₦airaland Forum

The Executive Council of the Renewable and Alternative Energy of Nigeria (RAESON) has conferred a Fellowship award of the society (FRAES) on Professor Michael Ugwu Onuu, a Lecturer in the Faculty of Physical Science, Alex Ekwueme Federal University Ndufu-Alike, Ebonyi State, for his outstanding contributions to the advancement of renewable and alternative energy in Nigeria and beyond.



The prestigious award was conferred on him during the 10th Annual and International Conference of the reputable alternative energy organization held at the University of Nigeria, Nsukka recently.

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Prof. Michael Onuu


Professor Onuu, a blended academic and consummate professional has been a Professor of Engineering Physics since 2005. His creativity and ingenuity in damage mechanics, materials/condensed matter physics earned him Post-Doctoral Fellowship awards by The World Academy of Science (TWAS), Trieste, Italy and Academia Sinica (Chinese Academy Science).



Recall that he is the first African and Blackman to visit the State Key Laboratory for Fatigue and Fracture of Materials (SKLFFM), Institute of Metal Research (IMR), Sheyang, China in 1996 for research. More so, he has also greatly advanced the frontiers of acoustical physics and radio science, thus giving him the opportunity of representing Nigeria on Commission C, Radio communication Systems & Signal Processing, of International Union of Radio Science (URSI) in Gent, Belgium since ‘’2008’’.


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As a cerebral international scholar of note, Prof. Onuu, had successfully designed and fabricated a lever-type creep testing machine and furnace for studying creep and creep rupture phenomena as well as successfully used acoustic and UHF waves to characterize cities and to determine their degree of urbanization. He led the team that won the Federal Ministry of Science & Technology award that comprised equipment in the research areas of Sudden Ionospheric Disturbance (SID) monitoring, Telecommunications and Environmental Pollution in 2008 for the University of Calabar.



At Alex Ekwueme Federal University Ndufu-Alike, Ebonyi State, where Prof. Onuu lectures, he has served as Dean, Faculty of Science and headed the Centre of Educational Services, and presented the first inaugural lecture of the University entitled: ‘’Engineering Physics: Reconstructing and Complementing Engineering for Greater Impact on Thursday 25th July, 2019’’.



He belongs to several professional bodies, supervised 32 M.Sc. and 13 Ph.D. students and has published 100 articles in reputable international and local journals including books and position papers.



While expressing his joy on the award, Prof. Onuu thanked the Vice-Chancellor of AE-FUNAI, Prof. Sunday Elom for his support, adding that the Vice-Chancellor’s sold-out commitment to the ideals and culture of a University would take the institution to greater heights.

A lecturer in the Department of Fine and Applied Arts, Alex Ekwueme Federal University Ndufu-Alike, Ebonyi State, Mr. Ogbonnia Ukie, has been appointed a United Nations Ambassador on the use of arts to eliminate violence against women and girls.



Mr. Ukie had won the 1st prize in the European Union/United Nations- sponsored National Arts competition held in 2020.

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Mr. Ogbonnia Ukie’s painting that won the 1st prize at the arts competition


Titled ‘Sheores’, the competition was aimed at raising public awareness about violence, sexual-based violence and harmful Practices against women and girls, and to support the zero-tolerance-of-violence environment promoted by the Spotlight Initiative, with a view to promoting long-term recovery and social inclusion of women and girl survivors through arts especially in a COVID-19 period that has increased and exacerbated social tension across the world.



Mr. Ukie’s artwork (painting) which depicted the social and health dangers of female genital cutting demonstrated deep visual and spiritual experience of the author on the issue of VAWG/SGBV/HP and equally inspired the audience, and therefore won the 1st prize out of 239 entries.

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Mr. Ogonnia Ukie displaying the winning painting at the event
As a result of his rare achievement, Mr. Ukie was named the United Nations Ambassador, in the use of arts to eliminate violence against women and girls at an event held recently in Abuja.



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Mr. Ogbonnia Ukie receiving his 1st prize at the event held recently in Abuja

AE-FUNAI HOSTS 33RD ANNUAL INTERNATIONAL HYBRID CONFERENCE OF BIOTECHNOLOGY SOCIETY OF NIGERIA (BSN)
AS LOC CHAIRMAN CALLS FOR ESTABILSHMENT OF CENTRE OF EXCELLENCE AT AE-FUNAI
The Faculty of Biological science, Alex-Ekwueme Federal University Ndufu-Alike Ebonyi State has hosted the 33rd Annual International Hybrid Conference of the Biotechnology Society of Nigeria (BSN).

Themed “Harnessing Biotechnology towards Building a Knowledge-Driven and Sustainable Bio-Economy in a Post-Oil Era”, the conference which held from 28th to 1st April, 2021 at the Rasheed Abubakar Auditorium brought together academics, researchers, industrialists, policy makers and students of Biotechnology from different universities in Nigeria who used the opportunity to compare notes and cross-fertilize ideas on the modalities for driving the Nigerian economy through Biotechnology in a post- oil era.

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A cross section of participants at the BSN 33rd Annual Internal conference
Delivering the keynote speech of the conference, a UNESCO Chair-holder, Plant Biotechnology, Covenant University, Ota, Prof. Olawole O. Obembe, said Nigeria was already living in the post-oil era, stressing that the country’s oil income was at 433billion in 2016 which is 47% of Nigeria’s Revenue and Non-Oil revenue at 602.19 Billion which is 53% of total revenue.

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Chairman, BSN BOT, Prof. Vincent Tenebe addressing the 33rd Annual International of the Society
He noted that Biomass is considered as the primary emerging alternative to fossil fuel, stating that it could deliver energy and multiple products. Prof. Obembe further explained that bio-refineries would be integral in supporting a knowledge-driven and environmentally robust sustainable bio-economy, adding that there was need for policy action from government to expedite and finalize the process of setting up a defined and coherent national bio-economy strategic policy that can maximally harness biotechnology to build a knowledge-driven and sustainable bio-economy.





While declaring the conference open, the Chairman, Board of Trustees of the Society, Prof. Vincent Tenebe thanked the Vice-Chancellor, Alex Ekwueme Federal University Ndufu-Alike, Ebonyi State, Prof. Sunday Elom for approving the hosting of the conference in the institution, noting that the Vice-Chancellor has demonstrated that he was among the few that were interested in the practice of the theories that are taught in the university.

The BSN BOT Chair also used the opportunity to call on the Federal Government to integrate Biotechnology into its development policy by changing the Ministry of Science and Technology to Ministry of Science, Technology and Bio-Economy, to drive the Nigerian economic development through functional knowledge.

Meanwhile, the Chairman, Local Organizing Committee of the conference, Dr. Friday Nwalo has urged the Ministry of Science and Technology to establish a Center of Excellence for Biotechnology and Genetic Engineering (CEBDE) at the Alex Ekwueme Federal University Ndufu-Alike, Ebonyi State adding that the Centre would drive Research and Development in the life sciences. He also stated that the University through the directive of the Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Elom, would be collaborating with CONTEC Global Agro Limited (CGAL) in the area of integrated organic farming geared towards producing in a large scale, chemical-free, disease-free and health-enhancing crops.

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National President, BSN, Prof. Benjamin Ewa Ubi delivering his address at the conference


While addressing the conference, the National President, Biotechnology Society of Nigeria, Prof. Benjamin Ewa Ubi, said Nigeria is abundant in natural resources, yet depends majorly on oil with several vulnerabilities. He further noted that with a population of about 201 million, Nigeria’s population growth is projected to reach 400 million by 2050, which will concomitantly demand a substantial increase in energy, food, healthcare products, industrial products etc, stressing that this would in turn make sustainable development very difficult.



Earlier, the BOT Chairman, Prof. Tenebe had led a team comprising of the National Executive Committee of the Society to pay a courtesy call on the Vice-chancellor of AE-FUNAI, Prof. Elom, where he congratulated him on his recent appointment, and also used the opportunity to laud the seriousness of the university’s academic activities.

While welcoming the team, the Vice-Chancellor assured them of the University’s commitment to innovation, research and development, wishing them well in their deliberations.

Alex Ekwueme Federal University Ndufu-Alike, Ebonyi State has launched a Mobile App, meant to provide quick, easy and unfettered access to her teaching and research activities, and community service at just a click.

With the ‘AE-FUNAI Mobile APP’ students can easily register their courses, apply for hostel accommodation, submit assignments, and check their examination results as well as access important information about the University anywhere, anytime and at any place with their mobile devices without hassles.

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VC, Professor Sunday Elom


The App which can be downloaded from the Google Playstore for users of android phones is expected to enhance communication and information dissemination among the staff and students of the University, and other stakeholders. For instance, some university publics like parents and admission candidates can easily utilize the App to access useful information and news about the University, and check their admission status. The robustness of the App is such that lecturers and students can also function on the University portal with more convenience.

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Acting Director ICT, Engr. Dr. Ngozi Eli-Chukwu


The App was developed and donated to the University by the Acting Director, Information and Communication Technology (ICT), Engr. Dr. Ngozi Eli-Chukwu. In a memo she addressed to the Vice-Chancellor conveying her donation, she said: “Akin to the practice in the best of universities, things like course registration, course upload, result upload, submission of assignments, result checking, etc, can be effected from the comfort of their handsets, without affecting the unassailability of the University’s gatekeeping, data security, and quality assurance systems.”

Dr. Eli-Chukwu further noted: “The App will serve as the foundation of which other features and functionality can be implemented, adding “I am pleased to donate the App to this great institution, and I pray that it will help to accentuate the success of the University under you.”

The Vice-Chancellor, Professor Sunday Elom lauded Dr. Eli-Chukwu for her donation, noting that the App would enhance the smoothness of information and communication in the University, especially among staff and students, and other critical stakeholders. He also used the opportunity to call on good-spirited individuals and private investors to support the University in her drive to attain greater heights during his tenure.

The students of Department of Biotechnology, Alex Ekwueme Federal University Ndufu-Alike, Ebonyi State, have won the Biotechnology Society of Nigeria 33rd Annual International Conference Quiz Competition held in the University from 28th March to 1st April, 2021 at the Abubakar Adamu Rasheed Auditorium.



Themed “Harnessing Biotechnology towards Building a Knowledge-Driven and Sustainable Bio-Economy in a Post-oil Era”, the conference brought together members of the academia in the field of Biotechnology, industry-watchers, policy makers and students of various universities in the discipline of Biotechnology, where they compared notes, cross-fertilized ideas and proffered innovative ways of harnessing Biotechnology to drive the development of the Nigerian economy in a post-oil era.

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Winners of the Biotechnology Society of Nigeria 33rd Annual International Conference Quiz Competition: Nwaire ThankGod Kelechi, Bosah Raphael Obiora and Eluh Maximilian Mathew
Represented by Eluh Maximilian Mathew, Bosah Raphael Obiora and Nwaire ThankGod Kelechi, AE-FUNAI defeated three other older universities – University of Port Harcourt, University of Calabar and Federal University of Technology, Owerri (FUTO) in the keenly-contested competition geared towards assessing the specific knowledge of the students in their course of study and on the theme of the conference.

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Students of the Department of Biotechnology, AE-FUNAI at the 2021 BSN Annual International Conference held in the University from 28th March to 1st , 2021
Speaking at the sideline of the conference, the Acting Head, Department of Biotechnology of the University, Dr. Kingsley Nwagu, noted that the performance of the students was a testament of the seriousness in the academic activities of the department in particular and the university in general.



He maintained that the department would continue to expose her students to standard educational events such as international conferences; workshops and seminars to enable them appreciate the rudiments and intricacies of their discipline in order to be adequately prepared for the challenges of the 21st century knowledge-driven economy.

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Victorious AE-FUNAI students in a group photograph with the National Executive Committee of Biotechnology Society of Nigeria led by their president, Professor Benjamin Ewa Ubi
Dr. Nwagu further stressed that the Biotechnology students of the University were being equipped with the requisite functional knowledge and sellable skills to excel on graduation – ensuring that they will not only be employable but also employers of labour through biotechnology.



