The Governor of Abia State, Dr. Okezie Ikpeazu has described education as one of the most serious businesses of the people of Abia State. The Governor also approved scholarships for 20 students of the new Nigerian British University, Ukwa with an assurance of the support and commitment of the Abia State government towards the growth and upliftment of the institution.
Ikpeazu who made the announcement, Friday, during the official opening of the University situated at Obuzor, Ukwa West LGA of the State, however stated that 5 out of the 20 beneficiaries of the scholarship must be drawn from the Host Community of Ukwa West LGA.
The Governor while noting that part of his administration’s commitment is to make Abia state an enclave for education from the Primary through Secondary and Tertiary levels as well as create platforms and opportunities for young emerging intellectuals to learn, express themselves and aspire to become whatever they desire.
He further noted that the addition of the institution within the Abia space is not only a blessing to the State and expresed hope that the University would top the league of universities in Nigeria and across Africa.
In his address, the Pro Chancellor of the Institution, Dr. Chukwuemeka Umeoji said the decision to establish the University was informed by the resolve to offer quality education and reduce the frequent educational migration of Nigerian students to the United Kingdom.
He said that the educational system is designed to accommodate all students and treat them as diplomats which is different from how students are treated in Africa, adding that the University consists of World class facilities including; the Faculty of Computer science, Faculty of Law and the School of Business Administration.
In their remarks, the DVC Administration Professor Ruth Ashford and Director Academic Planning, Dr Medlene Medfield, who spoke virtually, said the objective of establishing the institution is to create a pull of diversified graduates who would solve global and local challenges as well as produce students with first hand academics and mentorship.
They said the school is first of its kind east of the Niger with the objective to institute British high academic standard in Nigeria.
The Member representing Aguata Federal Constituency and Elder Brother to the Pro Chancellor, Hon. Chukwuma Umeoji, the Member representing Ukwa West, Hon. Godwin Adiele, Secretary to Government, Hon. Chris Ezem, former Deputy Governor, Rt Hon Eric Acho Nwakanma, Deputy Chief of Staff, Office of the Deputy Governor, Sir Don Ubani, Elder Raymond Aliga, MON, Traditional Rulers of Ukwa and Anambra State ,members the academia and Host of others attended the ceremony.
The Governor later cut the tape and unveiled the commemorative plaque to mark the official commissioning of the University.
Sir Onyebuchi Ememanka
Chief Press Secretary to the Governor.
17th February, 2023.
