By PAMELA EBOH, Awka

Anambra State Governor, Prof Chukwuma Soludo, has approved the appointment of Prof Peter Azikiwe Onwualu as the Chairman/Pro-Chancellor of the Governing Council for Chukwuemeka Odumegwu Ojukwu University (COOU) Igbariam.

Onwualu whose appointment was made public on Tuesday in a statement by the Governor’s Chief Press Secretary, Christian Aburime is a Professor of Agricultural Engineering and current VC of African University of Science and Technology, Abuja.

He is also a former DG/CEO of the Raw Materials Research and Development Council

The statement described the new Pro-Chancellor as a distinguished engineer and award-winning administrator who has contributed extensively to the development of Agricultural and Materials Engineering in Nigeria,

It added: "Prof Onwualu brings to his new role as Chairman/Pro-Chancellor a vast wealth of experience and expertise that cut across fields.

"His exceptional leadership qualities have seen him hold critical positions related to diverse reputable institutions which include as Visiting Professor at the National Universities Commission and Co-Centre Leader, World Bank-funded Pan African Materials Institute, among others.

"Professor Onwualu has authored over 200 publications and 10 patents, received awards from over 70 organisations, and is a fellow of 12 scientific and professional bodies."

The Governor also appointed four other members of the Governing Council to include, Chief Christopher Ndubuisi, HRH Igwe Chidiume Oranu, Prof. Josephat O. Ogbuagu and AIG (Rtd.) Sir Chris Ezike.

The new Governing Council members are expected to bring their combined wealth of diverse valued experiences to bear on the vision and governance of the university for greater academic excellence.