While expressing their joy for the feat they achieved during the conference, one of the students that represented the University in the competition, Bosah Raphael Obiora lauded the University for the Progress they have made as students, noting that they were all happy for beating-off the stiff competition mounted by students of other universities to win the first prize.



He explained that their success at the conference shows they were ahead of their peers in other universities, and thanked the leadership of their department for giving them the necessary exposures to excel in their field of study.


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Group photograph of students of the competing universities – AE-FUNAI, UNICAL, UNIPORT and FUTO

The Vice-Chancellor of Alex Ekwueme Federal University Ndufu-Alike, Ebonyi State, Professor Sunday Elom, has assured the National Universities Commission’s accreditation panels that visited the University of his Utter Commitment to the implementation of all their recommendations in order to turn-out graduates that meet the demands of the 21st century economy.

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VC, Professor Sunday Elom (5th L) and some principal Officers of the University in a group photograph with the NUC Accreditation Panel for Mechanical Engineering led by Professor Abdu Salihi (3rd R)
The Vice-Chancellor stated this on Tuesday during the exit meeting with the NUC accreditation panels that were in the University for the purpose of assessing her two Engineering programmes – Mechanical and Mechatronics Engineering.



Earlier while presenting their exit reports to Professor Elom and members of the University Management, the leaders of the panels, Professors Abdu Salihi and Ade Ajayi, commended the University for the efforts it has put in to reposition the two programmes, adding that there were remarkable improvements in terms of equipment, staffing etc in relation to what was on ground in the last accreditation visit.

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Team leader, NUC Accreditation Panel for Mechanical Engineering, Professor Abdu Salihi speaking at the event
They also stressed the importance of giving special and prioritized attention to the programmes, especially Mechatronics Engineering. According to Professor Ade-Ajayi, the programme is relatively a new field of study in Engineering, adding that AE-FUNAI is one of the few universities in Nigeria where Mechatronics Engineering is being studied, and advised the University Management to give it prioritized attention.

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VC, Professor Sunday Elom (7th R) and some principal officers in a group with the NUC Accreditation Panel for Mechatronics Engineering led by Professor Ade Ajayi (5th L)
Meanwhile, the University is presenting 8 programmes for NUC accreditation this year. The programmes are MBBS, Mechanical Engineering, Mechatronics Engineering, Computer Science, Geology, Guidance and Counseling, Education Foundation and Religion.

Recall also that the Medical and Dental Council of Nigeria had visited the University on Tuesday, 9th March, 2021 for the accreditation of her MBBS programme, when they also commended the University for putting in place the necessary human and material resources in the College.

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Team leader, NUC Accreditation Panel for Mechatronics l Engineering, Professor Professor Ade Ajayi presenting the exit report at the event

It was a gathering of ‘who-is-who’ in the society as Professor Sunday Elom, supported by family members, associates, friends and colleagues from all works of life converged at the Grace of God Mission International, Abakalik to celebrate his appointment as the 3rd Vice-Chancellor of Alex Ekwueme Federal University Ndufu-Alike, Ebonyi State.

The thanksgiving church service tagged “celebration of God’s faithfulness” was graced by members of the academia, captains of industries, notable politicians, diplomatic community, clergy, traditional rulers and staff and students of the University.

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VC, Professor Sunday Elom and Wife, Dr. Mrs. Chinyere Elom testifying to God’s faithfulness at the thanksgiving church service
At the event, the Vice-Chancellor and his amiable wife, Dr. (Mrs.) Chinyere Elom, danced, praised and thanked God for his faithfulness in their lives, most especially on his meritorious elevation to the office of a Vice-chancellor.

While testifying to God’s faithfulness, Professor Elom noted that it was his 3rd time of applying for the position of a Vice-chancellor, noting that it was God that made it possible this time around and asked the congregation to join him in praising and thanking God for His faithfulness.

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L-R: VC, Professor Sunday Elom, President, AE-FUNAI Women Association, Dr. Mrs. Chinyere Elom, Registrar, Odisa C. Okeke (Mrs.) and immediate past VC of the University, Professor Chinedum Nwajiuba at the event
He also lauded the President and Commander-in-chief of the Nigerian Armed Forces, HE Muhammadu Buhari GCFR for approving his appointment,even as he also poured encomiums on the Governor of Ebonyi State, HE Engr. David Umahi, Minister of Education, Malam Adamu Adamu, Minister of State for Education, Hon. Chukwuemeka Nwajiuba, Pro-chancellor/Chairman of the University Governing Council, Emeritus Professor Nimi Briggs, immediate past Vice-chancellor of the University, Professor Chinedum Nwajiuba, Registrar, Odisa C. Okeke and others who God used in diverse ways to make his dream a reality, adding that God would bless them for their transparency, fairness and forthrightness during the selection process.

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L-R: HE Senator Dr. Sam Ominyi Egwu, President, AE-FUNAI Women Association, Dr. Mrs. Chinyere Elom, VC, Professor Sunday Elom, Mrs. Eunice Ukamaka Egwu, Bishop Dr. D. M. Ubanatu, Rt. Rev. Ken Ifemene, a guest and Professor Chinedum Nwajiuba during the event
In a sermon tagged “Back To Bethel”, the Bishop of Grace of God Mission International, Abakaliki, Dr. David M. Ubanatu called on the congregation to return to God, stressing that power, money and position are transient, therefore people should not allow it to take them away from the presence of God.

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Bishop Dr. David M. Ubanatu of the Grace of God Mission International, Abakaliki, praying for the Vice-Chancellor, Professor Sunday Elom (Kneeling down)
The Bishop further lauded the core values of excellence, integrity and entrepreneurship which AE-FUNAI is known for, and urged the entire staff and students to join hands with Professor Elom in order to take the university to greater heights. He also prayed for the Vice-chancellor and his family as well as for the success of his administration.



At the end of the church service, guests were hosted at the Nkwegu Ugbala Grand Arena, Mile 50, Abakaliki, Ebonyi State.

Some of the dignitaries that graced the occasion were the Executive Governor of Ebonyi State, HE Engr. David Nweze Umahi who was represented by the Secretary to the State Government, Dr. Kenneth Ugbala; first executive Governor of Ebonyi State, HE Senator Dr. Sam Egwu and wife, Deputy Governor of Ebonyi State, Barr. Kelechi Igwe, represented by the Commissioner for Education,Dr. Onyebuchi Chima; former Deputy Governor of Ebonyi State, Professor Chigozie Ogbu; Justice of the Court of Appeal, Rt. Hon. Justice Obande Ogbuinya and wife; member representing Abakali/Izzi Federal Constituency, Rt. Hon Sylvester Ogbaga; Nigerian High Commissioner to Zimbabwe, HE Nwannebuike Ominyi; Ebonyi State Head of Service, Dr. Chamberlin Nwele, Director General, Nigerian Television Authority, Dr. Steve Egbo and wife; former Minister of Health, Professor Onyebuchi Chukwu; immediate past Vice-Chancellor of AE-FUNAI, Professor Chinedum Nwajiuba, former Vice-Chancellor of Ebonyi State University, Professor Francis Idike and wife, and numerous other highly-placed Nigerians.

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Front Row: R-L: Pro-chancellor/Chairman Governing Council, Emeritus Professor Nimi Briggs, President, AE-FUNAI Women Association, Dr. Mrs. Chinyere Elom, VC, Professor Sunday Elom, representative of the Ebonyi State Governor, Dr. Kenneth Ugbala and wife, and immediate past VC of AE-FUNAI, Professor Chinedum Nwajiuba at the event

AE-FUNAI SECURES HOSTING RIGHT FOR SONTA CONFERENCE
The Department of Theatre Arts, Alex Ekwueme Federal University Ndufu-Alike, Ebonyi State has secured the hosting right for the 2021 conference of the Society of Nigerian Theatre Artists (SONTA).

This news was made known yesterday by the Acting Head of Department of Theatre Arts, Dr. Charles Okwuowulu when he led a team from the department to pay a courtesy call on the Vice-Chancellor of the University, Professor Sunday Elom, to congratulate him on his selection as Vice-Chancellor, when they also pledge their support to his administration.

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Ag. Head, Department of Theatre Arts, Dr. Charles Okwuowulu (L) handing over a copy of his speech to the VC, Professor Sunday Elom during the visit
He noted that SONTA is an umbrella body for all Theatre/Film practitioners and Cultural Studies lecturers in the Nigerian Tertiary Institutions, adding that these professionals would be congregating in AE-FUNAI for their 2021 conference.



Dr. Okwuowulu further explained that one of the perquisites for granting a hosting right to an institution is that the hosting Theatre Arts Department must have a state-of-the-arts theatre complex, and commended the immediate past administration of the University for ensuring that the department has a modern arts’ theatre.

He added that the Theatre Arts Department of the University which was started about four years ago, has recorded more successes than that of other Universities that have been in existence for over two decades, stressing that the achievements made by the department endeared the national executive of SONTA to award the University the hosting right for her 34th Annual General Meeting and 2021 International Conference. He pointed out some of the achievements to include two film productions – ‘The Lost Soul’ and ‘Tara’s Diary’.

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VC, Professor Sunday Elom (6th R) and some principal officers in a group photograph with staff of the Theatre Arts Department led by their Head, Dr, Charles Okwuowulu (5th L), during the courtesy call
Dr. Okwuowulu also used the opportunity to request the approval of University Management for the two educational films to be made available to students for a token, to prepare them for life on campus, and equally informed the Vice-chancellor that the executive of SONTA would be visiting the University on the 7th April, 2021 to assess the preparedness of the department for the forthcoming conference



While welcoming them at his conference room, the Vice-Chancellor, Professor Elom commended the department for their various achievements so far, especially in the production of the two films and securing the hosting right for the 2021 conference and 34th Annual General Meeting of SONTA, and approved the hosting of the events in the University.

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VC, Professor Sunday Elom, speaking at the event
“We are proud of you for making remarkable achievements, especially in the successful production of those two films. I also commend you for securing the hosting right for 2021 SONTA Conference and Annual General Meeting.”



The Vice-Chancellor further encouraged the department to keep making the University proud, and approved the sale of the two films to freshmen and hoped that the students would learn moral lessons from it.

The Vice-Chancellor, Alex Ekwueme Federal University Ndufu-Alike, Ebonyi State, Professor Sunday Elom has said his administration would make the medicine programme the pride of the University.

The Vice-Chancellor made this known yesterday when staff of the College of Medicine led by the Provost, Professor Paul Ezeonu paid him a courtesy call.

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Deputy Provost, College of Medicine, Very Rev. Professor Lawrence Ogbonnaya (L), on behalf of the College, presenting a portrait of an eagle (university totem) to the VC, Professor Sunday Elom (R) during the visit
He said: “Medicine will be the pride of this university. In Europe and America, universities are known for particular disciplines



“We are going to do the same thing here by fortifying the College of Medicine to make it the best in the country before I leave.”

The Vice-Chancellor also assured them of his commitment on the tasks ahead, adding that he was focused on the job, and thanked the staff of the College for pledging their support to his administration.

He further noted that under his watch the University would endeavour to establish Medical Laboratory Science and Nursing programmes in the first instance, stressing that the provision of well-furnished office blocks for staff accommodation would also be a top priority.

Earlier in his opening remarks, the Provost of the College of Medicine, Professor Ezeonu had assured the Vice-Chancellor of their maximum support, and prayed for the success of his administration.

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Provost, College of Medicine, Professor Paul Ezeonu (standing) speaking at the event
“We want to assure you of our maximum support. We will be praying for you”, and enjoined the Vice-chancellor to be focused and never to look back as he strives to make a mark in the University.



While also speaking at the event, Professor J. N. Nwankwo called on the Vice-chancellor to focus more attention on the College of Medicine to make it a reference point in the country. He further requested for the intervention of the Vice-Chancellor in the provision of more laboratory equipment and well-furnished office accommodation and the proper remuneration of non-medically qualified staff of the College.

