved the confirmation of appointment of 93 staff of the institution.
The decisions were based on the recommendations of the Appointment and Promotion Committee (A&APC) of the university chaired by the Vice-Chancellor, Professor Sunday Elom, for the 2024/2025 staff appraisal year.

VC, Professor Sunday Elom
A breakdown of the figures shows that Council approved the promotion of 74 academic staff (62 and 12 lecturer 1 and 11 respectively), 409 senior non teaching staff and 124 junior non teaching staff.

Also, Council approved the upgrade of 101 junior staff, proper placement of 81 junior staff and conversion of 2 junior staff as well as a change in designation of 5 others.
In addition, at the level of senior non teaching staff, Council approved the change in designation of 40 staff, change in designation/proper placement of 33 staff, change in designation/upgrade of 75 staff and conversion of 10 others.
In concluding, since the assumption of office of Professor Elom as Vice-Chancellor of the university, he has consistently ensured that qualified staff who met the requisite criteria were recommended to the university Governing Council for promotions and other benefits. He had assured that staff welfare would be one of the top priorities of his administration, and he is living up to his words.
This particular year is peculiar because for a long while, the junior non teaching staff who had acquired additional certificates have been appealing to the university authorities for upgrade.
It is therefore cheering that the Vice-Chancellor hearkened to the voice of the workers, and ensured that their dreams of a fulfilled career in the university were actualized during his tenure, which led to a tumultuous jubilations in the university community, and the Vice-Chancellor receiving the commendations of the university staff based unions.

While speaking on the upgrade of the junior staff, the university branch chairman of Non Academic Staff Union of Educational Associated Institutions (NASU), Comrade Chibuike Igwe, commended the Vice-Chancellor, Professor Elom for his fatherly decision in ensuring that the demands of the workers, which have lasted for years, were met during his tenure, noting that the upgrade would remain one of the Vice-Chancellor’s biggest achievements because of its direct impact on the welfare and career growth of the workers.
The Union leader further thanked the Governing Council led by Engr. Dr. Anthony Nebo for listening to the voice of reason by approving the upgrade of the staff as recommended by the university management.
Comrade Igwe also used the opportunity to urge members of the association to reciprocate the good gestures by ensuring that they continue to discharge their official responsibilities, in order to contribute to the overall growth and development of the university.


aefunai governing council approves promotion of 607 staff, conversion, proper placement, upgrade and confirmation of many others
The Governing Council of Alex Ekwueme Federal University Ndufu-Alike, Ebonyi State, at its 45th Regular Meeting held on Thursday, 25th September, 2025, approved the promotion of 607 staff of the institution.
Council also approved the conversion, proper placement and upgrade of a good number of the university staff.
Council further approved the confirmation of appointment of 93 staff of the institution.
The decisions were based on the recommendations of the Appointment and Promotion Committee (A&APC) of the university chaired by the Vice-Chancellor, Professor Sunday Elom, for the 2024/2025 staff appraisal year.

VC, Professor Sunday Elom
A breakdown of the figures shows that Council approved the promotion of 74 academic staff (62 and 12 lecturer 1 and 11 respectively), 409 senior non teaching staff and 124 junior non teaching staff.

Also, Council approved the upgrade of 101 junior staff, proper placement of 81 junior staff and conversion of 2 junior staff as well as a change in designation of 5 others.
In addition, at the level of senior non teaching staff, Council approved the change in designation of 40 staff, change in designation/proper placement of 33 staff, change in designation/upgrade of 75 staff and conversion of 10 others.
In concluding, since the assumption of office of Professor Elom as Vice-Chancellor of the university, he has consistently ensured that qualified staff who met the requisite criteria were recommended to the university Governing Council for promotions and other benefits. He had assured that staff welfare would be one of the top priorities of his administration, and he is living up to his words.
This particular year is peculiar because for a long while, the junior non teaching staff who had acquired additional certificates have been appealing to the university authorities for upgrade.
It is therefore cheering that the Vice-Chancellor hearkened to the voice of the workers, and ensured that their dreams of a fulfilled career in the university were actualized during his tenure, which led to a tumultuous jubilations in the university community, and the Vice-Chancellor receiving the commendations of the university staff based unions.

While speaking on the upgrade of the junior staff, the university branch chairman of Non Academic Staff Union of Educational Associated Institutions (NASU), Comrade Chibuike Igwe, commended the Vice-Chancellor, Professor Elom for his fatherly decision in ensuring that the demands of the workers, which have lasted for years, were met during his tenure, noting that the upgrade would remain one of the Vice-Chancellor’s biggest achievements because of its direct impact on the welfare and career growth of the workers.
The Union leader further thanked the Governing Council led by Engr. Dr. Anthony Nebo for listening to the voice of reason by approving the upgrade of the staff as recommended by the university management.
Comrade Igwe also used the opportunity to urge members of the association to reciprocate the good gestures by ensuring that they continue to discharge their official responsibilities, in order to contribute to the overall growth and development of the university.