Nnamdi Azikiwe University Appoints Prof. Bond Anyaechie as Substantive Vice Chancellor
Awka, Nigeria – Nnamdi Azikiwe University (UNIZIK), Awka, has officially appointed Professor Bond Anyaechie as its substantive Vice Chancellor, ending a year-long leadership vacuum that followed the controversial removal of Prof. Bernard Odoh.
The appointment was confirmed on Sunday by Pro-Chancellor and Chairman of the Governing Council, Olugbenga Kukoyi, during a press briefing in Abuja. Kukoyi emphasized that the selection process was “thorough and transparent,” adhering to all due process at every stage.
“I am pleased to announce Professor Bond Anyaechie as the substantive Vice Chancellor of Nnamdi Azikiwe University after a thorough and transparent process,” Kukoyi said.
Background: The Controversy Over Prof. Bernard Odoh
Prof. Odoh’s earlier appointment as Vice Chancellor had been reversed by President Bola Tinubu amid allegations of irregularities in the recruitment process and questions surrounding his academic credentials. The reversal drew criticism from the Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU) and the university’s Medical and Dental Consultants Association of Nigeria, who labeled the appointment “irregular” and “prejudicial,” especially since the matter was pending in court.
Who is Prof. Bond Anyaechie?
Prof. Anyaechie is a distinguished scholar in Medical Physiology and Clinical Measurement with nearly two decades of academic and administrative experience. His educational and professional achievements include:
- MBBS – Abia State University, 1998
- Master’s Degree – 2004
- PhD – 2009
- Master of Public Health – 2011
He began his academic career in 2002 as a part-time lecturer at Imo State University’s College of Medicine, later securing a full-time position. In 2007, he joined the College of Medicine, University of Nigeria, Enugu Campus, rising to full Professor in 2013.
Prof. Anyaechie has held several leadership roles, including:
- Deputy Provost, College of Medicine, University of Nigeria (2018–2022)
- Acting Provost, College of Medicine, Imo State University
- Visiting Professor (pro bono, 2020–2022)