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VC, Professor Sunday Elom (C) and principal officers in a group photograph with staff of the College of Medicine during their courtesy call yesterday

Sets up Committee on Agency Banking
The Vice-Chancellor of Alex Ekwueme Federal University Ndufu-Alike, Ebonyi State, Professor Sunday Elom yesterday inaugurated three hand-driven/manual water boreholes which were constructed by the University’s Parents’ Forum to alleviate the challenges of water on campus.

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VC, Professor Sunday Elom cutting the tape to inaugurate one of the water boreholes located at the 2nd female hostel while others watch with keen interest
Recall that few weeks after his assumption of duty as Vice-Chancellor on 11th February, 2021, there was epileptic power supply around the campus due to the temporary breakdown of the 2.8 MW hybrid solar power plant that gives the University 24 hours uninterrupted power supply. This brought about scarcity of water in the university, and to arrest the situation the Vice-Chancellor solicited the intervention of the AE-FUNAI Parents’ Forum in that regard. Consequently, the Forum constructed three water boreholes, strategically located at the two female hostels and the medical students’ hostel.

As the University is now back to 24 hours uninterrupted power supply due to the repair of the solar power plant, the three manual water boreholes will serve as back-up to the motorized boreholes located in the hostels and the FG-sponsored water scheme with the capacity of generating over 2,000 gallons of water a day when it comes on stream.

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Chairman, AE-FUNAI Parents’ Forum, Engr. Chidi Onwe Ogah (4th L) and other members of executive washing their hands with water from one of the boreholes during the inauguration ceremony
The Chairman of the Parent Forum, Engr. Chidi Onwe Ogah, in his opening remarks, commended the Vice-Chancellor for matching his words with action, adding that he was sure that Professor Elom would take the University to the next level.



While inaugurating the project, the Vice-Chancellor thanked the Forum for their support in making the boreholes a reality. He prayed that the inauguration of the project which was his first as Vice-Chancellor would signal the completion of many other projects in the University during his tenure.

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VC, Professor Sunday Elom (6th R) and some principal officers in a group photograph with Executive of the AE-FUNAI Parents’ Forum led by their Chairman, Engr. Chidi Onwe Ogah (6th L)
‘’Today as I commission my first project as the 3rd VC of this University, I pray that more projects will follow’’ he said.



Meanwhile the Vice-Chancellor, Professor Elom has also inaugurated a university-wide Committee to fast-track the commencement of Agency Banking in the University.

Inaugurating the 6-man Committee in his Conference room yesterday, the Vice-Chancellor charged them to expedite action to ensure that the bank takes off before the commencement of the 2020/2021 academic session in April 2021.

He further charged the Committee to embark on market survey to find out the charges of private POS operators, and proffer a lower rate in the interest of students, adding that the idea of agency banking was borne to ensure that the pains students go through in accessing banking facilities were ameliorated, and to increase the University’s internally-generated revenue (IGR).

“…Find out what POS operators are charging, and proffer something lower”, the Vice-Chancellor stated.

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VC, Professor Sunday Elom (5th L) and some principal officers in group photograph with members of the Committee on Agency Banking
The Chairman of the Committee, Professor Abel Ezeoha, in his response assured the Vice-Chancellor of their commitment, and promised that the Committee would work assiduously towards delivering on their terms of reference.



The Committee has 2 weeks to turn in their report to enable the University Management kick-start the process for the take-off of agency banking in the institution.



Members of the Committee are: Professor Abele Ezeoha (Chairman), Mr. Rafiu K. Aliu, Mr. Cornelius Offia, Mr. John Ekpe and Mr. Godfrey Obeta while Mrs. Kate Nwankwo will serve as Secretary.

AE-FUNAI to establish multi-disciplinary Lab
The Association of Medical Laboratory Scientist of Nigeria (AMLSN), Alex Ekwueme Federal University Ndufu-Alike, Ebonyi State Chapter, has commended the Vice-Chancellor of the University, Professor Sunday Elom for his exemplary leadership and commitment to the welfare of staff of the University.

A senior member of the association, Very Rev. Prof. Anthony Ezimah, made the commendation recently when the association paid a courtesy call to Prof. Elom to celebrate his emergence as the 3rd Vice-Chancellor of the University.

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Members of the association led by their President, Scientist Cletus Nwabugwu (2nd R) presenting a portrait to the Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Sunday Elom(1st R) during their visit


‘’We are here today to celebrate and thank God for finding you worthy to be selected by the Federal Government of Nigeria as the 3rd Vice-Chancellor of AE-FUNAI

“We have the confidence that you are the best person fitted for this assignment’’ he said, adding “We wish you great success and assure you of our total loyalty and support to take this University to a greater height.”

Prof. Ezimah further thanked the Vice-Chancellor for the vision statement he shared during the inaugural Senate, especially in his promise to start Medical Laboratory Science discipline in the university, adding that the programme when started would lead to proper research and investigation in the Teaching Hospital and also bridge the gap between Medicine and other medical programmes.



Also speaking at the event, Prof. Moses Alo, of the Faculty of Basic Medical Sciences highlighted some of the basic requirements for establishing Medical Laboratory Science and Nursing in the University, noting that AE-FUNAI would be the 3rd Federal University in South East zone to have a Medical Laboratory Science Programme after UNN and UNIZIK. He noted that enough manpower would also be required and pleaded for management to look into the staff welfare as regards proper placement of medical laboratory scientists already working in the University.

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VC, Prof. Sunday Elom (5th R) in a group photograph with members of the Association of Medical Laboratory Scientists of Nigeria, AE-FUNAI chapter led by their President, Scientist Cletus Nwabugwu (4th L) during the visit of the association to the Vice-Chancellor recently
While making his submission, the President of the association, Scientist Cletus Nwabugwu, commended Prof. Elom for making the University Medical Centre his top priority since he assumed office as the Vice-Chancellor, stressing the need for management to look towards equipping the Laboratory Unit of the Centre to enable it embark on some basic medical investigations to reduce the amount of time and money staff and students spend in accessing same at the teaching hospital located in Abakaliki, adding that it would also generate revenue for the University.

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VC, Prof. Sunday Elom Speaking at the event
The Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Elom while responding to a number of requests by the association, thanked the team for pledging their loyalty to his administration, noting that management has always been workers-friendly, especially as it concerns staff placement. He however, advised the association to write officially to management on the proper placement of their members, promising that management would look into their requests dispassionately.

“Thank you for pledging your loyalty to my administration. I welcome you on board as we take AE-FUNAI to the next level.”

He further stated that a committee would be set to work-out the modalities for the setting up of a multi-disciplinary laboratory in the University, which according to him, would help in attracting research grants to the institution.

Prof. Elom also assured them of his total commitment towards establishing paramedical programmes in the University such as Medical Laboratory Science, Pharmacy and others.

As VC vows to ensure Accountability and Transparency
The Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC) has inaugurated the Anti-Corruption and Transparency Unit (ACTU) of the Alex Ekwueme Federal University Ndufu- Alike, Ebonyi State.

ACTU is an initiative of the ICPC, approved by the Federal Government to serve as in-house mechanism for corruption prevention in all Ministries, Departments and Agencies (MDAs) of government. The Unit which derives its powers from Sections 7 and 70 of the ICPC Act is charged with the responsibilities of carrying out all the functions of the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC) except the prosecution offenders.

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Members taking oath of office during the inauguration of ACTU, AE-FUNAI by the ICPC
While inaugurating the 6-member team yesterday at the University’s old Senate chamber, the Chairman of the Commission, Professor Bolaji Owasonye congratulated Professor Sunday Elom on his emergence as the first indigenous Vice-Chancellor of the institution.



He stated that the University can continuously achieve her mandates if the management and staff ensure transparency, accountability, honesty and diligence in the discharge of their duties, and believes that ACTU would be a veritable tool in helping the University to attain her goals.

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Commissioner, ICPC Enugu Zonal Office, Barr. Amedu Sule who represented the Chairman of the Commission speaking at the event
The Chairman of the anti-corruption watchdog who was represented at the event by the Commissioner, Enugu Zonal Office, Barr. Amedu Sule stressed that the University would benefit from ACTU when it commences the implementation of its assigned functions which include systems study and review of processes and procedures of the University with a view to making recommendations as appropriate to block corruption loopholes; sensitization of Staff, implementation of University’s code of ethics, and conduct of preliminary investigations into complaints received amongst others.

He further stated that ACTU was not set up as a parallel authority to the University Management; rather he noted that they were to work closely with Management to enthrone discipline and accountability in order to build a virile and reputable university. He also warned members of the Unit to shun false alarm, abuse of office and the witch-hunt and victimization of innocent staff to avoid falling foul of the law as they discharge their duties.

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DVC, Professor Dennis Akoh (1st Row: 2nd L) who represented the VC at the inauguration ceremony in a group photograph with the representative of the ICPC chairman, Barr. Amedu Sule (1st Row: 3rd R) and the members of ACTU and others
The members of the Anti-Corruption and Transparency Unit (ACTU), Alex Ekwueme Federal University Ebonyi Statte include: Mr. Friday Onwumere (Chairman), Mr. Kingly Onyekezie, Mr. Dapo Jegede, Miss Chiaka Nnodi,Mr. William Osatuyi and Mr. Chidi Ukwuoma. They are to work for 3 years in the first instance, with an option of a second tenure if re-appointed by the Vice-Chancellor of the University.



The Vice-Chancellor was represented at the inauguration ceremony by the Deputy Vice-Chancellor, Academic, Professor Dennis Akoh, who noted that members of the Unit were carefully selected, adding that he was sure they would discharge their duties competently and diligently.

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VC, Professor Sunday Elom (5th R) and some principal officers in a group photograph with the representative of the ICPC chairman, Barr. Amedu Sule (3rd L) and some staff of ICPC during their courtesy call to the Vice-Chancellor before the inauguration ceremony
Earlier while welcoming the ICPC team to the University, the Vice-chancellor, Professor Elom assured the Chairman of ICPC of his commitment to accountability and transparency in the discharge of his official responsibilities, adding that corruption would not be allowed to thrive in the institution under his watch,

“I have vowed that as far as I am in the saddle, I will do the work as unto God, not unto men”, the Vice-Chancellor stated.

NANS’ SENATE PRESIDENT EXTOLS AE-FUNAI VC
The Senate President, National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS), Comrade Chuks Okafor, has extolled the Vice-Chancellor of Alex Ekwueme Federal University Ndufu-Alike, Ebonyi State, Professor Sunday Elom, for his exemplary leadership, open door policy and fatherly role in the affairs of students.

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Senate President, NANS, Comrade Chuks Okafor speaking during the courtesy call
The Union leader made the commendation recently when he led other students’ activists to pay a courtesy call on the Vice-Chancellor. The visit was one of the activities lined up by the NANS leadership for her 65th emergency senate meeting being held in the university from 17th to 19th March, 2021.



He said: “We want to thank you for your open door policy. Your fatherly role in the lives of students is equal to none

“We want to assure you that you have our support.”

While welcoming the Senate President of NANS and his team, the Vice-Chancellor, Professor Elom, thanked them for choosing the university as the host for their 65th emergency senate meeting, noting that AE-FUNAI is a serious institution that places high premium on academic activities.

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VC, Professor Sunday Elom addressing the students’ leaders during the event
He said: “We may be the only university around where students are already sitting for the 2nd semester 2019/2020 examinations. Many universities are still in their first semesters’, stressing that the University runs “a seamless academic calendar.”



The Vice-Chancellor further informed the students’ leaders that the University was building an eco-friendly and beautiful campus, and enjoined them to feel free to move around the University to experience its beauty and serenity.

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VC, Professor Sunday Elom (8th L) and some principal officers of the University in a group photograph with the Senate President, NANS, Comrade Chuks Okafor (7th L) and his team during the visit


The Senate meeting of the National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS) being held in AE-FUNAI is the first of its kind in the history of the institution.

