Education
UNIZIK honours UNICEF staff for promoting Child Rights in Nigeria
For promoting various programmes aimed at promoting the welfare and rights of children, Nnamdi Azikiwe University, Awka has honoured Mrs. Juliet Chiluwe, Chief of UNICEF Field Office, Enugu, Enugu state during the maiden National Summit on Child Rights held recently at the Awka campus of the university.
The two day programme also featured training on child rights laws for members of the Nigerian Union of Journalists, Anambra State Council and inauguration of Child Rights Clubs in Anambra Schools.
Declaring the event open, Ag. Vice Chancellor, Nnamdi Azikiwe University, Prof. Carol Arinze-Umobi represented by the Director, Academic Planning, Prof Angela Ufele-Obiesie appreciated the efforts of UNICEF towards hosting the summit which is the first of such in Nigeria adding that today’s global concern on Child rights sprouted from the aversion of the vulnerabilities to which children were exposed in Europe during the second World war.
The Acting Vice chancellor stated that the 21st century has seen the emergence of a new technology and social milieu different from that of the previous age adding that the information age is characterized by rapidly bourgeoning information and communication technologies which are also available for children.
She called for the new developments to be deployed for the benefit of the Nigerian child through exposure to high quality education resources while protecting them from the numerous threats inherent in the digital technology such as internet addiction that could lead to poor academic performance.
Keynote Speaker, Dean, Faculty of Law, NAU, Prof V Ogugua Ikpeze posited that both male and female children should be given equal opportunities to enjoy their fundamental human rights cum Child rights saying that negative cultural practices like female genital mutilation should be abolished.
“Let us be vigilant to protect our children because child molestation may be ongoing behind your curtain perpetrated by a family member, friend, Neighbor or stranger. Watch when that child changes behavior and know the next step to take before the damage becomes irrecoverable,” Ikpeze added.
Chairman of the National Summit on Child Rights Planning Committee, UNIZIK , Dr Obiora Edogor in his address disclosed that in the last two years, t UNIZIK has joined in the growing global trend of giving more attention to studies on child rights as one of the means to ensure better protection of children.
He said the development is to consistently help in preparing children for the humongous opportunities and serious challenges of the information age.
Edogor said the abysmal situation of the Nigerian child even after over twenty years of the enactment of the Child Right’s Act 2003 is worrisome and should be redressed without further delay. This he said is to provide a conducive environment for the Nigerian child to thrive academically, technologically, scientifically, socially, politically, economically, culturally, etc.
He thanked the immediate past Vice Chancellor, Prof Charles Esimone who approve the Summit and the invaluable support of the incumbent AG. Vice Chancellor who made it happen eventually.
“The summit planning got more fillip with Prof. Carol Arinze-Umobi’s assumption of office as the current Acting Vice-chancellor. As a scholar whose research interests traverse human rights, which child rights is a sub-category of, she embraced the summit with a motherly passion and speedily gave birth to it. In fact, our Acting Vice-chancellor has demonstrated that she is indeed a mother and a scholar with unconcealed bias on human rights, child rights inclusive. With the hosting of this summit, she has contributed her quota in Nnamdi Azikiwe University’s lofty achievements in promotion of studies on child rights”
“I would want to arguably state that, the Nnamdi Azikiwe University’s soil is manured with staff that exude enthusiasm for child rights as I got immersed into it from the university. I could vividly recall how Prof. Chinyere Okunna, first female professor of mass communication in sub-Saharan Africa FNGE, FNIPR, FACCE, NUJ Matriarch, implanted in me the mustard seed and zeal for studies on child rights. Today, this summit is one of the fruits of that Okunna’s mustard seed. Also, the child rights club to be inaugurated in this event in all public secondary schools within Anambra State emanated from the same Okunna’s seed”
“In a nutshell, the gamut of attention that Nnamdi Azikiwe University has given to child rights should be religiously sustained for better awareness about the subject matter. All communities, parents, governmental organisations, non-governmental organisations, as well as every other stakeholder on child rights in Nigeria should take positive and consistent steps in the protection of children to avoid making the country a liability to posterity. So, no stone should be left unturned by all stakeholders towards putting the Nigerian child in the vantage position to profit from the bounties of this age” Edogor said.
