ABAKILIKI (Sundiata Scholar) – Gov Francis Nwifuru of Ebonyi has urged tertiary institutions in the country to embark on production of items for public use to boost the economy.
Nwifuru made the call on Saturday in Abakaliki at the Festchript presentation in honour of Prof Chigozie Ogbu, the outgoing Vice-Chancellor of the institution and former Deputy Governor of Ebonyi.
reports that Festchript is a collection of writings published in honour of a scholar.
The festchript was tagged, “Trends in Health, Politics, Administration and Academic”.
According to Nwifuru, we want a situation where our Universities will have something to produce for public use and generate fund.
“The Industrial Chemistry Department of this school should be able to produce at least detergent as well as drinking water,” he said.
Nwifuru commended Ogbu and described him as “a visionary leader”, noting that he would appoint another capable hand as the next Vice-Chancellor of EBSU.
“Ogbu has served in various capacities, in the field of medicine, politics, public service among others. He is an examplary leader to emulate.
“As he is preparing to retire, let me make it loud and clear, that I will not appoint any person, who is not be capable to offer good development to the university.
“I, therefore congratulate him, for bringing the good changes in our institution. His tenure as Vice-Chancellor has been remarkable,” Nwifuru added.
Also speaking, the Chairman of the occasion and former Senate President, Chief Pius Anyim commended Ogbu on his Festchript presentation and prayed for God’s blessings upon him.
The Book Reviewer, Chief Nnia Nwodo, said the 880-page -book, apart from dealing with specific topics affecting the society, was devoted to examining the life of Ogbu’s career on his service to the University and aspect of his life as politician.
“The book started with a brief introduction of the Editors: Grace Umezurike, Eugene Nweke, Ngozi Emekanwobia, Ifeanyichukwu Iroha and Oswald Edeoga,” the former Ohaneze President General said.
Nwodo noted that Festchript originated in Germany before the World War 1. (NAN)