NANS’ SENATE PRESIDENT EXTOLS AE-FUNAI VC
The Senate President, National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS), Comrade Chuks Okafor, has extolled the Vice-Chancellor of Alex Ekwueme Federal University Ndufu-Alike, Ebonyi State, Professor Sunday Elom, for his exemplary leadership, open door policy and fatherly role in the affairs of students.

https://funai.edu.ng/wp-content/uploads/2021/03/NANS1X.jpg
Senate President, NANS, Comrade Chuks Okafor speaking during the courtesy call
The Union leader made the commendation recently when he led other students’ activists to pay a courtesy call on the Vice-Chancellor. The visit was one of the activities lined up by the NANS leadership for her 65th emergency senate meeting being held in the university from 17th to 19th March, 2021.



He said: “We want to thank you for your open door policy. Your fatherly role in the lives of students is equal to none

“We want to assure you that you have our support.”

While welcoming the Senate President of NANS and his team, the Vice-Chancellor, Professor Elom, thanked them for choosing the university as the host for their 65th emergency senate meeting, noting that AE-FUNAI is a serious institution that places high premium on academic activities.

https://funai.edu.ng/wp-content/uploads/2021/03/NANS2X.jpg
VC, Professor Sunday Elom addressing the students’ leaders during the event
He said: “We may be the only university around where students are already sitting for the 2nd semester 2019/2020 examinations. Many universities are still in their first semesters’, stressing that the University runs “a seamless academic calendar.”



The Vice-Chancellor further informed the students’ leaders that the University was building an eco-friendly and beautiful campus, and enjoined them to feel free to move around the University to experience its beauty and serenity.

https://funai.edu.ng/wp-content/uploads/2021/03/NANS3X.jpg
VC, Professor Sunday Elom (8th L) and some principal officers of the University in a group photograph with the Senate President, NANS, Comrade Chuks Okafor (7th L) and his team during the visit


The Senate meeting of the National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS) being held in AE-FUNAI is the first of its kind in the history of the institution.

NANS’ SENATE PRESIDENT EXTOLS AE-FUNAI VC
The Senate President, National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS), Comrade Chuks Okafor, has extolled the Vice-Chancellor of Alex Ekwueme Federal University Ndufu-Alike, Ebonyi State, Professor Sunday Elom, for his exemplary leadership, open door policy and fatherly role in the affairs of students.

https://funai.edu.ng/wp-content/uploads/2021/03/NANS1X.jpg
Senate President, NANS, Comrade Chuks Okafor speaking during the courtesy call
The Union leader made the commendation recently when he led other students’ activists to pay a courtesy call on the Vice-Chancellor. The visit was one of the activities lined up by the NANS leadership for her 65th emergency senate meeting being held in the university from 17th to 19th March, 2021.



He said: “We want to thank you for your open door policy. Your fatherly role in the lives of students is equal to none

“We want to assure you that you have our support.”

While welcoming the Senate President of NANS and his team, the Vice-Chancellor, Professor Elom, thanked them for choosing the university as the host for their 65th emergency senate meeting, noting that AE-FUNAI is a serious institution that places high premium on academic activities.

https://funai.edu.ng/wp-content/uploads/2021/03/NANS2X.jpg
VC, Professor Sunday Elom addressing the students’ leaders during the event
He said: “We may be the only university around where students are already sitting for the 2nd semester 2019/2020 examinations. Many universities are still in their first semesters’, stressing that the University runs “a seamless academic calendar.”



The Vice-Chancellor further informed the students’ leaders that the University was building an eco-friendly and beautiful campus, and enjoined them to feel free to move around the University to experience its beauty and serenity.

https://funai.edu.ng/wp-content/uploads/2021/03/NANS3X.jpg
VC, Professor Sunday Elom (8th L) and some principal officers of the University in a group photograph with the Senate President, NANS, Comrade Chuks Okafor (7th L) and his team during the visit


The Senate meeting of the National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS) being held in AE-FUNAI is the first of its kind in the history of the institution.

I AM THE FATHER OF ALL – AE-FUNAI VC
As SSANU, AE-FUNAI chapter pledges support
The Vice-Chancellor of Alex Ekwueme Federal University Ndufu-Alike, Ebonyi State, Professor Sunday Elom has said he is the father of all staff in the institution.

The Vice-Chancellor stated this recently when the executive of the Senior Staff Association of Nigeria University (SSANU), AE-FUNAI chapter led by their Chairman, Comrade Emmanuel Chigbta paid him a courtesy call.

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VC, Professor Sunday Elom (L) receiving a congratulatory letter from the Chairman, SSANU AE-FUNAI chapter, Comrade Emmanuel Chigbata during the visit
He said: “I want to appreciate you for coming to see me and for the goodwill you have shown so far



“I also want to appreciate you for pledging your loyalty and for promising to support my administration

“Be rest assured that I will not discriminate against anyone. There will be no favouritism to any particular union in the University

“I am the father of all”, the Vice-Chancellor concluded.

Professor Elom also noted that he was geared towards demystifying the office of the Vice-Chancellor by running an open door policy, where all staff, staff unions and students would have unrestricted access to him.

He further explained that his administration would treat staff welfare as top priority, and enjoined the Union leaders to always engage in dialogue because it is the best option to resolving industrial conflicts in an organization.

Earlier in his opening remarks, the Chairman of SSANU, AE-FUNAI chapter, Comrade Chigbata expressed the joy of the Union on the emergence of Professor Elom as the 3rd Vice-Chancellor of the University.

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VC, Professor Sunday Elom (8th R) and some top management of the University in a group photograph with the Chairman, SSANU AEFUNAI chapter, Comrade Emmanuel Chigbata (6th L) and other members of executive of the Union
“It was our prayer that the next VC should come from within. Someone who knows where the shoe pinches



“We thank God that He answered our prayers. We are here to congratulate you, and we are sure that you will succeed

” All the progress made by AE-FUNAI since inception, you contributed immensely to it

“We know you will perform exceptionally well”, he stated.

Comrade Chigbata further pledged the support of the Union to the new university helmsman, noting that they had also supported the past university administrations.

He said: “SSANU has been supporting the University Management, and this time around we are assuring you of our maximum support as you take the University to the next level

“We are going to give you maximum cooperation as a father

“We did not come here to destroy. We are reasonable

“We pledge our unalloyed support to the Vice-Chancellor provided our welfare is guaranteed”, the SSANU chairman concluded.

Since Professor Elom assumed office as the 3rd Vice-Chancellor of Alex Ekwueme Federal University Ndufu-Alike, Ebonyi State on 11TH February, 2021, strategic stakeholders in the AE-FUNAI project have been visiting and pledging their total support to his administration. According to them, the Vice-Chancellor is a man that has been adequately prepared for the office, noting that he would deliver the goods and take the University to enviable heights.

PRESENTS STRATEGIC PLAN TO VC
As VC declares State of Emergency on Faculty of Engineering
The Faculty of Engineering and Technology, Alex Ekwueme Federal University Ndufu-Alike, Ebonyi State, has presented its 5-year strategic plan to the Vice-Chancellor of the institution, Professor Sunday Elom. The document is a concise composition of the vision, mission, goals and aspirations as well as the projections of the Faculty for the next 5 years.

While presenting the document during a courtesy call of the faculty leadership to the Vice-Chancellor recently, the Ag. Dean of the Faculty, Engr. Dr. Chukwunonye Ezea noted that they were on hand to congratulate the Vice-Chancellor on his appointment and also to pledge their support and loyalty to the new administration.

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Ag. Dean, Faculty of Engineering and Technology, Engr. Dr. Chukwunonye Ezea handing over the document to the Vice-Chancellor, Professor Sunday Elom during the visit
Dr. Ezea also used the opportunity to appeal for the intervention of the Vice-Chancellor in arresting some of the challenges confronting the faculty such as the provision of dedicated classrooms for students, employment of senior academics, provision of staff offices and approval for the commencement of 3 new programmes – Agricultural Engineering, Environmental Engineering and Food Technology in the 2020/2021 academic session. He further informed the Vice-Chancellor that 2 of the faculty’s programmes – Mechanical and Mechatronics Engineering would be facing the National Universities Commission’s accreditation on 21st March, 2021, and appealed for the University’s total support to ensure the success of the exercise as it is a repeat accreditation.

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Engr. Dr. Chukwunonye Ezea presenting a plaque to the Vice-Chancellor, Professor Sunday Elom whiles the Faculty Officer; Miss Chinonso Ejidike looks on during the visit
In his response, the Vice-Chancellor promised to declare a state of emergence on the faculty, noting that it was strange that the Faculty of Engineering and Technology does not have any dedicated classrooms for her students.

“We will declare a state of emergency on the Faculty of Engineering and Technology

“It is strange that the faculty has no dedicated classrooms for their students”, adding that the provision of the needed infrastructure would be a priority.

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VC, Professor Sunday Elom in a group photograph with the Ag. Dean, Faculty of Engineering and Technology, Engr. Dr. Chukwunonye Ezea and some other senior members of the Faculty during their visit


On the issue of establishing new engineering programmes, Professor Elom stated that the University Management would look into the merits of the proposal and take proper decisions for the good of the University.



He also stressed the importance of having senior academics in the different engineering programmes but lamented that the University cannot employ any permanent staff at the moment without getting waivers from the Federal Government. He therefore advised the faculty to search for experienced senior academics that could be employed as adjunct staff to fill the gap.

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Engr. Dr. C. Nwoji canvassing for the adoption of outcome-based engineering education in the university during the visit


Meanwhile, an adjunct staff in the faculty and a member of the executive r of the Council for the Regulation of Engineering in Nigeria (COREN), Engr. Dr. C. Nwoji has called on the Vice-Chancellor, Professor Elom to support the Faculty of Engineering and Technology of the University to imbibe what he called “Outcome-based Engineering Education.”



He noted that the Outcome-based Engineering Education is a paradigm shift in the teaching and studying of engineering, stressing that it is a new way that involves lots of linkages and interface with industries. Unlike the input-based engineering education which involves lots of theories, he explained that the teaching of the out-come-based engineering education is informed by the challenges that are confronting humanity.

PRESENTS STRATEGIC PLAN TO VC
As VC declares State of Emergency on Faculty of Engineering
The Faculty of Engineering and Technology, Alex Ekwueme Federal University Ndufu-Alike, Ebonyi State, has presented its 5-year strategic plan to the Vice-Chancellor of the institution, Professor Sunday Elom. The document is a concise composition of the vision, mission, goals and aspirations as well as the projections of the Faculty for the next 5 years.

While presenting the document during a courtesy call of the faculty leadership to the Vice-Chancellor recently, the Ag. Dean of the Faculty, Engr. Dr. Chukwunonye Ezea noted that they were on hand to congratulate the Vice-Chancellor on his appointment and also to pledge their support and loyalty to the new administration.

https://funai.edu.ng/wp-content/uploads/2021/03/engineer1x.jpg
Ag. Dean, Faculty of Engineering and Technology, Engr. Dr. Chukwunonye Ezea handing over the document to the Vice-Chancellor, Professor Sunday Elom during the visit
Dr. Ezea also used the opportunity to appeal for the intervention of the Vice-Chancellor in arresting some of the challenges confronting the faculty such as the provision of dedicated classrooms for students, employment of senior academics, provision of staff offices and approval for the commencement of 3 new programmes – Agricultural Engineering, Environmental Engineering and Food Technology in the 2020/2021 academic session. He further informed the Vice-Chancellor that 2 of the faculty’s programmes – Mechanical and Mechatronics Engineering would be facing the National Universities Commission’s accreditation on 21st March, 2021, and appealed for the University’s total support to ensure the success of the exercise as it is a repeat accreditation.

https://funai.edu.ng/wp-content/uploads/2021/03/engineer2x.jpg
Engr. Dr. Chukwunonye Ezea presenting a plaque to the Vice-Chancellor, Professor Sunday Elom whiles the Faculty Officer; Miss Chinonso Ejidike looks on during the visit
In his response, the Vice-Chancellor promised to declare a state of emergence on the faculty, noting that it was strange that the Faculty of Engineering and Technology does not have any dedicated classrooms for her students.