Presenting a paper titled “Taking Sustainable Positive Actions for the Nigerian Child in the Information Age”, Mrs. Juliet Chiluwe, Chief of UNICEF Field Office , Enugu who was represented by Dr Ijeoma Onuoha-Ogwe during the Summit said that when adults make decisions, they should think about how their decisions will affect children.
“All adults should do what is best for children. Governments should make sure children are protected and looked after by their parents, or by other people when this is needed. Governments should make sure that people and places responsible for looking after children are doing a good job.”
“The Convention on the Rights of the child is very intentional on who child is, that is children below 18 years of age. Article 23 unequivocally maintained that every child has the right to an education. Primary education should be free. Secondary and higher education should be available to every child. Children should be encouraged to go to school to the highest level possible. Discipline in schools should respect children’s rights and never use violence”she said.
Meanwhile, Deputy Vice Chancellor, Paul’s University and NUJ Matriarch, Prof. Chinyere Stella Okunna, in her paper titled ‘The Role Of The Nigerian Media In Bridging The Urban And Rural Divide For Children In The Digital Age’, tasked journalists to be internet savvy and use their power to help children enjoy their rights as enshrined in the Child rights law including access to the digital space.
Prof Okunna charged them as gatekeepers to open doors of access to quality information in the digital space and discourage anybody that who does not want children both in the rural and urban areas to access the information opportunities provided by digital ICT.
Contributing, Executive Chairman ASUBEB, Dr Vera Nkiru Nwadinobi, said:” We are interested in children and we fight for children, Children must be treated with respect, equality, they have the fundamental rights to life, protection, education. I thank UNICEF, in Anambra State, Governor Chukwuma Soludo’ has done a lot to ensure that out of school children are back”.
Dignitaries and Resource persons who added their views towards promoting Child Rights in the present information age during the 2 Day summit include, National Summit Chairman, President Nigerian Bar Association NBA, Mazi Afam Osigwe represented by Former NBA Awka Branch Chairman, Barr. Amaka Ezeno, President, Associations of childhood Educators of Nigeria, Prof. Ngozi Anyikwa, Head, Department of Mass Communication, NAU, Prof Allen Adum, The Nigerian Union of Journalist State Chairman, Dr Odogwu Emeka Odogwu, Managing Director of Anambra Broadcasting Service, ABS, Mr. Christopher Molokwu, represented by Ms Sandra Akpan.
Education
UNN Dismisses Terror Attack Rumours, Tightens Security on Nsukka Campus
NSUKKA, ENUGU STATE — The management of the University of Nigeria, Nsukka (UNN), has assured staff, students and parents of adequate security on campus, dismissing as false and unsubstantiated reports circulating on social media about an alleged impending terrorist attack and mass abduction of students.
In a statement issued on Saturday by the Acting Public Relations Officer of the university, Mr. Inya Agha Egwu, the institution said there was no credible security intelligence or verified threat supporting the claims contained in the viral social media post.
The university, however, disclosed that it had adopted additional precautionary measures to further strengthen security across the Nsukka campus.
According to the statement, personnel of the Nigerian Police Force and the Nigerian Army have been deployed to strategic entry points within the university to complement the efforts of the institution’s security unit.
Management also announced the temporary closure of some access gates to the campus to enhance monitoring and regulation of movement into and out of the university.
As part of the new security measures, motorcycle operations within the campus have been suspended with immediate effect. Only motorcycles belonging to authorised security personnel will be allowed beyond the university gates.
Staff members who use motorcycles for transportation have been advised to park them at designated locations outside the campus before proceeding to their offices.
The university urged members of the academic community to remain calm and continue their normal activities without fear, stressing that there was no known security threat to the institution.
