By Harrison Madubueze, PhD
The Governing Council of Chukwuemeka Odumegwu Ojukwu University (COOU), at its 122nd Council Sitting held on June 12, 2026, approved the promotion of thirteen distinguished academics to the rank of Professor, in a move that further underscores the institution’s commitment to academic excellence, scholarship, and staff development.
The newly promoted Professors are Dr. Basil Agoha of the Department of Architecture, Dr. Ikechukwu Gbasouzor of the Department of Mechanical Engineering, Dr. Nonso Mbah of the Department of Medicine and Surgery, Dr. Uju Susan Muogbo of the Department of Entrepreneurship Studies, and Dr. Agary Nwokoye of the Department of Political Science.
Others are Dr. Ikechukwu Asika, Dr. Chinyerem Nwachukwu, Dr. Susan Oguejiofor, Dr. Choice Okaforcha, Dr. Anthonia Okoye, Dr. Kennedy Owuama, Rev. Fr. Dr. Emmanuel Dim, and Dr. Nkiru Patricia Chude.
The elevation of the academics to the professorial cadre is a recognition of their outstanding contributions to teaching, research, community service, and the advancement of knowledge within their respective disciplines. Their promotion also reflects the university’s sustained efforts to reward merit, hard work, and scholarly productivity.
Speaking on behalf of the Governing Council, the Pro-Chancellor and Chairman of Council, Prof. Peter A. Onwualu, congratulated the newly promoted Professors on attaining the pinnacle of academic distinction. He charged them to continue to distinguish themselves through innovation, impactful research, mentorship, and excellence in service delivery, stressing that their new status comes with greater responsibility in shaping the future of the university.
The promotion marks yet another milestone in COOU’s drive towards academic competitiveness and global relevance. As the institution continues to strengthen its human capital base, the newly elevated Professors are expected to play critical roles in advancing the University’s 3 V’s mantra of Values, Viability and Visibility, becoming a leading centre of learning, research, innovation, and societal transformation.
Congratulations to the newly promoted Professors of the Now University and the University of the Future.