“We will declare a state of emergency on the Faculty of Engineering and Technology

“It is strange that the faculty has no dedicated classrooms for their students”, adding that the provision of the needed infrastructure would be a priority.

https://funai.edu.ng/wp-content/uploads/2021/03/engineer3x.jpg
VC, Professor Sunday Elom in a group photograph with the Ag. Dean, Faculty of Engineering and Technology, Engr. Dr. Chukwunonye Ezea and some other senior members of the Faculty during their visit


On the issue of establishing new engineering programmes, Professor Elom stated that the University Management would look into the merits of the proposal and take proper decisions for the good of the University.



He also stressed the importance of having senior academics in the different engineering programmes but lamented that the University cannot employ any permanent staff at the moment without getting waivers from the Federal Government. He therefore advised the faculty to search for experienced senior academics that could be employed as adjunct staff to fill the gap.

https://funai.edu.ng/wp-content/uploads/2021/03/engineer4x.jpg
Engr. Dr. C. Nwoji canvassing for the adoption of outcome-based engineering education in the university during the visit


Meanwhile, an adjunct staff in the faculty and a member of the executive r of the Council for the Regulation of Engineering in Nigeria (COREN), Engr. Dr. C. Nwoji has called on the Vice-Chancellor, Professor Elom to support the Faculty of Engineering and Technology of the University to imbibe what he called “Outcome-based Engineering Education.”



He noted that the Outcome-based Engineering Education is a paradigm shift in the teaching and studying of engineering, stressing that it is a new way that involves lots of linkages and interface with industries. Unlike the input-based engineering education which involves lots of theories, he explained that the teaching of the out-come-based engineering education is informed by the challenges that are confronting humanity.

PRESENTS STRATEGIC PLAN TO VC
As VC declares State of Emergency on Faculty of Engineering
The Faculty of Engineering and Technology, Alex Ekwueme Federal University Ndufu-Alike, Ebonyi State, has presented its 5-year strategic plan to the Vice-Chancellor of the institution, Professor Sunday Elom. The document is a concise composition of the vision, mission, goals and aspirations as well as the projections of the Faculty for the next 5 years.

While presenting the document during a courtesy call of the faculty leadership to the Vice-Chancellor recently, the Ag. Dean of the Faculty, Engr. Dr. Chukwunonye Ezea noted that they were on hand to congratulate the Vice-Chancellor on his appointment and also to pledge their support and loyalty to the new administration.

https://funai.edu.ng/wp-content/uploads/2021/03/engineer1x.jpg
Ag. Dean, Faculty of Engineering and Technology, Engr. Dr. Chukwunonye Ezea handing over the document to the Vice-Chancellor, Professor Sunday Elom during the visit
Dr. Ezea also used the opportunity to appeal for the intervention of the Vice-Chancellor in arresting some of the challenges confronting the faculty such as the provision of dedicated classrooms for students, employment of senior academics, provision of staff offices and approval for the commencement of 3 new programmes – Agricultural Engineering, Environmental Engineering and Food Technology in the 2020/2021 academic session. He further informed the Vice-Chancellor that 2 of the faculty’s programmes – Mechanical and Mechatronics Engineering would be facing the National Universities Commission’s accreditation on 21st March, 2021, and appealed for the University’s total support to ensure the success of the exercise as it is a repeat accreditation.

https://funai.edu.ng/wp-content/uploads/2021/03/engineer2x.jpg
Engr. Dr. Chukwunonye Ezea presenting a plaque to the Vice-Chancellor, Professor Sunday Elom whiles the Faculty Officer; Miss Chinonso Ejidike looks on during the visit
In his response, the Vice-Chancellor promised to declare a state of emergence on the faculty, noting that it was strange that the Faculty of Engineering and Technology does not have any dedicated classrooms for her students.

“We will declare a state of emergency on the Faculty of Engineering and Technology

“It is strange that the faculty has no dedicated classrooms for their students”, adding that the provision of the needed infrastructure would be a priority.

https://funai.edu.ng/wp-content/uploads/2021/03/engineer3x.jpg
VC, Professor Sunday Elom in a group photograph with the Ag. Dean, Faculty of Engineering and Technology, Engr. Dr. Chukwunonye Ezea and some other senior members of the Faculty during their visit


On the issue of establishing new engineering programmes, Professor Elom stated that the University Management would look into the merits of the proposal and take proper decisions for the good of the University.



He also stressed the importance of having senior academics in the different engineering programmes but lamented that the University cannot employ any permanent staff at the moment without getting waivers from the Federal Government. He therefore advised the faculty to search for experienced senior academics that could be employed as adjunct staff to fill the gap.

https://funai.edu.ng/wp-content/uploads/2021/03/engineer4x.jpg
Engr. Dr. C. Nwoji canvassing for the adoption of outcome-based engineering education in the university during the visit


Meanwhile, an adjunct staff in the faculty and a member of the executive r of the Council for the Regulation of Engineering in Nigeria (COREN), Engr. Dr. C. Nwoji has called on the Vice-Chancellor, Professor Elom to support the Faculty of Engineering and Technology of the University to imbibe what he called “Outcome-based Engineering Education.”



He noted that the Outcome-based Engineering Education is a paradigm shift in the teaching and studying of engineering, stressing that it is a new way that involves lots of linkages and interface with industries. Unlike the input-based engineering education which involves lots of theories, he explained that the teaching of the out-come-based engineering education is informed by the challenges that are confronting humanity.

As VC Makes Commitment to Staff Welfare
The COVID-19 pandemic has affected virtually all facets of human life – economic, social and even education. Since its devastating emergence in Wuhan China in the twilight of 2019, the world has known no peace, putting the global economy in ruins and education in hiatus. This has led to changes in life styles and systems of doing things.

It is based on the above premise and on the need to maintain its academic calendar that Alex Ekwueme Federal University Ndufu-Alike, Ebonyi State, has adopted blended learning in her academic activities. Blended learning is a system of knowledge transfer that involves the combination of online learning and face-to-face class room interactions between lecturers and students.

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VC, Professor Sunday Elom addressing staff at the event
This paradigm shift is one of the preventive measures adopted by the University management to arrest the devastating effect of COVID-19. It is also geared towards ensuring that teaching, learning and research activities in the University were not halted because of the virus. It would also ensure that the safety protocol of physical distancing as announced by the Nigerian Centre for Disease Control (NCDC) is maintained in all academic activities of the University as the world continues to battle the pandemic.



This piece of good news was made known by the Vice-chancellor of the University, Professor Sunday Elom when he interacted with the staff and students recently. He announced that the Senate of the institution has already approved the adoption of the system on Monday, 15th February, 2021 when he presented his inaugural address.

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A cross section of students at the event held at the Abubakar Rasheed auditorium
“To mitigate the challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic, the University will adopt the policy of blended learning i.e. combination of online learning and face-to-face interactions”, the Vice-Chancellor stated.



To achieve this goal, the Vice-Chancellor explained that the University was going to provide modern classrooms equipped with multimedia and public address system and necessary IT infrastructure as well as the training of staff on IT skills.

Meanwhile, the Vice-Chancellor has also affirmed his commitment to staff welfare in order to motivate and increase their productivity. He made this known during his inaugural meeting with staff of the University recently.

“Staff welfare will be my priority, and I will do my best to see that staff are motivated, as a happy staff enhances productivity”, he said.

He stressed that efforts would be made to ensure conducive working environment for all staff, adding that staff appraisal and promotion would continue to be transparent and timely under his watch.

The Vice-Chancellor further noted that more staff quarters were to be built to enable staff reside on campus, pledging to ensure that staff training remains on the front burner of his administration even as security of lives and property within the campus would remain a top priority of the university management.

Professor Elom also promised to sustain, consolidate and expand on the achievements of his predecessors in order to take the University to the next level.

Alex Ekwueme Federal University Ndufu-Alike, Ebonyi State and First Bank Nigeria Plc are to collaborate on agency banking in order to bring banking activities closer to staff and students of the institution.

This was made known recently when the Group Head, south south/south east of the bank, Mr. Frank Onyia visited the Vice-Chancellor of the University, Professor Sunday Elom.

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L-R: Business Development Manager, Abakaliki Business Development Office, Florence Okoro, VC, Prof. Sunday Elom, Group Head, south south/southeast, Mr. Frank Onyia and Business Manager, Abakali 11, Gozie Aka during the visit
Agency banking is a World Bank Initiative geared towards increasing the rate of financial inclusiveness among the under-banked people. It has been successfully practiced in Kenyan, and is presently being introduced in Nigeria especially in areas that have no access to the traditional banking facilities.

The Vice-Chancellor had during his welcome remarks expressed his excitement for the visit, and called on the bank to partner with the University by constructing students’ hostels under the ‘build, operate and transfer (BOT) system and also to open a branch in the institution to ameliorate the hardship students pass through in accessing banking facilities due to the absence of a bank in the University.

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VC, Prof. Sunday Elom espousing a point during the visit
“I am excited for your visit because there are lots of things we can do together. We are a young and fast growing institution with a students’ population of over 9, 500 and a staff strength of 2, 230.

“Right now we are in need of hostels because of the growing number of students. We also want, if possible, for you to open a branch of your bank in the University as there is no bank presently operating here”, the Vice-Chancellor stated.

While responding to the requests made by the Vice-Chancellor and some members of university management, the Group Head, south south/south east of the bank, Mr. Onyia noted that the premier financial institution was ready to collaborate with the University in a number of areas. Nevertheless, he explained that due to the Treasury Single Account (TSA) the bank was handicapped and would not be able to give money directly to the University for the purpose of constructing hostels. He however, stated that the bank is ready to partner with the university by providing car loans and mortgage financing for staff in need of cars and houses as well as career guidance for students of the University.

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Group Head, south south/south east, FBN, Mr. Frank Onyia speaking at the event
“We have the wherewithal and capacity to do a lot of things like the provision of car loans and mortgages for staff

“If we are invited we can also be involved in the career guidance of students as we are very much interested in entrepreneurship”, he said.

On the call by the Vice-Chancellor for the bank to open its branch in the University, Mr. Onyia explained that a lot of money, infrastructure and human capital are needed to ensure that, adding that he would take the university’s request to the head office. He however advised the University to imbibe agency banking to bridge the banking gaps even as he also assured that the bank could provide Quick Access Points (QSP) to increase access to financial activities in the institution.

“We can help the University to select some agents that would establish agency banking in the University, and also help to increase the revenue base of your institution”, he said.

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VC, Prof. Sunday Elom (5th L) and some members of the University Management in a group photograph with the FBN team lead by the Group Head, south south/south east, Mr. Frank Onyia
On that note the Vice-Chancellor directed that a modality be worked out between the University and the bank for the immediate introduction of agency banking in the institution in order to assuage the financial rip-off students face in the hands of numerous operators of ‘POS’ scattered within and outside the campus, and the loss of man-hour of travelling over 25 kilometers to Abakaliki to access banking needs.

This business visit by First Bank Nigeria plc is a consequence of the Vice-Chancellor’s call for the Organized Private Sector (OPS) to partner with the University in bridging some of her infrastructural gaps especially in the areas of staff and students’ accommodation. Recall that the Vice-Chancellor during his inaugural address to the University Senate and Staff respectively had stated among other things as follows “…Private hostel developers will be encouraged to build more hostels for the students on private partnership agreement. A situation where most of the students live off Campus is not good for our global ranking. ”

The Centre for Entrepreneurship and Employability (CEE) Alex Ekwueme Federal University Ndufu-Alike organized a career summit for the final year students of the University. The event which held on Saturday 27th February, 2021 at the Abubakar Adamu Rasheed Auditorium of the University had in attendance seasoned speakers and some members of the University Management. The summit is part of its numerous activities toward developing entrepreneurship practice and employability skills among students which will give them significant advantage in the competitive market.