It also cautioned against the spread of unverified information capable of causing unnecessary panic and anxiety among students, staff and the general public.
While reiterating its commitment to maintaining a safe environment for teaching, learning and research, the management encouraged students and staff to remain vigilant and promptly report any suspicious movement or activity to the University Security Department or relevant security agencies.
“Security is a collective responsibility, and the cooperation of all staff, students and stakeholders is essential in maintaining the peaceful and secure environment for which the University of Nigeria is known,” the statement said.
The university further advised the public to treat anonymous social media posts and unverified online messages with caution, particularly those containing sensational claims intended to generate fear and uncertainty.
Education
Enugu East Chairman Celebrates Children’s Day with St. Ann’s College, Reaffirms Commitment to Education
ENUGU – The Executive Chairman of Enugu East Local Government Area, Engr. Pastor Beloved-Dan Obi-Anike, joined students, teachers, and management of St. Ann’s College DDL Enugu to celebrate Children’s Day 2026, reaffirming his administration’s commitment to educational development and youth empowerment.
The event, held at the college premises, featured a colourful reception, cultural dance performances, cake cutting, and interactive sessions between the chairman and students.
One of the major highlights of the celebration was the recognition of six students of St. Ann’s College who are beneficiaries of the local government’s scholarship scheme initiated by the chairman.
Speaking during the event, the Principal of the College, Sr. Kamfechukwu Moedu, expressed appreciation to the chairman for extending educational support to deserving students through the scholarship programme.
She noted that the initiative has continued to provide hope and opportunities for indigent students and their families, enabling them to access quality education despite financial challenges.
The chairman also engaged the students in a question-and-answer session, rewarding outstanding participants with cash gifts and encouraging them to remain focused on their studies and personal development.
Addressing the gathering, Engr. Obi-Anike reiterated his administration’s determination to invest in education as a foundation for sustainable development in Enugu East Local Government Area.
According to him, the council currently dedicates 10 per cent of its revenue to educational development and scholarship programmes aimed at supporting students and improving learning opportunities across the local government.
He emphasized that investing in children remains one of the most effective ways of building a prosperous future, adding that his administration will continue to implement policies and programmes that promote academic excellence and youth development.
The Children’s Day celebration ended with goodwill messages, photographs, and renewed calls for greater support for education and child welfare in Enugu East.
The event underscored the local government’s commitment to nurturing the next generation through sustained investment in education, scholarships, and youth-focused initiatives.
Education
Enugu: CIC Student Drowns While Trying To Retrieve Bucket From Water Reservoir
By Our Reporter
Tragedy has struck the family of Comrade Ambrose Nnamani of Isi-Ama Ejona in Mbu Amon, Isi-Uzo Local Government Area of Enugu State, following the death of their 14-year-old son, Kosisochukwu Nnamani.
The deceased, who was a student of the College of Immaculate Conception (CIC) Enugu, was reportedly drowned while attempting to recover a bucket that fell into a water reservoir.
Sources disclosed that the unfortunate incident occurred on May 4, 2026, throwing the family and members of the community into mourning.
A burial poster released by the family described the death of the teenager as a “painful exit,” stating that his sudden demise has left relations, friends and schoolmates devastated.
According to the burial arrangements, a Christian wake is scheduled to hold at the College of Immaculate Conception (CIC) Enugu on Tuesday, May 12, 2026, while funeral Mass and interment will take place on Thursday, May 14, 2026, at his father’s compound in Ugwu-Faith, Isi-Ama Ejona, Isi-Uzo LGA of Enugu State.
The family prayed for the peaceful repose of the young boy, describing him as a “little angel gone too soon.”
Education
Soludo Laments Absence Of Public Policy In Academic Research
By Okey Maduforo Awka .
Governor Charles Soludo of Anambra state has lamented lack of research in public policy making contending that academic research with positive impact on governance is sterial.
He further challenged the academic community to step up it’s intellectual works towards solving contending issues that shape the wellbeing of the immediate society.
