By Ameh Gabriel
The Federal Ministry of Education has confirmed its approval of the selection process that led to the emergence of Professor Carol Chinyelugo Arinze-Umobi as Acting Vice-Chancellor of Nnamdi Azikiwe University, Awka. Her appointment takes effect from May 19, 2025.
In a statement issued on Saturday by the Director of Press and Public Relations, Boriowo Folasade, the Ministry expressed satisfaction that the process followed due diligence and complied with Section 5(13) of the Universities (Miscellaneous Provisions) (Amendment) Act, 2003. The law requires the nomination of an acting vice-chancellor by the University Senate and subsequent approval by the institution’s Governing Council.
As Acting Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Arinze-Umobi is expected to manage the daily affairs of the university, provide academic and administrative leadership, and ensure institutional stability during the transition period.
Her appointment, the Ministry noted, is in accordance with Section 5(14) of the Act, which stipulates that the tenure of an Acting Vice-Chancellor shall not exceed six months or continue beyond the appointment of a substantive Vice-Chancellor.
“The Ministry considers this appointment a demonstration of adherence to statutory governance frameworks and expresses full confidence in Professor Arinze-Umobi’s capacity to deliver purposeful and effective leadership,” the statement read.
Reaffirming its stance, the Ministry added that it remains committed to promoting transparency, institutional autonomy, and merit-driven leadership in Nigeria’s higher education secto