In his opening remark, the Acting Director of the Centre, Dr. George C. Mbaeyi noted that the essence of the career summit was to give the final year students a last dose of what they need to be highly competitive in the labour market as self-employed, employers of labour or employees who are highly sought-after. He also noted that this is one of the core mandates of the centre, and the Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Sunday O. Elom, is seriously committed in driving entrepreneurship and employability skills among AE-FUNAI students as captured in his Inaugural Speech to the University Senate on Monday, February 15, 2021.

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Ag. Director of the Centre, Dr. George C. Mbaeyi addressing the students
Dr. Makuachukwu Ojide who is the Acting Director of Research and Development spoke on development of soft skills with focus on creating entrepreneurship consciousness among the participants. He also took time to teach the students what it takes to develop an award-winning curriculum vitae (CV) and how to search for gainful employment, respond promptly to job adverts as well as interview skills.

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Dr. Makuachukwu Ojide speaking at the event.
A digital skill trainer, Mr. Victor Ejims, who also is a Corporate Consultant based in Enugu, spoke on what it takes to experience fulfilling and rewarding compulsory one-year youth service (NYSC). He exposed the secret on how to win State and National awards as a youth corp member. The students also used the opportunity to learn all the processes involved in preparing and going for the national youth service.

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Mr. Victor Ejims exposing the rudiments of having successful service year during the event
The Dean, School of Postgraduate Studies, Prof. Chukwuunonso E. C. C. Ejike while making his speech encouraged the students to advance and upgrade their academic career, urging them to make the best of any post graduate study they may embark on in the future. He further used the opportunity to explain the recent developments and opportunities of postgraduate studies in AE-FUNAI.

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The Dean, SPGS, Prof. E. C. C. Chukwunonso making his speech at the event.
Earlier, the Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Academic), Prof. Dennis Akoh, who represented the Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Sunday O. Elom gave a fatherly word of wisdom and encouragement to the participants. He expressed satisfaction with the summit and also appreciated the doggedness and maturity of the students in the midst of a very busy semester.

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DVC (Academics) Prof. Dennis Akoh encouraging the students.
On behalf of the students, Opeke Uchenna Clinton thanked the management of the University and CEE for such a rewarding and timely event. The students actually asked for more of such events.

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A group photograph of the participants with some of the resource persons.

The Centre for Entrepreneurship and Employability (CEE) Alex Ekwueme Federal University Ndufu-Alike organized a career summit for the final year students of the University. The event which held on Saturday 27th February, 2021 at the Abubakar Adamu Rasheed Auditorium of the University had in attendance seasoned speakers and some members of the University Management. The summit is part of its numerous activities toward developing entrepreneurship practice and employability skills among students which will give them significant advantage in the competitive market.

In his opening remark, the Acting Director of the Centre, Dr. George C. Mbaeyi noted that the essence of the career summit was to give the final year students a last dose of what they need to be highly competitive in the labour market as self-employed, employers of labour or employees who are highly sought-after. He also noted that this is one of the core mandates of the centre, and the Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Sunday O. Elom, is seriously committed in driving entrepreneurship and employability skills among AE-FUNAI students as captured in his Inaugural Speech to the University Senate on Monday, February 15, 2021.

https://funai.edu.ng/wp-content/uploads/2021/03/cee1x.jpg
Ag. Director of the Centre, Dr. George C. Mbaeyi addressing the students
Dr. Makuachukwu Ojide who is the Acting Director of Research and Development spoke on development of soft skills with focus on creating entrepreneurship consciousness among the participants. He also took time to teach the students what it takes to develop an award-winning curriculum vitae (CV) and how to search for gainful employment, respond promptly to job adverts as well as interview skills.

https://funai.edu.ng/wp-content/uploads/2021/03/cee2x.jpg
Dr. Makuachukwu Ojide speaking at the event.
A digital skill trainer, Mr. Victor Ejims, who also is a Corporate Consultant based in Enugu, spoke on what it takes to experience fulfilling and rewarding compulsory one-year youth service (NYSC). He exposed the secret on how to win State and National awards as a youth corp member. The students also used the opportunity to learn all the processes involved in preparing and going for the national youth service.

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Mr. Victor Ejims exposing the rudiments of having successful service year during the event
The Dean, School of Postgraduate Studies, Prof. Chukwuunonso E. C. C. Ejike while making his speech encouraged the students to advance and upgrade their academic career, urging them to make the best of any post graduate study they may embark on in the future. He further used the opportunity to explain the recent developments and opportunities of postgraduate studies in AE-FUNAI.

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The Dean, SPGS, Prof. E. C. C. Chukwunonso making his speech at the event.
Earlier, the Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Academic), Prof. Dennis Akoh, who represented the Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Sunday O. Elom gave a fatherly word of wisdom and encouragement to the participants. He expressed satisfaction with the summit and also appreciated the doggedness and maturity of the students in the midst of a very busy semester.

https://funai.edu.ng/wp-content/uploads/2021/03/cee5x.jpg
DVC (Academics) Prof. Dennis Akoh encouraging the students.
On behalf of the students, Opeke Uchenna Clinton thanked the management of the University and CEE for such a rewarding and timely event. The students actually asked for more of such events.

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A group photograph of the participants with some of the resource persons.

IMPORTANT INFORMATION
This is to notify the general public that University-based Registration Exercise for 2020/2021 Academic Session has not commenced. The date for commencement of the University-based registration exercise will be communicated in due course.

However, candidates who have been offered provisional admission should proceed with online payment of acceptance fees/other charges as well as avail themselves of useful information on the University portal.

Registrar
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PROTOCOL
It is a great pleasure and honour for me to address you today at this inaugural meeting with all staff as the 3rd Vice-Chancellor of our great University. My emergence as the 3rd Vice-Chancellor of this University is clearly by the special grace of God and to Him be all the glory.
May I profoundly appreciate the President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria and Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces, His Excellency, Muhammadu Buhari, GCFR, for his confirmation and consent to the flawless decision of the Distinguished Governing Council of this University during the selection process. My administration will remain loyal to the Federal Government of Nigeria.
I also appreciate the Chancellor of our University, His Royal Majesty Oba Dr. Michael Aremu Adedotun Gbadebo, CFR, Okukenu IV, The Alake & Paramount Ruler of Egbaland, for his sustained interest in our University. I profoundly appreciate the distinguished Pro-Chancellor and Chairman of the Governing Council and all the distinguished members of the Governing Council for the appointment.
May I also appreciate all the Professors and the entire staff for their cooperation that has led to all the gains made by the past administrations.
This University was established on 26th February, 2011 and we started academic activities on 5th November, 2012 with three Faculties, 10 Departments and 41 programmes.

Presently, we have 11 Faculties, 41 Departments and 57 programmes. We started with a student population of 293 students in 2012 and presently, we have a student population of about 9500.
We started with staff strength of 200 made up of 137 academic, 36 senior non-teaching and 27 junior staff. Presently, we have staff strength of 2230 made up of 755 academic, 865 senior non-teaching and 610 junior staff.

Over the past ten years, our University has witnessed rapid infrastructural and academic developments and transformations.
May I pay special tribute to my Predecessors, for their contributions.
Firstly, to late Prof. Oye Ibidapo Obe, the pioneer Vice-Chancellor of this University who pioneered the establishment of the University and laid the foundation for academic excellence and aggressive manpower training.
Secondly, to Prof Chinedum Uzoma Nwajiuba, the 2nd and immediate past Vice-Chancellor of this University whose tenure witnessed numerous landmark achievements and transformations.
The main focus of my administration is to sustain, consolidate and expand the achievements made by my predecessors.

I do not intend to bore you with the details of my agenda which I have shared with the Senate but I just want to highlight some of the aspects that will interest you most.

1. To improve the image and ranking of the University.
All hands will be on deck to improve the University’s global ranking and positive image as follows:
a. The University will deliberately work to maintain the culture of an uninterrupted academic calendar with regular Convocation Ceremonies and yearly mobilization of graduating students for NYSC Programme as already established. This will entail the sustenance of best practices in teaching, grading of examination scripts and timely release of results.
b. All academic staff will be encouraged to upload their publications to the University website, google scholar and research gate platforms to increase our global visibility and ranking.
c. The diaspora staff exchange programme of the Centre for Internationalization and Advancement will be strengthened to encourage more diaspora academics spend time in our University and collaborate with our staff on research and publications.

d. The requirements in the academic staff promotion guidelines for high quality research publications will be sustained. Additional incentives for staff who publish such papers will be created and funded.

e. The Language Enhancement Programme (LEP) vision of our outgoing Vice-Chancellor will be sustained and supported to ensure that we produce high quality graduates who will not only be proficient in communicating in English Language but would have a second language namely French or German.

f. The culture of public and inaugural lectures already established by the outgoing Vice-Chancellor will be sustained and supported.

g. The culture of seriousness in all academic and administrative activities of the University already established by the outgoing Vice-Chancellor will be sustained and strengthened.

The practical steps include:
Staff being regular and punctual to work
Lecturers attending to their classes regularly and punctually
Students returning to campus as soon as school reopens after holidays due to the inception quiz policy.
Ban on sale of hand outs and textbooks not approved by the University Publication Committee.
Ban on sorting and all other forms of exam misconduct
Ban on indecent dressing and sexual harassment.
2. Infrastructure: Despite the enormous work done by the out-going administration, a lot still needs to be done in the area of physical infrastructure as follows.

a. Serious efforts will be made to complete all the on-going Projects in the University and to construct more staff offices, more classrooms, more lecture auditoria, large examination halls, more functional laboratories and more staff housing units.

b. Efforts will be made to open up more roads within the Campus.
c. Private hostel developers will be encouraged to build more hostels for the students on private partnership agreement. A situation where most of the students live off Campus is not good for our global ranking.

d. All efforts will be made to sustain the existing steady power supply from the solar hybrid power plant provided by the Federal Government.

e. The problem of regular water supply will be given serious attention. Efforts will be made to acquire and install Braithwaite pressed steel water tanks at strategic locations in the Campus.

3. Internally Generated Revenue, (IGR) of the University:
There is urgent need to develop a resource base for the University as follows:

a. The academic departments of AE-FUNAI would be supported to engage students in research projects that have direct consequence in solving specific societal problems and the results of such projects would be transmitted to the relevant industries for production of goods and services.
b. The University Agric. Farm will be expanded and run professionally, focussing on Agro businesses such as fish farming, poultry, piggery and rice production.
c. The AE-FUNAI Outlook Limited will be strengthened and reorganized to handle consultancy services within and outside the State in addition to it’s existing businesses of:
– block industry, paint factory, bookshop, restaurant and printing press.
d. The newly established AE-FUNAI Microfinance Bank will be nurtured and supported by encouraging most University Businesses to be handled by the Microfinance Bank.
e. Efforts will be made to create reserve areas within the University land for aggressive planting of about one hundred thousand fast-growing timbre trees by 2022. These trees will yield billions of naira in about 20 years.
f. The Centre for Educational Services (CES) of the University will be strengthened and expanded to increase the intake of JUPEB and Pre-degree students for higher IGR. Efforts will be made to develop the Permanent Site of the Centre at the land already acquired for the purpose in Abakaliki.
g. The centre for entrepreneurship and employability will be strengthened and expanded by establishing a vocational skills workshop to encourage our students to acquire at least one skill before graduation.
4. ICT Unit: The ICT unit will be strengthened and supported to ensure regular and reliable internet services. Highly qualified IT experts will be recruited and necessary IT infrastructure will be provided to ensure that the ICT Unit hosts and manages most of the online services of the University such as admissions, fee payment, course registration, hostel allocation, examinations, results processing, transcript processing, online learning etc.