The Governor who delivered a lecture at the 6th Biennial Adada Lecture Series 2026 convened by Association of Nsukka Professors noted that gone are those days when intellectual works end up at the University book shelf without transforming the socioeconomic needs of any given society.
Soludo observed that the “fusion of thought and action” remains the only bridge to a national rebirth.
Soludo questioned why academic discussions have seemingly lost their authority in national life. Despite producing thousands of professors and journals, he noted a “severed link” between academic research and public policy.
“If you have 200 Professors as members, how is the Adada zone not a first world?” he asked, challenging the audience to move beyond the walls of the university. “We produce journal articles, but how many have become policies? Intellectualism without activism is sterile.”
The Governor further advocated for “Productive Intellectualism,” where critical thinking guides public purpose. Drawing from his first tenure as Governor over the last four years, Governor Soludo highlighted how he has attempted to bring intellectualism to governance through “sacrificial volunteerism” and how he succeeded in laying the foundation for the African Dubai-Taiwan-Silicon Valley.
He emphasized that nations do not develop by resources alone, but by ideas that precede institutions; citing historical giants like Isaac Newton, Nnamdi Azikiwe, Obafemi Awolowo, Kwame Nkrumah, Ahmadu Bello, and a host of others, as examples of a shared pattern of logical thinking that yield ideas and then built.
“This is a challenge to the intellectuals and the wider academic community: to multi-task, as the modern intellectual must be both a thinker and a doer, Question the Status Quo which remains a fundamental element of true intellectualism”
“Standing akimbo is too expensive,” Soludo warned. “We don’t just live; we live to matter. It is time to get back to basics and drive the African renaissance through active participation.”
Speaking earlier, Professor Osita Ogbu, presiding as Chairman, observed that the true benchmark of academic excellence is not found in the complacency of achievement, but in an unyielding hunger for discovery and the courage to apply that knowledge to real-world challenges. He asserted that intellectuals are never satisfied, they keep working.
Also speaking, the Vice Chancellor of the University of Nigeria, Nsukka, Professor Simon Ortuanya, framed the gathering as a significant homecoming for Governor Soludo. He offered a glowing tribute to the Governor, commending his transformative contributions to the Nigerian state and his broader dedication to the service of humanity.
Education
Enugu East LGA Signs MoU with Medical University, Targets 100 Scholarships
Enugu East Local Government Area has formalised a strategic partnership with David Umahi Federal University of Medical Sciences following the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) aimed at strengthening human capital development in the council area.
The agreement, signed during a high-level meeting between officials of the council and the university’s management, is expected to open new opportunities in medical education, training, and healthcare capacity building.
Speaking at the signing ceremony, the Executive Chairman of Enugu East LGA, Engr. Pst. Beloved-Dan Obi Anike, described the partnership as a major step toward building a healthier and more prosperous society through deliberate investment in education.
He noted that the initiative aligns with the broader development agenda of the Enugu State Government under Governor Peter Ndubuisi Mbah, particularly in the area of human capital development.
As part of the agreement, the council unveiled plans to sponsor 100 students from Enugu East to study medical-related courses at the university, a move aimed at addressing manpower gaps in the health sector while empowering local youths.
“This partnership is not just about education; it is about securing the future of our people. By investing in medical training, we are building a foundation for sustainable healthcare delivery in Enugu East,” Anike said.
In his remarks, the Vice Chancellor of the university, Jesse Uneke, commended the council for its forward-thinking approach, describing the MoU as a mutually beneficial arrangement that would enhance both academic excellence and community impact.
He assured that the institution would provide the necessary support to ensure the success of the scholarship programme and other areas of collaboration captured in the agreement.
The MoU is also expected to cover research collaboration, capacity building, and possible medical outreach programmes within Enugu East communities.
Stakeholders say the partnership marks a significant milestone in the council’s drive to improve access to quality education and healthcare, while positioning Enugu East as a model for grassroots-driven development.
Implementation of the agreement is expected to commence in the coming weeks, with both parties set to outline detailed modalities for its execution.
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