5. Staff Welfare: Staff welfare will be a priority under my leadership if we must achieve the goals of the university because a poorly motivated staff cannot give his or her best to the system. By my experience in the University System over the years I am aware that staff motivation enhances productivity.
To improve staff motivation efforts will be made to enhance your welfare as follows:
a. Efforts will be made to ensure conducive working environment for all staff to enable each person to contribute positively.
b. Staff appraisal and promotion will continue to be transparently and timely carried out to ensure release of results before 1st October each year.
c. A deliberate attempt will be made to incentivize hard work and discourage indifference to work.
d. More staff housing units will be built for more staff to reside in the campus.
e. Staff training will continue to be a priority of this university
f. Staff development through conferences, seminars and workshops, local and international will be given serious attention.
g. Efforts will be made to provide more sporting and recreational facilities.
h. Efforts will be made to ensure adequate security of lives and properties within the campus.

CONCLUSION
Dear Colleagues, may I remind us that a University is not the property of any one individual or group of individuals. We are working not only for the benefit of our students and scholars who are here today, but in effect, we are all trustees, nurturing the University on behalf of new generations that will be producing ideas and tackling problems that we cannot even begin to imagine now.

I am mindful of the fact that no single individual can determine the success of a University. Therefore, I will rely heavily on our collective wisdom and actions to make Alex Ekwueme Federal University, Ndufu-Alike a World-Class University.

Finally, Dear Colleagues may I end with my guiding principle which is in Col 3: 23: “And whatever you do, do it heartily as to the Lord and not to men”. If we imbibe this word of God it will help us to avoid eye-service, sycophancy, gossip and slander in this University. The immediate past Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Chinedum Uzoma Nwajiuba, has raised the flag, we shall keep the flag flying. By the grace of God we will ensure that his noble dreams of making Alex Ekwueme Federal University, Ndufu-Alike a World-Class University where the ideals and culture of a University would be strictly adhered to would not die.

May God bless our University and bless all of us in Jesus Name, Amen.

Prof. Sunday Oge Elom
Vice-Chancellor

AE-FUNAI, NCDC PARTNER TO SCALE UP COVID-19 TESTING FOR STAFF AND STUDENTS
Alex Ekwueme Federal University Ndufu-Alike, Ebonyi State and the Nigerian Centre for Disease Control (NCDC) through a non-governmental organization, Clinton Health Access Initiative (CHAI), are partnering to scale up the testing of staff and students of the institution for COVID-19.

In view of this, a team of medical experts from Clinton Health Access Initiative were in the University to carry out COVID-19 tests on staff and students. The medical programme which commenced on Wednesday, 3rd March, 2021 and slated to last for 3 days was to strengthen the preventive measures against Corona virus pandemic in the University.

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A medical expert collecting a test sample from one of the University’s staff


A memo signed by the Registrar, Odisa C. Okeke (Mrs.) conveying the approval of the Vice-Chancellor, Professor Sunday Elom, for the testing of staff and students for the virus read in part “In line with the directive of the Presidential Taskforce on COVID-19 and NCDC protocol for testing of samples a team of medical experts from the Ministry of Health are in the University for COVID-19 testing.”

She continued: “Consequent upon this, the Vice-Chancellor has approved that all staff and students of Alex Ekwueme Federal University Ndufu-Alike, Ebonyi State (AE-FUNAI) should avail themselves of sample collection and testing for COVID-19 with the Rapid diagnostic kit which gives out result within 10 – 15 minutes.”

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A medical personnel collecting test sample from another staff of the University during the exercise


Speaking during the exercise, the team leader of the medical programme, Adesola Oni – Orisan noted that Clinton Health Access Initiative was a worldwide non-governmental organization geared towards supporting governments in making health accessible to low and middle income countries.

She explained that their organization uses Antigen Rapid Diagnostic Test Kits known as Lumira Dx that processes results in 12 minutes for COVID-19 testing, adding that the method helps to make testing more speedy and accessible unlike the PCR that is more expensive, and takes up to 48 hours for the test results to be known.

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A group of staff waiting to be tested of COVID-19 at the Dr. Nnamdi Azikiwe Convocation Arena
Oni-Orisan further stated that the testing exercise was done through the Nigerian Centre for Disease Control (NCDC) and the support of some partners.

During the programme, hundreds of the University staff and students availed themselves of the opportunity to be tested of COVID-19, which has further strengthened the preventive measures employed by the University against the pandemic.

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ALAKE OF EGBALAND COMMENDS THE APPOINTMENT OF PROFESSOR ELOM AS 3RD VICE-CHANCELLOR OF AE-FUNAI
The Alake and paramount ruler of Egbaland, HRM Oba Michael Adedotun Aremu Gbadebo has commended the appointment of Professor Sunday Oge Elom as the 3rd Vice-Chancellor of Alex Ekwueme Federal University Ndufu-Alike, Ebonyi State.

Oba Gbadebo who is also the Chancellor of the University made the commendation recently when the University delegation led by the Pro-Chancellor and Chairman of Governing Council, Emeritus Professor Nimi Briggs paid him a courtesy call at his palace in Abeokuta, Ogun State.

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R-L: VC, Professor Sunday Elom, Pro-Chancellor/Chairman of Governing Council, Emeritus Professor Nimi Briggs, Chancellor, Oba Michael Aremu Adedotun Gbadebo, immediate past VC, Professor Chinedum Nwajiuba and University Bursar, Mr. Rafiu Aliu during the courtesy call to the Chancellor


“I am pleased but not surprised that Professor Sunday Elom was appointed the Vice-Chancellor of Alex Ekwueme Federal University Ndufu-Alike, Ebonyi State

“He has been consistent and committed, academically and administratively, and loyal to God and his bosses”, he said.

While speaking at the event, the Pro-chancellor and Chairman of Governing Council, Emeritus Professor Briggs, noted that 87 professors applied for the position of the Vice-Chancellor of the University, but God helped the Council to select Professor Elom, who he said, was the best out of the 87 candidates.

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A group photograph involving the Chancellor, Oba Michael Adedotun Aremu Gbadebo and his Olori , Pro-Chancellor and Chairman Governing Council, Emeritus Professor Nimi Briggs, VC, Professor Sunday Elom, immediate past VC, Professor Chinedum Nwajiuba, noble laureate, Prof. Wole Soyinka, Bursar, Mr. Rafiu Aliu and other eminent Nigerians during the visit
In his remarks, the Vice-chancellor, Professor Elom noted that he was going to build and expand on the solid foundations already laid by his predecessors – the late Professor Oye Ibidapo-Obe and Professor Chinedum Uzoma Nwajiuba.



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VC, Professor Sunday Elom speaking at the occasion


The event was graced by noble laureate, Professor Wole Soyinka, immediate past Vice-Chancellor of the University, Professor Nwajiuba, University Bursar, Mr. Rafiu k. Aliu and some other eminent Nigerians.

ALAKE OF EGBALAND COMMENDS THE APPOINTMENT OF PROFESSOR ELOM AS 3RD VICE-CHANCELLOR OF AE-FUNAI
The Alake and paramount ruler of Egbaland, HRM Oba Michael Adedotun Aremu Gbadebo has commended the appointment of Professor Sunday Oge Elom as the 3rd Vice-Chancellor of Alex Ekwueme Federal University Ndufu-Alike, Ebonyi State.

Oba Gbadebo who is also the Chancellor of the University made the commendation recently when the University delegation led by the Pro-Chancellor and Chairman of Governing Council, Emeritus Professor Nimi Briggs paid him a courtesy call at his palace in Abeokuta, Ogun State.

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R-L: VC, Professor Sunday Elom, Pro-Chancellor/Chairman of Governing Council, Emeritus Professor Nimi Briggs, Chancellor, Oba Michael Aremu Adedotun Gbadebo, immediate past VC, Professor Chinedum Nwajiuba and University Bursar, Mr. Rafiu Aliu during the courtesy call to the Chancellor


“I am pleased but not surprised that Professor Sunday Elom was appointed the Vice-Chancellor of Alex Ekwueme Federal University Ndufu-Alike, Ebonyi State

“He has been consistent and committed, academically and administratively, and loyal to God and his bosses”, he said.

While speaking at the event, the Pro-chancellor and Chairman of Governing Council, Emeritus Professor Briggs, noted that 87 professors applied for the position of the Vice-Chancellor of the University, but God helped the Council to select Professor Elom, who he said, was the best out of the 87 candidates.

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A group photograph involving the Chancellor, Oba Michael Adedotun Aremu Gbadebo and his Olori , Pro-Chancellor and Chairman Governing Council, Emeritus Professor Nimi Briggs, VC, Professor Sunday Elom, immediate past VC, Professor Chinedum Nwajiuba, noble laureate, Prof. Wole Soyinka, Bursar, Mr. Rafiu Aliu and other eminent Nigerians during the visit
In his remarks, the Vice-chancellor, Professor Elom noted that he was going to build and expand on the solid foundations already laid by his predecessors – the late Professor Oye Ibidapo-Obe and Professor Chinedum Uzoma Nwajiuba.



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VC, Professor Sunday Elom speaking at the occasion


The event was graced by noble laureate, Professor Wole Soyinka, immediate past Vice-Chancellor of the University, Professor Nwajiuba, University Bursar, Mr. Rafiu k. Aliu and some other eminent Nigerians.

AE-FUNAI AT 10: FROM AN UNKNOWN INSTITUTION TO THE MOST SERIOUS PUBLIC UNIVERSITY IN NIGERIA
By Elom Iyke Ubochi

Public Relations/Information Unit



Alex Ekwueme Federal University Ndufu-Alike, Ebonyi State was established with 8 other universities by the Federal Government of Nigeria on 26th February, 2011 with the goal of expanding and improving access to quality university education to every part of Nigeria. It had the name, Federal University Ndufu-Alike, Ikwo up till 2nd February, 2018 when it was renamed in honour and recognition of the contributions of the first elected civilian Vice President of Nigeria, late Dr. Alex Ekwueme.



The University sits on 438 hectares of land, geographically located on latitude 06ⱷ 8.29N, longitude 08ⱷ8.627E and altitude 55m (AMSL). AE-FUNAI is situated in Ikwo Local Government Area of Ebonyi State, which is about 25 kilometers from Abakaliki, the State capital. The motto of the University is Excellence and Integrity.

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O. Chukwu Administrative Building


Though, the University came into being in 2011, but it did not join the other 8 universities established with it to commence academic activities immediately. There was rather a deliberate decision by the pioneer Vice-Chancellor, the late Professor Oye Ibidapo-Obe and his team to take their time in order to develop a sound and robust academic brief, and also build a solid foundation for academic excellence and manpower development to ensure the University achieves its vision of becoming a world-class institution in the nearest future. Consequently, the University commenced academic activities on 5th November, 2012 with 3 Faculties (Basic Medical Science, Humanities and Social Sciences, and Science), 10 academic departments and 41 programmes.



At the expiration of the tenure of the pioneer Vice-Chancellor, the Federal Government, on 10th February, 2016, appointed Professor Chinedum Uzoma Nwajiuba the 2nd Vice-Chancellor of the University. His tenure witnessed numerous extraordinary and landmark achievements, especially in the expansion and reengineering of academic programmes and activities, and massive infrastructural development unprecedented in the history of the institution.

On Tuesday, 17th January, 2021, after a rigorous, flawless and transparent selection process, Professor Sunday Oge Elom emerged as the 3rd Vice-Chancellor, signaling a new dawn in the University. Elom, a professor of Medical Biochemistry brought on board over 14 years of post professorial and uninterrupted academic and administrative experience in the university system. On assumption of office on 11th February, 2021, he promised to sustain, consolidate and expand on the successes of the past administrations, assuring that he would keep the flag of the University flying at full mast at all times and that under his watch the vision of making AE-FUNAI a world-class institution would not be allowed to die.

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VC, Prof. Sunday Elom


The University, over the past 10 years has witnessed rapid academic development and extraordinary infrastructural transformation. In the academic front, the University presently has 11 Faculties, 41 academic departments and 57 programmes as well as a College of Medicine and School of Postgraduate Studies. The Faculties are Agriculture, Basic Medical Science, Biological Sciences, Education, Engineering and Technology, Environmental Sciences, Humanities, Law, Management Sciences, Social Sciences and Physical Sciences, It is also worthy to note that all the 57 programmes of the University have received the National Universities Commission’s approval and accreditation. In addition, the Engineering, Medical and Accounting programmes have also been accredited by their professional bodies – Council for the Regulation of Engineering in Nigeria (COREN), Nigeria Medical and Dental Council (NMDC) and Institute of Chartered Accountants of Nigeria (ICAN) respectively. These have helped our students to graduate on time without hitches, even as they are also mobilized for the National Youth Service Corps programme every year, because Management has continued to insist on the timely release of students’ results. There is also a yearly convocation ceremony for graduating students where graduands receive academic certificates on the same day. This culture of seriousness has been maintained since the first set of our students graduated in 2016.This has positively rubbed-off on the attitude of staff and students as they return immediately school resumes for a new semester and session to teach and learn in order to be part of the Inception Quiz – a test usually taken after 2 weeks of school resumption in the University, and to ensure that the academic calendar is followed to the later.

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Prof. Chinedum Nwajiuba’s Senate Building


The students’ population has risen from 293 students in 2012 to a students’ population of about 9,500. The staff strength has also increased from 200 personnel as at the time the university started to 2, 230 people made up of 755 academics, 865 senior non teaching and 610 junior staff. This strategic increase in the number of both students and staff has provided ample opportunity for thousands of Nigerians to gain both admission and employment opportunities in the University, and this has helped in jump-starting the local economy of her host community and other surrounding towns. This has further promoted the town and gown relationships. More importantly, at a time when most graduates of Nigerian universities lack the capacity to communicate in English language of basic level, the introduction of the Language Enhancement Programme (LEP), a first of its kind in the Nigerian University System, by AE-FUNAI has set the students and graduates of the institution apart from the crowd, distinguishing them from students and graduates of other universities in Nigeria because of their command of written and oral English as well as capacity for logical reasoning.

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Intra campus dual carriage way with street lighting system via green energy


Due to the high quality of the University’s academic programmes and deft delivery of intellectually rigorous research as well as an excellent teaching and learning environment and the outstanding performances of her alumni in various spheres of life, the University is increasingly being recognized by strategic actors and stakeholders within and outside Nigeria as a serious university. Underscoring this fact, the former German ambassador to Nigeria, Dr. Benhard Schlageck in 2018 described AE-FUNAI as the “most serious public university in Nigeria” whiles the French Ambassador to Nigeria, Mr. Jerome Pasquier on 8th February, 2021 described the institution as the “best public university in Nigeria.” AE-FUNAI is the only university in Nigeria that has a postgraduate scholarship partnership with the French Government, and the collaboration has led to the travelling of 42 young academics of the institution to France where they are pursuing their Masters’ and doctorate degrees in celebrated universities. Some of these scholars have already returned to the University after completing their programmes and are contributing to the academic development of the institution. More so, the PG partnership is geared towards training a critical mass of academics that are proficient in at least, two international languages – English and French. And this has started yielding dividends as the University presently has 22 foreign students, mostly from French speaking nations. In the nearest future, it is expected that AE-FUNAI would be the most sought-after university in the Gulf of Guinea because of the capacity of her staff and students to teach and learn in English and French languages respectively.

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Solar panels at the 2.8 mw hybrid solar power plant energizing the university with 24hrs uninterrupted green energy, the 3rd biggest in Africa


In the area of infrastructure, the University has also made some quantum leaps. It started from a few rusty buildings vacated by a secondary school – Ikwo High School, without access roads and electricity. In fact, at the outset, dust and mud were common sights on campus during dry and rainy seasons respectively. However, in spite of the initial daunting infrastructural challenges faced by the University at inception, it has been able to bridge the gap to a large extent. Many Faculty buildings, office blocks, lecture halls and theatres, laboratories, senate building, administrative block, hostels etc have been completed and are in use. This has ameliorated the challenge of accommodation on campus. In addition, the University now has over 5 kilometers of asphalt road network fitted with drainages around the campus. AE-FUNAI runs on green energy courtesy of 2.8 MW of hybrid solar power plant, the 3rd biggest in Africa. With it, the University is the first higher institution in Nigeria with 24 hours’ uninterrupted power supply, making it a wonder to behold at night due to its well-laid out street lighting system, and also encouraging research and innovation, teaching and learning, and entrepreneurship among staff and students.

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Over 5 kilometers of asphalt road network with street lighting system around the campus


In concluding, in the past 10 years, Alex Ekwume Federal University Ndufu-Alike, Ebonyi State has metamorphosed from an unknown institution located in an agrarian suburb of Ikwo to the most serious public university in Nigeria. This was made possible by the seriousness of its academic activities and the quality of leadership as well as the enterprising workforce the University has had from inception till now. As the University celebrates this milestone, the Vice-chancellor, Prof. Elom is not unmindful of the onerous tasks still ahead as he strives to take the University to the next level. That is why on assumption of office; he vowed that all his actions and decisions as Vice-Chancellor would be hinged on Colossians 3:23 – “And whatever you do, do it heartily as to the Lord and not to men”, and charged all staff to imbibe the guiding principle in the discharge of their official responsibilities. With that, he left no one in doubt, and quite early too, that it would not be business as usual as the University moves to the next level under his leadership.

The Vice-Chancellor of Alex Ekwueme Federal University Ndufu-Alike, Ebonyi State, Professor Sunday Elom has called on staff to imbibe the philosophy of teamwork in order to achieve the goals of the institution.

The Vice-Chancellor made the call today, 23rd February, 2021 when staff of the Department of Medical Biochemistry paid him a courtesy call.

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Prof. Joseph O. Nwankwo (L) presenting a portrait to the Vice-Chancellor,Prof. Sunday Elom on behalf of staff of the Department of Medical Biochemistry


Professor Elom also used the occasion to state that the College of Medicine of the University would be given special attention, adding that universities in Europe and America were known for particular disciplines. He therefore promised to replicate such by ensuring that the University carves a niche for herself. He further thanked the department for their visit, assuring them that their requests would be given serious attention.

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VC, Prof. Sunday Elom (6th R) in a group photograph with staff of the Department of Medical Biochemistry during their courtesy call
Earlier in his opening remarks, Head, Department of Medical Biochemistry,Dr. Chinyere Aloke noted that they were extremely happy because their department was the first to produce a Vice-Chancellor in the history of the University. He also used the opportunity to appeal to Management for the employment of senior technologists to bridge the existing staff gaps in the departmental laboratories.

On Friday, 19th February, 2021, Dr. Onwe Emeka Ogah, Chief Medical Director of Alex Ekwueme Federal Teaching Hospital Abakaliki (AE-FUTHA), an affiliate of Alex Ekwueme Federal University Ndufu-Alike, Ebonyi State, accompanied by the hospital management team, was at the Vice- Chancellor’s Conference Room to pay homage to the brand new VC, Prof. Sunday Elom, who assumed office as 3rd substantive VC of the young and fast growing University on Thursday, 11th February, 2021. In the entourage of CMD were Dr. Richard Ewah, CMAC, Calistus Okonkwo, DA, Dr. Nnadozie Ugochukwu, DCMAC, Ugamah Sylvanus, DF, Pharm. A.K Auya, HOD, Pharmacy. On the side of AE-FUNAI, to receive the visitors were Prof. Dennis Akoh, DVC, Academic, Aliu Rafiu, Bursar, Mr. Ejike Igwebuike, Coordinator, University Library, Prof. Paul Ezeonu, Provost, College of Medicine, Prof. A.O Ibegbu, Dean, Faculty of Basic Medical Sciences, Dr. Adrian I. Ezeocha, Director, Physical Planning, Works & Services and of course the Chief Host and VC, Prof. Sunday Elom.

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Professor Elom presenting Kolanut to Dr. Emeka Ogah
After the opening prayer and presentation of kolanut to the leader of AE-FUTHA team by VC, in the AE-FUNAI tradition of demonstrating hearty reception of distinguished guests, Dr. Emeka Ogah was given the floor to make presentation on behalf of AE-FUTHA management and staff. CMD started his speech by congratulating Prof. Elom on his appointment as 3rd VC of AE-FUNAI at the material time and the ‘first man of Abakaliki extraction to be appointed VC of a Federal University in the country’. He further stated that “…it pleased God to choose you just like the way He chose David from the many children of Jesse. When God has chosen his people, He never sleeps nor slumbers in protecting and leading the person, so do not be afraid, for you are a chosen one”, adding that the appointment of Prof. Elom, is a round peg in a round whole.

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Dr. Ogah making presentation
Making accurate inferences to Prof. Elom’s anticedents, spanning his distinguished performance while on scholarship abroad, where he bagged 1st Class Honour, to his time at ESUT, where he rose to the rank of Erudite Professor, to other positions he has held including being a two tenure DVC, when he displayed diligence, commitment, passion, intelligence, leadership and trust and now VC, he thanked God for all He has used Prof. Elom to achieve. He urged him “Prof. be strong and courageous for the Lord will see you through”. Dr. Ogah did not forget to note that a position of this magnitude goes with a lot of expectations and responsibilities and that people will use his name for all degree of scamming adding that he should be on guard against all these factors including oppositions.

CMD also pointed out areas of focus for the new VC, including no tolerance for examination malpractice, quality control, strict evaluation of medical students to ensure that those who perform poorly are made to leave and provision of adequate accommodation for medical students. He thanked Prof. Elom for the role and effort he made to actualize the use of AE-FUTHA as the hospital for the medical students of the university, promising that they will do everything possible to achieving the dream of establishing the College of Medicine, proper. He reminded VC that the Health Centre at Ebunwana handed over to the University by the State Government, for Community Medical Posting, is yet to go into operation, due to certain bottle-necks. He also noted that furnishing the E-Library building in AE-FUTHA and extending the 2nd phase of solar power to the hospital as promised by the outgone VC, Prof. Nwajiuba, should be implemented as he (Prof. Elom) promised to continue from where his predecessor stopped. “ Sir, I have read your inaugural speech and with your pedigree, we have no doubt that you will do well to surpass what your predecessor have achieved”, he adduced, praying that the Almighty God shall give him the wisdom He gave to Solomon to lead AE-FUNAI to greater height.

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VC, Professor Elom responding
Responding, Prof. Elom, thanked CMD and his team for the visit which he regarded as a mark of honour, respect and demonstration of love, especially as they found it worthwhile to pay him homage this early in his administration. He appreciated him for the well- researched presentation, assuring that the two institutions have become one, as the marriage was consummated by the MoU signed by the two bodies sometime last year and that AE-FUTHA will always be carried along in matters concerning the running of the institution, where and when necessary.

VC reiterated that his life and everything concerning him are unto God and not unto man, and so all expectations and responsibilities associated with his new position are in the hands of God, adding that as it is God who put him on the seat, any person or group that will oppose him unduly, will be opposing God who brought him and will have God to contend.

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Professor Akoh giving vote of thanks
Prof. Elom affirmed that the existing high standards in the university and the culture of seriousness will be sustained, noting that the young university is currently adjudged the most serious public university in Nigeria by no less a personality than the German Ambassador to Nigeria. He stressed that there is zero tolerance for examination malpractices, cultism, indecent dressing and other vices, and that the University Quality Control Unit are very active, up and doing.

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Group Photograph with Professor Elom (Center) with Dr. Ogah (6th from L) and other officers of both AE-FUNAI and AE-FUTHA
VC promised that the university management will take necessary steps to ensure that the E-Library at AE-FUTHA is equipped and that the Health Centre at Ebunwana is put to use. He also said that the 2nd phase of the Solar Power will be extended to the Teaching Hospital, as promised by his predecessor and that work on additional hostel accommodation for medical students will commence very soon. On that note Prof. Dennis Ameh Akor made vote of thanks, appreciating the management and staff of AE-FUTHA for the visit this early, stating that the visit will always remain fresh in the minds of VC and the management of the University. He assured Dr. Ogah and his team that the university management is ready and will do all it can to sustain the relationship between the two organisations that are now united as one big family. CMD, Dr. Ogah presented a portrait to the new VC, Prof. Sunday Elom.